WikiCatch
Chinook salmon

Chinook salmon

Oncorhynchus tshawytscha

Family
Salmonidae
Max Length
150 cm
Max Weight
61.4 kg
IUCN Status
NE
Water Type
saltwater, freshwater, mixed
Fishing Spots
1,888

Overview

The Chinook salmon is the largest and most valuable species of Pacific salmon. Its common name is derived from the Chinookan peoples. Other vernacular names for the species include king salmon, quinnat salmon, tsumen, spring salmon, blackmouth, and tyee salmon. The scientific species name is based on the Russian common name chavycha (чавыча).

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

  • Salmon Eggs

    Effective in clear, slow-moving water.

  • Nightcrawlers

    Use with a worm harness or drifted.

  • Sand Shrimp

    Excellent natural bait, especially in estuaries.

  • Herring

    Use whole, cut, or plug-cut.

Artificial Lures

  • Blue Fox Vibrax SpinnerSpinner

    Silver and chartreuse are popular colors.

    Buy
  • Luhr Jensen Kwikfish K15Crankbait

    Great for trolling in rivers.

    Buy
  • Buzz BombJig

    Effective jigging lure in deep water.

    Buy
  • Dick Nite SpoonSpoon

    Classic spoon for casting or trolling.

    Buy
  • Pro-Troll ProChip 11 FlasherFlasher

    Troll with bait or lure behind.

    Buy

Techniques

Vary your retrieve speed and depth until you find what the fish are responding to, as their preferences can change daily.

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Where to Find Chinook salmon

Alaska, United States323 spotsBritish Columbia, Canada313 spotsWashington, United States186 spotsOregon, United States182 spotsMichigan, United States135 spotsOntario, Canada134 spotsCalifornia, United States108 spotsNew York, United States68 spotsWisconsin, United States54 spotsCanterbury, New Zealand38 spots
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for Chinook salmon?+

Popular baits for Chinook salmon include Salmon Eggs, Nightcrawlers, Sand Shrimp, Herring, Blue Fox Vibrax Spinner. Tip: Vary your retrieve speed and depth until you find what the fish are responding to, as their preferences can change daily.

Where can I catch Chinook salmon?+

Chinook salmon can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Alaska, United States; British Columbia, Canada; Washington, United States. WikiCatch lists 1888 fishing spots where this species is found.

How big do Chinook salmon get?+

Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) can reach up to 150 cm in length and 61.4 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is NE.

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