Best Places to Catch Salmon Across the USA

12 Top Spots to Catch Salmon in the USA

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Ready to reel in some epic salmon? The United States is packed with awesome spots where you can snag these feisty fish, from icy Alaskan rivers to the chill waters of the Great Lakes. Whether you're a pro angler or just want to try your luck, this list of the 12 best places to catch salmon has you covered. Get your rod, pack some snacks, and let’s dive into the best fishing holes across the country!

1. Kenai River, Alaska

This river’s a beast for salmon fishing, especially for monster king salmon that can tip the scales at 75 pounds or more. From May to August, you’ll find chinook, sockeye, and coho galore, with epic views of snow-capped mountains. It’s a bucket-list spot for any angler looking to score a trophy catch.

2. Lake Ontario, New York

Lake Ontario’s deep waters are a hotspot for chinook and coho salmon, especially from May to October. The lake’s stocked with fish, and salmon pass through on their way to spawn, making it a prime spot. I once hooked a 20-pound chinook here and nearly fell out of the boat—it was wild!

3. West Branch Penobscot River, Maine

This Maine gem is a go-to for Atlantic salmon, but you gotta book early ‘cause it fills up fast. The cold, clear waters make for awesome fishing, though you’re limited to one keeper fish due to conservation rules. Fly fishing here feels like stepping into a nature documentary.

4. Bristol Bay, Alaska

Bristol Bay’s got the world’s biggest sockeye salmon run, plus chinook and coho. It’s a trek to get there—think planes and rugged vibes—but the payoff is huge. The Kvichak and Naknek rivers are where it’s at for non-stop action from May to August.

5. Lake Michigan, Michigan

Who knew the Midwest had killer salmon fishing? Lake Michigan’s stocked with chinook and coho, and summer is prime time. Hit the piers or tributaries like the Manistee River for a shot at some hefty fish. It’s perfect for a weekend road trip.

6. Wind River, Washington

This short-but-sweet river in Skamania County is a salmon magnet in summer, loaded with chinook and steelhead. It’s got a chill vibe and draws anglers from all over. Cast from the shore or a boat, and you’re in for a solid day of fishing.

7. Lake Oahe, South Dakota

Bet you didn’t expect South Dakota on this list! Lake Oahe’s deep waters are stocked with chinook salmon, and winter’s the best time to nab ‘em. Trolling with downriggers works like a charm here, and the fish put up a heck of a fight.

8. San Francisco Bay, California

You don’t need to hit Alaska for top-notch salmon fishing—San Fran Bay’s got it going on. Chinook salmon swarm the area, and charter boats with sonar make it easy to find ‘em. Summer’s the sweet spot for a sunny day on the water.

9. Merrymeeting River, New Hampshire

This fly-fishing-only spot is a hidden gem for landlocked Atlantic salmon. The fish are smaller, maxing out at about five pounds, but the clear waters and strict rules keep it pristine. May’s the time to go for a chill, scenic fishing trip.

10. Salmon River, New York

Not to be confused with Lake Ontario’s vibes, the Salmon River is a fall fishing paradise for chinook and coho. It’s only 44 miles long, but it’s packed with spawning salmon. Drift boats are the way to go for max coverage.

11. Eleven Mile State Park, Colorado

Kokanee salmon thrive in this high-altitude reservoir, and it’s a blast to fish here year-round. The park’s got killer views and campsites, so you can make a whole weekend of it. Just watch out for those sneaky northern pike stealing your bait!

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