Salmon Cove is a freshwater tidal wetland and cove located at the mouth of the Salmon River where it meets the Connecticut River in East Haddam, Connecticut. The primary public access point for paddlers is the DEEP boat launch, officially named the Salmon River Boat Launch, located just south of the cove's entrance off Route 149. An additional hand-carry launch is available at the Salmon Cove Preserve on Cove Road, which provides direct access to the cove's shoreline. The paddling experience typically involves launching into the Connecticut River and then heading upstream into the cove and the lower Salmon River. This area is strongly affected by tides, and trip planning must account for their timing. Paddlers recommend catching a rising tide to assist the journey upstream into the cove and river, noting that the current can be strong and challenging to paddle against during tidal flows. The entrance to the cove is having Class 3 conditions, indicating significant current and requiring caution. The route narrows from open water into a meandering river, passing under the Route 151 bridge and continuing upstream past river-front houses until reaching the Leesville Dam, which is a common turnaround point. The surrounding landscape features forests that emit a cedar scent, and paddlers pass by the former Sunrise Resort. Wildlife sightings commonly include great blue herons, egrets, swans, Canada geese, and osprey. The cove and river are within a National Wildlife Refuge, and several rare plant species are found in the tidal wetland. The trip is generally considered suitable for intermediate paddlers due to the tidal currents. There are no fees for access, and a portapotty is available at the launch site. The best practice is to consult tide charts before departure and to carry printed navigational charts of the area for reference.