Types of Salmon in Lake Michigan: What Every Angler Should Know
Lake Michigan is a world-class freshwater fishing destination, especially known for its thriving salmon fishery. Stocked initially to control invasive species and boost tourism, salmon have become a favorite target for recreational anglers. This guide covers the four types of salmon in Lake Michigan, how to identify them, the best times to fish, and tips for success.
1. Chinook Salmon (King Salmon)
Best Time to Fish: Late July through September
Chinook salmon, also called King salmon, are the largest and most sought-after salmon species in Lake Michigan.
Appearance: Silvery body with black spots on the back and both lobes of the tail fin.
-
- Average Size: 10–20 lbs (some over 30 lbs!)
-
- Where to Find Them: Deep open water in summer; river mouths in fall for spawning. (read More about King salmon)
-
- Fishing Techniques: Trolling with flashers and flies, spoons, or meat rigs.
2. Coho Salmon
Best Time to Fish: March–May (spring run), and September–October (fall run)
Introduced in the 1960s, Coho salmon quickly became a success story and are still a mainstay for sport fishermen on the lake. (Read More about Coho salmon)
-
- Appearance: Silver body, dark blue-green back, black spots on back and upper tail fin.
-
- Average Size: 2–6 lbs (up to 10 lbs)
-
- Where to Find Them: Nearshore in spring; move inland in fall.
-
- Fishing Techniques: Troll with smaller spoons or crankbaits; cast spinners near river mouths.
Local Tip: Coho salmon fishing is hot along the southern Lake Michigan shoreline in early spring—especially around ports in Indiana and Illinois and southern Michigan.
3. Atlantic Salmon
- Best Time to Fish: Late spring through early summer Atlantic salmon are rarer but highly prized for their fight and flavor.
-
- Appearance: Silver body with x-shaped dark spots.
-
- Average Size: 5–12 lbs
-
- Where to Find Them: Mostly near eastern shorelines and river mouths
- Fishing Techniques: Cast streamers, spoons, or spinners in cooler water temps.
- Can you Catch Atlantic salmon in Lake Michigan? Yes, they are not overly abundant but many are caught each year while trolling offshore for other salmonoids.
4. Pink Salmon
- Best Time to Fish: Late August–September (especially odd-numbered years)
- Though not commonly stocked, Pink salmon sometimes appear in Lake Michigan from Lake Superior or via natural reproduction.
Appearance: Humpback in males, black spots on back and tail.
- Average Size: 1.5–5 lbs
- Where to Find Them: Near tributaries during spawning season.
- Fishing Techniques: Use small spoons, jigs, or flies near shallow waters.
Best Time to Fish Salmon in Lake Michigan
| Salmon Type | Peak Season | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chinook (King) | August–September | Best chance for trophy-sized fish |
| Coho | March–May, Sept–Oct | Great for beginners and action-packed |
| Atlantic | May–June | Rare but exciting catch |
| Pink | August–September (odd years) | Rare in southern Lake Michigan |
Final Thoughts: Planning Your Salmon Fishing Trip
If you’re planning a Lake Michigan salmon fishing trip, knowing the salmon types and their seasonal behavior is key to a successful day on the water. Whether you’re trolling deep waters for King salmon or casting near shore for Coho, the lake offers something for every angler.
Before heading out, be sure to:
-
- Check state-specific fishing regulations
-
- Get a valid fishing license
-
- Follow ethical catch-and-release practices where necessary
Related searches:
-
- Best salmon fishing charters Lake Michigan
-
- Lake Michigan salmon fishing map
-
- How deep to fish for salmon in Lake Michigan
-
- Lake Michigan salmon fishing tips for beginners
-
- 2025 Lake Michigan salmon fishing report
- Informational
- May 19, 2025
