Saltwater · Northern

Salmon - Chinook (Female)

Ocean regulations can change in-season. Confirm with the 2026 Ocean Sport Fishing Guide and CDFW before you fish.

Species group

SALMON

Season

Ocean salmon seasons change yearly and in-season. Check current CDFW Ocean Salmon regulations before fishing.

Season notes

Do not rely on dated season end fields. See CDFW Ocean Salmon notices and the 2026 Ocean Sport Fishing Guide.

Depth limit

See current CDFW Ocean Salmon regulations

Daily bag limit

See current CDFW Ocean Salmon regulations (limits vary by time and area).

Minimum size

See current CDFW Ocean Salmon regulations for minimum size.

Gear restrictions

Ocean salmon gear rules apply (circle hooks, barbless, weight limits, etc.). See current CDFW Ocean Salmon regulations.

Identification

Chinook salmon are very similar to coho salmon in appearance while at sea (blue-green back with silver flanks), except for their large size, small black spots on both lobes of the tail, and black pigment along the base of the teeth.