Our Policies

Gear Checklist

Fishing in this neck of the woods has its own requirements, and a little preparation can go a long way toward making your visit to Douglaston Salmon Run comfortable, safe, and satisfying.

The weather around here can go to extremes-sometimes in the same day! So you want to be prepared for just about anything. Our advice is to dress in layers.

• Moisture-wicking layer
• Insulating layer(s)
• Rain jacket 
• Insulated hat & gloves
• Breathable OR Neoprene Waders (Bootfoot or Stocking foot)
• Studded footwear 
• Fishing vest or backpack
• Polarized sunglasses
• Wading staff
• Wading belt
• Personal flotation device(s)

Recommended Equipment

From many years of fishing the river we have a pretty good idea of what works best.

For Salmon….

Fly Fishing

• • Rods – 8-10 wt rods recommended in 9′-11′ single handed & 11′-15′ two-handed switch and spey rods
  • Reels – 150-yd backing capacity with strong, smooth drag. Mid to large arbor reels recommended.
  • Fly line – 8-10 weight forward (WF) floating lines

Spinning

• • Rods – 10′-13′ medium to medium heavy action
  • Reels– 3000-5000 size reels
  • Fishing Line – 10-15lb. test monofilament line

Tackle

• • Leader– 10-15 lb. monofilament or fluorocarbon leader
  • Tippet – 8-12lb fluorocarbon tippet (0x-2x)
  • Flies – Sizes #6-14
    • Egg patterns, nymph patterns, stonefly, hare’s ear, spring wiggler, wooly buggers, soft hackle wet flies, traditional salmon/steelhead patterns.
  • Split shot– assorted sizes
  • Barrel swivels – Size no. 7-12

For Steelhead & Trout…

Fly Fishing

• • Single Hand Rods – 6-8 Wt. – recommended in 9′-11′ single handed OR 11′-15′ two-handed switch & spey rods
  • Reels – 150-yd backing capacity with strong, smooth drag. Mid to large arbor reels recommended.
  • Fly line – 6-8 weight forward (WF) floating lines

Spinning 

• • Rods – 10′-13′ medium-light to medium action
  • Reels– 2500-4000 size reels
  • Fishing Line – 6-10lb. test monofilament line

Tackle

• • Leader– 8-10lb leader
  • Tippet – 6-8lb fluorocarbon tippet (2x-4x)
  • Flies – Sizes #6-14
    • Egg patterns, nymph patterns, stonefly, hare’s ear, spring wiggler, wooly buggers, soft hackle wet flies, traditional steelhead patterns.
  • Other -Egg sacks, beads (8 & 10 mm), and pink worms
  • Split shot– assorted sizes
  • Barrel swivels – Size no. 12-14 OR micro-swivels

Rules & Regulations 

PROPERTY ACCESS – All guests must possess a valid DSR fishing access pass and NYS fishing license.

• • Daily Passes – Issued passes are wristbands which must be affixed to an anglers wrist, and are rendered invalid when detached or placed around equipment or clothing.
  • Season Passes – All season pass holders are required to have their physical season pass tag in their possession, and displayed while on the property.
  • Lodge Guests – Issued passes are wristbands which must be affixed to an anglers wrist, and are rendered invalid when detached or placed around equipment or clothing.
  • Youth & Minors – Youth (15 or younger) & Minors (16-17) must be supervised by an adult. The adult must be within a distance close enough for the adult to effectively respond to an emergency. Youth and Minors may access DSR’s property with their parent or guardian at whatever release time the parent or guardian will be released at. Youth 15 or younger will be issued a complimentary fishing pass. 

ALCOHOL – Alcohol is NOT permitted while on the river.  All anglers of legal age agree only to consume alcohol on DSR’s property in the following situations:

• • By an individual while in an approved parking lot.
  • By an individual staying at a DSR Lodge when within the vicinity or inside of his/her lodge.
  • By an individual who is a member of a group which, at least 24 hours in advance, gained explicit approval for a group function from the DSR and which provides direct supervision of the function by someone approved by DSR Management.

