Fishing Tips: How To Catch Coho Salmon

Coho Salmon

Moderate, up to 36 lbs.

Medium rods and specialized salmon gear.

Moderate.

Moderate to high during runs.

Specific rivers and coastal areas.

Rare

More photos of Coho Salmon.

Coho Salmon, also known as Silver Salmon, are known for their aggressive nature and spectacular fighting ability, making them a favorite among sport fishermen. Found in the Pacific Ocean and ascending rivers for spawning, Coho are accessible both in saltwater and freshwater. Anglers targeting Coho Salmon can employ a variety of techniques depending on the environment, including trolling in ocean waters and casting or fly fishing in rivers.

Understanding the salmon’s migration patterns and adapting to their aggressive feeding habits are key to a successful catch.

Baits For Catching Coho Salmon:

Anchovies

They can be used whole or in pieces, and their natural oils create a scent trail that draws in fis...

They can be used whole or in pieces, and their natural oils create a scent trail that draws in fish. Anchovies are often used in trolling setups with a variety of rigs to ensure natural movement and presentation.
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Berkley Gulp! Alive Minnow

Soft plastic baits, such as the Berkley Gulp! Alive Minnow, are designed to imitate small fish and...

Soft plastic baits, such as the Berkley Gulp! Alive Minnow, are designed to imitate small fish and other aquatic creatures. They are favored for their lifelike scent and movement. These baits can be rigged in various ways, including on a hook or a jighead, making them effective in different environments. Their lifelike texture and movement make them appealing to sunfish.
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Blue Fox Classic Vibrax

Inline spinners like the Blue Fox Classic Vibrax are effective lures with a spinning blade that cr...

Inline spinners like the Blue Fox Classic Vibrax are effective lures with a spinning blade that creates flash and vibration to attract fish. The Vibrax features a unique blade design that produces low-frequency vibrations, which are known to trigger strikes from predatory fish. This lure is versatile and can be used in rivers, streams, and lakes.
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Cut Herring

Cut herring is another excellent choice for Sturgeon bait. Its oily flesh releases a potent scent ...

Cut herring is another excellent choice for Sturgeon bait. Its oily flesh releases a potent scent trail that can attract fish from a distance. Herring can be used fresh or frozen, and cut into chunks or strips for bait. This bait is especially effective in tidal waters and large rivers.
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Herring

Herring are a popular live bait for fishing. They can be used whole or cut into pieces. Their oily...

Herring are a popular live bait for fishing. They can be used whole or cut into pieces. Their oily flesh releases a strong scent that attracts fish from a distance. Herring can be rigged in various ways, including mooching and trolling, making them versatile for different fishing environments.
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More Thoughts on Baits: Selecting the right bait for Coho Salmon often depends on their activity level and the clarity of the water. In clearer waters, visual attractors like brightly colored lures and flies are effective, while in turbid conditions, lures that produce vibration or noise can be more beneficial.

Gear To Use For Catching Coho Salmon:

Gear Type	Specifications	Purpose
Rod/Reel	Medium action rod paired with a reel suitable for 10-20 lb test line.	Provides the flexibility and durability needed for Coho’s acrobatics.
Line	10-20 lb test monofilament or braided line.	Strong enough to withstand sharp tugs and long runs.
Hook	Size 2-4 hooks for flies and lures.	Appropriate for the size of Coho and the type of lures used.
Net	A large, sturdy net with a deep basket.	Essential for safely landing Coho, especially from a boat.

More Thoughts on Gear:

The gear should be robust enough to handle the powerful runs and jumps that Coho are known for, especially during their spawning run. Using a net helps ensure that these energetic fish can be landed safely and efficiently.

Best Time Of Year To Catch / Weather Conditions:

Coho Salmon are typically caught from late summer through fall as they return to spawn. This timing can vary slightly depending on geographical location. Weather conditions that slightly overcast or rainy can be ideal, as Coho Salmon are known to be more active under such conditions.

Most Active Feeding Times: Coho Salmon are generally most active during the early mornings and late afternoons. During these times, they are more likely to hunt and respond aggressively to presented baits or lures.

How To Identify If You Caught Coho Salmon: Coho Salmon are medium-sized compared to other Pacific salmon, with silver sides and dark blue backs. They can be identified by their white gums next to the base of the teeth, which is a distinguishing feature from the similar Chinook Salmon. During spawning, their color changes to a darker hue, and males develop a pronounced kype (hooked jaw). For more detailed identification or to confirm your catch, you might consult resources like the Catchpedia Fish Identifier.