Stocked by MDNR in Lake Michigan and Lake Huron tributaries. Fast-fighting fish that creates explosive action during fall river runs. Also caught by trolling.
IntroducedCoho Salmon was introduced to Michigan and is now an established part of the fishery. Native to Pacific drainages. Introduced to Michigan by MDNR in 1966 specifically to control the alewife explosion in Lake Michigan. The introduction created a world-class Great Lakes sport fishery almost overnight. Now a foundational part of the Great Lakes charter fishing economy. Annual stocking sustains the population -- natural reproduction contributes in some tributaries. The daily bag limit is 5.
🌿 Coho Salmon Habitat & Behavior
Great Lakes open water in summer; runs into tributaries September through November. Inland lakes near river inflows. DNR records show Coho Salmon present in 162 Michigan water bodies. Highest stocking activity on record is in Benzie, Ottawa and Clinton counties. Bite activity rates Good or better in Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep and Oct.
🎣 Best Coho Salmon Techniques
Spoons, spinners, egg sacs during fall river runs — also trolling with flashers in the Great Lakes
Peak runs in September–October in Lake Michigan tributaries. Skamania summer run fish available in some rivers.
⚠️ Regulations shown are general statewide guidelines for 2025. Rules vary by water body and change annually.
Always verify current regulations in the official Michigan DNR Fishing Guide before you fish.