The Differences in Coho and King Salmon

There are so many different kinds of salmon, with the coho and king salmon being two of the more popular ones around Oregon. These are two very popular game fish we love to bring home because of their delicious meat. Furthermore, they are both anadromous fish coming from the salmon family.

They are similar fish, so what are the differences between coho and king salmon anyway? Read on as we talk about their differences and how you can tell these to fish apart next time you’re on a fishing trip!

What is Coho Salmon?

Coho salmon, also called silver salmon or silvers, are part of the pacific salmon family, known for their black tongues and white gums. Its scientific name is Oncorhynchus kisutch. These fish can take on a silver to red or wine color, depending on their gender and age. Overall, they have dark blue-green heads and backs.

Most coho salmon you’ll catch would weigh between 5-15 pounds, measuring between 17-24 inches long. Larger fish of this species can weigh over 30 pounds and reach up to 38 inches long.

In terms of flavor, silvers have a mild and firm flavor with a moderate to high-fat content. You can prepare silvers through baking, broiling, grilling, and smoking.

What is King Salmon?

On the other hand, we call king salmon a variety of names, such as the chinook, quinnat, spring salmon, tyee salmon, blackmouth, chum salmon, hookbill salmon, and black salmon. Its scientific name is Oncorhynchus tshawytscha and is Alaska’s state fish!

This type of salmon dons both black mouth and gums and measure up to 33-36 inches, with some king salmon reaching 58 inches. As the name suggests, the king salmon is the biggest salmon type, weighing between 10-50 pounds. Some king salmon can reach up to 130 pounds.

Similar to coho salmon, king salmon would change colors in different waters. When in freshwater, they have the similar silver sides the coho does. But once they head to the ocean, they have golden sides.

In terms of flavor, king salmon has the highest oil content, giving off a rich flavor and softer flesh. It also contains a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for our health! With its delicious flavor, you would usually prepare this salmon through baking, broiling, grilling, poaching, or sautéing.

The Differences in Coho and King Salmon

Now that you’re more familiar with what the coho and king salmon are, what makes them different? Here are the major points to consider:

Color and Texture

As you read, king salmon is far larger and heavier than coho, being the biggest salmon species. Besides distinguishing these fish by size, you can tell them apart from their color and texture.

Coho salmon would have bright red sides, bluish-green head, and back, along with a dark belly. As for the king salmon, they have silvery sides, a blueish green, red, or purple head and back, along with dark spots across their upper body and tail.  Furthermore, coho salmon would have white gums, compared to the black gums of king salmon.

When you cut into the flesh, coho salmon would have a lighter color than king salmon. In terms of texture when eaten, king salmon would have a “melt in the mouth” effect thanks to the high-fat content. When filleting king salmon and cooking it medium-rare, people would compare the fish center as custard.

Coho salmon is leaner but still firm, even when cooked. It would also have medium flakes like king salmon.

Where to Find Coho and King Salmon

You can easily find these two salmon species in the North Pacific Ocean. However, you can fish for coho salmon in other areas like North America (Canada) and Asia, particularly in Japan. The highest number of harvested coho are from Russia and the USA, with Alaskan troll fisheries referring to coho as their backbone.

As for the King salmon, you can also find it in North America, Asia, and even New Zealand. It’s considered a precious fish worldwide and is harvested at high rates annually. New Zealand is the world’s largest supplier and producer of this fish.

You can even find certain communities celebrating the first king salmon catch of the year, considering the species culturally important. Many tribes feature this salmon as the “First Salmon Ceremonies!”

Coho and King Salmon Nutrition

As you probably guessed, king salmon has a higher calorie and fat content than coho salmon, but with similar protein content.

However, they have similar levels of omega-3 fatty acids and other notable vitamins and minerals like vitamin B6, B5, potassium, magnesium, phosphorous, calcium, selenium, and the like. King salmon contains more vitamin B12 and folate but less selenium and potassium than coho salmon.

