I use a centerpin setup for steelhead fishing in the Great Lakes tributaries and love it. I don't want to use anything else. I was wondering if it would be legal to do so for the Atlantic salmon stockings in the fall. I know that part of the rules and regulations for fishing for broadstock salmon in the Naugatuck river state that no added weight can be added to the line and artificial lures or flies only. It is imperative to stagger split shot down a 4-6 foot shot line under the float to match the weight of your float. I then tie on a micro swivel and a 2 foot leader with no added weight onto my leader. The rule book does not state anything about centerpin angling. It is impossible to use this setup without adding weight under your float to try to accomplish a drag free drift. Anyone who knows anything about this angling method clearly knows that snagging or foul hooking fish is not the intention at all or rarely occurs. It would be a shame if I was unable to legally fish with this method. If you are unfamiliar with this method I can upload a pic of my rig so you can decide if it is legal or not. If this isn't legal then sinking fly lines shouldn't be legal either. Just my two cents. Can't wait to hear your response. Thanks again.

"Fishing for Atlantic Salmon is limited to use of a
single fly or artificial lure with a single freeswinging
hook. Additional weight may not be
added to the line."

They don't seem to leave much open to interpetation.

Under our existing regulation the centerpin method of angling is not legal. As you describe it, additional weight is added to the line and therefore disqualifies this technique.

“During the open season, the legal method for taking Atlantic salmon in open areas of the Naugatuck River, Housatonic River, and Shetucket River is limited to angling using a single fly, or an artificial lure with a single free swinging hook. Additional weight may not be added to the line.” Effective October 1, 2011 by Commissioner’s Declaration

jdiorio, you might want to read the post above yours.

We have to go by the letter of the law (regulation) which indicates no added weight. If your entire length of line was lead core then you would not be adding additional weight. If you use a short section as a leader and it has the effect of adding weight it could be viewed as a violation.

Honestly, until you asked I had never heard of this method. But, the internet is a wonderful thing and I quickly learned about it. It seems to be a method used worldwide. If it's something you think should be taken under consideration to be allowed under the regulations I would suggest contacting the Fisheries Division and letting them know. (The more people that contact them the better)