Typical Spawning Habitats Spawning Habits Approximate Elevation Salmon Reached Fall Lower rivers and tributaries, valley floor and foothill reaches. Spawn soon after entering natal streams, limited by deteriorated physical condition and ripeness of eggs. Spawn upon entry into stream, limited by deteriorated physical condition and ripeness of eggs. Largest of the Sacramento River salmon.
Juveniles require summer cold water flows.
Unknown Spring Higher streams, with adequate spring fed run-off or snow melt runoff to keep summer water temperatures low. Historically abundant in the San Joaquin system. Hold in the stream for several months before spawning. Smaller bodied fish enables access to higher reaches. Hold in the stream for several months before spawning.