Best Chinook Salmon Lures For Rivers (2024 Updated)

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If you're an angler looking to catch chinook salmon in rivers, you'll want to make sure you have the right lures for the job. With so many options available, it can be tough to know where to start. Here are five key points to keep in mind when looking for the best chinook salmon lures for rivers.

1. Size matters. Chinook salmon can grow to be quite large, so you'll want to make sure your lure is big enough to catch their attention. Look for lures that are at least 4-6 inches long.

2. Color is important. Chinook salmon are attracted to bright, flashy colors, so consider lures in shades of pink, orange, and chartreuse.

3. Pay attention to the water conditions. If the water is murky, you'll want to use a lure that creates a lot of vibration and noise to help the fish find it. In clear water, a more subtle lure may be more effective.

4. Consider the type of lure. There are many types of lures that can be effective for chinook salmon, including spoons, spinners, and plugs. Experiment with different types to see what works best in your local rivers.

5. Don't forget about scent. Chinook salmon have a strong sense of smell, so using a lure that is scented can help attract them to your bait.

By keeping these key points in mind, you'll be well on your way to finding the best chinook salmon lures for rivers. Happy fishing!

10 Best Chinook Salmon Lures For Rivers

1. Wicked Lures Pink-Pink King Killer

Wicked Lures has introduced a new product that is sure to attract the attention of avid fishermen and women. The Wicked Lures Pink-Pink King Killer is an effective and versatile lure that is ideal for catching a wide range of fish species including salmon, lake trout, walleye, pike, and bass.

This lure features a #6 pink brass blade that is designed to catch the attention of fish from a distance. The bright pink color is a proven fish attractant, and the brass blade creates a unique vibration that mimics the movement of a wounded baitfish. This combination of color and movement is incredibly effective at triggering predatory instincts in fish, making them more likely to strike.

The Pink-Pink King Killer is also equipped with a 2/0 Gamakatsu red octopus hook that is sharp, strong, and durable. The octopus hook is a popular choice among fishermen because it is versatile and can be used to catch a variety of fish species. It is also designed to hold bait securely, ensuring that it stays in place even when casting or retrieving the lure.

To ensure that the Pink-Pink King Killer is durable and can withstand the rigors of fishing, it is constructed using high-quality materials. The lure is equipped with 30lb platinum moss green Izorline, which is a tough and abrasion-resistant fishing line that can handle the weight and strength of larger fish species. Additionally, the lure comes with a 6 ft leader that is designed to prevent the fishing line from getting tangled or twisted during use.

Overall, the Wicked Lures Pink-Pink King Killer is an excellent choice for fishermen and women who are looking for a versatile, durable, and effective lure. With its bright pink color, unique vibration, and high-quality construction, this lure is sure to attract the attention of fish and help anglers catch more fish on their next fishing trip.

2. Fishing Long Sleeve T Shirt For King Salmon Fishermen

Introducing the Fishing Long Sleeve T Shirt for King Salmon Fishermen, the ideal apparel for those who love to go salmon fishing. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner, this long sleeve t-shirt is perfect for your next fishing adventure.

Designed with comfort and style in mind, this t-shirt is made with lightweight fabric that allows you to move around freely while fishing. Its classic fit ensures a comfortable and relaxed feel so that you can focus on catching the biggest and best king salmon.

This long sleeve t-shirt is perfect for fishing in the rivers and oceans of Oregon, Washington, and Alaska. Whether you are trolling for Chinook Salmon or fishing in the Columbia River, this t-shirt is a must-have for any fishing enthusiast.

The shirt features the phrase "Long Live The King Salmon," capturing the spirit and excitement of salmon fishing. It is a great way to show your love and passion for fishing and makes for an excellent birthday or Christmas gift for a fisherman or fisherwoman in your life.

The double-needle sleeve and bottom hem ensure the durability of the t-shirt, making it a long-lasting addition to your fishing gear. It is easy to care for and can be washed and dried without any hassle.

Overall, the Fishing Long Sleeve T Shirt for King Salmon Fishermen is a great investment for anyone who loves salmon fishing. Its comfortable fit, durable design, and stylish look make it a perfect choice for your next fishing trip. So grab your fishing rod, reel, net, and tackle box and head out to the water in style with this fantastic t-shirt.

