Salmon was a primary source of food for the Northwest Indians. They caught them using various techniques, including spears, nets, and traps. The salmon was then processed and preserved for future use. Common preservation methods involved smoking, drying, and salting.
Trade:
Salmon also served as a valuable trade commodity among the Northwest Indians. It was traded with other tribes, as well as with European settlers, in exchange for goods such as tools, weapons, and clothing. The trade of salmon helped establish economic connections and relationships between different groups.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance:
Salmon held significant cultural and spiritual importance for the Northwest Indians. They revered salmon as a sacred gift from the creator and believed that its abundance reflected the well-being of the community. Many ceremonies, rituals, and traditions centered around the salmon's life cycle, migration, and harvest.