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Kokanee Salmon

Kokanee Salmon

Kokanee Salmon are the landlocked, freshwater form of sockeye salmon that spend their entire lives in Utah's lakes and reservoirs.

These non-native fish are primarily planktivores, feeding almost exclusively on zooplankton throughout their lives, with feeding heaviest from sundown to dark.

Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus nerka

Physical Characteristics:

These fish typically live 3-4 years and grow 9-12 inches on average, though favorable conditions can produce fish up to 20 inches and 3-5 pounds.

They remain silvery-blue most of their lives but transform to bright red during fall spawning (September-October), when males develop humped backs and hooked jaws.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

They prefer large, cold mountain lakes with well-oxygenated water and temperatures below 60°F, often schooling in open water around the thermocline at 50°F.

Key Locations

First introduced to Utah in 1922 at Bear Lake, they're now established in major waters including Strawberry Reservoir, Flaming Gorge Reservoir, Porcupine Reservoir, Causey Reservoir, Electric Lake, Fish Lake, Jordanelle Reservoir, and Smith and Morehouse Reservoir. Prime locations include Strawberry Reservoir's main basin, Flaming Gorge's shallow main lake points and bay backs, and Bear Lake for trolling and shore fishing near tributary mouths.

Specific Spots

Concentrate in shallow waters no deeper than 40 feet after ice-off. Often schooling in open water around the thermocline at 50°F. Shore fishing near tributary mouths.

Kokanee Salmon FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Kokanee Salmon in Utah?

Troll with flashers/dodgers paired with brightly colored lures like squid, hoochies, and small spoons in pink, red, and orange for depths up to 30 feet, transitioning to orange, yellow, and green at 30-50 feet, and blues, purples, and greens deeper than 50 feet.

When is the best time to fish for Kokanee Salmon in Utah?

Target right after ice-off (mid-April to mid-May). Avoid fishing during spawning season (September 10 - November 30) when possession is prohibited.

How do you catch Kokanee Salmon in Utah?

Troll with flashers/dodgers paired with brightly colored lures. Early season jigging can be effective around Strawberry Reservoir.

What do Kokanee Salmon eat?

They are primarily planktivores, feeding almost exclusively on zooplankton throughout their lives, with feeding heaviest from sundown to dark.

Where do Kokanee Salmon live in Utah?

They prefer large, cold mountain lakes with well-oxygenated water and temperatures below 60°F, often schooling in open water around the thermocline at 50°F.

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