Salmon River Update 31 August 2016

Water flow at 185 CFS, the minimal flow for the summer, but as a result of the recent rains the Labor Day white water release are on schedule!  Remember, the last three releases have been cancelled due to lack of rain on the Tug Hill Plateau.  The August and September releases usually pull a number of Salmon into the river. On September 1st the minimum river flow will increase to 335 CFS.

The Salmon update:  Significant numbers are staging in the lake in front of the river and are steadily moving shallower and closer as their spawning behavior takes over.  The LOC derby is reporting good numbers of Kings with a number over 30 pounds.  All these fish look healthy and well fed!  The derby has 5 fish already that are bigger than last year’s winner!

There are small numbers of Kings in the river now and there are still a few Smallmouth Bass throughout the river.  There continues to be good evening hatches and there are numbers of parr steelhead and landlocked salmon working back to the lake.

Both Upper and Lower Reservoirs, as well as the Upper Fly Zone, are experiencing very little pressure.  The Upper Reservoir is producing good catches of Smallmouth Bass and Walleyes.

The Tug Hill Fishing Club continues to fish well and with the added Sporting Clays course we are certain great times will be had by all. So if your Lake Ontario charter was cancelled due to rough water, or you are in town visiting give us a shout to discuss your adventure. Corporate events, Birthdays, Anniversaries, or just getting away we can customize any event and it starts with a call to 585-766-2421.

In general all indications point to great season ahead with much improved numbers and quality of Salmon leading to a more normal and well anticipated fall run. Be sure to book your September reservations at the Tailwater Lodge soon as many key dates are filling up quickly and you don’t want to be left out.