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Pink Salmon

Pink Salmon

Pink salmon, also called humpback salmon or 'humpies,' are not native to Wisconsin but were accidentally introduced to Lake Superior in 1956 when about 100 salmon escaped during transport to a hatchery.

They were first recorded in Wisconsin waters of Lake Michigan in 1977 below the Peshtigo Dam and have since established self-sustaining populations throughout the Great Lakes system.

Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus gorbuscha

Also known as humpback salmon, humpies

Physical Characteristics:
  • Pink salmon are the smallest salmon species in Wisconsin, averaging 3-5 pounds and measuring in the low 20-inch range, with Wisconsin's state record being 6 pounds 1.9 ounces.
  • They're characterized by their bright white bellies, pronounced humped back on males during spawning, and oval spots on the entire tail.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Throughout the Great Lakes system.
  • Adults are pelagic (near-surface) in the main lakes.
  • They prefer riffle areas for spawning and fast-flowing, cold, clean streams.

Key Locations

  • Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Wisconsin tributaries, Peshtigo Dam area, Apostle Islands north of Bayfield on Lake Superior.

Specific Spots

  • Target riffle areas and fast-flowing sections where they prefer to spawn in tributaries.

Pink Salmon FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Pink Salmon in Wisconsin?

Small jigs (1/16 to 1/4 ounce) in pink, cerise, or hot pink colors. Dick Nite spoons in 50/50 brass/nickel, pink/white combinations. Small metal jigs like Buzz Bombs.

What flies work for Pink Salmon in Wisconsin?

Egg patterns like Glo-bugs in pink, orange, chartreuse colors. Small nymphs (size 12-20) including Frenchies, pheasant tails, copper johns, and prince nymphs in clear water conditions. For faster, dirtier water, bright e.g.g patterns and beads work well.

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

Pink salmon fishing in Wisconsin is best during June and July when they enter tributaries for spawning, though they can be caught in the Great Lakes from May through August. The Apostle Islands north of Bayfield on Lake Superior are best targeted between ice-out and end of May.

How do you catch Pink Salmon in Wisconsin?

In Lake Michigan, standard trolling techniques with downriggers and planer boards alongside other salmonids. For tributary fishing, target riffle areas and fast-flowing sections. Fly fishing is productive. Small jigs work well under floats. Streamers can be swung or dead-drifted.

What do Pink Salmon eat?

Juveniles consume invertebrates and zooplankton in freshwater, while adults feed on plankton, invertebrates, and small fish in the lakes. Adults do not feed during their spawning runs.

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