Atlantic Salmon
Salmo salar
The king of game fish in the northeastern United States, Atlantic salmon are found in select rivers from Maine to New York and have been stocked in portions of the Great Lakes. Unlike Pacific salmon, they can survive spawning and return to feed, offering a unique multi-season fishery prized by fly anglers.
Seasonal Activity
Best Techniques
- fly fishing rapids
- trolling spoons
- drifting flies
- casting spinners
Top Baits
- streamers
- nymphs
- spoons
- small spinners
- spawn
Fishing Regulations
Season dates and limits for Atlantic Salmon, by state. This list may not cover every state yet — always confirm current rules with your state's wildlife agency before you fish.
Maine 1 zone
Landlocked Atlantic salmon. Wild sea-run Atlantic salmon are federally protected and must be released. This regulation applies to landlocked populations only.
Effective 2025 · Source: maine.gov
Michigan 1 zone
Only 1 Atlantic salmon allowed in the daily 5-fish trout and salmon limit. Minimum size 15 inches on Great Lakes.
Effective 2026 · Source: michigan.gov
New Hampshire 1 zone
Landlocked Atlantic salmon found in several New Hampshire lakes. Combined with trout daily limit on some waters.
Effective 2025 · Source: wildlife.nh.gov
Vermont 1 zone
Landlocked Atlantic salmon found in select Vermont lakes. Combined with trout daily limit of 6.
Effective 2025 · Source: vtfishandwildlife.com
State Records
Official rod & reel records by state. Log your catch to see how you compare.
| State | Weight | Length | Angler | Year | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MI | 32.62 lb | 41 in | — | 1981 | Lake Michigan |
Caught a Atlantic Salmon?
Log your catch and see how it stacks up against state records.
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