CANNABIS – Cannabis is not permitted at DSR at any location.

GENERAL –

• • Anglers must maintain a minimum of 1 rod length in between fellow anglers. When the rod is held normally, with the hand ahead of the reel and arm outstretched, the rod tip must not touch a neighboring angler. Anglers may fish closer to each other than one rods length if explicit permission has been gained by the oncoming angle prior to them beginning to fishing.
  • Controlled substances, weapons or pets are NOT permitted. 
  • Carry It In / Carry It Out policy is strictly enforced with all unnatural objects.
  • All private property rights of the DSR and its neighbors will be strictly enforced. 
  • DSR reserves the right to alter regulations at any time.

NYS Fishing Regulations

• • All NYS DEC Fishing Regulations for the Salmon River (Oswego County) are enforced at DSR. Visit the link below for more information:

Click to review – NYS Fishing Regulations

DSR Fishing Regulations

*In addition to NYS DEC angling regulations, DSR regulations apply:

DRIFTING –

• • An exaggerated lift at any point in a drift produces foul hooked fish and is NOT acceptable.
  • Anglers should follow their drift to its logical conclusion and then retrieve their line for their next cast without using a sharp exaggerated lift or sweeping motion to set up their next cast.
  • ALL foul hooked fish must be broken off immediately to prevent unnecessary harm. Excessive foul hooking of fish is not tolerated.

 TACKLE –

• • The use of Braided Line is strictly prohibited.
  • A breakpoint (knot or swivel) must be used to prevent added weight from sliding down the fishing line to the hook producing a snagging device.
  • Added weight must be affixed to the line at or above the breakpoint
  • A maximum distance of 48” and a minimum distance of 12” from the break point & added weight must be maintained unless ethically using a float or strike indicator technique.
  • If a sink tip is being utilized, without added weight (e.g. split shot), a breakpoint is NOT required.  

WADING –

• • Cleats – The use of cleated or studded footwear is required.  
  • Eye Protection – The use of polarized sunglasses for eye protection and navigation is strongly encouraged.
  • Wading Staff – The use of a wading staff is highly recommended to assist in navigation.
  • PFD – Personal flotation devices are highly recommended for all anglers.

CATCH & RELEASE / CREEL LIMITS –

• • ALL trout and Atlantic salmon must be released, with undue harm as quickly as possible while utilizing proper release techniques (see bullets below)
    • Trout and Atlantic salmon are easily identified by a white mouth interior/tongue
  • Guests may keep their daily limit of King or Coho salmon; 3 fish per stringer, combination of both species.
  • Each guest must have their own stringer; giving fish to another angler to fill their stringer is prohibited.
    • King and Coho salmon are easily identified by a gray/black mouth interior/tongue
  • Catch & release must be strictly observed once a limit is obtained. Culling of fish on a stringer is prohibited.
  • All species of fish must be handled and released ethically, including while taking pictures.
  • Remember, keep ’em wet! Be sure to take ample time to revive a fish to ensure it remains healthy after the release. Face the fish upstream in walking paced current to allow oxygen to flow through the gills naturally.

The holder of a license, tag, or stamp shall exhibit it upon request by any officer, land owner , or their agent in control of the lands or waters on which the license holder is present.

DSR reserves the right to deny access to or remove anyone from its property at any time without refund. 

Angler Etiquette

Good angling etiquette includes respecting the environment, the fish, and fellow anglers. To ensure a memorable fishing experience for all, DSR asks guests to adopt our Etiquette Guide. By following these guidelines and demonstrating respect toward fellow anglers, shared time on the water will be more enjoyable for everyone. DSR appreciates your support!

RESPECT

• Respect the resource – Anglers should treat the resource as delicately as possible and minimize their impact in order to ensure a healthy future for our fisheries.
• Respect your fellow anglers – A respectful angler treats their fellow angler as they would expect to be treated.  
• Respect the technique – Different angling techniques require different amounts of space for their presentations. Be aware of techniques anglers around you are using, and be mindful not to disrupt another anglers presentation.  Busy days might mean shorter drifts in order to work alongside other anglers.

