Pink Salmon
Oncorhynchus gorbuscha
The smallest and most abundant of the Pacific salmon, the pink salmon — nicknamed the 'humpy' for the pronounced hump spawning males develop — runs Alaska's coastal streams in enormous numbers on a strict two-year life cycle. Silvery at sea with large oval spots on the back and tail, pinks provide fast, accessible fishing in nearly every region of the state.
Anadromous — spawns in coastal streams and the lower reaches of larger rivers, often in tremendous numbers during odd or even years.
How to Catch Pink Salmon
Whether you're new to targeting Pink Salmon or refining your approach, success starts with matching your tactics to where the fish lives. Pink Salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) is typically found in river water and ocean water, so concentrate your effort where those conditions line up. Mature Pink Salmon average around 20 inches, which helps you choose the right line, lure size, and tackle for the fight.
Where to Find Pink Salmon in the USA & Canada
Pink Salmon is recorded across a range of North American waters, including spots in Alaska, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Browse the linked water guides below to see the specific lakes, rivers, and coastal waters where anglers report catching Pink Salmon, then plan a trip around the water closest to you.
Pink Salmon Fishing Regulations & Limits
Fishing rules for Pink Salmon vary by state and province. Before you head out, check the daily bag limits, minimum size limits, and open seasons that apply in your area. When FishFinder has matching records, the regulations link below takes you to the rules hub. Following local limits keeps Pink Salmon populations healthy for future seasons.
Related Water Guides for Pink Salmon
Explore these FishFinder water guides for places where Pink Salmon is recorded:
- Kenai River — Pink Salmon fishing water
- Thorne River — Pink Salmon fishing water
- Alagnak River — Pink Salmon fishing water
- Lake Michigan (Indiana Waters) — Pink Salmon fishing water
- St. Marys River (Michigan) — Pink Salmon fishing water
- Lake Superior (Minnesota) — Pink Salmon fishing water
- Lake Superior (Wisconsin Waters) — Pink Salmon fishing water
Pink Salmon Regulations
Review current FishFinder regulation records before targeting Pink Salmon:
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of water is best for catching Pink Salmon?
Pink Salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) is typically found in river water and ocean water. Focus your effort where those conditions line up to improve your chances.
How big does Pink Salmon get?
Mature Pink Salmon average around 20 inches, though individual fish can run larger. Matching your line, lure size, and tackle to that range makes for a better fight and landing rate.
Where can I catch Pink Salmon in the USA and Canada?
Pink Salmon is reported across North American waters, including spots in Alaska, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Check the locations listed on this page to find the lakes, rivers, and coastal waters closest to you.
Do I need a fishing license to catch Pink Salmon?
A valid fishing license is required in most US states and Canadian provinces. Daily bag limits, minimum size limits, and open seasons for Pink Salmon vary by region, so review the regulations on this page and with your local wildlife authority before heading out.