Steelhead trout and salmon are two fish species often mistaken for one another, largely due to their similar appearance and behaviors. Both belong to the salmonid family, sharing common traits such as living in both freshwater and saltwater environments and having similar diets. Despite these similarities, steelhead and salmon have distinct characteristics that set them apart. Understanding these differences is essential for anglers and fish enthusiasts alike.
Steelhead Trout: The Oceanic Rainbow Trout
Steelhead trout, scientifically known as Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus, are a sea-run variant of the rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Unlike their freshwater cousins, steelhead spend a significant portion of their lives in the ocean before returning to freshwater rivers and streams to spawn. This anadromous lifestyle contributes to their larger size and silvery appearance, which often leads to confusion with salmon.
One of the defining features of steelhead trout is their ability to grow much larger than freshwater rainbow trout. This growth is due to their rich diet in the ocean, which consists of smaller fish and krill. While in the ocean, steelhead lose the vibrant rainbow coloration typical of rainbow trout and take on a more silvery hue, closely resembling salmon.
The lifecycle of a steelhead includes spawning in freshwater, maturing in saltwater, and returning to freshwater to reproduce. In the Great Lakes region, steelhead do not migrate to the ocean but instead live in the lakes, returning to rivers to spawn.
Salmon: The Pacific Giants
Salmon, particularly species like Chinook, coho, and sockeye, are well-known inhabitants of the Pacific Ocean, though some, like the Atlantic salmon, are native to the Atlantic waters. These fish are larger on average than steelhead, with some species growing up to 120 pounds. Salmon are characterized by their torpedo-shaped bodies, large mouths, and wide tails, all adapted for their life in fast-flowing rivers and the open ocean.
Salmon have a shorter lifespan compared to steelhead, typically ranging from two to seven years. They are known for their dramatic spawning migrations, often traveling hundreds of miles to return to the exact spot where they were born. Unlike steelhead, which may survive spawning and return to the ocean, most salmon die after their first and only spawning run.
Key Differences Between Steelhead and Salmon
While steelhead and salmon share many physical traits, several key differences can help distinguish them.
- Appearance: Steelhead generally have a sleeker, more streamlined body with a potential pink or red stripe along their sides, a trait shared with rainbow trout. Salmon, on the other hand, usually have a thicker, torpedo-shaped body and may exhibit a range of colors depending on whether they are in freshwater or saltwater.
- Size: Salmon tend to grow larger than steelhead, with some species reaching over 100 pounds, while steelhead typically top out around 20 pounds.
- Spawning: Steelhead spawn in the winter or early spring, while salmon usually spawn in the fall. Additionally, steelhead may spawn multiple times, while salmon typically die after spawning once.
- Lifespan: Steelhead generally have a longer lifespan, living up to 11 years, compared to salmon’s typical two to seven years.
Fishing for Steelhead and Salmon
Fishing techniques for steelhead and salmon are similar, with methods like float fishing, plunking, and trolling being popular for both species. The choice of method often depends on the location, whether in a river, lake, or ocean, and the time of year.
Steelhead are known for their strong fight, making them a popular target for sport fishing. Salmon, with their larger size and equally challenging fight, are also a prized catch for anglers.
Understanding the differences between steelhead and salmon not only enhances the fishing experience but also helps in the conservation and management of these important fish species.
Image/Source: WOS
