All About Salmon

Regardless of where salmon come from, their flavor will be influenced by their feed, surroundings and water temperature. Each species of salmon contributes to the variety of flavor and texture, affecting its culinary desirability for use in various dishes or forms of preparation. In order to help you determine which species best suits your purpose, the following summary is provided.

KING: Also known as Chinook, Tyee, Spring, Blackmouth and Columbia. Largest of the species averaging 20 to 25 pounds when mature. Its flesh breaks into large flakes and is a vivid red, deep coral or almost white. A fatty salmon regarded by Westerners as the most richly flavored. Best fresh, from spring to fall.

COHO: Also known as Silver, Silverside, and Hooknose. Averages 6 to 12 pounds when mature. Flesh is of a finer texture, light to deep pink in color. It is fatty, but flavor is not quite as distinct as the King. Best when fresh, spring to fall.

SOCKEYE: Also known as Red or Blueback. Averages 3 to 5 pounds when mature. Flesh is of fine-flaked, vivid deep rose to red and moderately fatty. Flavor is more delicate and mild than King or Coho, often preferred for its balance. Best when fresh, June through November.

PINK: Also known as Humpback or Humpies. The smallest of all ocean salmon, averages 5 pounds. Flesh is pale pink, moderately fatty and fine textured. Best if extremely fresh, summer or fall. This species is predominantly canned.

CHUM: Also known as Dog, Fall, Keta or Calico. Averages 8 to 12 pounds when mature. Flesh is pale pink, coarse textured with light to moderate fat and the least flavorful. Best right out of the water into the pan, otherwise smoked or canned.

ATLANTIC: Also known as Eastern. Averages 7 to 12 pounds when mature. Flesh is pale pink with large flakes, mild flavored and fatty. Considered by Easterners as the best salmon. Best fresh, June to December.

KING, COHO SOCKEYE and ATLANTIC salmon have the most variety in culinary uses where quality of flavor and texture are important.

Bear Candy^® products are made from one of these four premium species. Our packages are labeled to inform you which is used. 

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