72 Microseasons of the Pacific Northwest

Early September brings coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) gathering in nearshore waters throughout Puget Sound and coastal areas, staging before entering rivers for their fall spawning runs. These "silver salmon" congregate in bays, estuaries, and along the coast, feeding intensively to build energy reserves for their upstream migration. Coho are distinctive with their bright silver sides, metallic blue-green backs, and small black spots on the upper tail fin. Most coho spend 18 months in freshwater streams as juveniles before migrating to the ocean, where they typically spend 18 months before returning to spawn. Peak coho runs occur from September through November, with fish entering rivers in waves following rain events. Coho populations have declined significantly from historical levels due to habitat loss and degradation, making many runs listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act.

Hood River Bartlett and Anjou pears are at peak harvest—the Columbia River Gorge is the epicenter of Pacific Northwest pear production, with the Hood River Fruit Loop at full season. Coho salmon fishing peaks in Puget Sound marine areas and along the Oregon coast. Chanterelles are fruiting broadly in the Cascades and Coast Range after fall rains. Wine grape harvest begins at the warmest Willamette Valley vineyards.