Great Lakes Fishing Podcast
Lake Ontario Salmon Tactics: How the Pros Adjust to Catch More Fish | GLFP #291
What separates consistently successful Great Lakes anglers from everyone else? Often, it’s their ability to recognize when conditions have changed and adjust before the fish make them pay for it. In Episode 291 of the Great Lakes Fishing Podcast, host Chris Larsen is joined by three veteran Lake Ontario charter captains: Vince Pierleoni of Thrillseeker Sportfishing, Matt Yablonsky of Wet Net Charters, and Anthony Ellis of Redemption Charters. Recorded at the Greater Niagara Fishing Expo, the conversation starts with a look back at the 2025 Lake Ontario season, including the impressive coho salmon fishery, abundant alewives, healthy young Chinook salmon, and what those signs could mean for the fishery moving forward. From there, the captains get into the details of building an effective trolling program. They discuss downrigger setbacks, leader lengths, slide divers, leadcore and copper, spoon sizes, knots, rod and reel setups, and how they adjust their presentations as conditions change. Anthony also breaks down how anglers can simplify a meat program, while Vince and Matt explain why successful anglers need to “listen to the fish” instead of assuming yesterday’s program will work again today. You’ll also hear why late September and October can produce some outstanding Lake Ontario fishing, how wind and temperature changes relocate bait and salmon, and why anglers struggling to catch fish may actually be running too many different presentations at once. Whether you're an experienced Great Lakes troller or still building your first salmon spread, this episode is packed with practical information you can put to work the next time you hit the water. The Great Lakes Fishing Podcast is presented by Fish Hawk Electronics. For more Great Lakes fishing information, visit https://fishhawkelectronics.com/blog/
