Atlantic Salmon Facts
Most fisherman and fish lovers recognize the name Atlantic Salmon. What you may not know is the scientific name for this fish is Salmo Salar. The Atlantic Salmon is known under several names including Black Salmon and Sebago Salmon. This fish can be found in a variety of areas including part of Portugal to the Arctic Circle, in the Northern Atlantic waters between Iceland and Greenland and even from Quebec to the Connecticut River. Known primarily as a freshwater fish, it is not at all irregular to find these salmon migrating from saltwater bodies to freshwater for the purpose of spawning. While Atlantic Salmon typically spawn many times during their lives, once they are spawned out, they die.
If you have mistaken a brown trout for a salmon, you are not alone. Given that they both take on a deep bronze color, it may be difficult to distinguish them until you realize that the brown trout tend to take on red spots through the length of their bodies while the Atlantic Salmon primarily have these spots only around their heads. In saltwater, an Atlantic Salmon will appear to be silver and have black spots in the shape of an X on their backs.
Anglers have used a variety of baits for catching Atlantic Salmon, some use plugs, lures or flies. More seasoned anglers have discovered that because of their natural attraction to movement, Atlantic Salmon are often easier to land using crustaceans, prawns, worms and egg sacks. One thing to keep in mind is that you will want to make sure that you have a strong line and a well formed knot. Remember that these fish have a fight in them that belies their size and they can quickly gain control of your line and tear it from your reel.
When casting in saltwater or freshwater for Atlantic Salmon, remember that each type of catch requires completely different equipment. While the freshwater can use a lighter weight tackle, if you are casting in saltwater you will need a far heavier tackle and equipment. Don’t forget that because salmon do die after they have their final spawn, it is usually wise to catch them before they spawn, as they are entering the freshwaters.
Whether it is for food or for recreation, this fish remains one of the most sought after game fish. They are highly prized for both recreation and for faring. Because they have a unique ability to fight beyond what would be expected for their size, they are a prized recreational fish. Seafood restaurants value Atlantic salmon for the versatility they offer in a variety of dishes. Because the Atlantic salmon population is on the decrease, steps have been taken to preserve the supplies. Most restaurant salmon is farm raised and in general, Atlantic salmon are on catch and release programs in most waterways to preserve them.
When you are getting prepared for a saltwater fishing adventure, having the proper equipment is essential. Some of the most popular products on the market include okuma reel and van staal fishing reels.
