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Atlantic Salmon

Atlantic Salmon

Atlantic Salmon in Minnesota waters are non-native fish that were introduced to Lake Superior through experimental stocking programs from 1980-1993.

These landlocked salmon complete their entire life cycle in freshwater, moving between Lake Superior and tributary streams.

Physical Characteristics:
  • Adult Atlantic Salmon in Minnesota typically range from 3-10 pounds, considerably smaller than their oceanic counterparts, with some specimens reaching up to 20 pounds reported.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found in Minnesota waters, particularly around Lake Superior and its tributaries.
  • The Minnesota stocking program was discontinued in 1993 due to poor returns, but occasional Atlantic Salmon are still found in Minnesota waters.

Key Locations

  • Lake Superior and its tributaries including the French River and Split Rock River where they were originally stocked.

Specific Spots

  • Focus fishing efforts around piers, river mouths, harbors, breakwalls, and points near spawning rivers.
  • On Lake Superior, fish closer to shore in spring and fall, but target deeper waters (60+ feet) during summer months.

Atlantic Salmon FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Effective lures include shiny spoons, cut baits, crankbaits, and plugs when trolling. Salmon roe bags are among the most effective bait options.

What flies work for Atlantic Salmon in Minnesota?

For fly fishing, use e.g.g patterns, streamers (particularly Wooly Buggers in black, pink, and white), Egg-Sucking Leech patterns with pink and chartreuse heads, and Glo Bug patterns. Brighter fly patterns with pink, chartreuse, and orange tend to be most effective.

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

The best fishing occurs during spring (April through June) and fall (September through November) when salmon move closer to shore and river mouths. Summer fishing requires targeting deeper waters of 80-100+ feet. Avoid fishing during spawning periods from late August through October.

How do you catch Atlantic Salmon in Minnesota?

Productive techniques include trolling with spoons on downriggers, float fishing with roe bags, drift fishing around river mouths, and fly fishing with streamers and nymphs.

What do Atlantic Salmon eat?

They feed on terrestrial insects, aquatic invertebrates, Rainbow Smelt, Alewife, and other small fish while in Lake Superior. Young salmon (parr) in streams feed on insect larvae, zooplankton, worms, and small invertebrates.

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