Science Name: | Salvelinus malma |
Other Names: | Bull Trout, Red-Spotted Rocky Mountain Trout, Red Spotted Trout or Char, Pacific Brook Char |
Ideal Temp: | 45 to 55 |
World Record: | 32 lbs. ID |
Environment: | stream, lake |
Techniques: | freshwater troll, downrigger, bottom fishing |
Range: | Western North America |
DISTRIBUTION The Dolly Varden is found in the fresh and salt waters of North America and eastern Asia. The anadromous form do not move out into the open ocean but remain close to shore near the river mouths.
BIOLOGY The Dolly Varden is a fall spawner. The female digs the redd and is attended by 4-5 males. Generally this species lives 10-12 years. The bull trout is known as the most serious predator on young salmon and a bounty was long paid on them in Alaska.
RELATION TO MAN Generally not considered a sought after sport fish, the Dolly Varden does have many of the sporting qualities of other trouts. They have been sold commercially, fresh, fresh-frozen, canned or dried.
TABLE QUALITY The bull trout's pink flesh is good, but not held in such regard as that of Arctic char or brook trout.
Subspecies Currently, only one subspecies is recognized in North America, the northern Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma malma). There is another subspecies in the Far East. Some biologists believe I that Dollies found south of the Alaska peninsula should be given subspecies status. These fish grow 1 to only about 5 pounds, but those farther North reach 12 pounds.
Hybrids Dollies are known to hybridize with bull trout.
Food Habits Dolly Varden have a reputation for consuming large numbers of young salmon. While it is true they eat some, they are no more a threat than rainbows, cutthroats or immature coho salmon. Dollies also eat other small fish, the remains of dead fish, salmon eggs that have drifted from the redd, and many types of larval and adult insects.
Subspecies Currently, only one subspecies is recognized in North America, the northern Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma malma). There is another subspecies in the Far East. Some biologists believe I that Dollies found south of the Alaska peninsula should be given subspecies status. These fish grow 1 to only about 5 pounds, but those farther North reach 12 pounds.
Tips for Fishing