Salmon are present in the Great Lakes, though most species are not native to these freshwater environments. Their establishment is a significant human intervention to address ecological imbalances and create recreational opportunities. These fish have adapted to the Great Lakes’ unique conditions, forming populations now recognized as part of the aquatic ecosystem. Their presence has reshaped the lakes’ food web and supported a thriving sport fishing industry.
Salmon Species Calling the Great Lakes Home
Several species of salmon inhabit the Great Lakes, primarily those introduced from the Pacific Ocean. Chinook salmon, often called “King salmon,” are among the largest, typically weighing between 20 to 30 pounds, and are known for their dark mouth with dark gums and spots on their entire tail. Coho salmon, or “Silver salmon,” are also widespread, usually averaging 8 pounds, and can be identified by their dark mouth with light grey gums and spots mainly on the upper lobe of their tail.
Pink salmon, the smallest of the Pacific salmon, typically weigh between two to seven pounds and are characterized by large oval black spots on their back and tail. During spawning, males develop a noticeable hump, giving them the nickname “humpies”.
Atlantic salmon, while historically native to Lake Ontario, were reintroduced and average 8-10 pounds in the lakes, recognized for their leaping ability. Sockeye salmon, specifically a landlocked variety known as Kokanee salmon, are also found in some areas of the Great Lakes.
How Salmon Became Great Lakes Residents
The introduction of salmon to the Great Lakes was a deliberate effort to solve a significant ecological problem. By the mid-20th century, invasive alewife populations had exploded, leading to massive die-offs that littered shorelines and negatively impacted tourism. Native predators like lake trout had been decimated by overfishing and the invasive sea lamprey, leaving no natural control for the alewife.
In response, state agencies, particularly Michigan, began stocking Pacific salmon in the mid-1960s. Coho salmon were first released in 1966, followed by Chinook salmon in 1967.
The primary goal was to establish a new predatory fish population that would consume alewives and simultaneously create a robust sport fishery. These stocking programs proved highly successful, with salmon quickly becoming established and significantly reducing alewife numbers.
Ecological Role and Ongoing Management
Salmon play a significant role as top predators in the Great Lakes ecosystem, primarily consuming invasive forage fish like alewives and smelt. This predatory pressure helped control alewife populations, which previously caused nuisance die-offs. Chinook salmon growth is particularly linked to alewife density, indicating their dependence on this food source.
Despite their success, salmon populations in the Great Lakes require ongoing management due to various challenges. Continued stocking programs are necessary to maintain sufficient numbers, as natural reproduction alone often cannot support desired populations.
Controlling invasive species like the parasitic sea lamprey, which preys on salmon, remains a priority for fishery managers. Efforts also focus on balancing predator and prey populations, adjusting stocking levels to ensure a sustainable food supply and a healthy ecosystem.
The Appeal of Great Lakes Salmon Fishing
Salmon fishing in the Great Lakes is a highly popular recreational activity, attracting anglers from various regions. The appeal stems from the salmon’s large size and their reputation as strong, challenging fighters once hooked. Anglers find battling a Great Lakes salmon exhilarating, pushing their tackle and skills to the limit.
Salmon are a sought-after target for both experienced and novice fishers. Techniques to catch these fish include trolling with spoons, plugs, or flies in deeper lake waters, especially during early morning or late evening.
When salmon migrate into rivers for spawning, float fishing and fly fishing become popular, with anglers using baits like salmon eggs or bright, flashy lures to trigger strikes. The sport fishery generates substantial economic benefits for local communities, supporting charter services, tackle shops, and tourism.