CONSERVE

• Catch & Release – DSR strictly observes a catch and release policy for ALL trout species & Atlantic salmon.  Anglers must release these fish as quickly as possible without undue harm. 
• Handle with care – Anglers must ensure all fish are handled with the utmost respect and care. This includes while taking photographs. Remember, keep them wet.  
• Know your limits – Anglers are expected to know and uphold all NYS laws and DSR regulations.  This includes species identification, and creel limits.
• Leave no trace –  Anglers should strive to leave the river better than they found it.

BE COURTEOUS

Communicate – We all share the same passion!  Positive and polite communication between anglers shows courtesy and respect.  This is mission critical to ensure a successful and memorable experience for all. 

Share the Water – 

• • Occupied areas – The first angler(s) present in an area is entitled to fish that area, and should not be crowded.
  • Request to join – If approaching occupied water, anglers should always request to join the angler(s) present.
  • Keep your distance – A minimum of 1 rod length is required between anglers in order to provide ample room and not impede on other anglers’ fishing experience. 
  • Watch and learn – When entering a new pool or run, be mindful of other anglers techniques.  Observe where and how anglers in the pool are fishing, and avoid interfering with their presentations.
  • Avoid the low-hole – Its always better to begin fishing upstream of other anglers to avoid interfering with their presentation. If unsure how others are using the water, request to join and learn how you can work together to share the water.
  • Go with the flow – Be willing to work in tandem with the anglers around you.  When fishing directly next to, or across from another angler, synchronize your drift with theirs. 
  • Overcrowding – Anglers should avoid impeding on any anglers actively fishing and should seek alternative water should an area be overcrowded.

Yielding Water – 

• • Holding Water – Guests are only entitled to the space which they themselves occupy, at a minimum of 1 rod length in any direction. No guest is entitled to hold water for anglers who are not present. However:
  • Everyone needs a break – Anglers entering a seemingly unoccupied area may be surprised that the occupants are sitting just out of sight on the bank or temporarily left to relieve themselves. If this is the case, simply request to join or use the space temporarily.
  • Fish on! – No angler should be penalized for their success. If the fight requires an angler to move from their original location, spots will be yielded back to the original angler upon their return.

Navigation & Awareness –

• • Disturbing the water – When wading, be conscious of where other anglers are fishing. Avoid the possibility of disturbing a fellow angler’s drift, or spook the fish they are fishing to.  
  • Watch your step – Plan your route.  Never enter the water directly in front of someone already in the water. If possible, cross upstream from an angler.
  • Maximize the separation – Don’t be a magnet! Always choose the open water, over the occupied water when possible.

Angler Ethics

• • A repeated exaggerated hookset produces foul hooked fish and indicates an angler is anticipating that a fish is in a particular location and is attempting to hook the fish rather than allowing the fish to strike. Anglers should allow their drift to achieve its logical conclusion before retrieving their line.
  • A rapid sweeping or pulling motion at the end of the drift to ‘set up the next cast’ routinely produces foul hooked fish. Anglers should gently strip-in or reel in their line before beginning their next casting motion. Spey anglers should allow their fly to ‘dangle’ before beginning their next casting motion.
  • Don’t chase the rooster tail! A fish that is migrating or spooked through shallow water with some of its body exposed is not a fish that will be coaxed into striking. Rather, allow the fish to settle into holding water and stealthily work into a position to make a presentation to the fish, just as you would on any trout stream.
  • Sight fishing is a delicate game as any trout angler knows. It requires a great deal of patience as the angler often watches the fish refuse their offering over and over. Resist the urge to set the hook as the bait or line drift past the fish and allow the fish to strike on its own.
  • Protect the next generation. We ask our guests to resist the urge to fish for spawning fish. While spawning fish are often in shallow water and easy to see, disturbing them can only decrease our angling opportunities in the future. However, fishing just downstream of spawning fish in deeper water will often produce excellent results as trout commonly feed on eggs drifting to them from the spawning fish.

