Description
Non-native. Introduced in 1940. The dorsal fin is large, dark-gray, blotched
with pale spots, with cross-rows of deep blue spots and edged with
red or orange. The dorsal fin has 17 to 25 rays. The tail fin is forked.
The body has scattered black spots on silver-gray, sometimes pink sides.
Scales larger than for trout. Length: 12 to 16 inches. Weight: 6 ounces
to over 1 pound.
Location and
Habitat
Grayling are found in Lee Valley Reservoir and a few small high mountain
lakes in the White Mountains. They spend most of the year in the lake then "run" up
stream to spawn in the spring.
Food
Their main diet is the adult and larvae of aquatic insects.
Angling
Grayling are caught on both wet and dry flies. A Royal Coachman or a black
or brown Woolly worm often work very well.
Table Quality
The meat is white, flaky and good tasting.
