When smoking salmon, there are a lot of things to take into consideration. The time it takes to smoke the salmon will depend on the type of smoker you are using, the temperature of the smoker, and the thickness of the fish. In this blog post, we will walk you through the different factors that influence how long to smoke salmon. We will also provide some tips for ensuring your salmon comes out perfectly smoked every time.
Table of Contents
- 1 The benefits of smoked salmon
- 2 What You Need to Smoke Salmon
- 3 How to Smoke Salmon
- 4 How Long to Smoke Salmon
- 5 The best woods to use for smoking salmon
- 6 The best temperature to smoke salmon
- 7 Tips When Making Smoke Salmon
- 8 How To Serve Smoke Salmon
- 9 How to Store Smoked Salmon
- 10 Should You Brine Salmon?
- 11 3 Important Factors for Making the Best Smoked Salmon
- 12 Conclusion: How Long to Smoke Salmon
- 13 FAQ: Smoke Salmon
- 13.1 How long to smoke salmon at 200 degrees?
- 13.2 How long to smoke fish in a smoker?
- 13.3 How long to cook smoked salmon on the grill?
- 13.4 How long does smoked salmon last in the refrigerator?
- 13.5 How long does salmon take to smoke at 250?
- 13.6 What is the best temp to smoke salmon?
- 13.7 How long does it take to smoke fish at 225 degrees?
- 13.8 Why is my smoked salmon mushy?
- 13.9 Is smoked salmon healthy?
- 13.10 How long does it take to smoke salmon at 150 degrees?
The benefits of smoked salmon
The benefit are many. This type of fish is not only delicious, but it is also a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Smoked salmon is also low in calories and fat, making it a healthy option for those watching their weight.
When smoking salmon, the type of smoker you use will be the biggest factor in determining cook time. Electric smokers typically take less time to smoke salmon than charcoal smokers. This is because electric smokers maintain a consistent temperature, while charcoal smokers can fluctuate in temperature.
The thickness of the fish will also play a role in cook time. A thick piece of salmon will take longer to smoke than a thin piece. Generally, you should plan on smoking salmon for 1-2 hours.

What You Need to Smoke Salmon
To smoke salmon, you will need the following:
- Salmon
- Smoker
- Wood chips or pellets
- Food thermometer
- Knife
- Cutting board
How to Smoke Salmon
- 1. Start by prepping your salmon. Remove the skin and any bones. Cut the salmon into even pieces that will fit in your smoker.
- 2. Soak your wood chips or pellets in water for at least 30 minutes. This will help to prevent them from burning too quickly.
- 3. Set up your smoker according to the manufacturer’s instructions and preheat it to the desired temperature.
- 4. Drain the wood chips or pellets and add them to the smoker.
- 5. Place the salmon in the smoker and cook for the desired amount of time.
- 6. Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the salmon. Salmon is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 7. Remove the salmon from the smoker and allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes before cutting into it.
- 8. Serve immediately. Smoked salmon is best when it is fresh.
How Long to Smoke Salmon
How long to smoke salmon will vary based on the type of smoker you are using, the temperature of the smoker, and the thickness of the fish. In general, it will take about 2-3 hours to smoke a whole salmon. If you are smoking smaller pieces of salmon, they will be done in less time.

The best woods to use for smoking salmon
There are a number of different woods that can be used for smoking salmon. The most popular options are alder, apple, cherry, hickory, and maple. Each type of wood will impart its own unique flavor to the salmon.
Alder is the traditional wood used for smoking salmon. It imparts a light, delicate flavor to the fish.
Apple wood imparts a sweet, fruity flavor to salmon.
Cherry wood gives salmon a slightly sweet, tart flavor.
Hickory imparts a strong, smoky flavor to salmon.
Maple wood gives salmon a subtle, sweetness.
When smoking salmon, it is important to use wood chips that have been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes. This will prevent the chips from burning too quickly and imparting an unpleasant flavor to the salmon.
The best temperature to smoke salmon
The ideal temperature for smoking salmon is between 120-140 degrees Fahrenheit. This range of temperatures will ensure that the fish is cooked through without being overcooked.
If you are smoking salmon in an electric smoker, it is important to monitor the internal temperature of the smoker. This can be done by placing a thermometer in the smoker or by using a wireless meat thermometer.
Tips When Making Smoke Salmon
– Soak wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before smoking.
– Use a light smoke wood such as alder or apple for delicate salmon flavors.
– For a stronger smoke flavor, use hickory or mesquite.
– Avoid using pine or cedar as they can impart an unpleasant flavor to the fish.
How To Serve Smoke Salmon
Smoked salmon can be served a number of ways. It is delicious on its own, with crackers or bread, or used in dishes such as smoked salmon dip, bagels with cream cheese and smoked salmon, or pasta with smoked salmon.
No matter how you choose to serve it, smoked salmon is sure to be a hit with your friends and family.
This blog post was brought to you by the team at Smokehouse Products, makers of the best electric smokers on the market. For more tips on smoking salmon, check out our other blog posts or head over to our website where you can find electric smokers, wood chips, and accessories.
How to Store Smoked Salmon
Smoked salmon is best when it is fresh. However, you can store it in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
If you are storing smoked salmon in the fridge, be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
To freeze smoked salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and store it in the freezer. When you are ready to eat it, thaw the salmon in the fridge overnight and then enjoy.
Tips for the Perfect Smoked Salmon
- 1. Start with fresh, high-quality salmon. Look for salmon that is bright pink in color and has firm flesh.
- 2. Soak your wood chips or pellets in water for at least 30 minutes before adding them to the smoker. This will help to prevent them from burning too quickly.
- 3. Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the salmon. Salmon is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 4. Allow the salmon to rest for at least 5 minutes before cutting into it. This will help to ensure that it is evenly cooked.
- 5. Serve immediately. Smoked salmon is best when it is fresh.
Should You Brine Salmon?
Brining salmon before smoking it is not necessary. However, some people prefer to brine their salmon for a short time before smoking it.
To brine salmon, simply combine 1 cup of salt with 1 gallon of water. Submerge the salmon in the mixture and let it soak for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Read more: >> How long do you bake salmon
After brining, rinse the salmon off with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Then, proceed with smoking the salmon as usual.
Smoked salmon is best when eaten fresh. However, it will last in the fridge for 2-3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
When storing smoked salmon, be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will help to keep it fresh for as long as possible.

