Salmon fishing is one of the most popular fishing sports today and continues to grow in popularity. There are different types of salmon, each with their own unique characteristics and appeal to fishermen. The largest of the Pacific salmon is the Chinook salmon, which can grow up to 40 inches long and weigh as much as 100 pounds. The Chinook salmon are only accountable for about one percent of the salmon harvest each year.

The most valuable salmon is from Alaska, the Sockeye salmon. This fish averages about six to nine pounds and can be as long as 24 inches. The Sockeye salmon accounts for approximately 25 to 30 percent of the commercial fishing trade in Alaska. This salmon is often called the "red" salmon because of the brilliant red color that the males turn during the spawning season.

Coho's are the next (third) most valued fish. These "silvers" as they are called, because of their bright silver color, are popular in the marketplace and often sold whole. The Coho runs to about 29 inches and weighs on an average of nine pounds. The favored ways of processing them is smoking or canning.

Chum salmon aren't as good to eat as the other varieties. Consumers tend to avoid buying them when they see the pale yellow meat. Therefore they aren't considered that valuable to the fishing industry. Their average weight is 8 pounds and they can be as long as 30 inches.

Pink salmon is the lowest on the list of Pacific salmon, although it is the most abundant. Pinks are small, at 22 inches in length and only weigh about four pounds. Consumers generally buy pink salmon in cans rather than fresh.

Sport fishermen love the charters available off the northern Pacific coast. If you enjoy fishing, think about a charter to carry you to the best salmon fishing spots. Charters often offer whale watching as well, so you can sightsee and fish while you're out. You can charter a boat for a day or a week. Choose carefully, as there are many, and you'll want to choose just the right package for you. Try for one without too many others on board. Remember, the fewer fishermen, the more fish for you.

Enjoy the sea air, catching and dining on your fish!