Photo: Hartley, William W. / Public domain (via Wikimedia Commons)
Salmo salar
Atlantic Salmon
Saltwater
About this species
The classic "king of fish," an anadromous salmon that returns from the North Atlantic to spawn in natal rivers. Adults stop feeding in freshwater yet still take a swung fly out of instinct. Traditional fly fishing with wet flies over known lies is the revered method.
Season
123456789101112
Depth
0 – 5 m
Habitat Spots
RiverEstuaryNearshore
Fishing Methods
FlyLureTrolling
Bait & Rig
Classic wet flies and tube flies swung across known lies; light spinners and spoons also work for aggressive summer fish.
Edibility & Taste
Rich, orange-pink flesh with outstanding flavor; one of the world's most prized food fish, and superb when smoked.
Similar Species
A slimmer body and mostly black spots above the lateral line distinguish Atlantic salmon from sea trout, which has spots on and below the line.
Record Weight
35.89 kg