Species guide
How to catch Sockeye salmon
Oncorhynchus nerka
Sockeye salmon are known for their striking red flesh and important role in both commercial and recreational fishing. They have two main forms: a larger anadromous form that migrates to the ocean and a smaller landlocked form called kokanee. These fish typically spend one to two years in freshwater lakes before migrating to the sea.
Where they live
Sockeye salmon inhabit freshwater, brackish, and saltwater environments across the Pacific region, including North America, Asia, Europe, and Oceania. They range from shallow waters to depths of about 250 meters and are commonly found in lakes and coastal ocean areas.
Typical size
Most run 50–84 cm
What they eat
- small fishes
- insect larvae
- chironomids
- plankton
- copepods
- small crustaceans
- zooplankton
Best baits
- salmon eggs
- small fish pieces
- shrimp
- insect larvae
Best lures
- spoons
- spinners
- plugs
- soft plastic lures
How to fish for them
- trolling
- fly fishing
- drift fishing
- bait fishing
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