Identification
The body is metallic silver, with a darker back and pale fins. This profile covers Coregonus autumnalis rather than the other cisco and whitefish species that may occur in northern waters.
Size and Weight
A broad species summary lists 65 cm standard length, about 25.6 inches without the tail fin. The Alaska account describes fish reaching about one kilogram, or 2.2 pounds. That weight is a regional published upper size, not a verified global maximum paired with the 65 cm fish.
Habitat and Food
Coastal lagoons, river mouths and connected northern rivers form important habitat. Adults eat crustaceans and small fishes. The Alaska account describes young fish moving along the Beaufort coast toward growing areas, with winds affecting their transport.
Harvest and Migration
The fish has an important subsistence and commercial role on the North Slope. This does not establish a general sport-fishing bait recommendation. Research links the Colville-area fishery with fish that ultimately return to Canada’s Mackenzie River to spawn.
A Fishery Connected Across the Border
The Colville River fishery depends on a life cycle extending beyond Alaska. Young fish arrive along the coast, grow in regional habitats and later return toward spawning waters. The migration demonstrates why a fish associated with one river may depend on distant habitat too.
All Lakes With Arctic Cisco
Browse lakes and reservoirs with documented Arctic Cisco records, listed alphabetically. Records do not establish current abundance or public access. Check the evidence and managing authority for the water you choose.
Showing 1–1 of 1 lakes · Page 1 of 1
- Teshekpuk Lake North Slope, AK