Dolly Varden Char

Dolly Varden is a native resident and anadromous species of Char that is plentiful and found year round in Kenai Peninsula streams and lakes. Once thought to be a predator of salmon eggs, studies have shown that dollies feed actively on diseased or dead salmon eggs on the river bottom. This feeding activity prevents the diseased or dead eggs from infecting the healthy eggs within a spawning bed. Thus, the dolly serves a useful purpose in maintaining the health of other salmon species. For this reason, we encourage releasing these fish in rivers as they are key to the health of salmon runs.Visit our Dolly Varden gallery for more photos.

Kenai Season

Year round.

Average Size & Records

Dolly Varden average 1 to 3 lbs. in the Kenai River.
State Record Arctic Char 20lb., 12.5oz, Wulik River, 2000

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Fishing Gear & Methods

Dollies are often caught from the beach as well as in streams and lakes. Homer is a popular spot for salt water dollies, however they are easier to catch using eggs or egg and shrimp imitations in any of the rivers on the peninsula. Dolly fishing is generally good from late spring to early fall. Spinning or casting with spinners, spoons and artificial lures is effective. During hatches in late spring and summer, dry flies that imitate adult mosquiotes, blackflies, mayflies or stoneflies are effective.

Regulations

Alaska DFG Fishing Regulations

In most rivers, the limit is 2 per day. Limits may be more liberal in stocked lakes.

Conservation

Kenai River Professional Guide Association
Kenai River Sportfishing Association
DFG Catch and Release Trophy Certificates 30 inch Dolly Varden are elgible
Trout Unlimited
Kenai Watershed Forum
Cook Inlet Keeper

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2002	2003	2004

Dolly Varden Fishing