How To Catch Atlantic Salmon

Are you interested in learning how to catch Atlantic salmon? Do you want to take up a new fishing challenge? Atlantic salmon is a great game fish and is delicious fish. You can find Atlantic salmon in rivers and lakes, saltwater estuaries, freshwater streams, and the ocean.

In this article, we will discuss the popular fishing methods used when fishing for Atlantic salmon, fishing tips on how to catch Atlantic salmon, the best baits and lures to catch Atlantic salmon, and other Atlantic salmon information.

How To Catch Atlantic Salmon

Atlantic salmon is located in the northwestern United States and Canada. It lives in the ocean and moves inland to freshwaters when it is time for spawning. Anglers like fishing for Atlantic salmon because it puts up a good fight when caught, is a good table fare, and has an awesome leaping ability.

Drift fishing, fly fishing, jigging, still fishing, and trolling are some of the fishing methods used when fishing for Atlantic salmon.

1. Fly Fishing

Fly fishing is one of the most popular and traditional methods for catching Atlantic salmon. Anglers use specialized fly rods, reels, and lines to cast artificial flies to salmon holding in rivers and streams. These flies mimic the appearance of natural insects, baitfish, or other prey items that Atlantic salmon feed on.

Successful fly fishing for Atlantic salmon requires knowledge of the fish’s behavior and habitat preferences, as well as skill in presenting the fly with precision and finesse. Anglers often target areas with deep pools, riffles, and submerged structures where salmon are likely to congregate.

By mastering various casting techniques and understanding the seasonal movements of salmon, anglers can effectively catch Atlantic salmon using fly fishing methods. For more information on fly fishing for Atlantic salmon, visit the National Park Service website.

2. Drift Fishing

Drift fishing is another effective method for targeting Atlantic salmon in rivers and streams, particularly during periods of migration or spawning. Anglers drift downstream in a boat or float tube while presenting bait or lures to actively feeding salmon.

This method allows anglers to cover large stretches of water and intercept salmon as they move upstream. Common baits used for drift fishing include live or dead baitfish, such as smelt or herring, as well as artificial lures like flies or plugs.

Anglers may employ a variety of rigs, such as bottom rigs or float rigs, to present the bait or lure at the desired depth. By reading the water and identifying prime holding areas, such as deep pools, riffles, or undercut banks, anglers can increase their chances of encountering Atlantic salmon while drift fishing.

Additionally, adjusting the drift speed and direction can help optimize the presentation and entice strikes from salmon. For more information on drift fishing techniques, visit the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife website.

3. Jigging

Jigging is a versatile fishing technique employed for catching Atlantic salmon in both freshwater rivers and saltwater environments. This method involves vertically jigging a weighted lure or jigging spoon up and down in the water column to entice salmon to strike.

Anglers typically use specialized jigging rods and reels equipped with sensitive tip sections to detect subtle bites and movements. Jigging allows anglers to cover various depths and target salmon holding at different levels in the water column, from near the surface to deeper depths.

Successful jigging for Atlantic salmon requires precise control of the lure’s movement, including subtle twitches and lifts to mimic the natural motions of prey. By experimenting with different jigging speeds, depths, and lure colors, anglers can increase their chances of enticing salmon to bite.

Additionally, incorporating scent attractants or adding bait to the jig can enhance its effectiveness in attracting salmon. To learn more about fishing regulations and best practices for catching Atlantic salmon using jigging techniques, consult resources provided by the Maine Department of Marine Resources.

4. Still Fishing

Still fishing, also known as bait fishing or bottom fishing, is a popular method for catching Atlantic salmon in both freshwater rivers and saltwater environments. This technique involves presenting a stationary bait or lure to attract salmon.

Anglers typically use a variety of baits such as live or dead baitfish, worms, or artificial lures like spoons or plugs. The key to successful still fishing for Atlantic salmon lies in choosing the right location, where salmon are known to congregate, such as deep pools, eddies, or rocky structures.

Once the bait is set, anglers must patiently wait for salmon to come across it. It’s essential to keep the bait stationary and allow the scent to disperse naturally, enticing nearby salmon to strike. Anglers may also use floats or bobbers to suspend the bait at a specific depth or to detect subtle bites.

Proper rigging and presentation are crucial to maximize the effectiveness of still fishing for Atlantic salmon. For more information on regulations and best practices for still fishing Atlantic salmon, anglers can refer to resources provided by the Atlantic Salmon Federation.

