Do you know how many different Lake Ontario salmon types there are?
There are three main types and we cover all of them extensively in this article.
Overview of Salmon Species in Lake Ontario
Lake Ontario offers ideal conditions for several salmon species. These fish live in its cool and deep waters. Fishermen travel to Lake Ontario during all seasons to target salmon. The fall offers a unique opportunity to catch salmon in shallow rivers during the spawn. The salmon population in Lake Ontario has been shaped by both native species and stocked populations.
Native vs. Stocked Salmon in Lake Ontario
While some species of salmon, such as the Atlantic Salmon, are native to Lake Ontario, others have been introduced through hatchery programs to support the ecosystem and fishing industry. The most common salmon species found today include Chinook, Coho, and Atlantic Salmon. Stocking efforts, especially for Chinook and Coho, have created a robust fishery, providing countless opportunities for anglers.
Fun Fact: Lake Ontario’s salmon stocking program has helped create one of the most successful freshwater fisheries in North America, with millions of Chinook and Coho released annually. This in return helps the local economy by attracting anglers from all over the US and Canada.
Main Lake Ontario Salmon Types
Chinook Salmon (King Salmon)
Chinook, often referred to as King Salmon, are the most iconic and sought-after species in Lake Ontario. Known for their impressive size and fighting spirit, they dominate the lake’s salmon fishery.
Physical Characteristics
- Size: Chinook are the largest salmon in Lake Ontario, often weighing between 15 and 25 pounds. There may be bigger fish out there!
- Appearance: They have a dark greenish-blue back with silvery sides, black spots on their tails, and a robust, streamlined body.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Average Weight | 15-25 lbs |
| Max Weight | 40+ lbs |
| Color | Black spots on the tail |
| Unique Features | Black spots on tail |
Habitat and Behavior
Chinook prefer deep, cold waters, which is why they are often found in the mid-lake regions during summer. They tend to move toward tributaries in the fall for spawning, making them accessible to anglers along riverbanks. The spawning run will start around the end of September or the beginning of October.
Fishing Techniques for Chinook Salmon
- Trolling: Deep trolling with downriggers is the most effective method for targeting Chinook in summer. The spring has also been proven as a great time to troll for chinook salmon.
- Best Baits: Spoons, flasher-and-fly combinations, and cut bait work wonders for luring these large fish. With the introduction of live sonar, anglers are having success jigging for them as well.
Pro Tip: Target Chinook in late August to early October when they begin their spawning migration into Lake Ontario’s rivers. This period is ideal for shore and river fishing. You can also troll close to shore at the river mouths.
Coho Salmon
Coho salmon, though smaller than Chinook, are equally exciting to catch and are highly prized for their aggressive nature and high jumps during a fight.
Distinctive Features
- Size: Typically weighing between 6 and 15 pounds, but can grow to over 30 lbs.
- Appearance: Silver sides with a metallic sheen, a bright greenish-blue back, and small black spots on their upper body and tail.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Average Weight | 6-15 lbs |
| Max Weight | 30+ lbs |
| Color | Green-blue back, silver sides |
| Unique Features | Smaller spots than Chinook |
Habitat and Behavior
Coho are often found in similar areas to Chinook but tend to prefer slightly shallower waters. They also migrate into tributaries to spawn, making late summer and early fall the best time to fish for them. The mouth of the Niagara River is a great place to troll for Coho Salmon.
Top Fishing Methods
- Casting and Trolling: Anglers often troll using spoons and spinners for Coho, but casting from shore during the fall migration can also be productive.
Angler’s Insight: Coho are more likely to strike during mid-fall when water temperatures drop slightly, making them ideal targets in September.
Atlantic Salmon
Atlantic salmon are the only native species of salmon in Lake Ontario, and though their numbers are smaller, conservation efforts aim to restore their population. Historically, these fish were abundant, but habitat degradation reduced their numbers.
Historical Significance
- Atlantic salmon were once prolific in Lake Ontario and its tributaries, but overfishing and habitat destruction led to their near extinction. Recent stocking programs have aimed to revive the population, but they remain elusive.
Physical Characteristics
- Size: Typically smaller than Chinook, with average weights of 5 to 15 pounds.
- Appearance: Bright silvery sides with a bluish-green back and large, dark spots on their upper body.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Average Weight | 5-15 lbs |
| Max Weight | 25 lbs |
| Color | Bluish-green back, silver sides |
| Unique Features | Large spots on body and gill covers |
Current Habitat in Lake Ontario
Atlantic salmon are mainly found in select areas of the lake, especially around stocked rivers and tributaries. Conservationists are working on reintroducing them into their historical spawning grounds.
Fishing Strategies
- Fly Fishing: Atlantic salmon are often targeted using traditional fly fishing techniques in rivers. Streamers and wet flies are particularly effective.
- Float Fishing: Float fishing for Atlantic salmon is probably the most productive way. Remember, these salmon aren’t targeted specifically but are considered a trophy when caught.
Quote from a Conservation Expert: “Restoring Atlantic salmon populations in Lake Ontario is a challenging but rewarding effort. Their return is not just about fishing but reviving a key part of the lake’s natural heritage.”
How to Identify Different Lake Ontario Salmon Types
Knowing how to identify each species is essential for responsible fishing and ensuring compliance with local regulations. Here’s a quick comparison of the major salmon species in Lake Ontario:
| Salmon Type | Size | Color | Tail Markings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chinook Salmon | Black spots on the upper body & tail | Greenish-blue back, silver sides | Smaller spots on the upper body |
| Coho Salmon | 6-15 lbs | Green-blue back, silver sides | Large dark spots on the upper body |
| Atlantic Salmon | 5-15 lbs | Bluish-green back, silver sides | Large dark spots on upper body |
The Best Times of Year to Fish for Lake Ontario Salmon Types
Timing is everything when it comes to salmon fishing. Different species have distinct seasonal patterns.
- Chinook Salmon: Late summer and early fall are the peak times for Chinook, especially in August and September. They enter the rivers to spawn in October and this is a great time to target them.
- Coho Salmon: Coho can be caught during a longer season, but the best time is from mid-August to October.
- Atlantic Salmon: The best time for Atlantic salmon is during the spring and early summer when water temperatures are cooler.
Popular Lake Ontario Fishing Spots for Salmon
- Oswego River: Renowned for its Chinook salmon run in the fall.
- Salmon River: The premier location for both Coho and Chinook salmon.
- Niagara River: A great spot for Atlantic salmon, especially during the spring.
Conclusion
Lake Ontario is a paradise for salmon anglers, offering some of the best freshwater fishing in North America. Whether you’re chasing the powerful Chinook, the acrobatic Coho, or the elusive Atlantic Salmon, knowing the distinct characteristics and behaviors of these Lake Ontario salmon types is crucial. Hopefully, this article helps you better understand the main three types of salmon in Lake Ontario and helps you catch more of them!