Also known as: Mackinaw, Lake Char
Description: Lake trout are actually a char, meaning they have light spots on a dark body and white margins on their fins. They have a forked tail, yellow or orange fins, and a dark, bluish-gray body covered in small, light spots. Commonly called "mackinaw."
Habitat: They inhabit cold, clear, deep lakes with temperatures ranging between 39 to 50°F. They prefer deeper waters between 65 and 230 feet and are typically associated with rocky lake bottoms.
Diet: Carnivore. They are primarily piscivorous, feeding on smaller fish including other trout, plus invertebrates like midges, mayflies, stoneflies, and caddisflies. Two forms exist: one that eats fish and grows large, and another that feeds on invertebrates and stays smaller.
Size: 30 to 40 inches on average, with some individuals exceeding 50 inches. One of the largest species of freshwater trout, growing up to 50 pounds.
Lifespan: 20 to 30 years in the wild, with some individuals exceeding 40 years.
Habitat & Range
Lake trout inhabit cold, clear, deep lakes with temperatures between 39 to 50°F. They prefer deeper waters between 65 and 230 feet and are typically associated with rocky lake bottoms.
Life History
Sexual maturity occurs between 4 and 10 years of age. Spawning happens in fall (October–November) in shallow, gravelly lake areas. Females lay 10,000 to 100,000 eggs per year. Eggs hatch in late winter to early spring. Lifespan: 20 to 30 years, with some exceeding 40 years.
Status, Trends & Threats
Lake trout are nonnative to Wyoming. Their introduction to non-native habitats has often disrupted balance by competing with native species for resources. They are managed as a sport fish.
License & Regulations
A valid Wyoming fishing license is required for anglers age 14 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non-residents, and short-term durations (1-day and annual). Purchase online through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website or at authorized license retailers throughout the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Description
Lake trout are actually a char with light spots on a dark body and white margins on their fins. They have a forked tail, yellow or orange fins, and a dark, bluish-gray body.
What is another name for Lake Trout?
Lake Trout is also known as Mackinaw or Lake Char.
Habitat
They inhabit cold, clear, deep lakes with temperatures between 39 to 50°F, preferring depths of 65 to 230 feet with rocky bottoms.
Diet
Carnivore. They primarily eat smaller fish including other trout, plus invertebrates like midges, mayflies, stoneflies, and caddisflies.
Size
30 to 40 inches on average, with some exceeding 50 inches. One of the largest freshwater trout, growing up to 50 pounds.
Life Cycle
Spawning occurs in fall (October–November) in shallow gravelly areas. Females lay 10,000 to 100,000 eggs per year. Lifespan: 20 to 30 years, up to 40+ years.
Regulations
Lake Trout is classified as a game fish in Wyoming. A valid Wyoming fishing license is required. Check Wyoming Game and Fish Department regulations for current rules.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wyoming | Fishing | License | License & Fees | A valid Wyoming fishing license is required for anglers age 14 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non-resi | Link |
