Are you wanting to go fishing for salmon in Colorado but don’t know where to start? Look no further than our comprehensive guide! Colorado is home to incredible spots to find Kokanee Salmon just waiting to be caught. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from their appearance, to how to tell them apart from trout, to the best places and times to catch them and more. Get ready to learn everything you need to know about Kokanee Salmon in Colorado!
Pacific Sockeye Salmon, better known as Kokanee Salmon, are not native to Colorado. Originally found in the Pacific Northwest, these fish were first introduced into Colorado in 1951. Kokanee are a unique, landlocked species of salmon that can be caught through both angling and snagging. They live on a four-year spawning cycle, and are the easiest to catch and the most recognizable at the end of that cycle.
What Do Kokanee Salmon in Colorado Look Like?
Normally, Kokanee Salmon in Colorado look similar to trout. They are covered with small black spots on their back. They also sport a small “adipose” fin between their dorsal fin and tail. Their tails are moderately forked as well.
However, during the spawning season, Kokanee undergo a dramatic transformation. Their jaws elongate into a hooked shape. Their bodies change from silvery to a bright red, with a green head and back. This striking appearance makes them easy to recognize and a favorite target for anglers.
Kokanee vs. Trout: How to Tell Them Apart
Before spawning, Kokanee can be tricky to distinguish from trout. But there are a few reliable features to look for:
- Spotting: Kokanee rarely have the dense spotting that trout display.
- Coloration: Kokanee have a more silvery hue, whereas trout have a more green-blue hue.
- Tail shape: Kokanee tails are more deeply forked and pointed, while trout tails are typically more rounded.
Focusing on these details will help you quickly identify which of these similar fish you’ve hooked.
What to Use to Catch Kokanee Salmon in Colorado
When fishing for Kokanee, your best bet is lure action tipped with small baits. Some popular options include:
- White corn coated with scent (like garlic)
- Maggots
- Worms
- Shrimp
Keep your bait small. Kokanee prefer smaller pieces, and large baits like yellow corn are less effective.
Where and When to Catch Kokanee Salmon in Colorado
In Colorado, Kokanee Salmon are most commonly found in high-elevation mountain reservoirs, where the water temperature hovers around 53°F. Some of the best-known Kokanee fishing locations include:
- Gunnison River (nicknamed “The Dream Stream” for its Kokanee runs)
- Blue Mesa Reservoir
- Eleven Mile Reservoir
Kokanee are fall spawners, so this is the best time to catch them. In fact, in the right location, it’s common to reach your limit in just a few hours.
Conclusion: Catching Your Next Kokanee
Now that we’ve covered all the essentials for identifying Kokanee Salmon, telling them apart from trout, and the best times, places, and methods for catching them, it’s time to plan your next fishing trip! Colorado is teeming with Kokanee. So pack your pole, bait, and tackle, and head out to explore the beautiful waters of Colorado, and bring home some Kokanee!
