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William Watkins
Founded by lifelong angler William Watkins, A Will 2 Fish is the culmination of decades spent navigating the pristine waters of the St. Lawrence and Salmon Rivers. What began as a childhood passion at a family campsite has evolved into a professional career spanning over 12 years of expert guiding. Driven by a deep-rooted connection to New York’s aquatic heritage, William transitioned to full-time guiding to share his intimate knowledge of the region's diverse ecosystems with fellow enthusiasts and families alike.
Our specialty lies in delivering world-class Lake Ontario fishing charters, where we target a massive variety of trophy species. Whether you are hunting for aggressive King and Coho Salmon or elusive Lake Trout and Walleye, our excursions cover the most productive spots on Lake Ontario, Cayuga, and Oneida Lakes. We pride ourselves on our technical versatility, adapting our methods to ensure every guest—from seasoned pros to first-time anglers—experiences the thrill of a successful hook-up.
For those seeking the rhythmic beauty of river angling, we offer unrivaled Guided Salmon River drift boat fishing trips. Navigating the famous currents of the Salmon River, we provide a front-row seat to some of the best Steelhead and Brown Trout fishing in the country. Our brand-new 2025 custom 21.5-foot drift boat is designed specifically for these waters, offering a stable and stealthy platform that allows up to three guests to fish effectively in the river's most secluded honey holes.
At A Will 2 Fish, inclusivity and personalized service are the cornerstones of our business. We are dedicated to making the water accessible to everyone, maintaining a special focus on providing a supportive environment for women, children, and anglers with special needs. Our commitment is best highlighted by our partnership with New York State to provide specialized guiding for autistic clients, ensuring that every trip is tailored with patience, detail, and care to meet the unique requirements of our guests.
When you book a charter with us, we provide all the essential gear, including high-quality rods, reels, tackle, and live bait. For offshore adventures, our 27-foot Sportcraft "Big Boat" handles Lake Ontario with ease, accommodating groups of up to six. Simply bring your New York fishing license, weather-appropriate gear, and snacks, and let Captain William Watkins guide you through a legendary day on the water.
What's Included
Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
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When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.
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What's Included
Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
Show More
When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.
Show More
This seasonal Lake Ontario afternoon fishing charter runs from April through September, launching daily at 12:00 PM. The 6-hour trip departs for prime offshore locations to target King Salmon, Coho Salmon, Steelhead, Brown Trout, Lake Trout, and Walleye. Guests utilize professional trolling techniques including downriggers, planer boards, and dipsey divers to reach active fish. The $700 rate covers up to six anglers, with extended hours available at $100 per hour. All skill levels are welcome, and Captain William provides all necessary rods, reels, and tackle. While focusing on primary game fish, anglers may also encounter Smallmouth Bass or Northern Pike. Book your Lake Ontario adventure today.
Pick Your Date
This six-hour Lake Ontario fishing charter departs from April through September, offering a professional angling experience for up to six guests. Led by William Watkins of A Will 2 Fish, the trip focuses on high-production trolling techniques using downriggers, planer boards, and dipsey divers to target King and Coho Salmon, Steelhead, Brown Trout, Lake Trout, and Walleye. Operating out of a 27-foot Sportcraft, this morning excursion is suitable for all skill levels. The rate includes professional rods, reels, tackle, and live bait. While primary targets are salmonids, incidental catches of smallmouth bass and northern pike are common. Extended hours are available to maximize your time on the water.
Pick Your Date
This 2 to 3 hour Salmon River drift boat trip is designed for eco-tours, photography, and wildlife watching, with flexible departures available daily starting at 6:00 AM. Trips launch from the Pineville Pool or Compactor Pool parking areas, offering guests a unique vantage point to view local wildlife and river scenery. The $450 rate covers up to two guests, with a third passenger option available for $225. This excursion is suitable for all ages and skill levels, providing a stable platform for capturing images of the river system. While primarily a sightseeing tour, guests can observe various fish species in their natural habitat. Professional guiding ensures a safe and informative experience through the Pulaski river corridor. Book your custom eco-tour today.
