Early November is prime time for chum salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) in Oregon. According to ODFW, Oregon’s Coastal Chum population is comprised of 13 historical populations. Eight populations continue to exist, two are presumed to be extinct, and three are extinct. Here is ODFW’s document on Chum salmon distribution. Second in size to only Chinook Salmon, Chums are aggressive, toothy fighters. But they’re very habitat sensitive, as they are limited to the lower sections of coastal rivers.
Here are some photos from a recent party with our chums.
-MS
As always, excellent images of fish and fishing. I would love to see one of these fish. Can they actually be caught on the yaquina?
You Dogs!
Who let the dawgs out. Woof, woof woof woof!
We lucked into a few fresh chums while fishing for chinook. Over the years I have learned (the hard way) that it’s best not to target chums, but to enjoy them as an occasional bycatch.