How to Identify Chinook Salmon

To identify Chinook Salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Adults in the ocean are typically silvery with a dark back, often iridescent blue-green. As they approach spawning, their coloration changes dramatically, becoming darker, often with a reddish-brown to olive-green hue, and males develop a pronounced 'kype' (hooked jaw).

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Black gums and mouth lining (distinguishes from other Pacific salmon), Irregularly shaped black spots on the back and both lobes of the caudal fin, Large size, especially compared to other Pacific salmon, Relatively small, adipose fin present

Dorsal fin

Single, soft-rayed dorsal fin, typically with 10-14 rays. An adipose fin is present between the dorsal and caudal fins.

Tail fin

Large, deeply forked caudal fin with irregular black spots on both lobes.

Pectoral fin

Paired pectoral fins, relatively large.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal. All fins are generally dark or dusky, especially in spawning individuals.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Mouth and Gums

   The most reliable distinguishing feature: Chinook Salmon have black gums and a black mouth lining. Other Pacific salmon typically have white or pale gums.

2. 2

   Tail Spots

   Irregularly shaped black spots are present on both the upper and lower lobes of the caudal (tail) fin. Coho Salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) typically have spots only on the upper lobe.

3. 3

   Size

   Chinook are generally the largest of the Pacific salmon, often exceeding 10 kg (22 lbs) and sometimes reaching over 30 kg (66 lbs).

4. 4

   Body Shape

   Robust, torpedo-shaped body, particularly in ocean-phase adults.

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