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Step 1
Distinguish Pacific salmon from Atlantic salmon. Aside from living in the Pacific Ocean, Pacific salmon are generally migratory. They hatch in freshwater and spend about two years there until they migrate to the ocean as juveniles. They live as saltwater fish for about four years and return to freshwater to spawn.
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Step 2
Recognize the kokanee as the only non-migratory Pacific salmon. These fish are actually Sockeye salmon that live in a landlocked body of freshwater and lack any migratory instincts. They are also noticeably smaller than ocean-going Sockeye.
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Step 3
Fish for salmon in freshwater throughout the year. Salmon migrations or "runs" occur in every season and there are even runs of the same species in different seasons. Migrating salmon stop feeding when they reach freshwater but will still strike at an artificial lure.
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Step 4
Look at the role of Pacific salmon in commercial fishing. Salmon comprise the majority of fisheries on the Pacific coast of North America. All species are fished commercially with the Sockeye salmon being the most important.
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Step 5
Examine the range of Pacific salmon. They can be found as far south as Sacramento, California, and as far north as Kamchatka.
