Chinook Salmon
A favourite in the recreational fishery, the Chinook salmon is known by many names: King, blackmouth, quinnat, and chub are all references to this powerful fish — individuals over 14 kilograms (30 pounds) are often dubbed "Tyee".
Chinook, which spawn in large rivers from California to Alaska, are found in a relatively small number of streams in British Columbia and the Yukon. Chinook production happens mainly in major river systems, the most important of which in BC is the Fraser River. Substantial numbers of Chinook are also found in the Yukon River. Further afield, Chinook salmon have been successfully introduced to rivers on the west coast of Chile and New Zealand.
After hatching, Chinook remain in fresh water for varying lengths of time depending on water temperature. In southern areas, some migrate after three months in fresh water while others may remain for up to a year. In northern areas, most Chinook spend at least a year in fresh water. These fish are known to migrate vast distances and are found sparsely distributed throughout the Pacific Ocean. The age of Chinook adults returning to spawn varies from two to seven years, and many river systems host multiple stocks with spring, fall and winter runs.
Because of their large size and presence in coastal waters, Chinook are a favoured prey of killer whales, and are targeted by both recreational and commercial fishers. They are typically taken in hook-and-line fisheries where they chase and bite lures or baited hooks trolled through the water. Chinook are unusual among Pacific salmon because the flesh of adults can range in colour from white through pink to deep red.
While still feeding in tidal waters, Chinook have a dark back with a greenish-blue sheen. As they approach fresh water to spawn, body colour darkens and a reddish hue develops around the fins and belly. The teeth of adult spawning males enlarge and the snout often develops into a hooked shape.
Identification
- Mouth: Dark with black gums; large, sharp teeth.
- Tail: V-shaped and silvery; spots commonly present on both lobes.
- Distinguishing features: Large, irregular dark spots on the back and both tail lobes; overall robust body.
- Age at maturity: Typically 3 to 7 years (varies by stock).
- Freshwater markings: Body often turns olive-brown to near black as spawning begins.
- Flesh colour: Ranges from white to pink to deep red in adults.
- Size: Common adults are roughly 60–100 cm (24–39 in) long and often weigh between 4–14 kg (9–30 lb); larger "Tyee" Chinook exceed 14 kg (30 lb).