Pick Your Date
Experience a professional Salmon River drift boat excursion targeting King Salmon, Coho, Steelhead, and Brown Trout. Available seasonally from September through April, these trips launch from the Pineville Pool or Compactor Pool parking lots. The 6 to 8 hour duration varies by season to maximize your time on the water. Pricing starts at $450 for two guests, with a third angler allowed for an additional $225. This guided trip is suitable for all skill levels and includes all necessary rods, reels, and specialized river tackle. While primary targets include salmon and trout, incidental catches of walleye or bass can occur. Secure your preferred dates for the upcoming run and book your drift boat trip today.
Pick Your Date
This 2 to 3 hour sunset guided trip on the Salmon River offers a unique evening perspective of the Pulaski river system. Departing daily at 5:30 PM, the tour begins at either the Pineville Pool or Compactor Pool parking areas. The trip is designed for guests interested in photography, wildlife viewing, and scenic tours during the golden hour. The $450 rate covers up to two guests, with a third passenger option for $225. This excursion is appropriate for all ages and skill levels, providing a safe and stable drift boat experience. While the focus is on the landscape and local wildlife, guests may observe various fish species throughout the 14-mile river section. Professional guidance is included to ensure a premium outdoor experience. Book your sunset river tour today.
Pick Your Date
Watkins Sportcraft
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
6
Boat Length:
27 ft
Manufacturer Name:
Sportcraft
Model Year:
1986
Engine Manufacturer Name:
Mercury
# of Engines:
1
Horsepower Per Engine:
300
Maximum Cruising Speed:
30
Features: Bait Tank Ice-Box Fish Finder GPS
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Our 27' Sportcraft is built for Lake Ontario fishing charters. This 300HP sport fishing vessel comfortably holds 6 guests with a 21mph cruise speed. For river trips, our 2025 custom 21.5' drift boat offers a stealthy, stable experience for 3 guests. Both ensure a pro-grade day on the water.
Watkins Drift Boat
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
3
Boat Length:
21 ft
Manufacturer Name:
Drift Boat
Model Year:
2025
Engine Manufacturer Name:
Loong Shaft Outboard
# of Engines:
1
Horsepower Per Engine:
8
Maximum Cruising Speed:
10
Features: Ice-Box
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Master the current with our 2025 custom 21.5' drift boat, built for Guided Salmon River drift boat fishing trips. Designed for stealth and stability, it fits 3 guests and features an 8HP outboard for easy navigation. Experience New York’s best river angling from a brand-new, pro-grade vessel.
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Watkins Sportcraft
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
6
Boat Length:
27 ft
Vehicle Details
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Watkins Drift Boat
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
3
Boat Length:
21 ft
Vehicle Details
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Salmon river fishing report for January 18,2026
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The Salmon River is currently delivering the high-action fishing that New York’s North Country is famous for. Water flows have remained steady, providing ideal conditions for fresh fish to push through the lower sections and settle into the deeper holding pools. As we navigate the 14 miles of river in our custom drift boat, we are seeing a healthy mix of silver fish and aggressive resident trout, making this an incredible window for both fly and light-tackle anglers. King & Coho Salmon: The lower river sections from Pulaski up to the Pineville Pool are seeing consistent movement. Large Kings are holding in the faster water, while Cohos are responding well to bright streamers and egg patterns in the tail-outs. Steelhead & Brown Trout: The "chrome" is here. We are landing acrobatic Steelhead and trophy-sized Brown Trout behind the spawning beds. These fish are energetic and providing a world-class fight for our guests. Best Techniques: Currently, "beading" and drifting egg sacs have been the most productive methods. In the early morning hours, swinging flies through the deeper runs has also triggered some explosive strikes. What to Expect This Week As we move into the next few days, the weather forecast suggests cool mornings followed by overcast skies—classic "fishing weather." These conditions typically keep the fish from being "spooked" by the sun, extending the bite well into the afternoon. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a family looking for a guided fishing trip, the river is currently in peak form. Primary Spots: The Compactor and Pineville pools are currently fishing hotspots. Gear Tip: Ensure your leaders are fresh; these fish are strong and the river bottom can be abrasive.