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Pink Salmon

Pink Salmon

Pink salmon are the smallest Pacific salmon found in Minnesota waters. These non-native fish were inadvertently introduced to Lake Superior in 1956 when approximately 21,000 fingerlings were released into Thunder Bay's Current River.

Despite scientific predictions that they were the least likely salmonid to survive in Lake Superior's oligotrophic waters, pink salmon adapted remarkably well and were first caught by Minnesota anglers in 1959 at the Cross and Sucker Rivers.

Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus gorbuscha

Also known as humpies, humpback salmon

Physical Characteristics:
  • Minnesota pink salmon typically measure 12-16 inches and weigh 1-3 pounds, though the state record of 4.5 pounds was caught in the Cascade River in 1989.
  • Males develop a distinctive hump behind their head and hooked jaw (kype) during spawning.
  • Their coloration changes from silver in the lake to greenish-olive on top with pink and white sides and dark oval spots when spawning.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Pink salmon utilize most Lake Superior tributaries from Duluth to Canada.
  • They can exploit marginal short-run streams unsuitable for other salmon species.

Key Locations

  • Most Lake Superior tributaries from Duluth to Canada, with upper shore streams typically having more reliable runs.
  • Cross and Sucker Rivers.
  • Cascade River.

Specific Spots

  • Target river mouths and work upstream until reaching impassable waterfalls.
  • Pink salmon school together and swim near the surface in fall's lower, clearer water.
  • Look for their bright white bellies in tailouts of deep holes, but also check deep pools and seams.
  • Fish barrier falls where salmon stack below impassable obstacles.

Pink Salmon FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Pink Salmon in Minnesota?

In slow, clear water, small nymphs (size 12-20) including Frenchies, pheasant tails, copper johns, prince nymphs, scuds, and zebra midges. For faster, dirtier water, bright e.g.g patterns like glo-bugs or beads in pink, orange, chartreuse, and red.

When is the best time to fish for Pink Salmon in Minnesota?

Pink salmon fishing in Minnesota begins in late August but peaks in September, with runs potentially lasting into October depending on water temperature and flow. Spawning occurs from late August through mid-September when rainfall raises stream levels.

How do you catch Pink Salmon in Minnesota?

Fly fishing is the most popular method. In slow, clear water, use small nymphs. For faster, dirtier water, use bright e.g.g patterns. Fish weighted streamers or add split-shot to leaders, using short, quick strips to entice strikes. Sight-fishing is highly effective.

What do Pink Salmon eat?

Young salmon eat small crustaceans like copepods and amphipods. Adults feed on euphausiids, small fish, and invertebrates.

Where do Pink Salmon live in Minnesota?

Pink salmon utilize most Lake Superior tributaries from Duluth to Canada. They can exploit marginal short-run streams unsuitable for other salmon species.

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