If you’re wondering which is healthier, we see that coho salmon is better here, as it has less fat and fewer unhealthy saturated fats. It still contains a similar amount of omega-3 fatty acids but fewer calories and cholesterol compared to King salmon. That said, we still believe both fish species are healthy, with the king salmon having various helpful nutrients!

Wrapping It Up

While the coho and king salmon have their similarities, they are definitely not one and the same fish. There’s no better type as it will depend on what specific salmon you want to catch and the type of meat you want to take home! If you want more fatty fish with a big taste, then the bigger king salmon is your best bet, while others may appreciate the lighter taste and less fat content of the smaller coho.

Hopefully, you learned more about the differences between coho and king salmon from our article! Continue learning more about fishing around Oregon and the other fish species you can target in the area. And hey, if you’re already planning to go on a fishing trip in the state, consider contacting us for fishing charter services and see what we have to offer to make your adventure a fun one.

Best Tourist Sites to Visit While Fishing in Newport, Oregon

Newport, Oregon has continued to attract visitors all around the world thanks to its fishing action, unique sights, and stunning coastal sceneries. Of course, you can expect a lot of lovely attractions and things to do to make your vacation in the area more worthwhile.

So, if you’re heading to Newport for the ultimate fishing trip, it’s also essential to take advantage of your vacation with a tour around the area’s many tourist attractions. Read on to know the best tourist sites to visit while fishing in Newport!

Best Tourist Sites to Visit While Fishing in Newport

Even after you’re done with your fishing trip, you won’t run out of things to do and places to visit in Newport. Make sure you and your family explore the area to learn about the exciting history and appreciate the sights Newport, Oregon offers.

Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area

Yaquina Head is the state’s tallest lighthouse, which towers about 93 feet above a basalt headland that used to be lava. The lighthouse has been around since 1873, where you can take guided tours to learn about the area and make your way up.

Besides learning about the lighthouse’s history, you can also go wildlife viewing at the top, where you can find migrating harbor seals and whales. You can even view tide pools and find sea stars and sea anemones!

After visiting the lighthouse, you can check the Interpretative Center, where you and the family can learn more about the landscape and lighthouse history from the exhibits.

Besides the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, you can also explore the Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site, a 32-acre park where you can find the restored Yaquina Bay Lighthouse from 1871! From here, you can go whale watching and experience free, self-guided tours.

Oregon Coast Aquarium

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is perfect for families, where everyone can learn more about marine life! We love the glass walkways as you explore the aquarium, which allows you to look up at the stingrays and sharks swimming overhead. You can also find sea otters, seals, and Pacific octopuses!

We recommend visiting during the daily feeding times and availing of the fun interactive experiences, like animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours.

You can find other fun attractions in the Oregon Coast Aquarium, such as the Sea Lion Kiss Encounters, Secret of Shipwrecks, or the Sleep in the Deep program, where you can spend a night in underwater tunnels. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can dive in the tanks with a professional guide to meet the underwater animals up close.

If you want to explore more, the Hatfield Marine Science Center is near the aquarium, boasting numerous tide pools and aquariums filled with marine creatures. Families can watch the octopus feedings, view aquatic research exhibits, and join different educational programs.

Newport Historic Bayfront

Newport Bayfront is located around Yaquina Bay and is protected from the Pacific rollers by its narrow harbor mouth. It’s the largest area landmark in Newport and a crucial connection to Oregon’s Pacific Coast Scenic Byway.

You can find commercial fishing fleets taking shelter on the waterfront. Visitors can also go here to explore the art galleries, shops, and seafood restaurants on Newport Bay Boulevard. You can also avail tours from the Marine Discovery Tours to enjoy the waters and spot wildlife like seals, gray whales, or sea lions.

Nye Beach

If you’re more of a beach person, Newport is also home to fantastic breaches like Nye Beach, which faces the Pacific Ocean. This historic area has been a popular vacation destination for years now. Catch the stunning sunset here and visit the cultural hubs, where you can feast in their famous restaurants, buy from local shops, and have fun under the sun!

