%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F72936%2Fimages%2F1768529724301476862450_1090839136178442_7489756730157976977_n-removebg-preview.png&w=1200&q=100)
Lake Ontario & Salmon River License Requirements for Travelers
- Published Date: January 16, 2026
- Fishing
- Salmon River
- Updated Date: January 16, 2026
Summary
Anglers 16+ need a NYS freshwater license for Salmon River and Lake Ontario trips. Buy daily or annual passes online or in Pulaski. Kids under 16 fish free! Book your A Will 2 Fish adventure today.
/users/d4cb6b8b-29e7-41f6-8276-7f4a55ca3c45/pagedata/615319757_1353748419887511_7029912728176273322_n-mkgb7in6.jpg)
Lake Ontario & Salmon River License Requirements for Travelers
Epic Salmon Battle In NY
Heavy King Salmon On The Line
Prime Salmon River King Fishing
Fresh King Salmon From The River
Fall Run King Salmon Success
Big Salmon On The Salmon River
Catch Trophy Chinook Salmon Today
Best Salmon River Charters
Meet your Captain William Watkins
- Premier New York Fishing Adventures
New York Fishing License Information for Travelers and Anglers
Before you step aboard with A Will 2 Fish, ensuring you have the proper credentials is the first step toward a stress-free day on the water. Whether we are drifting the Salmon River or trolling Lake Ontario, a valid New York State fishing license is required by law for most anglers. Below is a clear guide to help you navigate the requirements for our specific region.
Who Needs a License?
In New York State, any person 16 years of age or older must have a valid fishing license to fish for freshwater species. This applies to all the waterways we service, including the Salmon River, Oswego River, Lake Ontario, Oneida Lake, and Cayuga Lake.
2026 License Pricing & Options
New York offers flexible options depending on the length of your stay. You can choose a license that fits your trip duration:
License Type NY State Resident Non-Resident
Annual $25.00 $50.00
7-Day $12.00 $28.00
1-Day $5.00 $10.00
Note: Prices are subject to change by the NYS DEC. Seniors (70+) and military members may qualify for significant discounts.
Special Exemptions & Requirements
- Youth: Anglers under the age of 16 do not require a fishing license.
- Saltwater vs. Freshwater: All of our trips target freshwater species. You do not need a Recreational Marine Fishing Registry permit for our Lake Ontario or river charters; a standard freshwater license covers all species we target, including Salmon, Steelhead, and Walleye.
- Free Fishing Weekends: New York hosts several "Free Fishing Days" throughout the year where no license is required. Check the NYS DEC website for this year's specific dates.
How to Get Your License
Getting licensed is quick and can be done entirely online or in person near our primary fishing locations:
- Online: Visit the NYS DEC Official Website and print your license or save it to your phone.
- In Person: Licenses are available at most town clerk offices and major sporting goods retailers in Pulaski, NY, such as Fat Nancy's Tackle Shop or the nearby Walmart.
New York Fishing Memories
Our media gallery offers a front-row seat to the breathtaking experiences awaiting you with A Will 2 Fish. From the golden hues of a sunrise over Lake Ontario to the mist rising off the Salmon River in Pulaski, NY, these images capture the heart of New York’s great outdoors. You’ll see the gleaming silver of trophy Steelhead, the massive scales of King Salmon, and the sheer joy on the faces of families as they land their first catch. Visuals of our stable 27-foot Sportcraft and the stealthy custom drift boat showcase the professional equipment that makes these legendary adventures possible.
Beyond the water, the gallery highlights the local charm that makes our region a premier destination for travelers. Explore photos of cozy riverside cabins, local landmarks, and the diverse wildlife—from bald eagles soaring overhead to deer glimpsed along the 14 miles of river we navigate. Each shot is a testament to the peaceful "calm-cation" and high-energy excitement that Captain William Watkins provides on every excursion. Whether it's the vibrant fall foliage or the crisp, quiet beauty of a winter morning on the Oswego River, these photos bring the spirit of the hunt to life.
