Chum Salmon

Chum Salmon, sometimes called dog salmon, is one of the largest and most widely distributed of the Pacific salmon species, ranging farther north than any other salmon and spawning in rivers from Oregon to the Arctic coast of Alaska and across to Siberia, Korea, and Japan. Its common nickname likely stems from the large, canine-like teeth that spawning males develop, along with historical use of the fish as sled dog food in some northern regions. Chum Salmon lack the large, defined spots seen on other Pacific salmon, but spawning adults are unmistakable, developing bold, irregular calico patterns of red, black, and olive along their sides.

Key field marks:

• Ocean-phase body lacks distinct large black spots, appearing relatively plain silvery-blue
• Spawning adults develop bold, blotchy calico patterning of red, black, and green-olive along the flanks
• Males grow prominent, elongated canine-like teeth when spawning, giving rise to the name 'dog salmon'
• Robust, thick-bodied build, among the largest of Pacific salmon
• Fine, faint speckling on the back rather than distinct spots

Look-alikes: Ocean-phase Chum can resemble Sockeye or Pink Salmon but lack Pink's large tail spots and Sockeye's slender build; spawning Chum are distinctive due to their calico coloration and large teeth.

Chum Salmon have the broadest natural distribution of any Pacific salmon, spawning in coastal rivers from Oregon and the Pacific Northwest north through British Columbia, Alaska (including Arctic drainages), and across to Siberia, Korea, and Japan. Unlike species that rear extensively in freshwater, Chum fry typically migrate to estuaries and the ocean soon after emerging, spending relatively little time in rivers. Spawning takes place in the lower and middle reaches of rivers, often in areas influenced by groundwater upwelling that keeps gravel beds well-oxygenated through winter. The species tolerates a wide range of coastal and estuarine conditions and is notably resilient across diverse climates, from temperate to subarctic.

Chum Salmon fry migrate to saltwater soon after emerging from gravel nests, spending little time rearing in freshwater compared to species like Coho or Chinook, and instead grow largely in estuarine and open ocean environments. At sea, Chum feed on zooplankton, small fish, and other invertebrates, ranging widely across the North Pacific during a multi-year ocean phase before returning to spawn. Spawning runs typically occur in fall, with males developing large teeth and aggressive behavior as they compete for mates, and both sexes developing calico coloration. After spawning in gravel redds, adults die within days, and the decaying carcasses provide crucial nutrient input to coastal river and forest ecosystems, supporting a wide range of wildlife.