Disclaimer:
Danielle Benjamin is a food and travel writer based in Syracuse, New York. This blog originally appeared on her website, https://wandercuse.com/.
Along the Salmon River in Owego County, you’ll find the village of Pulaski. Why is it famous, you ask? Because it is one of the best spots for salmon fishing – in the country. That’s right. People don’t travel just from all corners of New York, but from states thousands of miles away. During the fall months, you’ll see license plates from across the US filling up the small town roads. All coming together to go – or watch – salmon fishing in Pulaski, New York.
When is the best time for salmon fishing in New York?
When the leaves start to turn and there’s a crisp breeze in the air, it’s prime salmon fishing time. Late-September through mid-October, the Salmon River in Pulaski is filled with hopeful anglers. Chicken barbecues are held on the weekends both to fuel the fishermen and feed the visitors. Plus, the peak foliage is just another reason to visit Oswego County at this time of the year.
What makes salmon fishing so special?
Honestly, there are a few reasons that salmon fishing is so unique.
First of all, salmon is delicious! So if you catch a good salmon, you’ve got a great meal in your future.
Secondly, salmon fishing is pretty exciting – both as an angler and as a spectator. With the rapid current of the Salmon River and cooling fall temperatures making ideal conditions for the salmon, you’ll often see them jumping in the water. Plus, the two types of salmon common in Pulaski, Chinook and Coho, can grow to be 8 to 30 pounds. Those are some big fish! So seeing them jump right in front of you – or watching an angler try to reel one in – is a lot of fun.
Third, it’s just really interesting. The anglers typically don waders and boots so they can venture into the rushing waters of the Salmon River. They use fly fishing equipment, which is different than your standard fishing poles. So watching them whip the line through the air is pretty neat!