Fishing for Coho Salmon

Coho salmon, also known as silver salmon, are a popular sport fish found in the Pacific Ocean and its tributaries from Alaska to California. They are anadromous fish, meaning they are born in freshwater but spend most of their adult lives in the ocean. They return to freshwater to spawn in the fall.

Coho salmon are smaller than chinook salmon, but they are still a respectable size, with adults averaging around 10-15 pounds. They are known for their silver bodies, pink stripes, and white bellies. Coho salmon are also known for their fighting spirit, making them a popular target for anglers.

Coho Salmon Habitat

Coho salmon can be found in a variety of habitats, including rivers, streams, lakes, and the ocean. In the ocean, they are typically found in coastal waters and near estuaries. In freshwater, they are typically found in small to medium-sized rivers and streams. Coho salmon are often found near structure, such as rocks, logs, and drop-offs.

Coho Salmon Diet

Coho salmon are carnivores, and they eat a variety of food, including herring, anchovies, squid, and other fish. When fishing for coho salmon, it is important to use lures or bait that resemble their natural food sources.

Popular Coho Salmon Lures

Some popular coho salmon lures include:

• Spoons
• Spinners
• Hoochies
• Kwikfish
• Flashtrap
• Flies

Popular Coho Salmon Bait

Some popular coho salmon bait includes:

• Herring
• Anchovies
• Squid
• Salmon eggs
• Sand shrimp

Coho Salmon Fishing Techniques

There are a variety of different coho salmon fishing techniques that can be used, depending on the specific conditions. Some common techniques include:

• Trolling: Trolling is a popular and effective way to fish for coho salmon. When trolling, you will drag your lure or bait behind a moving boat. You can use a variety of different lures or bait for trolling, such as spoons, spinners, and hoochies.
• Casting: Casting is another popular and effective way to fish for coho salmon. When casting, you will cast your lure or bait out into the water and then reel it in slowly. You can use a variety of different lures or bait for casting, such as spinners, plugs, and spoons.
• Drift fishing: Drift fishing is a good option when you are fishing in rivers or streams. When drift fishing, you will float your lure or fly downstream with the current. You can use a variety of different lures or flies for drift fishing, such as spinners, nymphs, and wet flies.

Coho Salmon Fishing Tips

Here are some general coho salmon fishing tips:

• Fish early in the morning or late in the evening when the fish are most active.
• Fish near structure, such as rocks, logs, and drop-offs.
• Use lures or bait that resemble the fish’s natural food sources.
• Be patient and persistent. Coho salmon can be finicky feeders, so it may take some time to get a bite.

Coho Salmon Fishing Regulations

Coho salmon are a regulated species, so it is important to check your local fishing regulations before you go fishing for them. In many areas, there are specific bag limits and size limits in place.