Brook Trout

Salvelinus fontinalis

The best place to see trouts and salmons is where anglers flock to try their luck, or at hatcheries where the fishes are raised. Important for both food and sport, these large, handsome fishes have also been extensively introduced in the wild. Trouts live mostly in fresh water and prefer clear, cold streams and lakes, although a few species will occasionally swim into salt water. Brook Trouts are chars, a kind of trout with very fine scales and light-colored spots. They are among the most colorful freshwater species.

Look For : A colorful, elongate char with a pattern of white spots on a dark background and worm-shaped markings on upper side. Pectoral, pelvic, and anal fins have brilliant white front edges. Tail slightly forked.

Length : 16".

Habitat : Clear, cool lakes, streams, and very small creeks.

Range : Eastern Canada and Great Lakes region south to Georgia. Introduced in western U.S.