You’ll also find the Newport Visual Arts Center and Newport Performing Arts Center nearby for creativity and entertainment. View the regional artworks and enjoy the community, music, and theater performances!

Victorian Burrows House Museum

The Victorian Burrows House Museum is one of the historic buildings owned and operated by the Lincoln County Historical Society. The other historic building is the Pacific Maritime Heritage Center near the museum. From the Burrows House, you can visit the Log Cabin Research Facility, where you can learn more about the region’s history through newspapers, maps, and pictures.

In the Burrows House, you get to visit the Victorian Mansion that dons period furniture and clothing. In the Pacific Maritime Heritage Center, you can learn so much about marine life and enjoy the views of the Bayfront.

Devil’s Punch Bowl State Natural Area

Devil’s Punch Bowl is one of the most popular attractions along Newport’s coast, located a bit past the Beverly Beach State Park. Once the surf starts pounding Oregon Coast, you’ll see the breathtaking rock formation come high tide, making a roaring sound. Look down into the rock’s cut to see the white waters swirling.

We recommend heading over here for a picnic to enjoy the view and to go whale watching. It’s a picturesque spot that you’ll want to post online!

Head over here after the Beverly Beach State Park, one of the more popular beaches in Oregon. With five miles of beach and a large campground, it’s made for families who want to experience outdoor life.

Wrapping It Up

There’s a reason why people flock to Newport, and it isn’t only because of the many fishing opportunities! Hopefully, our list of the best tourist sites to visit while fishing in Newport gave you an idea of where to go after you’ve caught the big one.

If you haven’t finished planning your Newport trip yet, make sure to squeeze in a trip with a fishing charter to complete your vacation. Contact us now to learn about our services and what fish you can catch with us, whether you’re alone or with the entire family!

Why Choose Newport for Your Next Fishing Charter

There are so many memories to be made in fishing charter services, just as many as the benefits you can reap from joining one. You get valuable lessons, fun companions, a professional captain, and a crew to guide you to your targeted fish safely… What’s more to love?

That’s why you’re probably wondering why everyone’s suggesting Newport, Oregon, for your next trip with a professional fishing charter. If you’re still questioning it, read on as we answer the question, “why choose Newport for your next fishing charter?”

Why Choose Newport for Your Next Fishing Charter

Newport is a top fishing destination, and we aren’t just saying that out of bias! When hiring fishing charters in the area, you can have a chance to get a ton of species and learn more about the fishing scene from professionals. Check out these other reasons why Newport should be the next destination for your fishing charter.

So Many Fish to Catch

If there’s one thing we love about Newport, it’s the abundance of fish you can catch. You can find halibut, salmon, Dungeness crabs, and bottom fish. Many people flock to Newport because it’s where they can catch “the big one!”

There’s a reason why thousands of tourists would head to Newport, Oregon, and it isn’t just for the fantastic tourist attractions. It’s the wonderful beaches and waters that are abundant with different fish species. That’s a lot of fishing opportunities you can’t find in other areas, with some fish giving you the adventure and fight of a lifetime.

And when you hire a reputable fishing charter, you have more assurance of catching the fish you want, especially if you hire private services. The knowledgeable captain and crew will know where to go, so you stand a higher chance of catching more prized fish.

Newport is an Amazing Destination

Many people also head to Newport because Newport is a fantastic destination with a lot to do. After your fishing charter, you can explore the area and learn more about its history, visit their aquariums, delve into nature with their recreation sites, or have fun on their white beaches.

Better yet, you can try out their many restaurants where they cook and serve the live catch of the day. Some restaurants can even cook your catch, turning it into a tasty meal for you and your group to enjoy with pride. Even beyond fishing, you won’t run out of things to do when in Newport.

