Fishing the Salmon River

[gandalph]

I'm from eastern Pa. and have been fishing the Erie tribs since the mid 90's. I would really like to fish the Salmon, but i'm so comfortable going to Erie I'm reluctant to try something new. Can anyone who fishes both The Salmon River and the Erie tribs give me some info on how they may view both streams (Elk v. Salmon)? Maybe a comparison of the two; if that is possible of course. Also can you give me some advice for fishing the Salmon River itself? Does this fishery get crowded? Your advise and insights would be helpful.

Thank You,

Gandalph

[Biggie]

Gandalph, Elk Creek in Erie and the Salmon River are two different animals. Elk is alot smaller and is very easy to wade. The Salmon is full of big rocks with lots of current. Even when the flow is low (350 cfs), I need a wading staff. Since the Salmon is bigger water, the fish are not as easy to "find". Although fish are going to be in the fisheee spots, you need to get to know the river so as not to waste time (if there is such a thing while fishing). You will catch more fish on Elk, but they're smaller in general. But once you hookup with a big silver bullet you'll know the difference. Sure the Salmon gets crowded during salmon season, but otherwise, it's a long river. Elk, on the other hand, gets real crowded except in winter. The best money you'll spend would be to hire a guide one time and make sure you tell him what you expect before you make the deal. This way nobody is dissapointed. Good luck if you make the move to the Salmon. BTW there are good guides right on this board.

[chromefinder]

I'm from eastern Pa. and have been fishing the Erie tribs since the mid 90's. I would really like to fish the Salmon, but i'm so comfortable going to Erie I'm reluctant to try something new. Can anyone who fishes both The Salmon River and the Erie tribs give me some info on how they may view both streams (Elk v. Salmon)? Maybe a comparison of the two; if that is possible of course. Also can you give me some advice for fishing the Salmon River itself? Does this fishery get crowded? Your advise and insights would be helpful.

Thank You,

Gandalph


Erie PA tribs = shooting fish in a 1/2 full barrel while surrounded by circus monkeys most of the time.

Salmon River = actual fishing surrounded by circus monkeys some of the time.

Both are fun, just depends on what circus you enjoy more:rolleyes: As with any popular waters exploring remote areas away from easy access usually pays off, just don't expect solitude and enjoy it when you find it. Salmon Season (Sept & Oct) gets very crowded then gradually stats to thin out as winter sets in.

The Salmon River is very similar in size to the Big Lehigh if your familiar that Eastern PA river.

Don't expect to catch as many steelhead on the Salmon as you probably do at Elk. Fish are much harder to find and are not as concentrated as the river is quite large. Keep in mind that Erie PA tribs have very very high numbers of steelhead returns due to the very aggressive stocking program implemented by Pennsylvania.

Hiring a good guide is a great way to learn the Salmon River and its secrets.