The Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma) stands as one of North America's most distinctive char species, despite being commonly called a trout. This remarkable fish inhabits cold-water tributaries across the Pacific Ocean's coastal regions, from Alaska to northern California and extending into Asia. Unlike true trout, Dolly Varden belong to the char genus Salvelinus, characterized by their light spots on dark bodies and unique life histories.
Named after Charles Dickens' colorfully dressed character from Barnaby Rudge, these fish earned their moniker from a teenage girl who noticed the resemblance between their spotted pattern and her fashionable dress. Today, Dolly Varden represent crucial components of northern aquatic ecosystems, serving as both predators and prey while supporting valuable recreational and subsistence fisheries.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Dolly Varden identification, distribution, life history, and fishing techniques. You'll discover how to distinguish them from similar species, understand their preferred habitats, and master proven strategies for successful angling.
What Is a Dolly Varden?
Dolly Varden are cold-water char native to Pacific Ocean tributaries in North America and Asia. Despite their common name including "trout," they belong to the genus Salvelinus, making them true chars alongside brook trout, lake trout, and Arctic char.
These remarkable fish display incredible adaptability, living in three distinct forms. Sea-run populations migrate between fresh and saltwater, spending time in estuaries and nearshore marine environments before returning to spawn. Stream-resident forms complete their entire life cycle in freshwater rivers and tributaries. Lake-dwelling populations inhabit deep, cold lakes and migrate to inlet streams for reproduction.
German naturalist Johann Julius Walbaum first described the species scientifically in 1792, based on specimens from Siberia's Kamchatka Peninsula. The scientific name malma derives from the Russian мальма, the local name for these fish.
Understanding types of trout species helps distinguish Dolly Varden from similar-looking fish. While often grouped with trout, chars have distinct evolutionary characteristics that set them apart from true trout species.
Dolly Varden Name Origin and History
The fascinating story behind the Dolly Varden name connects Victorian fashion trends to American fishing history. In Charles Dickens' 1841 novel Barnaby Rudge, Dolly Varden appears as a vivacious character known for her colorful, spotted dresses. This literary figure inspired a fashion craze in the 1870s, with women wearing brightly patterned dresses featuring cherry-colored spots.
According to documented accounts, the fish received its name in the early 1870s at Upper Soda Springs, California. A teenage girl, reading Dickens while wearing a fashionable Dolly Varden dress, suggested the name to fishermen admiring their spotted catch from the McCloud River. The red and orange spots on the fish reminded her of her printed dress pattern.
Ironically, those original "Dolly Varden" fish were actually bull trout, which weren't scientifically separated from true Dolly Varden until 1978. For over a century, both species shared the common name, creating lasting confusion that persists among some anglers today.
The name stuck and spread throughout North America as settlers encountered similar-looking spotted char in Pacific coastal waters. This naming demonstrates how literature, fashion, and natural history intersected in 19th-century America.
Dolly Varden Identification Guide
Proper Dolly Varden identification requires understanding several key physical characteristics that distinguish them from similar char species.
Physical Characteristics
Body Shape and Size: Dolly Varden display elongated, torpedo-shaped bodies typical of active swimmers. Adults average 16-22 inches in most populations, though northern forms can exceed 36 inches and weigh over 20 pounds in optimal conditions.
Coloration: The most distinctive feature is their spotting pattern. Dolly Varden have light-colored spots (white, yellow, pink, or orange) scattered across their olive-green to bronze bodies. These spots appear smaller than the fish's pupil, distinguishing them from Arctic char.
Fins: All fins lack dark markings, with spawning adults developing bright white leading edges on their lower fins. The tail is slightly forked, less dramatically than lake trout but more than brook trout.
Seasonal Color Changes
Dolly Varden undergo remarkable color transformations throughout the year. During their ocean phase, sea-run fish appear silvery with a greenish sheen and faint orange spots. As spawning approaches, both males and females develop brilliant colors.
Spawning males become spectacularly colored with:
- Bright red to orange bellies
- Intense red, orange, or pink spots
- Black gill covers
- Vibrant orange and black fins with prominent white leading edges
- Pronounced hooked jaw (kype)
Females develop similar but less intense spawning colors. Stream-resident populations show variations based on water clarity, appearing olive-brown in clear streams and pale silver-gray in glacial waters.
Distinguishing Features from Similar Species
Spots vs. True Trout: The fundamental difference between chars and trout is spot coloration. Chars have light spots on dark bodies, while true trout have dark spots on light bodies. This simple rule instantly separates Dolly Varden from rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and other true trout species.
