Chinook Salmon

Also known as King Salmon, Chinook are the largest Pacific salmon. Spring and Fall runs return to Idaho, providing a legendary fishing challenge.

Habitat

Deep river pools and runs during their upstream migration.

Feeding & Timing

Non-feeding during migration, but extremely territorial and aggressive.

Best windows: Dawn and Late Evening.

Season Overview

Spring/Summer (May-July) for Spring Chinook; Fall (August-October) for Fall Chinook.

Tactics That Work

• Back-bouncing bait in deep river holes
• Anchor fishing with plugs (Kwikfish)

Productive baits and patterns: Cured Salmon Eggs, Sand Shrimp, Kwikfish/Plugs, Large Streamers.

Regulations

• Chinook permit required
• Seasons are strictly managed and can change weekly

Always confirm with the current IDFG rule book before heading out — limits and seasons change by water.

Idaho state record: 45 lbs (Salmon River, 1964).