Arctic char
Salvelinus alpinus
© FishBase (CC BY-NC)Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus) is a prized cold‑water game fish prized for its striking coloration and spirited fight. It inhabits Arctic and sub‑Arctic lakes, rivers, and coastal waters, offering excellent table fare for anglers.
Basic Information
Family
Salmonidae
Max Size
107 cm
Max Weight
15 kg
Habitat
marine, freshwater, brackish
Depth Range
0-70m
Climate
temperate
Best Season
June to September
Best Time
Dawn and dusk (early morning and late evening)
Distribution
Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.
Fishing Tips for Arctic char
- Use light to medium line to feel subtle bites
- Present lures near the surface and mid‑water where char hold during feeding
- Target deep, cold pools and drop‑offs where fish gather
- Fish during low light periods for best activity
Top Fishing Locations for Arctic char
Lake Þingvallavatn
IcelandCrystal clear glacial lake with abundant wild Arctic char, popular with fly anglers during summer.
Best: June-August
Whitehorse River (Yukon)
CanadaRiver sections near Whitehorse hold prolific runs of Arctic char in late summer, accessed via road and guides.
Best: July-September
Lake Tekapo
New ZealandHigh alpine lake stocked with Arctic char, offering stunning scenery and good catch rates in the Southern Hemisphere summer.
Best: December-February
Loch Rannoch
ScotlandRemote Highland loch supporting a natural Arctic char population, best fished from boats or remote shacks.
Best: May-September
Lake Laitaure (Sarek National Park)
SwedenWilderness lake deep in Sarek NP, requiring multi‑day trek; holds a sparse but healthy char population.
Best: June-August
Kenai River (Upper Forks)
United StatesUpper stretches of the Kenai River support wild Arctic char alongside salmon, accessed by floatplane or hiking.
Best: July-September
Market Prices
Recommended Fishing Equipment for Arctic char
Recommended Equipment
Best bait: Live minnows, salmon eggs, or trout bait