Coho Salmon
Coho salmon, also known as silver salmon, are one of the most sought-after fish for their aggressive strikes, aerial fights, and delicious meat. Smaller than Chinook but just as feisty, Cohos are known for their explosive speed and relentless energy, making them a favorite among sport anglers. Whether you're trolling in the Pacific Northwest, casting in a fast-moving river, or fishing the Great Lakes, Coho salmon deliver an exciting and unforgettable experience.
If you’re looking for a fish that fights hard and tastes great, Coho salmon—also known as “silver salmon”—should be at the top of your list. These sleek, aggressive fish are famous for their acrobatic leaps, lightning-fast runs, and strong strikes, making them a favorite among anglers across North America. Whether you’re fishing along the Pacific coast, in Alaskan rivers, or in the Great Lakes, Coho salmon provide an exciting challenge for beginners and seasoned anglers alike.
Coho are highly migratory fish, spending most of their lives in the ocean before returning to freshwater rivers and streams to spawn. In the ocean, they feed aggressively and can be caught by trolling with spoons, hoochies, or baitfish. Once they enter freshwater, their feeding habits change, but they still strike at spinners, flies, and egg patterns, especially when fished with the right technique. Their willingness to bite and put up a fight makes them one of the most accessible and exciting salmon species to target.
Peak Coho fishing varies by region. In the Pacific Northwest, runs begin in late summer and continue into the fall. In Alaska, some rivers see Coho arriving as early as July, with prime fishing lasting into September. Meanwhile, the Great Lakes’ stocked Coho populations offer excellent fishing in tributaries from September through November. The best fishing times depend on local conditions, so checking regional reports is always a good idea before planning a trip.
Beyond the thrill of the catch, Coho salmon are also prized for their firm, flavorful meat. They are excellent for grilling, smoking, and baking, making them a top choice for anglers who enjoy cooking their catch. If you’re looking for an exciting fishing experience that combines action and great table fare, Coho salmon should be high on your bucket list.
Fishing Tips & Tricks
Common Locations
- Pacific Northwest: Coho salmon thrive in the cold, fast-flowing rivers and coastal waters of Washington, Oregon, and Northern California. Major runs occur in rivers such as the Columbia, Rogue, and Klamath.
- Alaska: Home to some of the largest Coho salmon populations, Alaska’s rivers and coastal estuaries, such as the Kenai, Situk, and Togiak Rivers, offer world-class fishing.
- Great Lakes: Stocked populations of Coho provide outstanding angling opportunities in lakes Michigan, Superior, and Ontario, with peak fishing in tributaries during fall runs.
- Inland Rivers: While native to the Pacific, Coho have been introduced in select inland waterways, including parts of Idaho, Montana, and even the Northeast.
Fishing Tips
- Tackle and Gear: Coho are strong fighters, so a medium-heavy spinning or baitcasting rod with a 12-30 lb test line is recommended. In rivers, lighter gear may be used for finesse presentations, while in open water, heavier setups help manage strong runs.
- Timing: Runs generally peak between late summer and fall, depending on the region. In Alaska, Coho can be caught as early as July, while Great Lakes runs peak from September through November.
- Techniques:
- Trolling: In saltwater or large lakes, trolling with spoons, flasher-and-hoochie rigs, or baitfish imitators is an effective way to locate feeding Coho.
- Drift Fishing: In rivers, drifting with cured salmon eggs, shrimp, or artificial beads mimics natural prey and triggers bites.
- Casting Spinners and Spoons: Brightly colored spinners and wobbling spoons work exceptionally well in both moving and still waters.
- Fly Fishing: Coho are aggressive towards flies, making them a prime target for fly anglers using large streamers, egg patterns, and flash flies.
Recommended Baits & Lures
- Live Baits: Herring, anchovies, and shrimp.
- Artificial Baits: Vibrant-colored spinners, spoons, and twitching jigs. Coho respond well to pink, orange, and chartreuse hues.
- Fly Patterns: Flashy streamers, egg-sucking leeches, and bead egg imitations work well, particularly in river settings.
Related Species or Interesting Facts
- Interesting Fact: Coho salmon undergo a dramatic transformation during their spawning migration. Males develop a hooked jaw (kype), dark greenish backs, and brilliant red sides, making them one of the most striking salmon species.
- Other Activities: Many anglers combine Coho fishing trips with wildlife viewing, bear watching, or exploring scenic coastal and riverine landscapes. In Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, guided Coho fishing trips often include opportunities to see whales, eagles, and other iconic wildlife.
Where you can find this fish in the US
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