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Atlantic Salmon

Atlantic Salmon

Atlantic salmon in Connecticut are primarily hatchery-raised broodstock fish rather than wild populations.

The state now maintains a 'Legacy Program' that produces Atlantic salmon specifically for recreational fishing opportunities at the Kensington State Fish Hatchery.

Scientific Name: Salmo salar

Physical Characteristics:
  • These fish average 2-5 pounds for younger specimens, with larger broodstock ranging 8-15 pounds and some exceeding 20 pounds.
  • The fish are identifiable by their fusiform body shape, black spots predominantly above the lateral line, and deeply forked caudal fin.
  • Fresh from stocking, they appear bright silver with purplish iridescence, but develop bronze to olive coloration as spawning approaches in fall.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Stocked in specific Atlantic Salmon Management Areas.
  • They prefer deep, cold pools with good oxygen levels.

Key Locations

  • Atlantic Salmon Management Areas on the Naugatuck and Shetucket Rivers, plus Crystal Lake (Ellington) and Mount Tom Pond (Litchfield).
  • Naugatuck River (upper section from Route 118 to Thomaston Dam, lower section from Prospect Street to Pines Bridge Road), Shetucket River (Scotland Dam to Occum Dam).
  • The Campville section on the Naugatuck River accessed via Route 8 Exit 41.

Specific Spots

  • Target the deepest pools, especially the deepest pools closest to access points.

Atlantic Salmon FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Atlantic Salmon in Connecticut?

Kastmasters, Phoebe spoons (gold when overcast, silver when sunny), small shallow-running crankbaits like Rapala Originals or Husky Jerks, Blue Fox spinners, and jointed Rapalas. Blue Fox spinners excel in winter due to their vibration triggering aggressive strikes.

What flies work for Atlantic Salmon in Connecticut?

Wooly Buggers, Zonkers, Mickey Finn, Grey Ghost streamers, plus traditional salmon patterns like Blue Charm, Green Highlander, and tube flies. Nymphs like Hare's Ear and stonefly patterns.

When is the best time to fish for Atlantic Salmon in Connecticut?

Connecticut's Atlantic salmon season runs from September through March in designated waters. Stocking typically begins in September with smaller fish, continuing through November and early December with larger specimens. Winter fishing (December-March) is particularly productive.

How do you catch Atlantic Salmon in Connecticut?

For fly fishing, fish by swinging streamers and slow-stripping, or dead-drifting nymphs. Cast from bank first, then wade carefully into deeper pools.

What do Atlantic Salmon eat?

During their marine phase, Atlantic salmon feed heavily on herring, smelt, young mackerel, crab and shrimp, though once in freshwater they cease feeding and live off fat reserves.

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