Fin's Fish Guide
The Char (Salvelinus namaycush) is a freshwater fish of the family Salmonidae that grows up to 150 cm.
North America; cold, oxygen-rich lakes and rivers of Canada and the northern United States.
Description
The lake trout is a large salmonid (Salmonidae) from North America, the largest member of the genus Salvelinus (the chars). The species can reach about 1.5 metres and has a streamlined, dark body with numerous pale spots and a deeply forked tail. It inhabits cold, oxygen-rich lakes and rivers and in the south of its range is restricted to relatively deep lakes. As an apex predator it hunts other fishes, supplemented with crustaceans and insects. The lake trout is a highly valued sport and food fish and has been introduced beyond its range. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Char?
The Char has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Largest salmon trout; light-spotted body, top predator of cold, deep lakes.
Where does the Char live?
The Char lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. North America; cold, oxygen-rich lakes and rivers of Canada and the northern United States.
How big does the Char get?
The Char grows to a maximum of about 150 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Char dangerous to humans?
No, the Char is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Char edible?
Yes, the Char is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Salvelinus
More from the family Salmonidae
Want the complete picture on the Char?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Char is one of 12,519 species in the app.