Overview
The complex of chars composed of Arctic char (S. alpinus), Dolly Varden (S. malma) and bull trout (S. confluentus) is a closely related group and difficult to distinguish from external characteristics. Due to past misidentification of species in various locales and lack of scientific knowledge, much of the available literature on these species is either misleading or incorrect, and there is still some disagreement among scientists on their distribution. The Dolly Varden and bull trout can generally be distinguished by their size and habitat. The Dolly Varden is usually a coastal species whereas the larger bull trout is found inland in large, cold rivers and lakes draining high, mountainous areas. A much greater problem arises in trying to separate the Dolly Varden from the Arctic char. Much published information on the distribution of these species is incorrect and often presupposed that only one species or the other occurred in areas or rivers where it is now believed both species may occur. The two are outwardly almost identical in every respect and to complicate matters, significant variations occurs in both species. The spots on the Dolly Varden are usually smaller than the pupil of the eye, while on the Arctic char they are larger than the pupil. When returning from the sea both species are silvery and lack spots. Arctic char on the average have more gill rakers on the first left gill arch (25 30 as opposed to 21 22 in the Dolly Varden) and more pyloric caeca (40 45 as opposed to about 30 in the Dolly Varden), but fish with intermediate counts (i.e., 23 or 24 gill rakers and 35 pyloric caeca) are not at all uncommon in either species. Fish that don't clearly “fit the pattern” will almost certainly have to be examined in a laboratory to determine their identity. Since the problem of identification was only very recently even diagnosed, there are at present very few scientists who are qualified to make a positive identification on an unusual specimen. IGFA recommends that all potential record chars that cannot be positively identified by external characteristics be frozen in case further study is needed
Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Perciformes
- Family
- Salmonidae
- Genus
- Salvelinus
- Species
- malma
Habitat
Known to occur from the Sea of Japan through the Kuril Islands to Kamchatka, through the Aleutian Islands and around Alaska to the Yukon and Northwest Territories (Canada) in the north and the northwestern United States in the south. Like the Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus), it is an anadromous fish (migrates to the sea and back), though some populations are landlocked.
Diet
Dolly Varden trout are opportunistic feeders that primarily consume insects, crustaceans, and small fish. Juveniles often eat zooplankton and aquatic insects in freshwater, while adults target larger prey like salmon eggs and other fish in both marine and river environments. They typically feed most actively during dawn and dusk in cooler waters.
Behavior
Dolly Varden trout are anadromous, migrating from freshwater streams to the ocean as juveniles and returning to spawn, though some landlocked populations remain in lakes and rivers. They are generally solitary but may form loose schools in feeding areas, and exhibit territorial behavior during spawning seasons. These fish are most active in cold water, preferring to hide under cover like rocks or logs during the day.
Fishing
For targeting Dolly Varden trout, an anadromous species prized for sport fishing, employ effective techniques like fly fishing with streamers or nymphs to imitate insects and small fish, or use spinning gear with lightweight lures such as spoons and spinners for casting in rivers and streams. Recommended tackle includes a 6-8 weight fly rod with a floating line for precision, or a medium-light spinning rod with 6-10 lb test monofilament line to handle their feisty runs in cold waters; pair this with size 6-10 hooks and leaders for stealth. Opt for baits and lures like salmon eggs, worm imitations, or small crankbaits that mimic their diet of crustaceans and juvenile fish, which are most effective during their active feeding periods. The best seasons are spring and fall, coinciding with their migrations and spawning runs, with prime times at dawn and dusk when they feed aggressively in cooler temperatures; focus on these periods in Alaska, Canada, and the northwestern US for higher success. Target them in gravel-bottomed freshwater streams, rivers, and coastal areas where they transition between marine and inland habitats, hiding under rocks or logs—cast near these structures for the best strikes. The IGFA all-tackle record stands at 20 pounds 14 ounces, showcasing the thrill of landing these powerful fish. Conservation-wise, angler-funded programs through license fees support habitat restoration and stocking efforts, while catch-and-release practices and slot limits in certain regions serve as smart management tools to ensure sustainable populations and protect these cold-water ecosystems for future generations.
Conservation Status
Listed as Not Evaluated by IUCN.