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The Dolly Varden

Dolly Varden is a cold-water char found around the North Pacific. Resident and sea-going populations share light spots on a darker body, although their appearance changes with growth and breeding condition.

Dolly Varden fishing guide

Identification

Light spots stand against an olive, gray or darker background. Spawning fish can develop strong orange or red colors, and pale leading fin edges are useful clues. Similar chars require a fuller comparison of head shape, spotting and locality.

Fresh and Salt Water

Dolly Varden occupies cold streams and lakes, while anadromous fish also feed at sea. These different life histories produce different growth opportunities. A maximum reported across the species’ North Pacific range should not be presented as the normal size of a resident stream fish.

Feeding

Insects, small crustaceans, snails, fish eggs and small fishes appear in the diet. Available prey changes among streams, lakes and coastal water. Small drifting invertebrate imitations or baitfish patterns can reflect those foods where angling is permitted.

Identify the Life History

A small resident char and a larger sea-run fish can belong to the same species. Record the waterbody and migration context with a size report.

All Lakes With Dolly Varden

Browse lakes and reservoirs with documented Dolly Varden records, listed alphabetically. Records do not establish current abundance or public access. Check the evidence and managing authority for the water you choose.

Showing 1–24 of 281 lakes · Page 1 of 12

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