After their first winter at sea, some of the salmon become sexually mature and return to their natal rivers to spawn. Salmon that remain at sea for a second winter feed in coastal waters of Canada and Greenland and grow to approximately 30 inches in length and 8-15 pounds. Historically, these 2 sea-winter fish were caught in commercial gillnet fisheries off Nova Scotia, New Foundland, Labrador, and West Greenland. These fisheries have recently been closed or vastly reduced to protect the remaining stocks. There has also been recreational fishing for salmon in rivers and estuaries as they return to spawn.
Biologists think the fish use odors to find their home river.
Spawning takes place from late October through November.