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Know Your Salmon

A Guide to the Wild World of Alaska’s Favorite Fish

    Most people think of salmon as just… salmon. But the truth is, there’s a whole world of wild salmon out there — each species with its own flavor, texture, color, and season. At Sitka Seafood Market, celebrating that diversity is at the heart of what we do. From rich, buttery King to lean, vibrant Sockeye, we believe it’s important not just to enjoy salmon — but to know which salmon you’re eating, where it came from, and how it was caught. That’s why traceability matters. These simple graphics help connect you to the story behind your seafood — showing how your salmon is harvested, when each species is in season, and how to choose the right one for your next meal. Because when you know your fish, you taste the difference.

    Photo courtesy Alaska Seafood

    The Salmon Table: Meet the Species

    Not all salmon are created equal — and that’s a beautiful thing. From the deep red flesh of Sockeye to the delicate, mild flavor of Keta, each species brings something unique to the table. Our Salmon Table helps you quickly understand the differences between the four wild Alaska salmon we source: King, Sockeye, Coho, and Keta. Whether you're planning to grill, roast, poach, or cure your fish, knowing the characteristics of each species makes you a more confident cook — and a more informed eater. This isn’t just a chart — it’s your key to unlocking better meals and a deeper appreciation for wild Alaska salmon.

    How We Catch Salmon: Small Boats, Big Impact

    Every piece of salmon we deliver starts with how it's caught — and that’s a story worth telling. Our fishermen use small-boat, low-impact methods like gillnetting and trolling, which are not only more selective but also more sustainable. These traditional techniques reduce bycatch, protect marine ecosystems, and prioritize fish quality from the very start. When you buy from Sitka Seafood Market, you're not just choosing better fish — you're supporting a community of fishermen who are committed to doing things the right way. The result? Salmon that’s handled with care, harvested with respect, and traceable back to the people who caught it.

    Season Calendar: Eat with the Rhythm of the Wild

    Wild salmon doesn’t show up on demand — it arrives with the seasons. Our Season Calendar gives you a glimpse into the natural rhythm of Alaska’s salmon runs, showing when each species is at its peak. Eating with the seasons means eating fish at its freshest and most flavorful. It's a reminder that wild food follows nature’s timeline — and that’s something to celebrate. Planning your meals around these seasonal harvests connects you more deeply to the place, the people, and the ocean that makes it all possible.

    Fish photos courtesy Alaska Seafood.

    Watch: Grace Breaks Down the Four Main Salmon Types

    Ready to take your salmon knowledge to the next level? Watch our very own Grace Parisi — chef, recipe developer, and longtime Sitka Seafood Market culinary guide — break down the four main species of salmon we deliver. In this quick, approachable video, she’ll show you how to identify each type by look, taste, and texture, and share tips on how best to cook them. It’s the perfect next step for anyone who wants to feel more confident in the kitchen — and more connected to the wild fish on their plate.


    Watch the video here »