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Where to view salmon migration and spawning in Seattle

Observe the annual occurrence of Seattle’s salmon migration at a variety of local rivers + learn more from the area’s naturalists.

The Coho Salmon has a pointed, almost beak-like mouth with bright red coloration on the sides and the standard green speckled look on the rest of its body.

The coho salmon is commonly found in Seattle’s rivers and is one of the five Pacific salmon species.

Photo via Bureau of Land Management Oregon and Washington’s Photostream

Make a fish, it’s salmon season.

Now through late fall, salmon will return to Seattle’s rivers and streams to spawn. In anticipation of this environmental event, King County’s Department of Natural Resources and Parks has assembled a map for the best salmon viewing locations.

Learn all about Pacific salmon and witness their incredible journeys at these spots near you:

  • Chittenden Locks | Salmon migrate up Ballard’s fish ladder from late June through early October.
  • Piper’s Creek | Viewpoints for this creek are close to its calmer waters, making it a great and accessible spot for all ages.
  • Longfellow Creek | Recommended times run October through December to catch chum and migrating salmon in action.

Pro tip: Visit during early mornings and late afternoons to avoid glare on the water’s surface and maximize the potential to see journeying salmon.

If you want to learn more about the plights of Seattle’s river salmon, visit the Ballard Locks during select dates when Seattle Aquarium naturalists are stationed.

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