DSR Guest Pledge

• I know time spent on the water is a special experience, I cherish camaraderie with friends and family, and I appreciate every fish brought to hand.
• I respect other guests and their fishing techniques and avoid conflict with them.
• I am responsible to know all NYS and DSR regulations, including zero tolerance for alcohol on the river.
•  I am responsible for proper species identification and practicing catch and release of trout and Atlantic salmon while maintaining ethical practice through the release.
• I preserve a clean environment and embrace “carry it in, carry it out”.
• I uphold these standards and expect the DSR to escort from the property any angler out of compliance.

SEASON PASS POLICIES

CHECK-IN

ALL Season Pass holders are REQUIRED to Check-in with DSR Guest Services, prior to accessing the DSR property each day.

• • In-person Check-in : DSR Welcome Center – Please present your Season Pass to Guest Services at the DSR Welcome Center.
  • Remote Check-in: DSR Guest Services – Via Phone  – (315) 298 -6672 ext. 0 – Pass holders accessing the property via the estuary, or upper sections of the property may call to check-in.  Please leave a message indicating your – FULL NAME,  DATE/TIME and LOCATION of check-in.

ACCESS TIMES – Click Here

TERMS & CONDITIONS

• • All season passes are valid to use as client passes on guided trips, so long as the pass is valid.
  • All guests are prohibited from utilizing DSR’s property while possessing, using, or under the influence of controlled substances and alcohol.
  • All NYS & DSR rules and regulations apply.
  • All private property rights of the DSR and its neighbors will be strictly enforced.

*DSR reserves the right to change regulations, deny access to, or remove anyone from its property at any time and without refund.

SEASON PASS BENEFITS

UNLIMITED & GUARANTEED ACCESS

Fishing access for DSR season pass holders is UNLIMITED & GUARANTEED for the term of the season pass purchased.

• • 12 Month – May 13, 2024 – May 18, 2025
  • 9 Month –  Aug. 9, 2024 -May 18, 2025
  • 6.5 Month – Oct. 28, 2024 – May 18, 2025

GUEST ACCESS

12 Month – 4 Guest Access Vouchers

• • May 13, 2024 – Aug. 31, 2024 – Vouchers are valid for FREE + GUARANTEED guest access.  No reservation required.
  • Sep. 1, 2024 – Nov. 30, 2024 – Vouchers are valid for GUARANTEED guest access only. No reservation required.
  • Dec. 1, 2024 – May 18, 2025  – Vouchers are valid for FREE + GUARANTEED guest access.  No reservation required.

9 Month – 4 Guest Access Vouchers

• • Aug 9, 2024 – Aug. 31, 2024 – Vouchers are valid for FREE + GUARANTEED guest access.  No reservation required.
  • Sep. 1, 2024 – Nov. 30, 2024 – Vouchers are valid for GUARANTEED guest access only. No reservation required.
  • Dec. 1, 2024 – May 18, 2025  – Vouchers are valid for FREE + GUARANTEED guest access.  No reservation required.

6.5 Month – 2 Guest Access Vouchers

• • Oct. 28, 2024 – Nov. 30, 2024 – Vouchers are valid for GUARANTEED guest access only. No reservation required.
  • Dec. 1, 2024 – May 18, 2025 – Vouchers are valid for FREE + GUARANTEED guest access.  No reservation required.

Youth – Guests 15 years of age and younger receive FREE + GUARANTEED access when accompanying a DSR season pass holder.

Minors – Guests 16 & 17 years of age receive GUARANTEED access when accompanying a DSR season pass holder. A valid NYS Fishing license is required.

*Use of a Guest Access Voucher permits that guest to accompany the season pass holder during the scheduled season pass release time. Youth & Minor guests may accompany a season pass holder during the scheduled season pass release time.

