Let’s Talk about Salmon
Salmon start in the freshwater environments of lakes and rivers. As they mature, many species move to the saltwater of the ocean until adulthood, approximately five years. As spring arrives, the fish turn around and go home to spawn the next generation. This unique lifestyle allows for some rich fishing. Since most move between fresh and saltwater, whether you drop a line in the ocean or a river, odds are you will make a catch. Specific salmon species stay in the freshwater regions such as the Great Lakes, never making the migration to saltwater, giving you yet another choice.
Young fish feed on aquatic and flying insects. This makes them a popular option for those coming to the country to do some fly-fishing. As they mature and head off to spawn, the salmon feed primarily on small fish. They are a common food source for the local wildlife such as bears.
Salmon species found in Canada
You will find several species of salmon in the waters of Canada.
The Atlantic salmon tend to cluster on the east coast, making it an ideal fishing locale.
The Chinook species are the largest; some weighing in up to 30 lbs, and sit primarily in the Pacific. Fishing connoisseurs coming to Canada are often looking to bag a Chinook.
Chum salmon will also be available on the Pacific side of the continent.
For something a little different, go up north near the Bathurst Inlet to find Red or Sookeye salmon.
The Canadian rivers are full of the native Coho species in clear waters.
For land-locked salmon that do not migrate home to spawn, try the inland waters of Great Lakes. In this area, you may also encounter Koknee.
So, Where to Go …
There is a reason people come from all over the world to fish for salmon in Canada. It is the variety that draws them to the Canadian waters. You can take a fishing charter out into the deep-sea or stick closer inland to the rivers.
For ocean salmon and some deep-sea action, try Nootka Sound. If you want to move inland, the longest river in British Columbia – the Frasier – is waiting. This is where many Chinook take the journey home to spawn from March to November.
You don’t want to come fishing in Canada and miss the venue officially labelled the “salmon fishing capital of the world,” Campbell River. To mix it up, you need to visit the Skeena River in British Columbia. It offers over five species of salmon and, if you are lucky, you will land some trout and steelheads, as well.
Canada is full of culture, history and stunning landscapes. From coast to coast, there are over 31.000 lakes. It is not hard to see why fishing is a way of life there. When you are planning your next fishing adventure, think Canada for salmon.
