When do salmon run in the Pacific Northwest?

Salmon returns peak through summer and fall, roughly July through October. Exact timing varies by river, so confirm the run locally before you go.

When is steelhead season on the West Coast?

Winter steelhead show up in coastal rivers from about December through March, with spring fishing carrying on after the winter run.

Why does salmon and steelhead timing vary so much?

These fisheries run on migration timing, which is river-specific and closely regulated. Always check the current run and rules for the water you’re fishing.

Best time to go · Pacific Salmon & Steelhead

Pacific Salmon & Steelhead

Pacific Northwest and coastal rivers run on migration timing. Salmon return through summer and fall; winter and spring bring steelhead. Exact run timing varies by river and is closely regulated.

See it month by month

Month by month

PeakGoodFairOff

When to go & why

July–October: peak salmon returns
December–March: winter steelhead season
Run timing is river-specific and heavily regulated, so check locally

Notable months

January: Winter steelhead in coastal rivers
August: Salmon returns in full swing

Plan your Pacific Salmon & Steelhead trip with a local operator

Browse fishing guides & charters who know the seasons and can book your dates.

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Common questions

When do salmon run in the Pacific Northwest?: Salmon returns peak through summer and fall, roughly July through October. Exact timing varies by river, so confirm the run locally before you go.
When is steelhead season on the West Coast?: Winter steelhead show up in coastal rivers from about December through March, with spring fishing carrying on after the winter run.
Why does salmon and steelhead timing vary so much?: These fisheries run on migration timing, which is river-specific and closely regulated. Always check the current run and rules for the water you’re fishing.