3. Kufa Sports 2-Piece Im8 Graphite Casting Rods For Salmon And Steelhead Fishing, 8'6"-10'6" In Length (Medium Heavy).

KUFA Sports introduces the IM8 Graphite 2-Pieces Salmon Steelhead Chinook Chum COHO Pink Sockeye humpy Bait Casting Fishing Rods, designed specifically for Salmon Steelhead, Chinook, Chum, Coho, Pink, Sockeye, and humpy fishing. These versatile rods are available in three sizes: 8'6" Medium, 8'6" Medium Heavy, and 10'6" Medium Heavy.

The SSRC8062M is an 8'6" medium power rod that comes in two pieces for easy transport. Its action is rated as MF, meaning it has a medium-fast action that provides a good balance between sensitivity and power. The line weight range for this model is 8-17 pounds, and it has nine guides plus a tip. These features make it an excellent choice for anglers looking for a rod that can handle a wide range of fishing conditions while still being lightweight and easy to use.

The SSRC8062MH is another 8'6" rod that comes in two pieces for easy transport. Its action is rated as M, meaning it has a medium action that provides a good balance between sensitivity and power. The line weight range for this model is 12-25 pounds, and it has nine guides plus a tip. This model is ideal for anglers who want a little more power and sensitivity than the SSRC8062M, making it a great choice for targeting larger fish species like Chinook and Coho.

The SSRC1062MH is the largest rod in the KUFA Sports IM8 Graphite series, measuring 10'6" in length and also coming in two pieces for easy transport. Its action is rated as M, meaning it has a medium action that provides a good balance between sensitivity and power. The line weight range for this model is 10-25 pounds, and it has ten guides plus a tip. This model is best suited for anglers who want a longer rod for increased casting distance and better control over their bait.

All of the KUFA Sports IM8 Graphite 2-Pieces Salmon Steelhead Chinook Chum COHO Pink Sockeye humpy Bait Casting Fishing Rods are made from high-quality materials, including IM8 graphite blanks that provide excellent strength, sensitivity, and durability. The rods are also equipped with Fuji guides, which are known for their high-quality construction and smooth operation.

In conclusion, the KUFA Sports IM8 Graphite 2-Pieces Salmon Steelhead Chinook Chum COHO Pink Sockeye humpy Bait Casting Fishing Rods are an excellent choice for anglers looking for a versatile, high-quality fishing rod that can handle a wide range of fishing conditions. With three sizes to choose from and top-of-the-line materials and construction, these rods are sure to provide years of reliable use and great fishing experiences.

4. Set Of 6 Tuna Flasher Lures, Rigged With 150 Lb Leader And Ready To Go! With Black Mesh Bag

This set of 6 tuna flasher lures is a must-have for any angler looking to attract predatory pelagic fish in the ocean. These 6-inch rigged feathers are designed with a 150 lb mono leader to ensure maximum durability and flexibility, making them perfect for those long fishing trips.

These lures are fully rigged and ready to go, making them ideal for both amateur and experienced anglers. They are designed to attract a variety of predatory fish such as tuna, dolphin (Mahi Mahi), wahoo, marlin, sailfish, and more. The crystal head and heavy-duty skirt protect the hook from getting covered with weeds, allowing you to fish for longer periods without any disruptions.

The set is made from high-quality materials that are built to last, ensuring that you get the best value for your money. The added value of the premium black bag makes it easy to store and transport the lures, while its easy-to-wash design ensures that it remains clean and ready for use.

Each set comes with six different color lures, providing anglers with the variety they need to attract a wide range of fish. The lures are designed to mimic the movement of small baitfish, making them irresistible to larger, predatory fish. With these lures, you can be sure that you'll catch the attention of even the most elusive of fish.

In conclusion, this set of 6 tuna flasher lures is an excellent investment for anyone looking to take their fishing game to the next level. With their quality, durability, and ease of use, these lures provide anglers with everything they need to catch the biggest and most challenging fish in the ocean.

5. 100pc Assorted Fly Fishing Kit For Trout, Bass, And Steelhead.

The Fly Fishing Flies Assortment Kit 100pcs Dry Wet Nyphms Popper Streamer for Trout Bass Steelhead Fish (100PCS Fishing Flies Kit) is a comprehensive collection of flies that every angler should have in their arsenal. With effective flies that cover the greatest flies of all time, this kit is perfect for both starters and seasoned anglers.

