Arctic char are close cousins to the Dolly Varden. Char, unlike Dolly Varden, are usually larger and have a darker body color accented with fluorescent orange and white markings. The char is both a freshwater and saltwater fish native to Arctic, sub-Arctic and alpine lakes as well as coastal waters. No other freshwater fish is found as far north. Arctic char feed on insects, crustaceans, snails, mollusks and smaller fish such as salmon fry. Most anglers prefer light to medium tackle when fishing for char. Spinning tackle and fly fishing gear are both very effective. Char can be caught on a variety of lures such as spinners, spoons, streamers and dry flies.
