Silver Salmon (Coho)

銀鮭

Oncorhynchus kisutch (Coho salmon), native to the northeastern Pacific. Aquaculture took root in Japan in the 1970s, with Miyagi Prefecture's Sanriku coast accounting for the vast majority of national farmed production. A different species from 秋鮭 (chum salmon), it offers consistent fillet quality and rich fat from farmed conditions. Most domestic 'salmon' fillets in Japanese supermarkets are Miyagi-grown coho.

Taste & Texture

With virtually no domestic wild catch, marketed silver salmon is almost entirely farmed (centered in Miyagi Prefecture). Fattier and more vivid orange than 秋鮭 (chum salmon). Pairs well with salt and saikyo miso for grilled and meunière preparations.

Season

MONTHLY AVAILABILITY

Apr - Jul

PEAK

※ Season is based on domestic field-grown availability

How to Choose

  • Choose fillets with glossy skin and vivid orange flesh.

  • Fatty belly cuts work for salt-grilling; back cuts suit saikyo-yaki and meunière.

  • Always check whether the fillet is labeled for raw consumption (sashimi) or for cooking only..

How to Store

  • Fresh: 1-2 days refrigerated.

  • Salted: about a week refrigerated.

  • Freeze in single-serve portions and use within 2-3 weeks; thaw slowly in the refrigerator to minimize drip and preserve texture..

Shelf life Fresh: 1-2 days; salted: 1 week; frozen: 2-3 weeks

Nutrition Facts

Top Landing Prefectures

Miyagi93.0%
Iwate7.0%
10%+
5%+
2%+
0.1%+
None

Map data: National Land Numerical Information (MLIT Japan)

#
Prefecture
Production (t)
Share
1
18,222
93.0%
2
1,377
7.0%

Source: MAFF Marine Fisheries Production Statistics (aquaculture) (2023)

Top 5 Prefecture Production Trends (2018-2023)

Miyagi
Iwate