Silver salmon, also known as Coho salmon, live in both freshwater and saltwater areas of Alaska. The fish is prized for its health benefits and delicate flavor. Silvers put up a spectacular fight, especially when you use light tackle. Not only will you enjoy a memorable experience, but you're also practically guaranteed to get a thorough workout as you try to haul in the delicious beauties.
Silver Salmon
Averaging 8 to 12 lbs. with a few fish reaching 30 lbs., silver salmon sport bright silver bodies with small black spots on the back and on the upper lobe of the fin. The fish also have black gums. Spawning silver salmon have dark backs and heads with reddish-purple sides. During spawning, the males develop a hooked snout with large teeth.
Where to Find Silvers
Fishermen head to Alaska's coastal waters from the southeastern part of the state all the way north to Point Hope on the Chukchi Sea. Silver salmon also swim in the Yukon River near the border of Alaska and Canada's Yukon territory. Well-known locations such as the Kenai Peninsula and the waters near Valdez offer easily accessible streams, rivers and saltwater areas close to lodging, restaurants and campgrounds.
When to Fish
The time to fish for silver salmon in Alaska occurs from July to September as the fish get ready to spawn. During the summer and fall, you'll find silvers in both fresh water and saltwater. The arrival of the fish depends on the location; the Kenai River offers silver salmon fishing in August, while on Kodiak Island, silvers start showing up in early July and peak in mid-August.
Licenses Needed
To fish in Alaska, you need to purchase an Alaska state fishing license. Buy the license online before you arrive, or pick up the license at sporting goods or bait and tackle shops in towns across the state. Fees range from $20 per day for non-residents to $24 annually for residents as of 2010.
How to Catch Silvers
Fishing for silver salmon in saltwater requires either trolling or drifting from shore or a boat. According to Alaska's Department of Fish and Game, you can attract silvers with herring, flies or lures near the shoreline. In freshwater lakes and streams, the fish bite on salmon eggs, flies, spoons or spinners.
Boats and Guides
One way to fish for salmon is to hire a guide who can take you to the hot spots. That way, you can focus on fishing rather than navigating. Boat and guide companies often provide all the fishing gear and clothing you'll need for the day. Choose from half or full-day fishing excursions. Some sporting fishing boats and guide companies also offer lodging and meal packages.
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