Fishing Report for January 26, 2023

This report courtesy of the Oswego County Department of Community Development, Tourism and Planning.

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Salmon River:

The water on the Salmon River has been high for the last week. But we expect it to drop soon. This will change where the steelhead will be holding. With the river temps hovering right at freezing, the decrease in flow will have the steelhead moving right to the holes.  So, concentrate on the deepest and slowest holes and runs.

Egg sacs have been the primary bait of choice.  White and blue being the most productive colors. Don’t be afraid to tie a purple and red this time of year, you’ll be happy with the results.  Other good baits are pink worms, jigs, and the occasional bead.  Fished under a float, these baits have been producing plenty of action.

Fly anglers have been finding success running stoneflies in a variety of colors, copper, blue and chartreuse.  An egg sucking leech or woolly bugger in black, or olive is another “go-to.”

Oswego River:

The fishing on the Oswego remains challenging. The water is dirty and we’re experiencing high levels.  But there have been a decent number of reports from anglers fishing up stream of the powerhouse on the west side.

Overall, we recommend that angler fish the slow edges along the shore with egg sacs and jigs. And take your time.

As the water rises the harbor fishing really takes off.  Bucktail jigs and swim baits on jig heads are the best presentations.  White and white chartreuse and natural color baits are typically best, along with swim baits and bladebaits. As the water “colors up” don’t be afraid to throw some brighter baits.

Tight lines everyone!