Sockeye Salmon
Red Salmon
Prized for their deep red flesh, Sockeye are powerful swimmers. They are less frequently caught than other salmon as they primarily feed on plankton. Their unique life cycle requirements and spectacular spawning colors make them one of the most distinctive Pacific salmon.
Migratory Patterns
Sockeye uniquely require a lake environment for their juvenile stage, spending one to three years in a nursery lake before migrating to the sea.
They undertake long-distance migrations far into the North Pacific Ocean.
How They Live
They filter-feed on zooplankton and krill using their fine gill rakers. This diet contributes to their vibrant flesh color.
During spawning, their bodies turn a brilliant scarlet and their heads turn emerald green.
Interesting Details
Some populations exhibit “cyclic dominance,” resulting in massive, spectacular runs every four years in specific river systems.
Landlocked Sockeye that complete their entire life cycle in freshwater are known as Kokanee.
Spectacular Spawning Colors
Sockeye salmon undergo one of the most dramatic color transformations of all Pacific salmon. As they enter freshwater to spawn, their silvery ocean colors transform into brilliant scarlet bodies with emerald green heads. This stunning display has made them one of the most photographed salmon species during spawning season.
Conservation Status - Area 12
Important: Retention of Sockeye is usually closed due to conservation concerns, opening only if specific runs are abundant enough.
Conservation Measures:
- •All Sockeye must be immediately released unharmed
- •Use barbless hooks to minimize injury
- •Avoid targeting Sockeye when other salmon species are available
- •Check DFO notices regularly for any changes to retention rules
Presence in Area
June through August
Catch and release only - check current regulations