Fishing Tales

Coho, also known as Silver Salmon, are swift, active fish. There are more distinct populations of coho than of any other Pacific salmon species in BC. These salmon are found in most BC coastal streams and in many streams from California to Alaska, but their major territory lies between the Columbia River and the Cook Inlet in Alaska. Coho spawn in over half of the 1,500 streams in BC and Yukon for which records are available.

Young coho generally spend one year in freshwater, although in northern populations a high proportion of juveniles spend two or even three years in freshwater before entering the ocean. Juvenile coho favour small streams, sloughs, and ponds, but coho populations can also be found in lakes and large rivers. After the eggs hatch in the gravel of stream beds, young coho spend one to two years rearing in freshwater. Migrating as smolts to the ocean, they spend up to 18 months at sea before returning to their natal streams to spawn. While most coho return to freshwater as mature adults at three years of age, some mature earlier and migrate to their home streams as jacks at only two years old.

Unlike other salmon species that generally migrate long distances in the open ocean, coho remain in coastal waters. Their proximity to land, willingness to take lures, and tendency to jump and dodge make them a favourite among sport fishers. Coho are also caught in First Nations food fisheries by traditional methods such as weirs, nets, and gaffs.

As adults, coho have silvery sides and a metallic blue back with irregular black spots. Spawning males in freshwater exhibit bright red sides and a bright green back and head, with darker colouration on the belly. They also develop a marked hooked jaw with sharp teeth. Female spawners also change colour and develop the hallmark hooked snout, but the alteration is less pronounced.

Identification

• Mouth: White, may have black edge; white gums; sharp, medium-sized teeth.
• Tail: Square, silver; some spots, usually on upper lobe; wide tail base.
• Distinguishing features: Spots on upper part of body.
• Age at maturity: 3 years.
• Freshwater markings: Greenish-black head, red body.
• Flesh colour: Red or orange-red.
• Size: 2–14 kg (4–31 lbs).