Body Build: Dolly Varden have relatively thick caudal peduncles (the area before the tail) compared to Arctic char, which show slimmer profiles in this region.
For comprehensive trout identification, our types of trout species guide covers detailed comparisons between all North American salmonids.
Dolly Varden vs Bull Trout: Key Differences
The confusion between Dolly Varden vs bull trout stems from their shared history and remarkably similar appearance. Until 1978, scientists considered them the same species. Even today, distinguishing between them challenges experienced anglers and biologists.
Scientific Classification Differences
Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma) primarily inhabit coastal and anadromous environments, with northern and southern subspecies distinguished by chromosome count and vertebrae number.
Bull Trout (Salvelinus confluentus) are predominantly inland species, rarely venturing into saltwater environments. They require the coldest, cleanest waters of any North American salmonid.
Physical Differences
Head Shape: Bull trout possess longer, broader, and flatter heads compared to Dolly Varden. This difference becomes more pronounced in larger specimens.
Size Potential: Bull trout grow significantly larger, with the world record at 32 pounds. They commonly exceed 10 pounds in prime habitat, while most Dolly Varden remain under 5 pounds.
Geographic Distribution: Bull trout are predominantly found in inland mountain streams and lakes, while Dolly Varden inhabit coastal waters and anadromous systems.
Behavioral Differences
Migration Patterns: Many Dolly Varden populations are anadromous, spending part of their lives in saltwater. Bull trout are strictly freshwater fish that never venture into marine environments.
Habitat Preferences: Bull trout require extremely cold water (rarely above 59°F) and are found in high-elevation headwater streams. Dolly Varden tolerate slightly warmer conditions and thrive in coastal streams with marine influence.
Spawning: Both species spawn in fall, but bull trout require pristine gravel beds in spring-fed streams, while Dolly Varden use a wider variety of spawning habitats.
Range Overlap
In Washington's Puget Sound region, both species coexist, leading to continued identification challenges. Recent genetic analysis reveals that most anadromous char in this region are bull trout, contrary to previous assumptions about Dolly Varden distribution.
Dolly Varden Range and Distribution
The Dolly Varden range spans the northern Pacific Rim, making them one of the most widely distributed salmonids in their native range.
North American Distribution
Alaska: Dolly Varden achieve their greatest abundance and distribution in Alaska, where they're found from Southeast Alaska across the Gulf of Alaska and Bering Sea to the Arctic Ocean. They inhabit coastal streams throughout the state and many interior watersheds.
Pacific Northwest: South of Alaska, Dolly Varden populations occur in British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and northern California. In Washington, they primarily inhabit Olympic Peninsula and Puget Sound drainages.
Two Subspecies in North America:
- Northern Dolly Varden (S. m. malma): Mackenzie River to north side of Alaska Peninsula
- Southern Dolly Varden (S. m. lordi): South side of Alaska Peninsula to southern California
Asian Distribution
Dolly Varden extend throughout northeastern Asia, from Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula south through the Kuril Islands to northern Japan. Asian populations include additional subspecies adapted to local conditions.
Dolly Varden Range Map Interpretation
Distribution maps reveal interesting patterns in Dolly Varden ecology. Coastal populations show continuous distribution along suitable habitat, while inland populations often exist in isolated systems. These isolated populations may represent distinct genetic lineages adapted to specific environmental conditions.
Climate change is expanding some populations northward while contracting southern range limits. Warming water temperatures particularly affect stream-resident populations in marginal habitat.
Dolly Varden Alaska: The Species' Stronghold
Alaska represents the global center of Dolly Varden abundance and diversity. The state's vast wilderness and pristine waters provide ideal habitat for both northern and southern forms.
Alaska Population Status
Alaska's Dolly Varden populations are generally stable throughout their range, though some concerns exist around urban centers where development impacts water quality and habitat connectivity.
Northern Form in Alaska:
- Distributed from the north side of Alaska Peninsula to the Arctic Ocean
- Can reach 27 pounds in optimal conditions
- Most populations are anadromous
- 66-70 vertebrae, 78 chromosomes
Southern Form in Alaska:
- Southeast Alaska through Gulf of Alaska to south side of Alaska Peninsula
- Includes Kodiak and Aleutian Islands
- Typically smaller, reaching 10-15 pounds
- 62-65 vertebrae, 82 chromosomes
- More lacustrine populations
Habitat Diversity
Alaska's Dolly Varden inhabit an incredible range of environments, from tiny headwater streams less than three feet wide to vast lake systems and open ocean. This habitat diversity supports multiple life history strategies within single watersheds.
