Target Species: Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar)
Other Common Names: Kennebec salmon, grilse, Sebago salmon, Sebago, Quananiche
Identification: A few dark often x shaped spots on back and sides. Back is pinkish with silver sides before spawning. Males become nearly orange on sides during spawn with pronounced kype on lower jaw. Usually 9-10 anal fin rays. Differentiated from brown trout with which it is commonly confused by its forked tail and lack of spots on the caudal fin as well as by its shorter jaw which reaches to rear edge of the eye or slightly past.
Biological Info: Usually anadromous like Pacific salmon but unlike Pacific species don't die after first spawn and may return up to two more seasons to spawn. Fish that return to ocean after spawning are called kelt. Landlocked fish are called Sebago.
Life span is 5-9 years. Spawning occurs late May-June and in late fall in gravelly sections of rivers and tributaries. Eggs hatch from redds in spring where alevins remain for three to four weeks. Upon attaining 2" length fry are called parr which feed in the stream for two or three years when they become smolts which migrate to saltwater. Grow rapidly at sea for two or three years before maturing and returning to freshwater to spawn.
Geographical Range: Eastern Atlantic Portugal in the south to Sweden and Finland in the north. Western Atlantic from Labrador down to the lower Kennebec River in Maine. Originally native to Lake Ontario and throughout New York watersheds but disappeared with environmental disturbances caused by humans.
Favored Water Temp.: 50ºF-60ºF.
Size: Average size is 8-12 lbs and 15"-30" in length with a few attaining 40 lbs and more.
IGFA Record: 79 lb, 2 oz, Tana River, Norway. 1928.
Sporting characteristics: Renowned the best aerialist in the salmon family. Very popular among North Atlantic fly anglers.
Food & Feeding Habits: Eat insects, crustaceans and small fish. Stop eating during spawning.
Fishing methods: Fly fishing with buck tails and streamers. Trolling smelt or shiners. Casting spoons and spinners.
Top Spots: Tana River, Norway. Humber River on the west coast of the Island of Newfoundland, Canada, late October-November.
Conservation: Follow local regulations. Keep only what is desired for personal consumption. Catch and release highly recommended to preserve this fishery.
Also see
Chinook Salmon
Red Salmon
Pink Salmon
Coho Salmon
Chum Salmon
Cherry Salmon
Atlantic Salmon
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