They tend to spawn in the mainstem of streams, where the water flow is high. Because of their size they are able to spawn in larger gravel than most other salmon. Chinook spawn on both sides of the Cascade Range, and some fish travel hundreds of miles upstream before they reach their spawning grounds. Because of the distance, these fish enter streams early and comprise the spring and summer runs. Fall runs spawn closer to the ocean and more often use small coastal streams.
All chinook reach their spawning grounds by fall, in time to spawn.
Rearing - Chinook fry rear in freshwater from three months to a year, depending on the race of chinook and the location. Rearing chinook fry use mainstems and their tributaries. This species uses coastal streams and tributaries, and is often present in small neighborhood streams. Coho can even be found in urban settings if their needs of cold, clean, year-round water are met. Spawning - Coho spawn in small coastal streams and the tributaries of larger rivers.