Freshwater Habitats:
- Clear mountain streams with gravel substrates
- Glacial rivers and streams
- Deep, cold lakes
- Spring-fed systems
- Beaver ponds and sloughs
Marine Habitats:
- Estuaries and brackish lagoons
- Nearshore kelp forests
- Open ocean feeding areas
- Intertidal zones
Cultural Significance
Dolly Varden hold important cultural significance for Alaska Native communities, providing vital subsistence resources where salmon may be less abundant. Traditional knowledge about seasonal movements and habitat preferences guides sustainable harvest practices developed over generations.
Understanding Alaska fishing license requirements is essential for anyone planning to target these fish in the Last Frontier.
Dolly Varden Char Biology and Life History
Understanding Dolly Varden char biology reveals the complexity of these remarkable fish and their adaptations to challenging northern environments.
Life History Strategies
Dolly Varden exhibit three primary life history forms, often within the same watershed:
Sea-run (Anadromous) Form: These fish migrate from natal freshwater streams to marine environments for feeding and growth. They return to freshwater to spawn, sometimes traveling hundreds of miles. This form typically achieves the largest sizes and supports important fisheries.
Stream-resident Form: Some populations complete their entire life cycle in freshwater river systems. They may move between different stream segments but never enter marine environments. These fish often remain smaller than their anadromous counterparts.
Lake-dwelling (Lacustrine) Form: These Dolly Varden inhabit cold, deep lakes and migrate into tributary streams to spawn. They can achieve substantial sizes by feeding on abundant lake prey like kokanee salmon or other fish.
Growth and Maturation
Growth rates vary dramatically among populations and life history forms. Sea-run Dolly Varden typically grow fastest due to rich marine feeding opportunities. Northern forms generally grow larger and live longer than southern populations.
Maturation Timeline:
- Southern form: 5-6 years at 12-16 inches
- Northern form: 5-9 years at 16-24 inches
- Maximum age: Up to 19 years recorded
Size Variations:
- Stream residents: Often 8-14 inches
- Lake dwellers: 12-20 inches typical
- Sea-run fish: 16-30 inches, occasionally larger
Spawning Behavior
Dolly Varden spawn during fall months, typically from September through November, depending on latitude and local conditions. Unlike salmon, they don't die after spawning and may spawn multiple times throughout their lives.
Spawning Requirements:
- Water temperatures below 50°F
- Clean gravel substrates
- Adequate water flow for oxygenation
- Protection from extreme weather events
Females create redds (spawning nests) by displacing gravel with their tails. A single female may deposit 800-6,000 eggs depending on her size. Eggs develop slowly through winter, hatching in early spring.
Feeding Ecology
Dolly Varden are opportunistic predators with diets varying by life stage, habitat, and prey availability. This feeding flexibility contributes to their success across diverse environments.
Juvenile Diet:
- Aquatic insects and larvae
- Zooplankton
- Small crustaceans
- Terrestrial insects
Adult Diet:
- Small fish (including juvenile salmon)
- Large aquatic insects
- Marine invertebrates (sea-run forms)
- Salmon eggs (seasonal opportunity)
- Small mammals occasionally
Contrary to historical beliefs, research shows Dolly Varden are primarily scavengers when feeding on salmon eggs, consuming mostly unfertilized or dead eggs that wouldn't survive anyway. They actually provide beneficial services by removing diseased eggs that could infect entire redds.
Habitat Requirements and Preferences
Dolly Varden habitat requirements reflect their northern origins and cold-water adaptations. Understanding these preferences is crucial for conservation efforts and angling success.
Water Temperature Preferences
Temperature serves as the primary limiting factor for Dolly Varden distribution. These fish require cold, well-oxygenated water to thrive:
Optimal Range: 45-55°F (7-13°C) Maximum Tolerance: Rarely survive extended periods above 64°F (18°C) Winter Requirements: Ice-over conditions for many northern populations
Physical Habitat Features
Stream Characteristics:
- Stable channels with mixed substrates
- Pool-riffle sequences providing diverse microhabitats
- Large woody debris for cover and flow complexity
- Undercut banks and boulder clusters
- Connection to larger water bodies for migratory forms
Lake Characteristics:
- Deep, cold water with thermal refugia
- Rocky or gravel shorelines for spawning access
- Abundant forage fish populations
- Minimal human disturbance
Estuary and Marine Habitat:
- Protected bays and lagoons
- Kelp forest edges
- Rocky intertidal zones
- Areas with strong freshwater influence
Habitat Quality Indicators
High-quality Dolly Varden habitat typically features:
- Excellent water clarity
- Stable substrate composition
- Diverse invertebrate communities
- Native vegetation along riparian corridors
- Minimal sedimentation or pollution
For anglers seeking similar cold-water species, our guide to best freshwater fish taste includes other excellent cold-water options.
