Wild Alaskan smoked salmon is a delicacy enjoyed by seafood connoisseurs all across the U.S. Yet, with the exception of Alaskan anglers, few people know that there’s actually more than one type of salmon native to the state. Five varieties of salmon are found in the Pacific waters off Alaska’s coast. Discover these species’ unique characteristics below.

5 Types of Salmon You Can Find in Alaska

1. Silver (Coho) Salmon

While adult silver salmon typically weigh eight to 12 pounds, fish weighing as much as 31 pounds have also been caught. These salmon have silvery sides and blue or green backs. Their gums are white, which helps to differentiate the species from others.

2. Keta (Chum) Salmon

Like most salmon varieties, Keta have silver sides, though you may also find hints of yellow along their bodies. Their tails are dark but have no specific markings. As the second-largest Pacific salmon, the fish is well-suited for making delicious, wild Alaskan smoked salmon.

3. Pink (Humpy) Salmon

Pink salmon or “humpies” get their nickname from a pronounced hump on their backs. They’re the smallest of the five species found in Alaska and have silver bodies with large black spots on their backs and tails. Humpies are also known for their tiny scales.

4. Red (Sockeye) Salmon

Red or sockeye salmon have vibrant red bodies and green heads during their spawning phase. Before they reach maturity, they share the silvery sides seen in other salmon species along with a dark blue back. An absence of markings on their tails, backs, and fins helps anglers identify these fish.

5. King (Chinook) Salmon

Characterized by a black gum line and telltale black spots on their backs and tails, king salmon appear blue-gray with touches of silver. This species is the largest in the Pacific, with many weighing in at 30 pounds or more. It’s considered among the best varieties for producing wild Alaskan smoked salmon. It’s also the state fish.

If you’re a fan of salmon, try the delicious gift products from Alaska Sausage & Seafood. Offering gourmet sausages, wild Alaskan smoked salmon, and delectable smoked halibut, this company has provided quality meats and seafood since 1963. While local pickup is available at their Anchorage, AK, location, they also ship across the U.S. Browse their products online, or call (907) 562-3636 with any questions.