Coho Salmon
Oncorhynchus kisutch
Coho Salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) are an anadromous salmon native to North Pacific waters; adults run from the ocean into coastal rivers to spawn, and juveniles rear in freshwater before migrating out. They are prized for aggressive strikes and strong fights.
Identification points
- Silver sides with a dark blue-green back and black spots concentrated on the upper back and tail fin.
- Adult males develop a hooked jaw (kype) and darker red body with a dusky head during spawning.
- White gums at the base of the teeth, helping distinguish coho from chinook (black gums).
Habitat
Cold, oxygen-rich coastal rivers, estuaries, and nearshore marine waters; juveniles use slow backwaters, side channels, and stream margins before ocean migration, while adults hold in tidewater, pools, and riffle runs during spawning runs.
Bait notes
Best on eggs, cured roe, sand shrimp, small herring strips, and spinners; in salt or estuary water, small spoons, jigs, and flashier baitfish patterns can work well.
Behavior
Juveniles feed on insects and small crustaceans; adults in the ocean eat baitfish and squid. During runs they often strike aggressively, move into tributary mouths on tides or increased flow, and hold in softer water with current nearby.
Caution
Check local regulations: many coho runs are tightly managed with size, bag, season, and hatchery rules. As with other salmon, raw or undercooked fish can carry parasites; freeze or cook properly.
Fishing notes
Fish tidewater and river mouths with drifting eggs or shrimp under floats, or swing/slow-roll small spoons and spinners through travel lanes. Match size to run conditions, and target seams, tailouts, and holding water near cover.