There are So Many Fishing Charters

Because Newport, Oregon, is a fishing hotspot, you can find many fishing charters selling their services online or by the waters. You won’t run out of choices or feel hassled finding available charters for the day. However, we still recommend booking in advance, especially during the peak season when most fishing charters would be fully booked.

Furthermore, you must conduct research on the chosen fishing charters you plan to hire. Search for online reviews, their expertise, prices, and even ask around when you’re already in Newport. That way, you’ll have a smooth transaction and enjoy your charter the entire time.

More Safety and Guidance

Compared to going fishing on your own, joining a fishing charter is safer and more cost-effective.

Think about it- You won’t have to spend on renting a private boat or missing out on the action when staying on land. Plus, you won’t need to deal with the responsibilities of maneuvering and caring for the boat, along with finding the ideal waters to fish in. It’s too much to juggle when you’d rather want to spend all your time focused on catching fish.

Fishing charters have a professional captain and crew to take care of you. They are aware of how to maneuver and care for a boat and will take you to the best fishing spots with safety in mind. They even offer other benefits, from fishing gear to free refreshments!

Besides that, you most likely won’t need a fishing license as the captain’s fishing license is adequate. You won’t need to spend more time and money applying for a license.

Learn More About Fishing in Newport

You get professional fishing guides who either grew up in Newport or had been fishing and working in the area for years. So, you can bet your ass that they know many things about Newport, particularly the fishing scene.

If you have any questions about where to find fish and how to spot them in Newport, fishing guides, the professional crew, or the captain himself can answer your queries. They’ll share the best fishing spots to go in the area, the best times to fish, and what techniques will work best for particular fish species.

If you’re a total beginner, choosing Newport and hiring fishing charters are sensible decisions you’ll make. Not only will you get to catch a lot of fish, but you’ve got professionals who will provide the appropriate gear and teach you how to catch your targeted species successfully.

Even veteran anglers can learn a new thing or two from fishing charters, even exchanging tips with fellow anglers. If you’re a veteran angler new to Newport, they’ll make sure you won’t break regulations implemented by the ODFW that can lead to hefty fines or the revoking of fishing licenses.

Wrapping It Up

Newport is home to historical lighthouses, spectacular views, seal watching activities, breathtaking beaches, and most importantly, fishing opportunities you can’t miss. Since you can find many fishing charters by the shore, you won’t have trouble throughout your Newport fishing escapade, whether you’re a beginner or veteran angler, alone or with a group, with children, or friends!

Are you interested in heading to Newport now and hiring fishing charters? Don’t hesitate to contact us now, and we’ll let you know what services we can offer based on your needs!

Common Techniques to Catch Oregon Halibut

Oregon Halibut is one of the more popular targeted species to catch in the state. Because the recent salmon runs haven’t been bringing in as many fish compared to the past years, Halibut became a highly sought-out species.

Many Oregon fishermen presumed that you needed to head to Alaskan waters to catch trophy Halibut back then. While this might be true, you can also get your share of nice Halibut catches in Oregon.

If you’re planning to catch this specific fish species, you’ll need to prepare! Read on to learn all about the common techniques to catch Oregon Halibut.

Common Techniques to Catch Oregon Halibut

What’s so interesting about the Halibut is that their eyes are always on the right side of their bodies. These fish have a greenish-brown to dark brown or black eyed-side with light blotches. On the other hand, their blind side is colored white to milky-white.

Expect Halibut to have a large, stout, yet flat body, looking like an elongated diamond. On average, you’ll find Halibut in Oregon weighing about 35-40 pounds. While rare, you can discover Halibut monsters weighing over 100 pounds!

Whether you’re new to fishing or an expert at it, here are the tips and common techniques to catch Oregon Halibut successfully, whether on your own or with a fishing charter:

The Main Technique

Boat anglers would use heavy fishing rods for fishing near or directly on gravel bottoms in waters. Halibut are attracted by jigs, spoons, shrimp flies, or large herring deployed on heavy monofilament leaders or wire.