The kit includes 30/50/60/100/168 pieces of flies that are ideal for catching Trout, Grayling and Salmon, Steelhead, Pike, Carp, and other fish species. The flies are designed to attract fish with their realistic appearance and movement in the water.

The kit comes with a waterproof fly box that measures 13.6*8.6*3.6cm (5.2 x 3.5 x 1.4 inch), making it easy to organize and carry a variety of flies for days of fishing. The box keeps the flies in top condition, ensuring that they remain dry and free from damage.

All the flies in the kit are hand-tied and range from #6 to #18. The size of the hooks and flies gets bigger as the hook gets smaller. This ensures that the flies match the size of the fish being targeted.

The Fly Fishing Flies Assortment Kit 100pcs Dry Wet Nyphms Popper Streamer for Trout Bass Steelhead Fish (100PCS Fishing Flies Kit) is the perfect gift for any fly fisherman. It comes in a compact and stylish box that is sure to impress any angler. The kit is also great for beginners who are just starting out in fly fishing.

In conclusion, the Fly Fishing Flies Assortment Kit 100pcs Dry Wet Nyphms Popper Streamer for Trout Bass Steelhead Fish (100PCS Fishing Flies Kit) is a must-have for any angler who wants to catch more fish. It includes a comprehensive collection of flies that are effective and easy to use. The kit comes in a waterproof box that keeps the flies in top condition and is the perfect gift for any fly fisherman.

6. Mepp's K7 Alaska Bonanza Kit – Plain Single Hook Lure Assortment, Multi, One Size

The Mepp's K7 Alaska Bonanza Kit is a top-quality fishing lure assortment that comes with plain single hook lures in a variety of sizes and colors. It is designed to help anglers catch a wide range of fish species in Alaska's diverse waterways.

One of the most notable features of this fishing kit is its solid brass bodies, which are durable and long-lasting. They are also designed to provide excellent casting distance and accuracy, making it easier for anglers to target their desired fish.

The spinner blades on these lures come in silver or gold plated, copper, or polished brass, allowing anglers to choose the best option for their fishing needs. They are also designed to create a realistic motion and vibration in the water, which can attract fish from a distance.

The beads on these lures are hand-turned on a lathe, which helps to resist chipping and cracking. This ensures that the lures remain effective and attractive to fish for many fishing trips to come.

To add to the lure's appeal and visibility in the water, flexible vinyl decals are silk screened with UV inks that resist fading over time. This means that anglers can rely on the lures to remain effective and visible under varying weather and lighting conditions.

Overall, the Mepp's K7 Alaska Bonanza Kit is an excellent choice for anglers looking for a high-quality and versatile fishing lure assortment. Its solid brass bodies, spinner blades, and hand-turned beads make it effective in attracting a wide range of fish species, while its durable and fade-resistant construction ensures that it remains effective over time.

7. 6 Saltwater Skirted Trolling Lures With Rigging And Bag – Catch Dolphin, Tuna, And Wahoo! (9")

This Fishing Lure Set of 6 Trolling Saltwater Skirted Lures is the perfect addition to any angler's tackle box. With six chugger style lures included, this set offers great value for money. Each lure is fully rigged and designed to attract a wide range of predatory pelagic fish, including Dolphin (Mahi Mahi), Tuna, Wahoo, Marlin, and Sailfish.

The crystal head and heavy-duty skirt of each lure make them extremely durable, ensuring that they can withstand the rigors of saltwater fishing. The skirt also helps to protect the hook from getting covered with weeds, allowing you to fish longer without having to clean your hook.

In addition to the high-quality lures, this set also comes with a premium black bag for easy storing and washing. This added value ensures that your lures are always organized and ready to use when you need them.

Whether you're an experienced angler or just starting out, this Fishing Lure Set of 6 Trolling Saltwater Skirted Lures is an excellent choice. With its durable design, attractive colors, and versatile fishing capabilities, this set is sure to help you catch a variety of pelagic fish in the ocean. So why wait? Add this set to your tackle box today and start reeling in the big catches!

8. 10pcs Spinner Lures Kit With Tackle Box For Bass Trout Salmon Fishing By Fouceclaus.