LODGING DISCOUNT

Season pass holders receive an exclusive 20% discount on DSR lodging for reservation dates between Dec. 1 – Aug. 31.

Lodging Cancellation Policy :

Peak Season – (Sep. 1 – Nov. 30)

Greater than 30 days notice : DSR retains  50% of Deposit (Refunds Remainder)

Less than 30 days notice : DSR retains 100% of Deposit

Off Peak – (Dec. 1 – Aug. 31)

ALL Cancellations : 100% Credit Issued to DSR Account (Valid for 1 year)

Day-of Cancellations :  No Credit or Refund offered

Daily & Premium Pass Cancellation Policy :

Peak Season – (Sep. 1 – Nov. 30)

Greater than 5 Days Notice :  100% Credit Issued to DSR Account (Valid for one year)

1 to 5 Days Notice :  50% Credit Issued to DSR Account (Valid for one year)

Day-of Cancellations :  No Credit or Refund offered

Off Peak – (Dec. 1 – Aug. 31)

ALL Cancellations : 100% Credit Issued to DSR Account (Valid for one year)

Day-of Cancellations :  No Credit or Refund offered

High Water Policy :

Year Round – (Jan. 1 – Dec. 31)

Dam Release of 2,000 CFS or greater – DSR Closes to Fishing : 100% Credit Available for Lodging and Fishing

Lodging Policies & Procedures

• Guests intending to fish prior to the 3:00 PM Check-in time may pick up reserved fishing passes during normal business hours.
  
• The assigned Access Code for your lodge will become active at the published check-in time, and expire at the published check-out time.

Cleaning Policies:

DSR’s Expectations:

• No Smoking inside any DSR Lodges or garages
• No Cleats or Studded footwear inside DSR Lodges 

No Pet Policy – Douglaston Salmon Run has adopted a strict No Pet Policy to ensure a pleasant stay for all guests. Pets are not permitted within the DSR premises except for service animals as defined by applicable laws.

Damages & Fees – Lodges are inspected before and after each reservation. Any damage may result in additional fees.

Gratuities  – To ensure your token of appreciation makes it directly to the staff responsible for that lodge, gratuities should be left inside the labeled ‘Comment/Gratuity’ box affixed to the wall in the lodge common area.

River Access –

Lodge guests may access the DSR property via…

• DSR Welcome Center
• DSR Lodge Guest Parking –  Permit Only – Seasonal Access Apr.15 – Nov. 15 – . Permits issued based on lot availability and conditions. 
• Salmon River estuary via boat
• Black Hole 
• Direct from Lodge – Guests accessing directly from a lodge, must remain at the lodge until appropriate release time.

Angler Access Times – Click here 

Find My Lodge :

-Deer Run Lodge

4234 State Route 13

Pulaski, NY 13142

-Meadow Lodge

4418 State Route 13

Pulaski, NY 13142

-Douglaston Manor Lodge

4158 State Route 13

Pulaski, NY 13142

-River Lodge

229 County Route 5

Pulaski, NY 13142

-Estuary Lodge

623 County Route 5

Pulaski, NY 13142

-Salmon Run Lodge

4369 State Route 13

Pulaski, NY 13142

-Mud Creek Lodge

4259 State Route 13

Pulaski, NY 13142

Please contact DSR Guest Services should you have any questions.

PHONE : (315) 298-6672 ext.0

EMAIL : [email protected]

In case of Extreme Emergency – Garrett Brancy /DSR Manager / (315) 532-8323

DSR Guest Pledge

• I know time spent on the water is a special experience, I cherish camaraderie with friends and family, and I appreciate every fish brought to hand.
• I respect other guests and their fishing techniques and avoid conflict with them.
• I am responsible for knowing all NYS and DSR regulations, including zero tolerance for alcohol on the river.
•  I am responsible for proper species identification and practicing catch and release of trout and Atlantic salmon while maintaining ethical practice through the release.
• I preserve a clean environment and embrace “carry it in, carry it out”.
• I uphold these standards and expect the DSR to escort from the property any angler out of compliance.