Dolly Varden are closely related to the arctic char. Like cutthroat trout Dolly Varden are found throughout southeast Alaska and exhibit both sea-run and lake resident life cycles. Their bodies are elongate and rounded. Their most distinguishing characteristic is pink or red spots on the side. Pectoral, pelvic, and anal fins typically have white or creamy leading edges followed by a black or red line.
Body color is extremely variable.
Spawning males turn bright orange to red on the lower sides. Sea-run Dollys tend to be darker on top with silvery sides and resident fish are often dusky to brown. Dolly Varden are not highly prized sport fish, though they will bite artificial lures. They seem more attracted to shiny spoons and spinners, and flies. The Dollys I've caught have fought well, but not spectacular and they don't jump.