Mid-May marks the peak of spring chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) runs in Pacific Northwest rivers, with these massive fish fighting upstream toward their natal spawning grounds. Spring chinook, also called "springers," are among the largest and most prized salmon, with some individuals exceeding 40-50 pounds. These fish spend 3-5 years in the ocean before returning to spawn, and their May timing makes them distinct from fall-run chinook. Watch for dramatic leaping displays at waterfalls and rapids as fish navigate obstacles on rivers like the Columbia, Willamette, and Fraser. Spring chinook runs have declined dramatically from historical levels due to habitat loss, dams, and overfishing, making conservation efforts critical. These iconic fish remain culturally and economically vital to indigenous communities and the broader Pacific Northwest, representing the enduring connection between ocean and mountain ecosystems.