Chinook Salmon
Oncorhynchus tshawytscha
Chinook Salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) are the largest Pacific salmon, born in freshwater, growing in the ocean, and returning to rivers to spawn. They are prized gamefish and important prey for marine predators and people.
Identification points
- Black back and tail with black spotting on both lobes of the caudal fin
- Small black spots on the upper half of the body and dorsal fin base
- White gumline at the base of the lower jaw, unlike coho or sockeye
Habitat
Juveniles rear in cool, well-oxygenated rivers and estuaries; adults inhabit North Pacific coastal and offshore waters before entering large, cold river systems with gravel spawning reaches.
Bait notes
Baitfish plugs, spoons, spinners, hoochies, and eggs all take Chinook; in rivers, salmon eggs and cured roe are classic, while offshore trolled herring, anchovies, and flashers work well.
Behavior
A strong pelagic feeder at sea, Chinook take fish, squid, and crustaceans; adults often stage near river mouths and in deep pools before upstream spawning migrations, then stop feeding once fully in freshwater.
Caution
Some runs are protected or heavily regulated; check local seasons, gear restrictions, and retention rules. Large Chinook can accumulate mercury and other contaminants, so follow local consumption advisories.
Fishing notes
Target river mouths, tide rips, and deep travel lanes with bait or lures near bottom; in rivers, swing flies, back-troll plugs, or drift roe/eggs under a float. Match local regulations and terminal tackle rules.