Sockeye salmon are known for their blazing red skin that goes from blue in the ocean to red in rivers as they prepare to spawn. The name “sockeye” actually comes from “suk-kegh,” meaning red fish in the Coast Salish language of British Columbia. Sockeye is one of the smallest species of salmon, but special for its vibrant orange-red color. Sockeye meat is high in oil content with a firm texture that’s perfect for the grill and oven.