If Oregon Halibut are in shallow waters, they’ll hunt using their sight and hearing, though, in the deep, they hunt through their sense of smell. That said, expect these large flatfish to spend more time near the bottom of the waters, looking for food above and preferring colder waters.

Locating and Luring Oregon Halibut

Before anything else, you must find out where Halibut is, so you have a higher chance of catching one! As mentioned, Halibut prefer staying in or near the bottom of the ocean, about 40-80 feet deep. You won’t find Halibut below 120 feet, so stick with the 40-80 feet range.

Besides that, Oregon Halibut prefer staying around hydraulic relief zones, which are current-calming obstructions such as valleys, rock formations, or depressions, in the deep waters. We recommend using sonar or other types of electronic equipment to identify the contours and depths of the ocean. That way, you can discover excellent fishing spots!

Once you find a good spot, the next step is to prepare your bait. Make sure you select a bait that Halibut actually likes!

Other than the baits mentioned above, you can use live squid or octopus, as well as mackerel guts or heads. You can also use artificial bait like plastic fish colored like anchovies or sardines. Add attracting scents to your line and bait, chumming liberally and regularly to increase your chances of luring Halibut in.

You can draw Halibut in with luminescence and movement but avoid jerking motions. As for the fishing line, select one that’s strong yet lightweight, as you wouldn’t want Halibut snapping the line or experiencing a difficult time reeling your catch. We recommend a low-stretch and high-quality line with an 80-120 pound test strength.

Hook and Reel Your Halibut In

Drop your bait close to the bottom of the waters. If you hit bottom, reel a bit back, so you’re just a bit off the floor. Wait for half a minute for a bite before you move your bait by raising and lowering it a few feet. You can also move it side to side, attracting fish to the line.

If you haven’t gotten a bite after about 10-12 casts, then you may want to reposition. But when you do get a bite, don’t set the hook and pull! Halibut will most likely slip free if you do so.

Instead, let the fishing line lower into the water until it tightens. Then, set your hook, steadily pulling your line up with control. Wind and lower the rod, pulling again to bring the Halibut up close to the surface. Slow and steady is critical here, as Halibut would head to the surface without much resistance if you go gently.

Once the Halibut is right below the water’s surface, you may spook it! Don’t try fighting it or pulling it closer, as you risk losing your hook or breaking the line. Instead, give the Halibut some slack, allowing it to calm down. Then try again and slowly bring it up.

Claim Your Prize!

Now, you’re so close to catching an Oregon Halibut! You’ll have to weaken the Halibut before bringing it to your boat, as flailing fish can injure anglers. It’s best to ensure that the fish can’t put up resistance when it’s onboard.

Please do this by using a gaff or harpoon to wound the fish, aiming for the solid area behind its head. Drive your gaff or harpoon straight through and wait until the fish becomes tired, losing blood.

While some anglers use guns, this is NOT recommended and even illegal in many areas. Not only is it dangerous, but you also risk ruining the fish meat.

And there you have it! If the fishing season and regulations permit you to catch more than one Halibut, you can repeat the process. But if you’re good to go, you can enjoy your catch for your next homecooked meal. Congratulations!

Speaking of, make sure you have the appropriate fishing license and learn about Oregon’s Halibut and bottom fish seasons and regulations before you head out to the waters!

Wrapping It Up

Catching Halibut doesn’t need to be so complicated with the proper methods and preparation. Did you learn a lot about the common techniques to catch Oregon Halibut from our guide? We hope you did!

Now, if you’re planning to head to Oregon for your next fishing trip, don’t just prepare for the big Halibut. Prepare by contacting fishing charters like us to take you to your targeted fish species!

Destin Florida Fishing Guide

Pastime Partner Highlight

 As a fishing guide we have friends all over the United States and occasionally we will be highlighting some of them just as they will be highlighting us on their blogs. This gives anglers that normally fish in a specific area and often target specific species of fish the opportunity to learn about a new area and new fish to target. Today we are excited to talk about one of our friends in the fishing industry, Destin Florida Fishing Charters. As their name implies, they are based out of Destin, Florida. They specialize in helping anglers looking to fish in Destin, find the best possible guides to go fishing with.

