The Zombie Fish!

During the fall, as Chinook and coho salmon migrate from Lake Ontario into their natal creeks and rivers to spawn, they undergo rapid physiological changes ending up with a "zombie-like" appearance. During their journey they stop feeding and use fat and energy stores to sustain their reproductive systems. Their skin, muscles, and internal organ systems break down, eventually giving them a carcass-like appearance while still alive. Deterioration increases as they reach their final spawning grounds where they eventually die, giving nutrients back into their river of origin.

Typically, tributary fishing for Chinook and coho salmon begins in early-September and runs through early-November. Despite not feeding, salmon exhibit aggressive or territorial behavior, and can be caught on eggs or egg-shaped lures.

Pacific Salmon Fishing in Lake Ontario Tributaries
DEC Salmon River Fish Hatchery

These decomposing yet living "zombie" fish were collected at the DEC Salmon River Fish Hatchery during the Pacific salmon egg take that occurs in October each year.