Diet and Feeding Behavior
Dolly Varden feeding behavior demonstrates remarkable adaptability and opportunism, contributing to their success across diverse habitats.
Seasonal Feeding Patterns
Spring (Ice-out to June):
- Heavy feeding on emerging insects
- Opportunistic surface feeding
- Movement into shallow areas following prey
Summer (June-August):
- Deep water feeding during warm periods
- Evening and dawn surface activity
- Marine feeding for anadromous forms
Fall (September-November):
- Intensive pre-spawn feeding
- Heavy consumption of salmon eggs when available
- Preparation for winter energy needs
Winter (December-March):
- Reduced activity and metabolism
- Feeding on available invertebrates
- Concentration in deep pools or lakes
Foraging Strategies
Dolly Varden employ multiple foraging strategies depending on prey type and habitat:
Ambush Predation: Hiding near cover to strike at passing prey, particularly effective for capturing small fish.
Active Hunting: Pursuing prey in open water, common when feeding on schools of small fish or during insect hatches.
Bottom Foraging: Searching substrate for invertebrates, especially important for stream-resident populations.
Surface Feeding: Taking terrestrial insects, emerging aquatic insects, or small mammals that fall into the water.
Prey Selection
Research reveals Dolly Varden show preferences for high-energy prey when available:
Primary Targets:
- Juvenile salmon and trout
- Sculpins and other small fish
- Large stonefly and mayfly nymphs
- Marine amphipods and mysids
Seasonal Specialization:
- Salmon eggs during spawning seasons
- Emerging insects during hatches
- Small fish during outmigrations
- Marine prey during ocean residence
This dietary flexibility allows Dolly Varden to thrive in systems where other salmonids struggle, contributing to their wide distribution across northern waters.
Conservation Status and Threats
While Dolly Varden populations remain generally stable across their range, several threats challenge long-term conservation efforts.
Population Status
Global Status: Stable across most of native range North American Populations: Generally secure, with local concerns Alaska Status: Stable statewide, isolated population concerns Lower 48 Status: Some populations of concern, particularly in Washington
Primary Threats
Climate Change: Rising water temperatures threaten cold-water habitat. Glacial retreat reduces summer flow reliability. Changing precipitation patterns affect spawning timing and success.
Habitat Degradation: Development in watersheds increases sedimentation and runoff. Stream channelization eliminates important habitat complexity. Dam construction blocks migration routes.
Competition from Non-native Species: Introduced trout species compete for resources. Warm-water species expand ranges northward. Hybridization with closely related chars may compromise genetic integrity.
Overharvest: Localized overfishing pressure on accessible populations. Incidental mortality in other fisheries. Historical bounty programs decimated some populations.
Conservation Efforts
Modern conservation strategies focus on habitat protection and population monitoring:
Habitat Protection:
- Watershed-level management plans
- Riparian corridor preservation
- Water quality standards enforcement
- Fish passage improvement projects
Research and Monitoring:
- Population assessments using genetic tools
- Climate change vulnerability studies
- Life history research for management planning
- Habitat requirements documentation
Fishing Regulations:
- Conservative harvest limits
- Seasonal closures during spawning
- Gear restrictions to reduce mortality
- Special management areas designation
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provides detailed conservation information for related char species, while NOAA Fisheries manages marine aspects of anadromous populations.
Dolly Varden Fishing Techniques and Tips
Successfully targeting Dolly Varden requires understanding their behavior, habitat preferences, and seasonal movements. These fish respond well to various techniques when applied at the right time and place.
Best Fishing Seasons
Spring (April-June): Excellent fishing as ice melts and fish move into shallower water. Target near stream mouths and warming areas. Fish are actively feeding after winter.
Summer (July-August): Focus on early morning and evening when fish move shallow. During midday heat, fish deep pools and cold-water sources.
Fall (September-November): Prime time for large, aggressive fish preparing for spawning. Concentrate efforts near spawning areas but respect closure regulations.
Winter (December-March): Ice fishing opportunities in lakes and large rivers. Fish are deeper and less active but still catchable.