5. Trolling

Trolling is a productive method for catching Atlantic salmon, especially in large bodies of water such as lakes and coastal areas. Anglers deploy trolling rigs equipped with multiple lines and lure behind a moving boat.

These lures, which can include spoons, plugs, and attractors, are designed to mimic the movement and appearance of baitfish or other prey species. By varying the trolling speed, depth, and lure selection, anglers can effectively target Atlantic salmon at different depths and locations within the water column.

Trolling allows anglers to cover a large area of water and locate actively feeding salmon schools or individual fish. Additionally, the use of downriggers or planer boards can help control the depth of the lures and target specific areas where salmon are holding. To learn more about trolling techniques for Atlantic salmon, consult resources provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

6. Baitcasting

Baitcasting is a versatile fishing technique commonly employed by anglers to target Atlantic salmon in rivers and estuaries. This method involves using a baitcasting reel, which allows for precise casting and control over the line’s movement.

To catch Atlantic salmon using baitcasting gear, anglers typically utilize a variety of bait and lures, including spoons, plugs, or baitfish imitations. Proper casting technique is essential, as it allows anglers to accurately place their bait or lure in areas where salmon are likely to be present, such as deep pools or near structures.

Anglers must also pay attention to the water conditions and adjust their presentation accordingly, as Atlantic salmon can be sensitive to changes in water temperature and flow. Additionally, using the appropriate line and leader setup is crucial to handle the strength and agility of these powerful fish.

Anglers can find more information on baitcasting techniques and gear recommendations for Atlantic salmon fishing from resources provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

7. Spin Fishing

Spin fishing is a versatile and accessible method for catching Atlantic salmon in both freshwater and saltwater environments. Anglers use spinning rods and reels paired with various artificial lures, such as spoons, spinners, and soft plastics, to entice salmon into striking.

Spin fishing allows anglers to cover a wide range of water conditions and depths, making it suitable for fishing in rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. Anglers can employ different retrieval techniques, such as steady retrieves, jerks, and pauses, to impart lifelike action to the lures and trigger strikes from Atlantic salmon.

Effective spin fishing for Atlantic salmon often involves targeting areas with current breaks, eddies, or structures where salmon are likely to hold. By experimenting with different lures, presentations, and locations, anglers can increase their chances of success when spin fishing for Atlantic salmon. For more information on spin fishing techniques, refer to resources provided by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

8. Bank Fishing

Bank fishing is a straightforward and accessible method for catching Atlantic salmon from shorelines, riverbanks, or other stationary positions. Anglers can target salmon as they migrate upstream or congregate in areas with favorable habitat conditions.

Bank fishing techniques vary depending on the specific location and water conditions but commonly involve casting bait, lures, or flies into the water and allowing them to drift naturally with the current. Anglers may also use specialized rigs, such as slip bobbers or Carolina rigs, to present baits or lures at the desired depth.

Successful bank fishing for Atlantic salmon often requires patience, observation of fish behavior, and strategic positioning along the shoreline. By selecting productive fishing spots, such as deep pools, rocky outcrops, or gravel bars, anglers can increase their chances of encountering and hooking Atlantic salmon from the bank.

9. Spey Fishing

Spey fishing, also known as two-handed casting, is a specialized fly fishing technique that is particularly effective for targeting Atlantic salmon in large rivers and wide-open spaces. This method utilizes long two-handed fly rods and specialized casting techniques to cover vast stretches of water efficiently.

Spey casting allows anglers to cast long distances and control the presentation of flies in challenging river conditions, such as strong currents or tight quarters. By mastering the art of the Spey cast, anglers can effectively reach distant holding lies and present flies to Atlantic salmon holding in deep pools, riffles, or runs.

Spey fishing requires skill, practice, and an understanding of river dynamics, but it offers anglers the opportunity to access remote and productive salmon fishing locations that may be inaccessible to conventional fly fishing methods. To learn more about spey fishing techniques and equipment, consult resources provided by the Atlantic Salmon Federation.

Best Bait For Atlantic Salmon

1. Cut Bait

Cut bait, such as herring or mackerel, is a popular and effective choice for anglers targeting Atlantic salmon. To prepare cut bait for Atlantic salmon fishing, anglers typically slice the baitfish into smaller pieces, ensuring that the scent and oils are released into the water to attract salmon.

