SALMON FISHING

Salmon fishing is unique because it can be done in both freshwater and saltwater. Salmon spawn in lakes and streams and then make their way to the ocean where they live until the next spawning season.  If you want to try salmon fishing, the first factor you need to consider is which type of water you want to fish in.

Salmon fishing is popular because people enjoy eating this fish.  Additionally, Salmon are strong, large fish that put up an incredible fight.  Either way, salmon are highly sought after by fisherman, sokKeep in mind that the waters may be crowded during salmon spawning seasons on streams and rivers.

TYPES OF SALMON

There are many types of salmon that live in both freshwater and saltwater. A few of these species include:
• Kokanee (often thought of as trout, but actually a land-locked salmon)
• Chinook
• Chum
• Sockeye
• Atlantic
• Huchen
• Steelhead
• Cherry
• Pink
• Coho
• Australian

If you are looking for a specific species of salmon, you should research which regions they generally habitate.

PREPARING FOR A SALMON FISHING TRIP

One of the best ways to prepare for this type of fishing trip is by bringing the right 'test' fishing line. Salmon can fight long and hard, especially salmon in the ocean. They have been known to tear through fishing line and escape.  So be sure that you choose a minimum of 15 pound test fishing line for your salmon reel.  Personally I use 20 pound test.  Another suggestion is to use a heavier pound test leader about 3-6 feet long depending on lure.  Use this heavier test leader for attaching your bait, lure, or spinner - something in the range of 30-40 pound test monofilament line.  Some fishermen even use a wire leader at the working end of their salmon rod. 

Other fishing equipment to bring include:
• Large, sturdy fish net
• Large bucket
• Large hooks (sharpened)
• Towels
• Pliers

Because salmon can grow to be quite large, you may need this equipment to help when removing the hook after catching one. Planning ahead will help you have the best experience possible.

PROS AND CONS OF SALMON FISHING

Since salmon is a food served in various cultures, people know what it tastes like and are more apt to fish for food they know they enjoy eating. This means that you may not get the peaceful tranquil time you wanted on the water. But, if you catch a decent sized salmon, you will be able to get many meals out of it. Below is a list of pros and cons to help you decide if you want to go salmon fishing.

Pros
• Most people are familiar with salmon
• They can be very large - 40 pounders are common.
• They put up a good fight - the kind of story you'll be telling your great grandchildren.
• They can be found in freshwater and saltwater

Cons
• More fishing pressure because people are familiar with salmon and it's a sought-after fish
• Additional and heavier equipment may be needed in order to catch them
• Salmon can cut fishing line

Salmon fishing is similar to other types of freshwater and saltwater fishing in that the same equipment is needed - a rod and a reel, net, etc - the equipment just needs to be more stout to handle this large, hard-fighting fish.   If you want to try your hand at salmon, with a little preparation and the right fishing equipment  you will salmon fishing like a pro.

Article by Pacific Northwest Fishing Info - Your guide to fishing in the beautiful Pacific Northwest states of Alaska, Oregon, and Washington, and in the Canadian province of British Columbia.

Tags: salt-water salmon, salmon fishing tackle, salmon, salmon fishing

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