Types of Fishing Guides in Destin, Florida

Destin, Florida is one of the most popular fishing destinations in the world. Destin is located in the northwest part of the state in is actually a short drive away from Alabama. It has beautiful white-sand beaches, ideal weather, and one of the biggest fishing charter fleets in the world. Destin has two types of fishing guides, inshore and offshore. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about Destin, Florida fishing guides.

Inshore Fishing Charters

Inshore fishing guides take anglers fishing in the bays and inlets around Destin. The common types of fish to catch are Redfish, Speckled Trout, Tarpon, Snook, and many others. There are some major benefits to inshore fishing charters. Generally speaking, the common fishing locations are found pretty close to the harbor. This means that you can spend more time fishing and less time riding on the boat. Since they are in the bays, you don’t have to deal with rough oceans that cause sea sickness. There are also a number of different fishing techniques that can be used on an onshore fishing charter.

Guided sight fishing is one of the most popular types of inshore fishing Destin has to offer. Sight fishing is done on a smaller boat that’s usually 20-24 feet long that is equipped with a platform that allows the guide to look out over the water. From this high vantage point the guide navigates the shallow water with a long pole and looks for fish. Once a fish is spotted, the guide will instruct anglers where they should cast in order to catch the fish. This type of fishing is highly popular for fly fishers but also works extremely well when fishing with spinners. Destin is one of the few locations this fishing can be done because of the crystal-clear water.

Offshore Fishing Charters

Offshore fishing is also known as deep-sea fishing. Destin is a great location for deep sea fishing because their is a great variety of sport fish that can be caught relatively close to shore. These include Mahi Mahi (Dolphinfish), Grouper, Snapper, Sailfish, Barracuda and many others. 

Offshore fishing charters are better suited for seasoned anglers. Fish caught while deep-sea fishing are often large sport fish and are not always easy to catch. They put up an enormous fight and offer the experience of a lifetime. With the great reward of an enormous sports fish, there are also a few challenges. Since you are fishing on the open ocean, the sea is often rough and can give anglers seasickness. This is especially the case because you often have a longer boat ride to get to your fishing destination. As long as you prepare accordingly, you can ensure a great experience on your next offshore fishing charter.

Choosing a Fishing Charter in Destin, Florida

There are a lot of ways to choose a great guide in Destin. The most common way people choose their guides is online. There are plenty of resources like Goole, Yelp, Trip Advisor, social media, and charter websites. These resources allow you to learn about the fishing charters, what fish they target, prices and customer reviews. Our friends Destin Florida Fishing Charters offer another option. The personally vet and vouch for the best fishing charters in Destin. When you book a guide through them, you can rest assured that you are going to be pared up with an amazing guide that will give you the experience of a lifetime. Their website makes it quick and easy to find a fishing charter anywhere in the Destin area.

The Common Techniques to Catch Coho Salmon

Coho Salmon, also known as silver salmon or silvers, are popular fish located in western regions of the USA. We can catch silvers from California to Alaska, with the species being popular in Oregon.

If you want to target and catch Coho Salmon, you’re in the right place. We will show you the most common techniques to catch Coho Salmon, so read on!

The Common Techniques to Catch Coho Salmon

Coho Salmon are part of the pacific salmon family, known for their white gums and black tongues. Their bodies can be silver, red, or wine, depending on their age and gender, while their heads and back are usually dark blue-green.

Coho salmon would weigh between 5-15 pounds and measure about 17-24 inches long. However, there are more significant varieties of Coho Salmon that can weigh over 30 pounds, measuring up to 38 inches long.

So, how can you successfully capture this fish? Here are the common techniques to catch Coho Salmon:

Figure out where and when to fish

In Oregon, the best areas to go Coho Salmon fishing in are ocean waters with a surface temperature of 52-56 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s the temperature before the sun begins warming the waters for the day. If the water temperatures are a bit higher, you can still catch Coho, though it may take a bit more time and effort.

