How long does it take for a salmon to become an adult?

Salmon spend part of their lives in freshwater and part in saltwater. The length of time it takes for a salmon to become an adult varies depending on the species.

For example:

* Sockeye salmon spend 1-4 years in freshwater before migrating to the ocean, where they spend 2-3 years. They return to freshwater to spawn after about 5-7 years.

* Chinook salmon spend 1-2 years in freshwater before migrating to the ocean, where they spend 3-5 years. They return to freshwater to spawn after about 4-7 years.

* Coho salmon spend 1-2 years in freshwater before migrating to the ocean, where they spend 1-2 years. They return to freshwater to spawn after about 2-4 years.

* Pink salmon spend 2 years in freshwater before migrating to the ocean, where they spend about 1 year. They return to freshwater to spawn after about 3 years.

* Chum salmon spend 3-5 years in freshwater before migrating to the ocean, where they spend 2-3 years. They return to freshwater to spawn after about 5-8 years.

The specific timing of a salmon's migration depends on a variety of factors, including water temperature, food availability, and the presence of predators.