These cut bait pieces are then rigged onto hooks using a variety of methods, such as threading onto a single hook or securing with bait rigs. When fishing for Atlantic salmon with cut bait, anglers often employ techniques such as drift fishing or still fishing, where the bait is presented naturally in the water column or near the bottom.

It’s essential to choose the right size and type of baitfish based on the local forage and water conditions to maximize success. Additionally, anglers should be patient and attentive to subtle strikes, as Atlantic salmon can be selective feeders. For more tips on using cut bait to catch Atlantic salmon, anglers can consult resources provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

2. Menhaden

Menhaden, also known as bunker, serves as a valuable bait option for anglers targeting Atlantic salmon. These oily fish emit a strong scent and provide a tempting meal for salmon, making them an excellent choice for bait. Anglers typically use fresh or frozen menhaden, either whole or cut into chunks, depending on the size of the target fish and fishing conditions.

Menhaden can be rigged onto hooks using various methods, such as threading onto single hooks or securing with bait rigs. When using menhaden as bait for Atlantic salmon fishing, anglers often employ techniques such as drift fishing or trolling, presenting the bait at different depths and locations to entice strikes.

It’s crucial to handle menhaden carefully to preserve their natural oils and scent, as this enhances their effectiveness as bait. Anglers should also be mindful of local regulations regarding the use of menhaden and practice sustainable fishing practices to protect fish populations and marine ecosystems. For more guidance on using menhaden for Atlantic salmon fishing, anglers can refer to resources provided by organizations like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

3. Mullet

Mullet, prized for their resilience and natural scent, is a popular bait choice among anglers targeting Atlantic salmon. These fish are often used either fresh or frozen, with their oily flesh emitting a strong odor that can attract salmon from a distance. Anglers typically rig mullet onto hooks using various methods, such as whole fish on single hooks or filleted chunks secured with bait rigs.

When using mullet as bait for Atlantic salmon fishing, anglers employ techniques like drift fishing or trolling, presenting the bait at different depths and locations to entice strikes. It’s essential to handle mullets with care to maintain their freshness and scent, as this enhances their effectiveness as bait.

Additionally, anglers should adhere to local regulations regarding the use of mullets and practice responsible fishing methods to ensure sustainable fish populations. For more guidance on using mullets for Atlantic salmon fishing, anglers can refer to resources provided by organizations like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

4. Herring

Herring is a highly effective bait choice for Atlantic salmon fishing due to its oily flesh and strong scent. Anglers often use fresh or frozen herring as bait, either whole or cut into chunks, to entice salmon strikes. Herring can be rigged onto hooks using various methods, such as single-hook setups or bait rigs, depending on angler preference and fishing conditions.

When targeting Atlantic salmon with herring bait, anglers typically employ techniques like drift fishing or trolling, presenting the bait at different depths and locations to maximize its effectiveness. Proper handling and storage of herring are crucial to maintain its freshness and scent, ensuring optimal performance as bait.

Anglers should also adhere to local regulations regarding the use of herring and practice responsible fishing methods to support sustainable fish populations. For more information on using herring for Atlantic salmon fishing, anglers can consult resources provided by organizations like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

5. Pilchards

Pilchards, also known as sardines, serve as excellent bait for Atlantic salmon fishing due to their oily and flavorful nature. Anglers often use pilchards whole or cut into chunks to attract salmon. Rigging pilchards onto hooks can be done in various ways, such as using single-hook setups or bait rigs, depending on fishing conditions and angler preference.

When targeting Atlantic salmon with pilchards, anglers commonly employ techniques like drift fishing or trolling, allowing the bait to move naturally through the water to entice strikes. Proper handling and storage of pilchards are essential to maintain their freshness and scent, ensuring optimal performance as bait.

Anglers should also adhere to local regulations regarding the use of pilchards and practice responsible fishing methods to support sustainable fish populations. For more information on using pilchards for Atlantic salmon fishing, anglers can consult resources provided by organizations like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Best Lures For Atlantic Salmon

1. Flies

Flies are highly effective lures for Atlantic salmon fishing, especially in freshwater rivers and streams where these fish are known to congregate. Anglers often use a variety of fly patterns designed to mimic the natural prey of Atlantic salmon, such as insects, small fish, or crustaceans.

