Arctic Char

Lake Dillon Arctic Char

Arctic Char are one of the most unique and sought-after fish found in Dillon Reservoir. Known for their brilliant colors, cold-water preference, and elusive nature, these fish offer a rare and rewarding challenge for anglers.

A Cold-Water Specialist

Arctic Char thrive in deep, cold, oxygen-rich water. In Lake Dillon, they typically hold in deeper zones for much of the year, often suspending or relating closely to structure and steep drop-offs. Their behavior can be highly seasonal, with increased activity during cooler water periods and spawning movements in the fall.

Size and Trophy Potential

While many char in Dillon Fall into the mid-size range, the lake has quietly produced true trophy-class fish over the years. Anglers targeting them specifically have the chance to encounter fish well above average size.

A Pioneer Fishery

Randy Ford has been the pioneer of targeting and successfully catching Arctic Char on Lake Dillon since 2010. Through the years of trial, error, and refinement, he has developed proven techniques to consistently locate and catch these fish – something very few anglers have accomplished.

Randy has put clients on multiple state-record-class Arctic Char, including catching and releasing a 9-pound fish that, had it been harvested and submitted, would have exceeded the current Colorado state record by approximately 2 pounds.

Techniques and Approach

Targeting Arctic Char requires a specialized approach. Success often comes from:

– Fishing deep water with precise depth control

– Using electronics to locate suspended fish

– Slow, methodical presentations

– Adjusting to subtle seasonal patterns

These are not accidental catches – this is a deliberate, technical fishery.

Why Target Arctic Char?

For many anglers, Arctic Char represent the ultimate challenge in Lake Dillon. They are:

– Rare compared to other species

– Highly pattern-dependent

– Capable of reaching trophy size