Target Species: Cherry salmon (Oncorhynchus masou)
Other Common Names: N/A
Identification: Prior to spawning appears similar to pink salmon but has horizontal striping and fewer gill rays. At spawning time the back becomes darker and side stripes become bright red.
Biological Info: The spawn occurs from May to September depending on location. After hatching the young fry remain in freshwater streams for one to three years feeding on flying insects and stone fly and may fly larvae.
Then as smolt they migrate to the sea feeding mostly on crustaceans for two to five years before returning to freshwater to spawn. In a few cases dwarf males survive the spawn go to sea and return to spawn again one more time the next year.
Geographical Range: Most south ranging of salmon species and only native to northwest Pacific. Found in Japan Sea Basin, Korean rivers, Primorye and Sakhalin as far north as coasts of Kamchatka, Russia. Attempts to introduce into North American waters in Michigan and Washington failed.
Favored Water Temp.: N/A
Size: Generally smaller than other salmon species but can reach 28" (71 cm) and nearly 20 lbs (9kg) in Primorye region.
IGFA Record: N/A
Sporting characteristics: Good challenge on light tackle. Favored for fly fishing.
Food & Feeding Habits: At sea mostly eat crustaceans and occasionally small fish.
Fishing methods: Fly fishing and casting lures.
Top Spots: Southern Sakhalin River, late May to late July.
Conservation: Follow local regulations. Keep only what is desired for personal consumption.
Also see
Chinook Salmon
Red Salmon
Pink Salmon
Coho Salmon
Chum Salmon
Cherry Salmon
Atlantic Salmon
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