Fishing For Salmon In New Hampshire

Guide to fishing for Atlantic and coho salmon in NH.

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

New Hampshire offers exciting opportunities for salmon fishing, with two primary species being the focus: landlocked salmon and Atlantic salmon. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about salmon fishing and identify popular salmon waters in the state.

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Atlantic Salmon

Known as the “king of fish”, Atlantic salmon live in both fresh and saltwater, which means they are anadromous. They are renowned for their impressive athleticism, and delectable taste. Native to the North Atlantic Ocean, these fish undertake extraordinary journeys from their natal rivers to distant feeding grounds in the open ocean and back again to spawn. In recent years, the allure of fishing for landlocked Atlantic salmon in lakes has grown in popularity. These are populations of Atlantic salmon that are confined to freshwater environments which are unable to access the sea. Landlocked Atlantic salmon in lakes exhibit similar behaviors to their sea-run counterparts, including feeding frenzies and impressive displays of strength when hooked. Anglers most often target landlocked salmon by trolling open water. The pursuit of landlocked Atlantic salmon also comes with a responsibility. Conservation efforts are essential to ensure the long-term sustainability of these populations. Anglers must follow local regulations, and support habitat restoration initiatives to safeguard the future of this cherished species.

Landlocked salmon, also known as landlocked Atlantic salmon, are freshwater-adapted versions of their ocean-dwelling counterparts. They can be found in various lakes and reservoirs throughout the state. New Hampshire's landlocked salmon are prized for their acrobatic leaps and strong fighting abilities, making them a thrilling catch for anglers. While Atlantic salmon populations have declined in recent years, there are efforts to restore their numbers in certain rivers, such as the Merrimack River and the Connecticut River. These rivers provide opportunities for anglers to target these elusive and prized fish during their migration.

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Coho Salmon

Another species of salmon found in New Hampshire is the coho salmon. These coho's can are often more available to be caught during the fall when they migrate closer to the shoreline. These acrobatic fish put up a fierce fight and are highly prized by anglers. Trolling with spoons, plugs, or flies is a popular method for targeting coho salmon.

Coho Salmon are smaller in size compared to other salmon but still provide a thrilling fight when hooked. Coho salmon, also called silver salmon, are another prized species targeted by anglers in New Hampshire. These fish are known for their aggressive nature and aerial displays when hooked. Coho salmon offer thrilling battles, often leaping out of the water and making blistering runs. They can be caught by trolling or casting near shore areas during their migratory periods. Use small spinners, or bait on a bobber setup. Good bait options include wax worms, minnows, shrimp, and nightcrawlers.

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One of the top destinations for landlocked salmon fishing in New Hampshire is Lake Winnipesaukee. This expansive lake provides an excellent habitat for salmon, with deep waters and ample forage. Anglers often troll with downriggers or use lead core lines to target salmon at different depths, mimicking the baitfish they feed on. Landlocked salmon in Lake Winnipesaukee can reach impressive sizes, providing the opportunity to land trophy fish.

It's important to note that fishing for Atlantic salmon is heavily regulated in New Hampshire, with strict catch-and-release policies and specific seasons and regulations to protect this threatened species. Anglers targeting Atlantic salmon should familiarize themselves with the regulations and follow best practices to ensure the sustainability of the fishery.

Salmon fishing in New Hampshire offers a unique and challenging experience for anglers. Whether pursuing landlocked salmon in lakes or targeting Atlantic salmon in rivers, the thrill of hooking into these powerful and prized fish is an adventure to be savored. As always, it is crucial to adhere to fishing regulations, practice catch-and-release, and support conservation efforts to ensure the preservation of these magnificent fish for future generations.

NH offers a nice variety of waters for catching salmon. Major lakes including Conway Lake, First Connecticut Lake, Lake Francis, Lake Sunapee, Lake Winnipesaukee, Merrymeeting Lake, Newfound Lake, Ossipee Lake, Paugus Bay, Second Connecticut Lake, Squam Lake, Umbagog Lake and Winnisquam Lake are excellent choices along with the tributary waters flowing into and out of lakes.

New Hampshire Salmon Fishing

The preferred method for catching salmon is fly fishing. Depending on the activity level, salmon may be caught on wet or dry flies, as well as a variety of other lures and baits.

Click the images and links above for species details.

New Hampshire State Record Salmon

The state record Atlantic salmon was caught from Pleasant Lake.

The state record chinook salmon came from the Exeter River.

The state record coho salmon was caught in the Piscataqua River.

About The Pacific Salmon Family

Pacific Salmon are born in and remain in freshwater streams for the early years of life. The number varies by species. Afterward they migrate to the Pacific Ocean waters where they bulk up and prepare for their once in a lifetime spawning run up the freshwater stream where they were born. They will instinctively return to their birthplace, spawn and die. They are found in the streams which empty into the ocean, and adjoining ocean waters.

The preferred method for catching salmon is fly fishing. Depending on the activity level, salmon may be caught on wet or dry flies. For more details check here for articles about fly fishing.

Salmon Organizations

Atlantic Salmon Federation

Atlantic Salmon Trust

Atlantic Salmon Museum

Pacific Salmon Commission

Pacific Salmon Foundation

Salmon fishing waters and information, by state.

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