Scientific name
Salvelinus alpinus
Swedish name
Röding
Maximum length
up to 90 cm
Maximum weight
up to 10 kg
Spawning
August–Januar über Kies in 1–20 m Tiefe
Swedish record
10,83 kg

Technique in brief

In the mountains, fly fishing and light spinning from the bank are the usual methods. In large, deep lakes, trolling and deep-water rigs predominate. In late winter and spring, ice jigging on the fjäll lakes is the most productive and, at the same time, most atmospheric option.

Tackle

A class 4–6 fly rod with fine leaders or a light spinning rod with a casting weight of 5–20 g. Small spoons, spinners and nymphs are sufficient; in the mountains, mobility matters more than the choice of lures.

Handling the catch

Large char are slow-growing fish and have become considerably rarer in the more southerly populations. Many waters recommend or require the release of large specimens — this is stated on the water's page and is meant seriously.

Season by country

  1. Jan Good
  2. Feb Good
  3. Mar Prime time
  4. Apr Prime time
  5. May Good
  6. Jun Good
  7. Jul Prime time
  8. Aug Prime time
  9. Sep Quiet
  10. Oct Quiet
  11. Nov Quiet
  12. Dec Good

Prime time · Good · Quiet

The calendar shows bite windows, not closed seasons. Binding closed seasons and minimum sizes are set by the individual water and appear on its page.

Where in Scandinavia

Official sources

Checked: 04.08.2026

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time for char in Sweden?

There are two windows: March and April on the ice of the fjäll lakes, and July and August for fly fishing and spinning in open water. The species spawns in autumn, when many waters restrict fishing.

Where can I get a permit for char in the fjäll?

Usually from the district's Länsstyrelse or the administration responsible for the area, often online. Check exactly which lakes the permit covers — the areas are large and do not coincide.

How do I distinguish a char from a trout?

The char has pale spots on a dark background and white-edged pelvic and anal fins; the trout has dark spots on a paler background and no white edging on its fins.