Common Freshwater Fish in New York Part 4

Brook Trout

Averages 12-15 inches long in ponds and 8-12 inches in streams. Also called speckled trout, brookies have a distinct bright white edging along their lower fins. New York’s official state fish, brook trout live in small to moderate-sized clear, cold streams, lakes and ponds. Primarily eat insects.

Atlantic Salmon

New York’s only native salmon, Atlantics are one of our most highly-regarded sportfish. Adults average 12-30 inches and prefer open deep waters of cold, deep lakes. Primarily eats fish. Also known as “landlocked salmon,” New York’s Atlantics spend their entire lives in freshwater. Found in about 30 waters across the state.

Chinook Salmon

Also called king salmon, chinooks are the largest of the Pacific salmon, averaging 24-44 inches. Found only in lakes Erie and Ontario and their tributaries. Adults eat fish.