How to catch King Salmon (Chinook)

Oncorhynchus tshawytscha

Also known as chinook, spring salmon.

King salmon are the largest of the Pacific salmon and a premier saltwater troll target off Alaska and the Pacific Northwest.

Where to find them

Nearshore saltwater, points, and river mouths

Season

Late spring through summer

Best baits & lures for King Salmon (Chinook)

trolled herringflashers and spoonshoochies

Troll cut-plug herring and flashers at depth near points and bait. Tide changes concentrate fish around structure.

Timing matters as much as tackle. Baitful reads the tide stage, pressure trend, solunar windows and weather at your spot and scores the bite, so you fish King Salmon (Chinook) when conditions line up.

Where to catch King Salmon (Chinook)

Catching King Salmon (Chinook): FAQ

What's the best bait for King Salmon (Chinook)?

Proven options include trolled herring, flashers and spoons, hoochies. Troll cut-plug herring and flashers at depth near points and bait. Tide changes concentrate fish around structure.

When is the best time to catch King Salmon (Chinook)?

Late spring through summer. Day to day, moving water and low-light periods around dawn and dusk usually fish best.

Where do you find King Salmon (Chinook)?

Look for Nearshore saltwater, points, and river mouths. Anglers target them at spots like Sitka.

Time your next King Salmon (Chinook) trip

Free live conditions, Bite Score, and what's biting now.

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