An adult salmon is now in the ocean free from its spawning ground. Adult salmon spend 1 to 4 years in the ocean swimming and feeding throughout the Gulf of Alaska and the Bering Sea. They grow up to there adult size and develop unique adult markings that are different for all five species of Alaska salmon. There ocean journey is long and hazardous, as they are constantly hunted by seals, orca whales, and fishermen. After swimming more than 2000 miles throughout the northern Pacific Ocean they return to their original spawning grounds to spawn. In some cases, young adult salmon return early before they have fully grown. These particular salmon are called Jacks or Jennies.The top weight for an individual chinook is 126 pounds, 30 pounds being more common for that species. Between 3.5 and 4 pounds are normal for pink salmon, the smallest Pacific species. The average adult sizes is between 7 and 12 pounds, also known as 7-12 pounds (3.5-5.5 kg); can be up to 30 pounds (13.5 kg). The average length is 28-30 inches (70-75 cm). Adult salmon have silver-blue scales with black spots. They spend 2-3 years in freshwater, then migrate to the ocean where they spends 2-3 years, and then return to their home river to spawn. Adult salmon eat small fish. Chinook salmon are the largest type of salmon and can get up to 58" long and 126 pounds. While the chinook may be the biggest in North America, there are bigger species in Asia. Fun facts: there are 6 species of Pacific salmon and only 1 Atlantic species. Fact 2: Salmon are rich in essential vitamins and can decrease the risk of coronary disease and certain cancers! Adult salmon may be yummy but they have a life too, they actually have a mission to continue the life cycle!