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Although it's already one of the most popular fishing sports, salmon fishing is still growing. Salmon come in a number of varieties, and each is a bit different from the others. Since there are so many types, fishermen usually have a favorite one or two they like to pursue. Chinook is the granddaddy of Pacific salmon, growing to as long as 40 inches and weighing up to 100 pounds. They only figure in at about 1% of the yearly salmon harvest.

In the state of Alaska the "red" or Sockeye is the most valuable. Sockeye average six to nine pounds and can grow to be 24 inches long. They make up roughly 25 to 30 percent of the commercial catch each year. Males turn a bright red when they come home to spawn, hence the nickname "red".

The Coho salmon is the third most valuable and important salmon in the fishing industry. The Coho is also known as "silvers" because of their silvery sheen. These salmon are popular in seafood markets and are often sold whole to consumers. They are great for canning and for smoking. The Coho averages about 29 inches and weights approximately 9 pounds.

Chum salmon aren't as good to eat as the other varieties. Consumers tend to avoid buying them when they see the pale yellow meat. Therefore they aren't considered that valuable to the fishing industry. Their average weight is 8 pounds and they can be as long as 30 inches.

At the bottom of the Pacific salmon list is the Pink. They are small and used primarily for canning. They average 22 inches and 4 pounds. They are found in greater number than the other salmon.

Sport fishermen love the charters available off the northern Pacific coast. If you enjoy fishing, think about a charter to carry you to the best salmon fishing spots. Charters often offer whale watching as well, so you can sightsee and fish while you're out. You can charter a boat for a day or a week. Choose carefully, as there are many, and you'll want to choose just the right package for you. Try for one without too many others on board. Remember, the fewer fishermen, the more fish for you.

Enjoy the sea air, catching and dining on your fish!