Pacific Salmon Species Guide
Learn to identify all five Pacific salmon species that migrate through Campbell River waters - their characteristics, seasons, size, and what makes each unique.
All five species of Pacific salmon migrate through Campbell River's nutrient-rich waters, making this region one of the few places on Earth where anglers can encounter every Pacific salmon species in a single season. Each species has distinct characteristics, behaviors, and seasonal patterns that make them unique targets for sport fishing.
Understanding how to identify each salmon species is essential for anglers - not only to comply with fishing regulations that vary by species, but also to appreciate the remarkable diversity of these anadromous fish. From the massive Chinook that can exceed 40 pounds to the smaller but acrobatic Coho, each species offers a different fishing experience and culinary profile.
This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about each Pacific salmon species, including physical identification features, typical size ranges, best fishing seasons, fighting characteristics, eating quality, and fascinating facts that make these fish so special.
Pacific Salmon Quick Comparison
At-a-glance comparison of the five Pacific salmon species in Campbell River.
| Species | Scientific Name | Size Range | Peak Season | Key Identifier |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chinook (King) | Oncorhynchus tshawytscha | 15-40+ lbs | July-August | Black mouth, spots on tail |
| Coho (Silver) | Oncorhynchus kisutch | 6-15 lbs | Aug-September | White mouth, spots upper tail only |
| Sockeye (Red) | Oncorhynchus nerka | 5-8 lbs | June-July | No spots on tail, streamlined |
| Pink (Humpy) | Oncorhynchus gorbuscha | 3-6 lbs | July-August | Large oval spots on tail |
| Chum (Dog) | Oncorhynchus keta | 8-15 lbs | Sept-October | No spots, vertical bars when spawning |
Chinook Salmon (King Salmon)
The Chinook salmon, known as the "King Salmon," is the largest and most sought-after of all Pacific salmon species. These powerful fish are the primary target for most Campbell River anglers, renowned for their impressive size, hard-fighting nature, and exceptional eating quality.
Chinook salmon undertake remarkable migrations from their ocean feeding grounds back to their natal rivers to spawn. Campbell River sits along a major migratory route, allowing anglers to intercept these fish as they stage before entering rivers throughout BC and Washington. The largest Chinook, called "Tyee" (Chinook word for "chief"), weigh 30 pounds or more and represent the ultimate prize in West Coast salmon fishing.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name:
- Oncorhynchus tshawytscha
- Other Names:
- King Salmon, Spring Salmon, Tyee, Blackmouth
- Average Size:
- 15-30 lbs (Campbell River)
- Trophy Size:
- 30+ lbs (Tyee), up to 50+ lbs
- Season:
- May-October (Peak: July-August)
- Eating Quality:
- ★★★★★ Excellent (high oil content)
Physical Identification
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Black Mouth and Gums
The most reliable identifier - Chinook have black pigment inside their mouth and on their gums. This distinguishes them from all other salmon.
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Spots on Both Tail Lobes
Black spots on both the upper and lower lobes of the tail fin (caudal fin). Spots may be irregular in size and distribution.
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Large, Powerful Build
Thick body, large head, and powerful tail. Ocean-bright fish have greenish-blue back with silver sides.
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Spots on Back and Upper Sides
Small black spots on the back, dorsal fin, and both lobes of the tail. Spotting pattern is irregular.
Fighting Characteristics
Chinook are renowned as powerful, dogged fighters that use their weight and strength rather than speed and acrobatics. When hooked, they make long, powerful runs, often diving deep and using currents to their advantage.
Initial Run
Powerful, sustained runs peeling 50-100+ yards of line immediately after hookup
Deep Diving
Use weight to dive deep, shaking their head violently to throw the hook
Endurance
Long fights lasting 15-30+ minutes for trophy fish, testing angler and tackle
Surface Behavior
Occasional tail-walking near the surface, but prefer to stay deep
Tyee Salmon - The Ultimate Prize
The term "Tyee" comes from the Chinook trade language, meaning "chief" or "leader." In Campbell River fishing culture, a Tyee is any Chinook salmon weighing 30 pounds or more. The Campbell River Tyee Club, founded in 1925, established traditional rules for catching these trophy fish using rowboats and specific tackle. Learn more about our Tyee fishing charters.
30+ lbs
Minimum Tyee Weight
July-Sept
Peak Tyee Season
70+ lbs
Historic Record Catches
Coho Salmon (Silver Salmon)
Coho salmon are the aerial acrobats of Pacific salmon, famous for their spectacular leaps and aggressive strikes. While smaller than Chinook, Coho provide pound-for-pound the most exciting fishing action, often jumping multiple times during the fight and making blistering runs that test tackle and angler skill.
Known as "Silver Salmon" for their bright chrome appearance when fresh from the ocean, Coho are aggressive feeders that readily attack lures and flies. They arrive in Campbell River waters from July through October, with peak numbers in August and September. Their willingness to bite and spectacular fighting style make them favorites among sport anglers of all experience levels.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name:
- Oncorhynchus kisutch
- Other Names:
- Silver Salmon, Silvers, Coho
- Average Size:
- 6-12 lbs
- Trophy Size:
- 15+ lbs
- Season:
- July-October (Peak: Aug-Sept)
- Eating Quality:
- ★★★★★ Excellent (firm, flavorful)
Physical Identification
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White Mouth and Gums
Key identifier - white or gray gums with dark tongue. This immediately distinguishes Coho from Chinook (black mouth).
