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Sockeye Salmon

Sockeye Salmon

Sockeye Salmon are not native to Arizona but have been introduced to several water systems throughout the state since 1958. Arizona's sockeye populations are landlocked versions that remain in lakes and reservoirs year-round rather than migrating to the ocean.

Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus nerka

Also known as red salmon or kokanee when landlocked

Physical Characteristics:
  • Typically reach up to 84 cm in length and are characterized by their bluntly pointed conical head, 'fang-like' teeth, and 30-40 fine gill rakers.
  • During spawning periods, males develop prominent snouts and bright olive-green coloring on heads with black on snouts, while their bodies turn red.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Have been documented in five hydrologic units with observations spanning from 1958 to 1999.
  • Remain in lakes and reservoirs year-round.

Key Locations

  • Canyon Diablo, Havasu-Mohave Lakes, Lake Mead, Lower Colorado Region, and San Francisco watersheds.

Specific Spots

  • Prime locations include steady current areas close to shorelines where sockeye can be observed moving upstream.

Sockeye Salmon FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Sockeye Salmon in Arizona?

Sockeye Lantern in green (the top producer), Sockeye Killer in red for fast current and pocket water, Montana Brassie in Tutti Fruiti, Mercer's Sockeye Fly in orange, Copper Swan in copper for deeper presentations, and Sockeye Lightning in red.

How do you catch Sockeye Salmon in Arizona?

The most effective technique is dead-drifting flies at eye level using a floating line with indicator, targeting fish in steady currents that aren't too deep. The flossing technique involves positioning yourself upstream and allowing line to drift downstream while maintaining controlled tension through the strike zone.

What do Sockeye Salmon eat?

Primarily planktivores, feeding extensively on zooplankton during both freshwater and saltwater life stages, along with small aquatic organisms like shrimp, insects, and occasionally snails during juvenile stages.

Where do Sockeye Salmon live in Arizona?

Have been documented in five hydrologic units with observations spanning from 1958 to 1999. Remain in lakes and reservoirs year-round.

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