Common fly patterns for salmon fishing include streamers, nymphs, and dry flies, each tailored to different fishing conditions and water depths. When targeting Atlantic salmon with flies, anglers typically employ fly fishing techniques, such as casting upstream and allowing the fly to drift downstream naturally or stripping the line to imitate the movement of prey.

Presentation is key when using flies, as anglers strive to make their lure appear as enticing as possible to trigger strikes from the salmon. Additionally, matching the hatch—that is, selecting a fly pattern that closely resembles the insects or baitfish present in the water—can significantly increase the likelihood of success.

Anglers looking to hone their fly fishing skills for Atlantic salmon can seek guidance from experienced fly fishermen or consult instructional materials provided by reputable fishing organizations and government agencies, such as the Atlantic Salmon Federation or the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.

2. Plugs

Plugs are versatile and effective lures for catching Atlantic salmon, particularly in both freshwater rivers and coastal waters. These lures come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, each designed to imitate the movements and appearance of prey fish like smelt, alewives, or herring.

Anglers typically employ plugs by casting them out into likely salmon-holding areas, such as deep pools, riffles, or near structures like rocks and fallen trees. Once cast, the angler retrieves the plug with a combination of steady reeling and occasional jerks or twitches to create an erratic swimming action that entices salmon to strike.

The diving depth of the plug can be adjusted by varying retrieval speed or using different types of plugs with specific diving lips. Additionally, plugs are effective when trolled behind a boat, allowing anglers to cover a larger area of water and target cruising or migrating salmon. To maximize success with plugs, anglers should experiment with different colors and sizes to match the prevailing conditions and the preferences of the salmon.

Seeking advice from experienced anglers or consulting resources provided by fishing organizations and government agencies, such as the Atlantic Salmon Federation or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), can also enhance one’s understanding of plug fishing techniques for Atlantic salmon.

3. Spoons

Spoons are popular lures among anglers targeting Atlantic salmon due to their simplicity and effectiveness. These metal lures mimic the erratic movements of wounded baitfish, making them irresistible to salmon. Anglers typically cast spoons into areas where salmon are known to congregate, such as deep pools, eddies, or near submerged structures.

Once cast, the spoon is retrieved with a combination of steady reeling and occasional twitches or pauses to impart a lifelike action. Some anglers also find success by trolling spoons behind a boat, allowing them to cover a larger area of water and target actively feeding or migrating salmon.

When selecting spoons for Atlantic salmon fishing, anglers should consider factors such as size, color, and weight to match the prevailing conditions and the preferences of the fish. Experimenting with different spoon styles and retrieving speeds can help determine what works best on any given day.

Additionally, seeking advice from experienced anglers or consulting resources provided by fishing organizations and government agencies, such as the Atlantic Salmon Federation or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), can offer valuable insights into spoon fishing techniques for Atlantic salmon.

Atlantic Salmon Fishing Setup

When fishing for Atlantic salmon a 7-foot fishing rod and matching reel with about 150 meters of line capacity will work when fishing for Atlantic salmon. The fishing line should also work well with the rod and reel. There are many fishing lines to choose from and it will be a matter of preference. The full Spey line is one option and shooting head is another.

Salmon Fishing Rig

Salmon fishing rigs vary depending on the fishing method and the preferences of the angler. One commonly used rig for salmon fishing is the drift rig, which consists of a sliding egg sinker above a barrel swivel connected to a leader and hook.

Regardless of the rig used, proper setup, including selecting the appropriate line, leader, hook, and bait or lure, is essential for success in salmon fishing. Anglers often customize their rigs based on factors such as water conditions, target species, and personal preferences, and experimentation is key to finding the most effective setup for each fishing situation.

1. Carolina Rig

The Carolina rig, although traditionally associated with bass fishing, can also be effectively used for catching Atlantic salmon, particularly in river or stream environments. This rig consists of a sliding egg sinker threaded onto the main line, followed by a bead and a swivel to prevent the sinker from sliding down to the hook.

A leader line is then attached to the other end of the swivel, with a hook baited with salmon roe, shrimp, or other preferred bait. The Carolina rig allows the bait to drift naturally with the current while maintaining contact with the bottom, making it ideal for presenting bait in areas where salmon are known to feed.