3 Important Factors for Making the Best Smoked Salmon
There are three primary factors that you need to take into account when smoking salmon: the type of smoker, the temperature, and the thickness of the fish. Let’s discuss each one in more detail.
- 1. The Type of Smoker
The type of smoker you use will have a big impact on how long it takes to smoke salmon. If you are using an electric smoker, it will likely take less time than if you are using a charcoal smoker. This is because electric smokers can be more evenly controlled, meaning that the temperature will be more consistent throughout the smoking process.
- 2. The Temperature
The temperature of the smoker is also important. If you smoke salmon at a higher temperature, it will cook faster. However, if you smoke salmon at a lower temperature, it will be more evenly cooked and have a better flavor.
- 3. The Thickness of the Fish
The thickness of the fish is another important factor to consider. If you are smoking thick cuts of salmon, it will take longer than if you are smoking thinner cuts.
Now that we’ve covered the three primary factors that affect how long to smoke salmon, let’s talk about some tips for ensuring your salmon comes out perfectly every time.
Tips for Perfect Smoked Salmon
- 1. Start with high-quality, fresh salmon. This will make a big difference in the flavor of your smoked salmon.
- 2. Make sure your smoker is clean and well-seasoned. This will help to prevent sticking and ensure that your salmon smokes evenly.
- 3. Preheat your smoker to the desired temperature before adding the salmon. This will help to ensure that the salmon cooks evenly.
- 4. When smoking thick cuts of salmon, cook them for a longer period of time at a lower temperature. This will help to prevent the salmon from drying out.
- 5. When smoking thin cuts of salmon, cook them for a shorter period of time at a higher temperature. This will help to ensure that the salmon is cooked through.
- 6. Always use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the salmon. Salmon is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 7. Allow the smoked salmon to rest for at least 5 minutes before cutting into it. This will help to ensure that the juices stay within the fish.
- 8. Serve your smoked salmon immediately. Smoked salmon is best when it is fresh.
Now that you know how to smoke salmon, put these tips into practice and enjoy the perfect smoked salmon every time.
Conclusion: How Long to Smoke Salmon
Smoked salmon is a delicious and versatile seafood option. It can be enjoyed on its own or used in a variety of dishes.
When smoking salmon, it’s important to take into account the type of smoker, the temperature, and the thickness of the fish. These factors will all affect how long it takes to smoke salmon. Written by Dhtavern
FAQ: Smoke Salmon
How long to smoke salmon at 200 degrees?
If smoking salmon at 200 degrees Fahrenheit, it will take approximately 1 hour for every inch of thickness. For example, a 1-inch thick piece of salmon would take about 1 hour to smoke.
How long to smoke fish in a smoker?
The time it takes to smoke fish in a smoker will depend on the type of smoker, the temperature, and the thickness of the fish. Generally speaking, it will take longer to smoke fish in a charcoal smoker than an electric smoker.
How long to cook smoked salmon on the grill?
Cooking smoked salmon on the grill is a quick and easy way to prepare this delicious seafood. The time it will take to cook smoked salmon on the grill will depend on the thickness of the fish. Thin cuts of salmon will only take a few minutes, while thicker cuts will take longer. Use a food thermometer to ensure that the salmon is cooked through before removing it from the grill.
How long does smoked salmon last in the refrigerator?
Smoked salmon will last in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Once smoked salmon is opened, it should be eaten within 2 days.
How long does salmon take to smoke at 250?
If smoking salmon at 250 degrees Fahrenheit, it will take approximately 30 minutes per pound. For example, a 1-pound piece of salmon would take about 30 minutes to smoke.
What is the best temp to smoke salmon?
The best temperature to smoke salmon is between 200 and 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Smoking salmon at this temperature will result in a flavorful and moist piece of fish.
How long does it take to smoke fish at 225 degrees?
If smoking fish at 225 degrees Fahrenheit, it will take approximately 45 minutes per pound. For example, a 1-pound piece of salmon would take about 45 minutes to smoke.
Why is my smoked salmon mushy?
If your smoked salmon is mushy, it is likely because it was overcooked. When smoking salmon, be sure to use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the fish. Salmon is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the salmon from the smoker when it reaches this temperature to prevent it from becoming overcooked and mushy.
Is smoked salmon healthy?
Smoked salmon is a healthy seafood option. It is high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. Salmon is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D and selenium.
How long does it take to smoke salmon at 150 degrees?
If smoking salmon at 150 degrees Fahrenheit, it will take approximately 2 hours for every inch of thickness. For example, a 1-inch thick piece of salmon would take about 2 hours to smoke.
Echo Reed is the owner and head chef of darkhorse restaurant. She has been working in the culinary world for over a decade, and opened her own establishment in 2018. Echo is known for her unique style and approach to cooking, which has won her critical acclaim from food critics and diners alike.