Chinook Salmon (King Salmon)

Biology & Profile

Known scientifically as Oncorhynchus tshawytscha, the Chinook Salmon (King Salmon) is highly sought after by anglers in lake,river environments. The Chinook salmon, also called King salmon, is the largest Pacific salmon species and one of the most prized sport fish in the world. Native to the Pacific coast rivers, Chinook have been successfully stocked in the Great Lakes and other major water systems. They are the ultimate trophy for freshwater salmon anglers, combining massive size with explosive fighting ability.

Habitat & Diet

When searching for Chinook Salmon (King Salmon), focus on In the Great Lakes, found in cold, open water following alewife and smelt schools. Moves to tributaries in fall for spawning runs..

Primary Diet: Feeds heavily on alewife, smelt, and other baitfish in open lake water. Does not feed during spawning migration.

Fishing Tips & Best Baits

In Great Lakes tributaries during fall spawning runs, drift spawn sacks (salmon eggs) or streamers through pools and runs. Open-lake trolling with large J-plugs, spoons, and flasher-fly rigs produces fish. Charter boats are common and effective on the Great Lakes.

Top Baits/Lures: J-plugs, large spoons, spawn sacks, flies during runs, cut herring, large streamer flies

Best Seasons: spring,fall