Anglers can adjust the length of the leader line to target salmon at different depths, and the sliding sinker helps to minimize snagging on rocky or uneven river bottoms. This rig offers versatility and can be used in various salmon fishing scenarios, from drifting along riverbanks to trolling in deeper waters, making it a valuable tool for anglers targeting Atlantic salmon.

2. Drift Rig

The Drift rig is a popular choice among anglers targeting Atlantic salmon, especially in river or stream environments where drift fishing is common. This rig is designed to present bait or lures effectively while allowing them to move naturally with the current.

It typically consists of a sliding egg sinker threaded onto the main line, followed by a bead and a swivel to prevent the sinker from sliding down to the hook. A leader line is then attached to the other end of the swivel, with a hook baited with salmon roe, shrimp, or other preferred bait.

The Drift rig allows the bait or lure to drift naturally with the current, mimicking the movement of natural prey and increasing its appeal to Atlantic salmon. Anglers can adjust the weight of the sinker and the length of the leader line to target salmon at different depths and locations within the water column. This rig is versatile and effective for covering a wide range of fishing scenarios, from drifting along riverbanks to fishing in deeper pools or runs, making it a valuable tool for anglers pursuing Atlantic salmon.

3. Drop Shot Rig

The Drop-shot rig is a versatile and effective setup for targeting Atlantic salmon, particularly in situations where finesse presentation is key. This rig is commonly used in both freshwater rivers and lakes, as well as in coastal saltwater environments. It consists of a mainline with a drop-shot weight attached at the bottom and a leader line with a hook positioned above the weight.

The weight is typically tied onto the main line using a Palomar knot, allowing it to sit on the bottom while keeping the bait or lure elevated off the bottom. The leader line is then attached to the main line using a dropper loop or a specialized clip, with the hook positioned a few inches above the weight. Anglers can use a variety of bait or lure with the Drop-shot rig, including soft plastics, baitfish imitations, or natural baits like shrimp or salmon roe.

This rig allows for precise control over the depth and presentation of the bait, making it ideal for targeting salmon holding in specific areas or at different depths within the water column. The Drop-shot rig’s ability to keep the bait suspended off the bottom while maintaining contact with the structure or cover below makes it an effective option for enticing Atlantic salmon in a wide range of fishing situations.

How To Catch Atlantic Salmon In Maine

Fly fishing is the commonly used fishing method when fishing for Atlantic salmon in Maine. During fall and spring, you can find Atlantic salmon close to the shore. Casting and trolling are other fishing methods that can be used to catch Atlantic salmon when fishing in Maine. Streamer flies and lures that look like smelt work well when fishing for Atlantic salmon.

Atlantic Salmon Fishing Tips

1. Atlantic salmon can be found in freshwater streams, lakes, rivers, saltwater estuaries, and the ocean.

2. An interesting phenomenon about Atlantic salmon is that it takes on a different appearance when it is in freshwater. It will look similar to a trout when in freshwater but in the ocean it will have a silvery appearance speckled with sparse, dark markings resembling “Xs” or “Ys”.

3. Atlantic salmon moves inland to spawn.

4. It changes color from silver to rusty-bronze when moving inland to spawn to attract a mate.

5. Drop-offs, dams, falls, current edges, rocks, undercut banks, and outside of bends are some of the areas to look for Atlantic salmon.

6. Atlantic salmon fights hard when hooked and has excellent ability.

7. Jigging, still fishing, trolling, fly fishing, and drift fishing are some of the fishing methods anglers use when fishing for Atlantic salmon.

8. When fly fishing for Atlantic salmon, match your fly to the color of the water.

9. Big flies work best on cold days.

10. A salmon fishing rig also works well when fishing for Atlantic salmon.

11. An effective method for catching Atlantic salmon is called swing. When implementing swing, place the lure downstream at a 45-degree angle and let it float on the current, and swing by the fish.

The Bottom Line

Atlantic salmon is a favorite game fish for anglers as it puts up a spirited fight when hooked, has an excellent leaping ability, and is a delicious fish. it can be found in rivers and lakes, saltwater estuaries, freshwater streams, and the ocean.

In this article, we discussed how to catch Atlantic salmon, the fishing methods often used, the best baits and lures used by anglers, the popular fishing rigs used as well as the fishing setup to catch Atlantic salmon. You can also read how to catch salmon, how to catch alligator gar, how to catch tilefish, and how to catch arctic char.