2024 CT Broodstock Salmon Update

2024 salmon survey info

It's almost that time of year again. As I write this, the first round of broodstock salmon have been stocked in the lakes. With a little rain, hopefully the rivers will see fish soon. I wanted to go over one big piece of news at the before the season gets underway. 

The DEEP is conducting a survey of 1,300 tagged Atlantic salmon this season. I have always wondered how many upper Naugatuck salmon I have caught while fishing the lower Naugatuck. Until now, there was no way to know how and when they moved. With angler input, some of these questions will hopefully  be answered. 

Each of the 1,300 salmon will have a tag with a four-digit number. Once your salmon is landed, take a quick look at the number. I plan on remembering the number, then texting it to myself after the fish is safely released. I would rather not take a picture of the tag, thereby prolonging the safe release of the fish. 

After noting the tag ID number, it can be submitted one of three ways. There is a survey app which can be accessed via a QR code, it can be called in to DEEP, or it can be emailed. Look at the graphic above. All three methods are clearly outlined. From what I have been told, this graphic will be on signs, posted along the river. 

Please consider submitting this info to DEEP. I think it will go a long way towards improving the fishery for everyone. I'm looking forward to submitting my first salmon tag ID number in the very near future! 

I will be guiding and am available for trips as soon as the season starts. The low water might open up some dry fly fishing opportunities, so that is definitely something I'm looking forward to! Tight lines! 

 

One of the 1300 tags used to track salmon movement this season