Salmon Shark
Lamna ditropis
Also known as: Pacific Porbeagle
Size & Weight
Average Length
72.0"
Max Length
120.0"
Average Weight
75.0 lbs
Max Weight
660.0 lbs
Lifespan
30 years
Habitat
Depth Range
0 - 500 ft
Water Temp
38-52°F
Cold open ocean; offshore; pelagic; cold water specialist
Behavior
Spawning Season
Spring (Alaska)
Migration: Highly migratory; follow salmon runs; cold water
Diet: Salmon; squid; herring; sablefish
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Rare PNW encounters
Techniques: Rarely targeted; some sport fishing
Best Bait: Large salmon; herring
Eating Quality
Edibility
Fair (when handled properly)
Rich; requires immediate bleeding
Fun Facts
Endothermic (warm-blooded); follow salmon runs; can raise body temp above water; resembles Great White
How to Identify
Dark gray to black upper side; white belly; cone-shaped snout; warm-blooded (countershaded); found in cooler waters than Blue Shark
Official Resources
Sources: ADF&G; NOAA
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 | — | 72.0 |