How can one know if a fish is king salmon fish?

Here's how you can identify a King Salmon, also known as Chinook Salmon:

Physical Characteristics:

* Size: King Salmon are the largest of the Pacific salmon species, typically weighing between 10-40 pounds, though some can reach over 100 pounds!

* Color: Their color varies depending on their age and location, but they generally have:

* Back: Dark green to blue

* Sides: Silver or slightly iridescent

* Belly: White

* Fins: Usually black, but can have a reddish tinge

* Spots: Black spots on the back and tail, sometimes extending onto the sides

* Head: Large head with a prominent hooked jaw, especially in males during spawning season.

* Body: Streamlined, torpedo-shaped body for powerful swimming.

Behavior:

* Migratory: King Salmon are anadromous, meaning they are born in freshwater, migrate to the ocean to mature, and then return to freshwater to spawn.

* Aggressive: King Salmon are known for being fierce predators.

* Jumpers: They're famous for leaping out of the water, particularly during spawning season.

Distinguishing Features:

* Largest Pacific Salmon: This is the most obvious clue. If it's a truly enormous salmon, it's likely a King Salmon.

* Hooked Jaw: The distinctive hooked jaw of mature males is a strong indicator.

* Spots: While other salmon species can have spots, the combination of large size and a generous scattering of black spots is more typical of King Salmon.

Important Note: It can be challenging to distinguish between different salmon species, especially when they are juveniles. It's best to consult with a local expert if you're unsure.

Where to Find King Salmon:

King Salmon are found in the Pacific Ocean, primarily along the coasts of Alaska, British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and California.

Do you have a specific King Salmon you're trying to identify? If you can provide more details (like its location or a photo), I might be able to offer more specific help.