The FOUCECLAUS Fishing Lures 10pcs Spinner Lures Baits with Tackle Box is a must-have for any angler who loves to fish for bass, trout, walleye, northern pike, and salmon. This set comes with 10 different spinner lures in the most popular sizes: 1/13 oz, 1/8 oz, and 3/16 oz. Each spinnerbait is equipped with a dressed sharp treble hook with brightly colored strike-attractor sleeves, making it easy to attract fish.

These dressed spinners are suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, making them versatile and practical for any angler. The premium quality blade provides continuous flash and vibration, which makes them irresistible to fish. They are designed specifically for bass fishing and trout fishing, hence named bass lures and trout lures.

This set comes with a convenient packing box that makes it easy to use and restock. The box is lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for anglers who are always on the go. The lures are also deadly on bass, trout, walleye, northern pike, and salmon, making them perfect for any angler who wants to catch a variety of fish.

The FOUCECLAUS Fishing Lures 10pcs Spinner Lures Baits with Tackle Box is specially designed for special occasions like Christmas, Thanksgiving Day, Father's Day, and other holidays. It is the perfect gift for any fishing enthusiast who loves to fish for bass, trout, walleye, northern pike, and salmon.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a high-quality fishing lure set that comes with a convenient packing box and is suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, then the FOUCECLAUS Fishing Lures 10pcs Spinner Lures Baits with Tackle Box is the perfect choice. It is versatile, practical, and effective at catching a variety of fish, making it an essential addition to any angler's tackle box.

9. Panther Martin Fishseeuv Salmon & Steelhead Spinning Lure, 3/4 Oz, Pink Tiger

The Panther Martin FishSeeUV Salmon & Steelhead Spinning Lure is a high-quality fishing hook designed to increase your fish count. This spinning lure is made in the USA and is known for its durability and effectiveness in catching salmon and steelhead.

Weighing in at 3/4 oz and available in a vibrant pink tiger color, the Panther Martin FishSeeUV Salmon & Steelhead Spinning Lure is an essential tool for any angler looking to reel in big fish. The lure is designed to mimic the movements and appearance of real prey, which makes it an irresistible target for salmon and steelhead.

One of the standout features of this spinning lure is its use of FishSeeUV technology. This technology enhances the visibility of the lure, making it more visible to fish. The use of UV light also makes the lure more attractive to fish, as it mimics the natural bioluminescence of prey.

This spinning lure is a versatile tool that can be used in a variety of fishing environments, including rivers, lakes, and streams. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it easy to cast and retrieve, even in fast-moving water.

In terms of packaging, the Panther Martin FishSeeUV Salmon & Steelhead Spinning Lure measures 4.826 cm in length, 17.526 cm in width, and 2.794 cm in height. This compact size makes it easy to store in your tackle box or fishing bag.

Overall, the Panther Martin FishSeeUV Salmon & Steelhead Spinning Lure is an excellent choice for anglers of all skill levels. Its durable construction, FishSeeUV technology, and versatile design make it a must-have for anyone looking to improve their fishing success.

10. 10pcs Spinnerbait Fishing Lures Kit With Tackle Box For Bass, Trout, Salmon, And Walleye.

The Kingforest 10pcs Fishing Lures Spinnerbait for Bass Trout Salmon Walleye Hard Metal Spinner Baits Kit with Tackle Box is a versatile set of fishing lures that is suitable for targeting a wide range of predator fishes, such as bass, trout, walleye, salmon, musky, pike, big blue gill, perch, crappie, panfish, and catfish in both freshwater and saltwater.

This set includes 10 fishing lures, with a length of about 2.36 inches and a weight of 0.22 ounces for 5 pieces and 0.11 ounces for the other 5 pieces. Each spinnerbait comes with a sharp treble hook with brightly colored strike-attractor sleeves, ensuring high hardness and ultra-sharpness. The rotatable bright blades create continuous flash and vibration to imitate the lifelike swimming action of small fish, helping to attract larger fish.

The action in the water is perfect and does not require a strong or quick retrieve to get them spinning. These lures are deadly on bass, trout, walleye, northern pike, and salmon. They are also suitable for attracting other freshwater and saltwater fishes, including Tanggu Tilapia, Mandarin fish, striped bass, and more.

