Zouavman Le Zouave · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Image source

Quick facts

SizeUp to 107 cm
WeightUp to 15 kg
LifespanUp to 40 years
Water typeFreshwater
Best timeYear-round in lakes and rivers.

About Arctic Char

Arctic char is a cold-water salmonid strongly associated with Icelandic lakes and rivers.

Characteristics

  • Common in Iceland
  • Native species
  • Game fish

Habitat

Rivers and lakes; some populations migrate to sea.

Diet

Aquatic insects, crustaceans, zooplankton and fish depending on habitat.

Spawning and reproduction

Period

Autumn

Reproduction

Freshwater, including rivers and stony areas of lakes.

Distribution around Iceland

Widely distributed in Icelandic rivers and lakes, with both resident and sea-going populations.
SourceLast verified: 09/09/2026