Coho & Chinook Salmon were originally stocked back in the '70's to help control the Alewife population in Lake Ontario.
The Charter fishery grew as the salmon populations blossomed. The Salmon became a Sport Fishing industry that filled the void of the long gone Lake Trout.
River fishing is just a "bonus" that the survivor's attempt to reproduce. The USA does the majority of stocking in the big lake.
Bottom line is..be grateful we have this fishery and help utilize & protect it. Join a fishing Association to get involved.
Legally, all snagged fish must be released. Accidently or not, it happens...