The convenient packing box makes it easy to use and restock the lures. The box helps to better store and protect the fish baits and prevents fish hooks from scratching other items. This set makes a great gift for dads or friends who enjoy fishing, especially for occasions such as Christmas, Thanksgiving Day, Father's Day, and others.

Kingforest stands behind its products and offers free replacement for any damaged or missing items. This set of fishing lures is an excellent choice for any fishing enthusiast, offering versatility, convenience, and effectiveness in attracting a wide range of predator fishes.

Best Chinook Salmon Lures For Rivers FAQs

Are there specific colors or patterns of lures that are more successful for river chinook salmon fishing?

There is no definitive answer to the question of the best colors or patterns of lures for river chinook salmon fishing, as different variables can affect the success of different lures. However, some anglers have found success with bright colors such as pink, orange, and chartreuse, as well as patterns that resemble the natural prey of chinook salmon, such as herring, smelt, or shrimp. Additionally, some anglers prefer to use lures with a metallic finish or a UV coating, which can attract fish in low-light conditions. Ultimately, the choice of lure color and pattern should depend on the specific conditions of the river, such as water clarity, current speed, and the behavior of the fish. Anglers may need to experiment with different lures and techniques to find the most effective combination for catching river chinook salmon.

How do I choose the best lure for targeting chinook salmon in river environments?

When choosing a lure for targeting Chinook salmon in river environments, it's important to consider several factors. Firstly, consider the water conditions and the depth at which the fish are likely to be swimming. Use a lure that can reach the appropriate depth, such as a diving plug or a weighted spoon. Secondly, consider the color of the lure. Chinook salmon are attracted to bright colors such as orange, pink, and chartreuse. Thirdly, consider the type of lure. Chinook salmon are known to hit spinners, spoons, plugs, and jigs. Experiment with different types of lures until you find one that works best for the conditions you are fishing in. Lastly, always ensure that your gear is of high quality and well-maintained, as Chinook salmon are strong fish that require strong gear to catch.

What are some tips for using chinook salmon lures effectively in river currents and eddies?

1. Match the Hatch: Use lures that mimic the natural prey of chinook salmon in the river. This could include small baitfish patterns, jigs or spinners.

2. Vary your Retrieve: Experiment with different retrieval techniques, including slow retrieves, rapid jerks, and pauses. Chinook salmon tend to be aggressive and may respond to a fast-moving lure.

3. Use scent: Chinook salmon have an excellent sense of smell. Use a scent or bait enhancer to make your lure more attractive.

4. Fish the Currents and Eddies: Chinook salmon tend to hold in slow-moving water, such as eddies and pools. Look for these areas and focus your fishing efforts there.

5. Pay attention to water temperature: Chinook salmon prefer cooler waters. Focus your fishing efforts in areas where the water temperature is between 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit.

6. Be Patient: Chinook salmon can be elusive, and it may take time to find the right presentation to trigger a strike. Stay persistent, and keep experimenting until you find what works.

What are the top-rated chinook salmon lures for fishing in rivers?

The top-rated chinook salmon lures for fishing in rivers are those that mimic the natural prey of the fish. Some of the most popular options include spinners, spoons, and jigs. Spinners are a great choice because they create a lot of flash and vibration in the water, which can attract salmon from a distance. Spoons are also effective because they resemble small fish and can be cast far distances. Jigs are a versatile option that can be used in a variety of conditions and depths, and can be tipped with bait to make them even more enticing. Other effective lures include plugs and crankbaits, which can be used to imitate injured baitfish. When choosing a lure, it's important to consider the water conditions and the behavior of the fish, as well as personal preference and experience.

Which types of lures are most effective for catching chinook salmon in river systems?

The most effective lures for catching chinook salmon in river systems are those that mimic the natural prey of the fish. This includes lures that resemble small fish, such as spoons, plugs, and spinners. Jigs can also be effective, as they can be bounced along the bottom of the river, imitating the movement of a wounded fish. Additionally, bait such as roe or sand shrimp can be used to attract salmon, particularly during the spawning season. It is important to vary the color, size, and action of the lure to match the conditions of the river and the behavior of the fish. Overall, successful salmon fishing requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to adapt to changing conditions.

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