Fresh, wild-caught California King salmon returns to markets and restaurants, bringing its celebrated flavor to consumers and chefs

California King salmon is back for the 2026 commercial fishing season, bringing one of the West Coast’s most sought-after seasonal seafood favorites for consumers and chefs alike. Fresh, wild-caught California King salmon will soon begin to arrive in select markets, fish counters and restaurants, offering seafood lovers the opportunity to enjoy its exceptional flavor, beautiful color and premium quality. The California commercial salmon season runs May 1 through September 30.

“We are thrilled to welcome California King salmon back for the 2026 season,” said David Goldenberg, Chief Executive Officer of the California Salmon Council. “Consumers have been eager to savor the robust flavor of this summer treat, and chefs always appreciate the opportunity to work with a fish that is so fresh, delectable and versatile. It truly marks the start of the summer grilling season and is something people look forward to every year.”

Renowned for its rich taste, firm texture and high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, California King salmon is both a delicious and nutritious choice. Its versatility makes it a favorite in home and professional kitchens alike, whether it is simply grilled, pan-seared, roasted or featured in seasonal restaurant specials.

For consumers, California King salmon offers a local and sustainable seafood option that is as healthful as it is memorable. For chefs, it provides an opportunity to showcase a time limited premium, wild-caught center of the plate fish fresh from California’s coastal waters.

Wild-caught California King salmon can be found at select grocery stores, fish markets and restaurants from May through September. Consumers are encouraged to look for it, ask for it and enjoy it while it is available.

California’s King salmon fishermen use a trolling hook-and-line method of catching one fish on one barbless hook ensuring no by-catch. Each fish is cleaned at sea which assures the freshest quality, lean, firm texture and more robust flavor. Highly regulated, consumers can be assured the ocean wild-caught salmon fishery is both sustainable and responsible.

For more information about California King salmon, including recipes and preparation tips, visit calkingsalmon.org or follow the California Salmon Council on social media.

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