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Chum salmon

Oncorhynchus keta

Chum salmon© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

Calico salmon, also known as Chum salmon, is a popular game fish known for its strong fighting ability and decent table quality. It's a Pacific salmon species that migrates from saltwater to freshwater to spawn. Anglers value it for its vigor and the challenge it presents.

Fight
Taste
Game Fish

Basic Information

Family

Salmonidae

Max Size

100 cm

Max Weight

18.1 kg

Habitat

marine, freshwater, brackish

Depth Range

0-250m

Climate

temperate

Best Season

Late summer to early fall (August to October)

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 Chum salmon

  • Use sturdy spinning or baitcasting gear to handle the fight of a Calico salmon.
  • Fish near river mouths and estuaries where salmon congregate before migrating upstream.
  • Try using lures that mimic baitfish, such as spoons or spinners, or fish with salmon eggs or roe.
  • Pay attention to tide cycles, as salmon often move with the tide.

Top Fishing Locations for Chum salmon

Kodiak Island

USA
intermediate80% Very Common

Known for its abundant runs of Calico salmon, Kodiak Island offers a mix of river and coastal fishing opportunities.

Best: July-September

Kamchatka Peninsula

Russia
expert85% Very Common

One of the most remote and pristine destinations for Calico salmon fishing, with numerous rivers and streams.

Best: August-October

Yukon River

Canada/USA
expert70% Very Common

A significant river system that offers a challenging and rewarding Calico salmon fishing experience.

Best: August-September

Sakhalin Island

Russia
intermediate75% Very Common

Rich in Calico salmon, Sakhalin Island's rivers and coastlines provide a variety of fishing opportunities.

Best: August-October

Hokkaido

Japan
beginner60% Common

Known for its Calico salmon runs, Hokkaido offers accessible fishing spots in its rivers and coastal areas.

Best: September-November

Unalakleet River

USA
intermediate80% Very Common

A prime location in Alaska for Calico salmon, offering a mix of river and estuary fishing.

Best: July-September

Anadyr River

Russia
expert85% Very Common

Located in the Russian Far East, the Anadyr River is known for its abundant Calico salmon runs.

Best: August-September

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Chum salmon

Recommended Equipment

RodMedium to heavy action rod, 2.4 to 3.0 meters (8 to 10 feet) long
Line10 to 15 kg (22 to 33 lbs) test line
Lure TypeSpoons, spinners, or jigs; or salmon eggs and roe for bait
TechniqueTrolling, casting, or still fishing near river mouths and estuaries

Best bait: Salmon eggs, roe, or small fish like herring