You should also check for any trash lines and current edges at the water surface. The edges concentrate small fish and plankton, with bigger Coho feeding on them. Just make sure you don’t go too deep, running your gear in the prop wash.

Let out only enough line for the gear to drop below where you can see it, about 6-12 feet down. You can run gear deeper if you aren’t producing any bites; tough Coho feeds closer to the water surface.

What gear should you use?

You can’t catch Coho salmon successfully without the right gear! Here are our gear recommendations for better success:

• Rods – We recommend spinning gear setups or conventional rods. Anglers might even carry multiple rods made for different fishing techniques. Either way, opt for a medium to heavy rod with moderate to heavy action.
• Reels – If you use a spinning rod and reel, an 8’6 to 9’6 long rod is best, as long as it can handle 100 yards of a 10-15lb test line. If you’re targeting larger Coho salmon, we recommend a conventional rod and reel of the same length, though you can get a shorter one as needed.
• Fishing line – We recommend using an 8-15 lb test line for lighter spinning rods and reels. Opt for a 15-20 lb test line if you’re casting heavy. You can choose branded, monofilament, or fluorocarbon line, depending on your preference.
• Hooks – People commonly fish Coho salmon with treble and octopus hooks. Opt for a size smaller than you’d use for other salmon, such as size 4 to 2/0, depending on the bait size.
• Lures and baits – We recommend using plugs for waters with little to no current, spoons during the spawning season, or salmon eggs, which Coho salmon love. You can use spinners, which aren’t as popular when Coho salmon fishing, but they work if used properly. As for color, opt for a bright fluorescent chartreuse lure to attract Coho salmon.

Increase the casting distance

Coho salmon are easily spooked by boats, so if you go boat fishing, whether on your own or with charters, then you must be a bit sneaky! If you’re too loud, you end up spooking Coho, so you’re less likely to get a bite.

Avoid scaring fish by using a longer rod to increase the casting distance. Or, you can fish along the bank once you know where fish are holding.

Spot activity properly

When Coho makes their runs, you should watch out for any activity, preparing yourself to look for new locations.

Jumping Coho in the area is a good sign though you may find it difficult catching them. You should also lookout for any gull activity near the water surface, which means the fish are hunting something. That may mean you found the spot Coho salmon are holding!

If you’re totally new to fishing and spotting activity, we recommend joining a fishing charter. They have a professional crew to take you to the waters where your targeted fish species are, even teaching you how to catch Coho!

Bonus Tips

Here are other extra tips and techniques to follow for a better chance at catching Coho Salmon:

• Do NOT pick the rod up, lower the tip, then yank back. There’s no need to set a hook on Coho salmon. If you’re trolling, then the boat and fish are taking care of this part.
• Never raise the tip of your rod, which gets Coho jumping. Jumping Coho ends up becoming lost Coho.
• Keep tension on your line. Please don’t drop the rod tip for gaining line unless you feel it the entire time.
• If you feel you lost a potential catch, then reel as quickly as you can! Coho would usually run towards the boat, thinking you lost them. Maybe you lost, but perhaps not, so it’s worth trying.
• When you’re trolling for Coho Salmon, make sure you go fast! This is common mistake beginner anglers commit when targeting Coho Salmon using hoochies or spoons. Troll at about 3-6 mph, only slowing down if you’re using plug cut or whole bait to avoid tearing it.
• Nothing will work every single time. Don’t hesitate to switch techniques up if you don’t get any bites while other anglers are. You can change the trolling speed, the direction of trailing, depth, attractors, lures, or begin again.

Wrapping It Up

Hopefully, this article on the common techniques to catch Coho Salmon gave insight on what to prepare and do once you’re in the waters. If you’re looking for a fishing charter to guide you to the areas with Coho salmon, feel free to contact us for more information!