What kind of fish are in Lake Chelan?

Lake Chelan, located in north-central Washington, is known for its crystal-clear waters and staggering depth—but beneath the surface lies another treasure: an abundant and diverse fishery. Whether you're an experienced angler or just curious about aquatic life, the lake is home to a fascinating variety of cold-water and game fish species that thrive in its deep, glacial basin.

Below, we explore the key fish species found in Lake Chelan, their characteristics, and their ecological roles.

1. Lake Trout (Mackinaw)

Scientific Name: Salvelinus namaycush

Average Size: 3–5 lbs (trophies can exceed 20 lbs)

Habitat: Deep, cold water—often 100 to 200 feet down

Lake trout are the dominant predator species in Lake Chelan. These large, slow-growing fish are native to the Great Lakes but were introduced to Lake Chelan in the early 1900s. They thrive in the cold, oxygen-rich depths of the lake and are one of the most sought-after catches for serious anglers. Lake trout feed primarily on smaller fish, such as kokanee and whitefish.

2. Kokanee Salmon

Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus nerka (landlocked sockeye)

Average Size: 10–16 inches

Habitat: Midwater column, especially upper lake basin

Kokanee salmon are a landlocked form of sockeye salmon, meaning they live their entire lives in freshwater. These vibrant, silver-scaled fish are incredibly popular with recreational anglers because of their abundance, fighting spirit, and excellent flavor. Kokanee tend to school together and are often caught by trolling with small lures or hoochies.

3. Rainbow Trout

Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus mykiss

Average Size: 12–20 inches

Habitat: Nearshore areas, tributaries, and mid-depth water

Rainbow trout are a staple in Lake Chelan’s fish community. They’re known for their striking coloration and aerial acrobatics when hooked. Rainbows thrive in both stocked and wild populations in the lake, and they are often caught from shore or boat using bait, lures, or flies.

4. Westslope Cutthroat Trout

Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus clarkii lewisi

Average Size: 12–18 inches

Habitat: Inlets, tributaries, and shallow waters in upper lake sections

This native trout species is a conservation priority in Washington and has a stable population in the upper reaches of Lake Chelan, particularly near Stehekin. Cutthroat trout are known for their red-orange throat slashes and are often targeted by fly anglers. They feed on aquatic insects, small fish, and crustaceans.

5. Chinook Salmon (Landlocked)

Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus tshawytscha

Average Size: 15–24 inches

Habitat: Deep, open water

While not as common as kokanee or lake trout, landlocked Chinook salmon have been stocked periodically in Lake Chelan. These salmon are fast-growing and powerful, offering a unique fishing experience for those lucky enough to hook one.

6. Burbot (Freshwater Lingcod)

Scientific Name: Lota lota

Average Size: 12–24 inches

Habitat: Deep water, especially in colder months

Burbot are bottom-dwelling, eel-like fish that resemble cod. Though not a glamorous catch, they are prized for their mild-tasting, white meat—often called “poor man’s lobster.” These nocturnal feeders are caught mostly in winter by deep jigging.

7. Smallmouth Bass

Scientific Name: Micropterus dolomieu

Average Size: 1–3 lbs

Habitat: Shallow, rocky areas near the town of Chelan

Though not as dominant as trout or salmon, smallmouth bass have established populations in the warmer, lower reaches of Lake Chelan. These aggressive fighters prefer rocky structures and are often caught during the summer months.

8. Mountain Whitefish

Scientific Name: Prosopium williamsoni

Average Size: 12–18 inches

Habitat: Deep pools and cold currents

Mountain whitefish are native to the Pacific Northwest and often coexist peacefully with trout. They are slender, silver fish with small mouths and are typically found near the bottom of the lake. Though less targeted by anglers, they play a critical role in the lake’s food web.

9. Longnose Sucker & Other Non-Game Fish

Scientific Name: Catostomus catostomus (and others)

Average Size: 12–20 inches

Habitat: Bottom-dwelling in shallow and deep water

Lake Chelan also supports non-game species like longnose suckers. These bottom feeders help clean the ecosystem by consuming detritus and organic matter. While not sought after for sport fishing, they are important to the lake’s ecological balance.

Final Thoughts: A Cold-Water Fishery Full of Life

Lake Chelan’s cold, clear, and nutrient-poor waters create a specialized ecosystem ideal for cold-water fish species. Its depth and isolation support a unique assemblage of both native and introduced fish, providing incredible diversity for anglers and biologists alike.

Whether you’re after a trophy lake trout, a school of kokanee, or a colorful cutthroat, the lake has something to offer in every season—especially for those who know what species are swimming just beneath the surface.