Salmon Tattoo Photo #7417

The fish that fights upstream through rapids and waterfalls to complete its life cycle has become a universal symbol of perseverance, sacrifice, and returning to one's roots. Pacific Northwest Coast art and Celtic mythology both elevate the salmon to sacred status.

With thick black outlines and flat, saturated colors, traditional tattoos are built to last. The straightforward approach prioritizes readability and impact, making these designs recognizable from a distance.

The ribcage offers a private placement that only shows when the wearer chooses. Its curved surface adds dimension to designs, though the area is known for being one of the more sensitive spots to tattoo.