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Spots on Upper Tail Lobe Only
Black spots present only on the upper lobe of the tail. Lower lobe has no spots. Spots are small and regular.
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Bright Silver Coloration
Chrome-bright silver sides when ocean-fresh, with blue-green metallic back. Very reflective appearance.
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Square Tail
Tail shape is relatively square when spread. Moderately forked but less than Chinook.
Fighting Characteristics
Coho are explosive, acrobatic fighters that provide some of the most spectacular action in salmon fishing. Their aggressive strikes and aerial displays make every hookup an adrenaline rush.
Spectacular Jumps
Often jump 5-8+ times during a fight, tail-walking across the surface and throwing hooks
Blistering Runs
Fast, zipper-like runs stripping line at incredible speed, often toward the boat
Aggressive Strikes
Violent hits that often result in airborne fish before you can grab the rod
Unpredictable Behavior
Sudden direction changes, head shakes, and aerial acrobatics keep anglers alert
Best Techniques for Coho
Book Coho CharterCoho salmon respond best to faster trolling speeds (2.5-3.5 knots) and aggressive lure action. They're often found in the top 20-80 feet of water, especially when feeding on baitfish near the surface.
Lure Colors
- - Chartreuse & white
- - Hot pink & purple
- - Green glow patterns
- - UV-enhanced hoochies
Depth Range
- - Early: 40-80 feet
- - Midday: 60-100 feet
- - Feeding: 20-50 feet
- - Surface activity: 10-30 feet
Prime Times
- - Dawn & dusk
- - Tide changes
- - Overcast days
- - September runs
Sockeye Salmon (Red Salmon)
Sockeye salmon are prized for their deep red flesh and rich flavor, making them the most valuable Pacific salmon commercially. While they don't grow as large as Chinook or fight as spectacularly as Coho, Sockeye are highly valued by anglers who appreciate exceptional eating quality. Their streamlined bodies and schooling behavior create excellent opportunities for multiple catches.
Campbell River sees Sockeye runs primarily from June through August as they migrate to spawning rivers throughout BC. Unlike other Pacific salmon that readily strike lures, Sockeye feed primarily on plankton and require specific techniques and smaller presentations to catch consistently.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name:
- Oncorhynchus nerka
- Other Names:
- Red Salmon, Blueback, Sockeye
- Average Size:
- 5-8 lbs
- Trophy Size:
- 10+ lbs
- Season:
- June-August (Peak: July)
- Eating Quality:
- ★★★★★ Exceptional (deep red, rich)
Physical Identification
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No Spots on Tail or Body
Clean, unspotted tail and body. This immediately distinguishes Sockeye from Chinook, Coho, and Pink salmon.
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Streamlined, Torpedo-Shaped Body
Very hydrodynamic shape with small head relative to body. Built for efficient, long-distance swimming.
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Metallic Blue-Green Back
Brilliant metallic blue or blue-green back with silver sides when ocean-fresh. Very distinct coloration.
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Large Eyes
Proportionally large eyes adapted for seeing plankton - their primary food source.
Culinary Excellence
Sockeye salmon are widely considered the best-eating Pacific salmon due to their deep red flesh, high oil content, firm texture, and rich flavor. Their flesh ranges from bright red to deep crimson, maintaining color and moisture during cooking.
Flavor Profile
Rich, full salmon flavor without being overly fishy. Firm texture holds up to grilling, baking, and smoking.
Flesh Color
Deep red to crimson from carotenoid pigments in their plankton diet. Color remains vibrant when cooked.
Nutritional Value
High in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamins. One of the healthiest fish you can eat.
Best Preparations
Grilled, smoked, baked, poached, or raw (sushi/sashimi). Excellent canned or preserved.
Pink Salmon (Humpy Salmon)
Pink salmon, nicknamed "Humpies" for the distinctive hump that males develop during spawning, are the smallest and most abundant Pacific salmon. While they may not match the size of Chinook or the acrobatics of Coho, Pink salmon provide accessible, action-packed fishing that's perfect for beginners, families, and light-tackle enthusiasts.
Pink salmon have a unique two-year life cycle, with strong runs occurring in odd-numbered years (2025, 2027, etc.). During peak runs in July and August, massive schools move through Campbell River, offering opportunities for multiple catches and fast-paced fishing action.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name:
- Oncorhynchus gorbuscha
- Other Names:
- Humpy, Humpback Salmon, Pinks
- Average Size:
- 3-6 lbs
- Trophy Size:
- 7+ lbs
- Season:
- July-September (Odd years best)
- Eating Quality:
- ★★★ Good (mild, delicate)
Physical Identification
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Large Oval Spots on Tail
Large, distinct oval-shaped black spots on both lobes of the tail. Spots are much larger than on other salmon.
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Small Size
Smallest Pacific salmon, typically 3-6 pounds. Slender build compared to other species.
