The public is invited to attend the 25th annual Salmon River Fish Hatchery Open House and Family Day on September 28. The event at 2133 County Route 22 in Altmar, Oswego County, will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The free, rain-or-shine event celebrates National Hunting and Fishing Day and complements Governor Kathy Hochul’s ‘Get Offline, Get Outside’ campaign to encourage New Yorkers to put down their phones and screens and spend time in nature.
National Hunting and Fishing Day was designated by Congress in 1972 to encourage people to experience, understand, and appreciate traditional outdoor sports and recreation, and natural resources. This day also recognizes hunters and anglers for their leadership in fish and wildlife conservation.
DEC will lead tours of the facility between 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., providing rare behind-the-scenes access to the hatchery’s inner workings. Guests can visit the redesigned fish observation decks, which are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, and offer new and improved views of salmon as they migrate. Visitors can also observe New York fish in the hatchery’s indoor aquaria and learn about rare and threatened fish species in New York State. Outside on the grounds, youth can learn how to cast a fishing rod. The tour of the hatchery includes one flight of stairs.
“DEC welcomes outdoor enthusiasts of all ages, abilities, and interests to continue the tradition or start a new one at the 25th annual Salmon River Fish Hatchery Open House on September 28th,” said Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar. “Join DEC’s regional staff and local partners for a behind-the-scenes look at how DEC contributes to world-class trout and salmon fishing in Lake Ontario and its tributaries, including the exceptional Salmon River.”
To complement scheduled program events, several conservation organizations, fishing and hunting clubs, and outdoor recreation groups will present displays and activities to share information about their role in the Salmon River corridor and the Lake Ontario ecosystem.
The Salmon River boasts a world-class fishery for migrating Lake Ontario trout and salmon. Bring your fishing gear and experience the thrill anywhere along the 12 miles of public access, served by 12 DEC parking areas and several other access points in the village of Pulaski. DEC also recommends visiting Salmon River Falls Unique Area, located approximately six miles from the hatchery. The area offers hiking trails, including a short quarter-mile accessible crushed stone trail leading to two observation points for a 110-foot waterfall that offers views of spectacular scenery.
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