Chum Salmon
Oncorhynchus keta
Also known as: Dog Salmon; Keta; Calico; Silverbrite
Size & Weight
Average Length
25.8"
Max Length
43.0"
Average Weight
10.0 lbs
Max Weight
45.0 lbs
Lifespan
6 years
Habitat
Depth Range
0 - 150 ft
Water Temp
50-58°F
Ocean: coastal to offshore; Spawning: lower river reaches
Behavior
Spawning Season
Fall (Oct-Dec)
Migration: Anadromous; juveniles go to sea quickly; return at 3-5 years
Diet: Ocean: jellyfish; crustaceans; small fish
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Fall
Techniques: Trolling; casting; fly fishing
Best Bait: Spoons; spinners; pink/chartreuse flies
Eating Quality
Edibility
Fair to Good
Ocean-caught (silverbrite): good; Spawning: poor
State Records
Washington
25.97
lbs
Oregon
23.0
lbs
Fun Facts
Largest eggs of Pacific salmon; dramatic spawning colors; good fresh from ocean; roe valuable
How to Identify
White tip on anal fin; white gum line; distinctive vertical bars (calico) appear at spawning; larger eye than Sockeye; no spots on tail
Commonly Confused With
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Official Resources
Sources: NOAA; WDFW; ODFW; ADF&G
Change History (Last updated Feb 02, 2026 at 10:33 AM)
| Date | Change | Old Value | New Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 02, 2026 10:33 AM | Updated Avg Length | — | 25.8 |