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Prominent Hump (Spawning Males)
Males develop a distinctive hump on their back as they approach spawning - hence the nickname "Humpy."
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Bright Silver When Fresh
Chrome-bright with blue-green back when ocean-fresh. Pink coloration develops as spawning approaches.
Perfect for Families & Beginners
Pink salmon are ideal targets for children, first-time anglers, and those seeking fast-paced action. Their abundance during odd-year runs creates opportunities for multiple catches and exciting light-tackle fishing.
Accessible Size
Smaller size is perfect for kids and beginners to handle and land successfully
Abundant Runs
Massive schools during odd years mean consistent action and multiple hookups
Light Tackle Fun
Excellent sport on lighter rods and reels, providing proportionate fight to their size
Easy to Catch
Readily strike lures and flies, building confidence for novice anglers
Chum Salmon (Dog Salmon)
Chum salmon, often called "Dog Salmon" for the canine-like teeth males develop during spawning, are powerful fighters that extend the fishing season into fall and early winter. While historically undervalued by sport anglers, Chum are gaining recognition for their hard-fighting nature, excellent caviar (roe), and quality flesh when caught fresh from saltwater.
Chum runs peak from late August through November in Campbell River, providing fishing opportunities after Chinook and Coho numbers decline. Their aggressive feeding behavior and powerful runs make them exciting targets, especially on lighter tackle where their strength is fully appreciated.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name:
- Oncorhynchus keta
- Other Names:
- Dog Salmon, Keta, Chum, Calico
- Average Size:
- 8-15 lbs
- Trophy Size:
- 18+ lbs
- Season:
- Aug-Nov (Peak: Sept-Oct)
- Eating Quality:
- ★★★ Good when fresh (excellent roe)
Physical Identification
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No Spots on Tail or Body
Clean tail with no black spots, similar to Sockeye but distinguished by size and body shape.
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Vertical Tiger Stripes (Spawning)
Develop distinctive vertical red and purple "tiger stripe" bars as spawning approaches - unique among Pacific salmon.
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Large Canine Teeth (Spawning Males)
Males develop enlarged, dog-like canine teeth during spawning - origin of "Dog Salmon" nickname.
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Metallic Blue-Green Back
Ocean-fresh fish have metallic greenish-blue back with silver sides, no distinct spotting.
Underrated Qualities
Chum salmon are increasingly appreciated by anglers who understand their qualities when caught at the right time and handled properly.
Powerful Fighters
Strong, dogged fighters that make long runs and test tackle. Excellent sport on medium tackle.
Premium Caviar
Female Chum produce large, firm roe (eggs) that make excellent caviar - highly valued in Japan.
Good Eating Fresh
Ocean-fresh Chum have mild, firm flesh excellent for smoking, grilling, or canning.
Extended Season
Run into fall when other species decline, extending fishing opportunities into November.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tell the difference between a Chinook and Coho salmon?
Check the mouth - Chinook have black mouths and gums, while Coho have white or gray gums. Also look at the tail: Chinook have spots on both tail lobes, while Coho only have spots on the upper lobe. Chinook are generally larger and more robust.
Which Pacific salmon tastes the best?
Sockeye is widely considered the best-eating salmon due to its deep red flesh, firm texture, and rich flavor. However, fresh Chinook is also exceptional with higher oil content, and Coho offers firm, flavorful meat. Personal preference varies among anglers.
Why are Pink salmon only abundant in odd-numbered years?
Pink salmon have a strict two-year life cycle. In BC, odd-year runs are dominant due to historical spawning success. Fish that spawn in odd years produce offspring that return in odd years, creating strong runs every other year (2025, 2027, 2029, etc.).
What is a Tyee salmon?
A Tyee is any Chinook salmon weighing 30 pounds or more. The term comes from the Chinook trade language meaning 'chief.' The Campbell River Tyee Club, founded in 1925, established traditional rules for catching these trophy fish.
Which salmon species fights the hardest?
Coho are the most acrobatic fighters, often jumping 5-8+ times during a fight with spectacular aerial displays. Chinook provide the longest, most powerful fights due to their size and strength. Pink and Sockeye are scrappy for their size but don't have the endurance of larger species.
Can you eat all five Pacific salmon species?
Yes, all Pacific salmon are edible and nutritious. Sockeye, Chinook, and Coho are considered premium eating quality. Pink and Chum are good when caught fresh from saltwater, though their flesh is milder and less oily. All species are excellent smoked or canned.
Why do salmon change color when spawning?
Salmon stop feeding when they enter freshwater to spawn, drawing on body reserves for energy. Hormonal changes trigger dramatic color transformations - Sockeye turn bright red, Chum develop tiger stripes, and all species darken. These colors attract mates and signal breeding readiness.
What's the best time to catch each species in Campbell River?
Chinook: July-August; Coho: August-September; Sockeye: June-July; Pink: July-August (odd years); Chum: September-October. These are peak times - most species are available for longer periods at lower densities.
Experience All Five Pacific Salmon Species
Book a Campbell River fishing charter and target the salmon species of your choice with expert guides who know these waters.
