Pink Salmon
Oncorhynchus gorbuscha
Also known as: Humpy; Humpback; Pinks
Size & Weight
Average Length
18.0"
Max Length
30.0"
Average Weight
4.0 lbs
Max Weight
15.0 lbs
Lifespan
2 years
Habitat
Depth Range
0 - 150 ft
Water Temp
50-58°F
Ocean: coastal; Spawning: lower river reaches; short freshwater stays
Behavior
Spawning Season
Late summer (Aug-Sept)
Migration: Anadromous; strict 2-year life cycle; odd/even year runs
Diet: Ocean: crustaceans; small fish; squid
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Odd years primarily (varies)
Techniques: Trolling; casting; fly fishing in rivers
Best Bait: Small spoons; spinners; pink flies
Eating Quality
Edibility
Good
Mild; lighter flesh; lower oil than other salmon
State Records
Washington
15.4
lbs
California
8.69
lbs
Fun Facts
Strict 2-year cycle; males develop pronounced hump; abundant; smaller salmon; good canned
How to Identify
White mouth with black gums; large oval spots on both tail lobes; small scales; spawn in odd-numbered years primarily
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 | — | 18.0 |