Chinook Salmon
Oncorhynchus tshawytscha
Also known as: King; Tyee; Blackmouth; Spring Salmon; Quinnat
Size & Weight
Average Length
36.0"
Max Length
59.0"
Average Weight
30.0 lbs
Max Weight
129.0 lbs
Lifespan
7 years
Habitat
Depth Range
0 - 200 ft
Water Temp
55-64°F
Ocean: open water; Spawning: large rivers with gravel
Behavior
Spawning Season
Summer-Fall (varies by run)
Migration: Anadromous; spawn in natal rivers then die
Diet: Juveniles: insects; Adults: herring; anchovies; squid
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Year-round varies; peak summer/fall
Techniques: Trolling; mooching; back-bouncing; plunking
Best Bait: Herring; anchovies; cut plug; spinners; roe
Eating Quality
Edibility
Excellent
Buttery; rich; most prized salmon; high oil
State Records
Washington
70.5
lbs
Oregon
83.0
lbs
California
88.0
lbs
Fun Facts
Largest Pacific salmon; can travel 2000+ miles; black gum line; OR record from 1910
How to Identify
Black mouth with black gums; large black spots on back and both lobes of tail; distinctive black coloring on lower jaw base; larger and darker than other salmon
Commonly Confused With
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Official Resources
Sources: NOAA; WDFW; ODFW; ADF&G
Change History
No change history available for this species.