Lake Ontario Salmon Charters | Kings Ransom

Chinook and Coho Salmon Offshore Charter

Looking to get into some serious salmon action on Lake Ontario? Captain Scott Tarnoski knows exactly where to find the big kings and silver bullets that make this fishery famous. His offshore charters target the deep, cold waters where these salmon roam, using time-tested trolling techniques that put fish in the boat. Whether you're a weekend warrior or someone who's never held a downrigger rod, Scott's got the patience and know-how to make sure you're hooked up. With space for up to four anglers, this isn't just another fishing trip - it's your chance to experience why Lake Ontario consistently produces some of the best salmon fishing in the Great Lakes.

What to Expect on the Water

Kings Ransom Sportfishing operates out of the New York shoreline, giving you quick access to the productive offshore zones where salmon cruise. Captain Scott runs a tight ship, but the atmosphere stays relaxed and focused on putting everyone on fish. The boat heads out to depths ranging from 80 to 200 feet, where thermoclines hold baitfish and attract hungry salmon. You'll spend your day working the structure and temperature breaks that consistently hold fish throughout the season. The beauty of fishing with an experienced captain like Scott is that he reads the water conditions daily - wind direction, water temperature, and bait movement all factor into where you'll be fishing. Don't worry about bringing tackle or wondering if you've got the right setup. All the high-quality rods, reels, and terminal gear are provided, so you can focus on fighting fish instead of rigging lines. Just remember to grab your New York fishing license before you show up at the dock.

Trolling Tactics & Gear Setup

Salmon trolling is an art form, and Captain Scott has it dialed in. The boat runs multiple lines at different depths using downriggers, planer boards, and lead core setups to cover the entire water column. You'll learn how spoons, flashers, and flies work together to trigger strikes from these aggressive predators. The key is speed control and reading your electronics - salmon often show up as marks on the fish finder before they hit your lures. Scott uses professional-grade equipment including heavy-duty downriggers that can handle the deep presentations needed for consistent success. The rods are matched to the technique, with medium-heavy action sticks that have enough backbone to handle a screaming king but still show the subtle ticks of a coho mouthing a spoon. Line selection matters too, and you'll see why fluorocarbon leaders and quality main line make the difference between watching fish and catching them. The boat stays in constant motion, covering water and adjusting to fish behavior throughout the day.

Top Catches This Season

Chinook salmon are the crown jewel of Lake Ontario, and for good reason. These fish average 15 to 25 pounds, but don't be surprised when something in the 30-pound range nearly spools your reel. Kings are built for power, with broad shoulders and an attitude that shows the moment they feel the hook. They're most active during the cooler months of spring and fall, when water temperatures drop and they move closer to shore for their spawning runs. What makes chinook so special is their fighting style - they'll make long, bulldogging runs that test your drag system and then surprise you with a head-shaking jump when you least expect it. The meat is rich and oily, perfect for smoking or grilling, which is why so many anglers specifically target these fish for the dinner table.

Coho salmon bring a completely different energy to the fight. Also called silver salmon, these fish typically run 8 to 15 pounds but make up for their smaller size with acrobatic displays that'll have you scrambling for the net. Coho are jumpers - they'll clear the water multiple times during a fight, twisting and shaking in ways that can throw hooks if you're not ready. They're more aggressive than chinook when it comes to chasing lures, often hitting spoons and flies with authority that nearly yanks the rod out of your hands. Peak coho action happens in late summer and early fall when they school up in massive numbers. Their meat is lighter and more delicate than chinook, making them favorites among anglers who prefer a milder fish taste. What really gets people excited about coho is their willingness to bite - when you find a school, you can often catch multiple fish in quick succession.

Time to Book Your Spot

Lake Ontario's salmon fishing represents some of the best freshwater angling in North America, and Captain Scott's expertise puts you right in the middle of the action. This charter works for anyone - first-timers get the guidance they need, while experienced anglers appreciate the professional approach and quality equipment. The four-person capacity keeps things manageable, so everyone gets plenty of rod time and individual attention. You're not just booking a fishing trip; you're investing in a day where the focus stays on fish, technique, and making sure you walk away with both dinner and the skills to understand why Lake Ontario salmon fishing has such a dedicated following. The season moves fast, and the best fishing windows don't last forever, so don't wait too long to get your date locked in.