The most popular and famous Alaskan seafood is the native salmon. There's more to these amazing fish than just a tasty treat! If you enjoy wild Alaskan smoked salmon, learn more about these amazing creatures and what makes them unique.

What You Should Know About Your Favorite Alaskan Seafood

1. Species

There are five species native to the area: king, red or sockeye, silver or coho, chum or keta, and pink or humpback. King Salmon are the largest and prized by fishermen.

2. Life Span

Depending on the species and the individual, salmon can live anywhere from three to about eight years. They die soon after they spawn. Where a salmon is in its life cycle affects its fat content and flavor.

3. Migration

Salmon lay their eggs in rivers far upstream from the ocean. Newly hatched salmon then migrate down to the ocean. They live in the sea for years, growing larger and maturing.

When they're ready to spawn, they swim upriver to the same grounds where they hatched. This is a difficult journey that takes incredible strength from each of the millions of fish that spawn each year.

4. Adaptability

Most fish are adapted for either saltwater or freshwater, not both. Salmon are unusual because they start and end their lives in freshwater rivers, but spend most of their time in the ocean. To achieve this, their gills and kidneys are specially adapted to filter salt from their bodies, and they change how much water they swallow in fresh versus saltwater environments to maintain a balance.

5. Nutrition

Salmon is widely known as a superfood because it contains a huge dose of omega-3 fatty acids. It's also full of protein, vitamins such as B-12, and minerals like potassium and selenium. This prime Alaskan seafood is especially healthy during pregnancy.

For delicious Alaskan seafood, look for the Alaska Sausage & Seafood in stores throughout the state. Based in Anchorage, this family-owned company also ships Alaskan sausage, smoked salmon, and gift packages to order. Check out their products on their website, or order at (907) 562-3636.