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Atlantic salmon

Salmo salar

Atlantic salmon© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

Atlantic Salmon is a highly prized game fish known for its strength and acrobatic leaps. Native to the North Atlantic, it migrates upstream to spawn in freshwater rivers and streams. Anglers highly value it for its challenging fight and flavorful flesh.

Fight
Taste
Game Fish

Basic Information

Family

Salmonidae

Max Size

150 cm

Max Weight

46.8 kg

Habitat

marine, freshwater, brackish

Depth Range

0-210m

Climate

temperate

Best Season

Varies by location, typically spring to fall during upstream migration

Best Time

Early morning and late evening when fish are most active

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Atlantic salmon

  • Use a rod with a suitable action for the size of the fish and the strength of the current.
  • Choose lures or flies that imitate the natural prey, such as salmon eggs or leeches.
  • Pay attention to water conditions and adjust your presentation accordingly.
  • When fishing in rivers, be aware of the fish's migratory patterns and focus on areas with suitable habitat, such as gravel or rocky bottoms.

Top Fishing Locations for Atlantic salmon

River Dee

Scotland/UK
intermediate70% Very Common

One of the most iconic salmon rivers in the UK, known for its clear waters and high catch rates.

Best: September to November, February to May

River Tay

Scotland/UK
intermediate65% Common

The longest river in Scotland and one of the best salmon rivers in the UK.

Best: February to May, September to November

Miramichi River

Canada
intermediate80% Very Common

A world-renowned salmon river with a high catch rate, known for its rugged beauty.

Best: June to October

Restigouche River

Canada
intermediate75% Very Common

A famous salmon river on the border of New Brunswick and Quebec.

Best: June to October

River Wye

England/Wales
intermediate60% Common

A historic salmon river that forms part of the border between England and Wales.

Best: March to May, September to November

Alta River

Norway
expert50% Common

One of Norway's most famous salmon rivers, known for its large fish.

Best: June to September

Tana River

Norway/Finland
expert55% Common

One of the best salmon rivers in Europe, forming part of the border between Norway and Finland.

Best: June to September

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Atlantic salmon

Recommended Equipment

Rod9-10 foot, medium to fast action, single-handed or double-handed rod
Line8-15 lb (3.5-6.8 kg) test, depending on the size of the fish and water conditions
Lure TypeArtificial lures, such as spoons or spinners, or flies, like egg patterns or leech imitations
TechniqueFly fishing or spinning with a focus on presentation and imitating natural prey

Best bait: Natural baits, such as salmon eggs or roe, or artificial egg imitations