What is Lion Salmon? An In-Depth Look at This Majestic Fish

Lion salmon also known as Chinook salmon or King salmon is one of the most prized and sought-after types of salmon. With its impressive size, vibrant coloration, rich flavor and delicate texture, it’s easy to see why this fish is referred to as the “king” of salmon. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at lion salmon including its origins, physical characteristics, flavor profile, health benefits, and tips for catching and cooking this incredible fish.

Overview of Lion Salmon

Also called Chinook or King salmon
Largest species of salmon
Native to Pacific Northwest region of North America
Named after Chinookan peoples who have fished it for centuries
Highly prized for its size, strength, appearance and superior eating quality

Physical Characteristics

Can reach up to 5 feet long and weigh over 100 lbs
Largest salmon species
Muscular, torpedo-shaped body
Color ranges from silver blue to greenish-blue
Spots on back and both lobes of tail
Small black spots on gill covers

Flavor and Texture

Rich, buttery flavor with herbal and nutty notes
High oil content gives it a velvety, melt-in-your-mouth texture
Medium high fat content around 10-18%
White streaks of fat marbled throughout the orange-red flesh

Habitat and Range

Native to Pacific coasts, rivers and tributaries
Found from Monterey Bay, California up to Alaska
Migrates hundreds of miles upriver to spawn
Some major rivers where it can be found: Sacramento, Columbia, Fraser

Catching Lion Salmon

Caught wild in Pacific Ocean & rivers using trolling, drift fishing and fly fishing
Requires skill to hook these strong swimmers
Put up a powerful fight when reeled in
Farmed Chinook salmon also available, but wild is preferable

Buying Lion Salmon

Look for bright, shiny skin with no dull or brown spots
Flesh should be deep orange-red
Check smell – should not be fishy or have ammonia scent
Pay attention to labels – “Chinook salmon” means it’s lion/king salmon

Cooking and Serving Lion Salmon

Grilling, broiling, baking and poaching are best cooking methods
Grill or broil skin-on, baste with oil or glaze
Poach gently in broth, wine or court bouillon
Bake in foil with herbs, citrus, butter or mayo
Serve with rice, roasted veggies, greens, fresh herbs

Nutrition and Health Benefits

Excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids
High in protein, B vitamins, selenium
Contains astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant
Omega-3s reduce inflammation and heart disease risk
B vitamins important for energy and brain function
Selenium boosts immunity and thyroid health

Availability and Sustainability

Available wild caught during summer months
Farm-raised Chinook salmon available year-round
Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch rates it a “Best Choice”
Look for MSC certified sustainably caught salmon
Avoid salmon labeled “Atlantic” – likely farmed

How to Identify Lion Salmon

Large size – can be up to 5 feet long!
Blue-green backs with small black spots
Silvery sides transitioning to white belly
Spots on both lobes of the tail
Deep red-orange flesh when raw

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FAQ

What are salmon loins?

The loin is cut in the back of the fish. It is the best part. Featuring a high fat-to-flesh ratio, it’s ideal for all cooking styles, especially grilling, poaching, sautéing, smoking, slow roasting and traditional gravlax.

What is the best tasting salmon to eat?

Sockeye salmon are known for their bright red flesh and their bold, salmon-y scent. They’re the most flavorful (what some would consider fishy) of all salmon and are commonly sold smoked, in high-end salmon burgers, and by the fillet.

What is the healthiest salmon to eat?

Wild-caught Pacific salmon are typically considered to be the healthiest salmon.

What is the most expensive salmon in the world?

Often referred to as “the Wagyu of salmon,” Copper River king salmon can reach $120 per pound. Sought after by chefs for its rich, buttery flavor, this salmon is not easy to come by. To reach its final destination in Alaska’s Copper River, it has to swim 300 miles between glaciers.

What is wild salmon?

Wild salmon is salmon that is caught in natural environments like oceans, rivers, and lakes. But much of the salmon sold worldwide today is farmed salmon. Fish farms use a process called aquaculture to breed fish, which are often given a processed feed that’s high in fat and protein to produce larger fish.

Is salmon good for kidney disease?

Salmon is rich in omega-3 and is considered a good food not only for kidney disease but also for preventing other problems and maintaining health. A diet with roasted or raw salmon can slow the development of hypertension and protect against kidney damage.

Where can I buy salmon?

It’s pretty much everywhere—widely available whether you’re tracking it down at the supermarket or the fishmonger. It’s easy to like—tender, mild-tasting, and versatile. It’s even easy to cook—the fatty texture helps keep the fish tender and moist. But even though salmon is the friendliest fish around, buying it can still be intimidating.

What are the health benefits of eating salmon?

Astaxanthin is an antioxidant found in salmon that may benefit heart, brain, nervous system, and skin health. 7. May reduce the risk of heart disease Eating salmon on a regular basis may help protect against heart disease ( 37 ).