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How to Rig for Chum Salmon

Oncorhynchus keta

Chum salmon arrive late in the fall and are among the hardest-pulling salmon for their size, though their flesh is paler than coho or chinook by the time they reach fresh water. They hold in slower, softer water near river mouths and lower pools, and respond well to bright jigs under a float. Spawning fish develop calico bars and large teeth, which gave them the name dog salmon.

Answer at a glance
Best rig
Float Rig
Best bait
Chartreuse, pink, or purple jig under a float, or cured roe where allowed
Where
river
Typical size
22–32 in
Season
Peak season: fall
Realistic Float Rig fishing rig setup
#1 Best Match

Float Rig

intermediateriver

A float suspends bait at a fixed depth instead of dragging it on the bottom, letting current or light wave action carry it naturally past holding fish. This is the standard technique for salmon and steelhead in rivers, fished with roe or beads under a pencil float, and for light-tackle pier species like jacksmelt, where a small float and a multi-hook leader with tiny bait covers a school as it drifts through. Use it whenever fish are holding off bottom rather than on it, or when you want a natural drift through a current seam without snagging.

  • Main line8-15 lb monofilament running through the float
  • Leader15-25 lb fluorocarbon
  • Leader length18-24in from the float to the hook, shorten in clear water, lengthen in off-color water
  • Hooks#1 - 2/0 hook, or a 1/4oz jig
  • WeightSmall split shot on the leader, just enough to cock the float upright
  • Line to sinkerShot placed 8-12in above the hook, or spaced 2in apart in a cluster halfway down the leader for salmon
  • BaitChartreuse, pink, or purple jig under a float, or cured roe where allowed
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Realistic Fish-Finder Rig fishing rig setup
Fish-Finder Rig
The sinker slides freely on the main line, so a fish can pick up bait and move off without feeling resistance.
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Main lineThree-way swivelDropper6-18inBank sinkerLeader 24-48inHook
Three-Way Rig
A three-way swivel splits the rig into a short dropper to the weight and a longer leader to the bait, so the bait swings just off the bottom while the weight bounces along below it.
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Source & regulation note

Technique guidance is educational. Seasons, size limits, bag limits, closures, and protected areas can change. Always verify the current rules before fishing or keeping fish.

FishBase species profile ↗NOAA Fisheries / state agencies ↗Fisheries and Oceans Canada ↗Editorial methodology

Fishing regulations vary by location and season. Check current local regulations before fishing.

Last reviewed: 2026-09-26

Common Questions

What is the best rig for Chum Salmon?

The Float Rig is the top recommendation for Chum Salmon. A float suspends bait at a fixed depth instead of dragging it on the bottom, letting current or light wave action carry it naturally past holding fish. This is the standard technique for salmon and steelhead in rivers, fished with roe or beads under a pencil float, and for light-tackle pier species like jacksmelt, where a small float and a multi-hook leader with tiny bait covers a school as it drifts through. Use it whenever fish are holding off bottom rather than on it, or when you want a natural drift through a current seam without snagging.

What bait works for Chum Salmon?

Check the recommended rig cards above for bait notes specific to Chum Salmon.

When is the best time to catch Chum Salmon?

Peak season: fall. Typical size runs 22–32 in. Always check current regulations before keeping fish.

Where do you catch Chum Salmon?

Chum Salmon is caught while river fishing. Chum salmon arrive late in the fall and are among the hardest-pulling salmon for their size, though their flesh is paler than coho or chinook by the time they reach fresh water. They hold in slower, softer water near river mouths and lower pools, and respond well to bright jigs under a float. Spawning fish develop calico bars and large teeth, which gave them the name dog salmon.