Effective Techniques
Spin Fishing:
- Small spinners (sizes 0-2) in silver, gold, or bright colors
- Spoons mimicking small baitfish
- Small jigs worked slowly through likely water
- Live bait including worms, salmon eggs, and small fish
Fly Fishing:
- Streamers imitating small fish or leeches
- Nymphs representing aquatic insects
- Dry flies during surface feeding periods
- Egg patterns during salmon spawning seasons
Bait Fishing:
- Fresh salmon eggs (where legal)
- Nightcrawlers and small worms
- Small pieces of fish
- Shrimp or other marine baits for sea-run fish
Tackle Recommendations
Rods: Light to medium action, 6-7 feet for streams, longer for lakes Reels: Smooth drag systems for fighting strong fish Line: 6-12 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon Leaders: 4-8 lb test, longer in clear water Hooks: Small sizes (#6-#12) for most situations
For complete equipment guidance, reference our fishing hook sizes guide for proper hook selection.
Location Strategies
Stream Fishing:
- Deep pools below riffles
- Undercut banks and overhanging vegetation
- Confluences where tributaries meet main stems
- Areas with cover like large rocks or fallen trees
Lake Fishing:
- Inlet and outlet areas
- Drop-offs near shoreline structure
- Deep, cold areas during warm weather
- Shallow bays during spring and fall
Timing Considerations:
- Low-light periods are most productive
- Overcast days extend feeding windows
- Rising barometric pressure often triggers activity
- Moon phases may influence feeding behavior
Handling and Release
Practice proper catch-and-release techniques to preserve Dolly Varden populations:
- Use barbless hooks or crush barbs
- Land fish quickly to reduce stress
- Keep fish in water during handling
- Support fish properly when lifting
- Revive exhausted fish before release
- Photograph quickly and return to water
Many waters have specific regulations for char species. Always check current fishing license requirements and local rules before fishing.
Historical Significance and Cultural Impact
The history of Dolly Varden reflects changing attitudes toward native fish species and evolving understanding of ecosystem relationships.
Early Misconceptions
During the early 20th century, Dolly Varden suffered from a reputation as aggressive predators harmful to valuable salmon and trout populations. This perception, based on limited understanding of their ecological role, led to active persecution.
From 1921 to 1941, Alaska territorial government operated a bounty program paying 2.5 cents per Dolly Varden tail. This program aimed to reduce perceived competition with commercially important salmon. Locals would string 40 tails on wire hoops, smoke them, and turn them in for payment.
The bounty program ended when analysis of submitted tails revealed over half were actually from coho salmon, with more rainbow trout than Dolly Varden among the remainder. This discovery highlighted the identification challenges that persist today.
Scientific Understanding
Modern research reveals Dolly Varden as beneficial ecosystem components rather than harmful predators. Their feeding on dead and diseased salmon eggs provides valuable sanitation services. When consuming outmigrating salmon fry, they typically target the most abundant species, having minimal population-level impact.
Studies show Dolly Varden are actually less effective predators than many other species when competing for the same prey. Their opportunistic feeding helps maintain ecosystem balance rather than disrupting it.
Cultural Significance
Alaska Native Communities: Dolly Varden provide important subsistence resources throughout Alaska and northern Canada. Traditional ecological knowledge guides sustainable harvest practices developed over generations.
Recreational Fishing: These fish support valuable sport fisheries throughout their range. Their fighting ability and excellent table quality make them popular targets for anglers seeking both challenge and food.
Literary and Popular Culture: The connection to Charles Dickens and Victorian fashion creates unique cultural resonance for this species. This naming story represents one of the more colorful examples of how literature influenced scientific common names.
Quick Reference Guide
Dolly Varden Fast Facts
Scientific Name: Salvelinus malma Family: Salmonidae (Salmon and Trout) Genus: Salvelinus (Chars) Common Names: Dolly Varden, Dolly Varden Trout, Dolly Varden Char
Size Range: 8-30 inches, occasionally larger Weight Range: 1-20 pounds, northern forms largest Lifespan: Up to 19 years Maturity: 5-9 years depending on subspecies
Distribution: Pacific Rim from California to Alaska, across to Asia Habitat: Cold streams, lakes, estuaries, nearshore marine areas Diet: Opportunistic predator - insects, fish, marine invertebrates Spawning: Fall (September-November), multiple spawning possible
Key Identification Points
✓ Light spots (white/yellow/pink/orange) on dark body ✓ Olive-green to bronze background coloration
✓ White leading edges on lower fins (especially spawning fish) ✓ Slightly forked tail ✓ No black spots or wavy lines ✓ Spots smaller than pupil diameter
Management Status
- Generally stable across native range
- Some localized population concerns
- Conservative harvest regulations in most areas
- Special protection in some watersheds
- Climate change monitoring ongoing
Common Questions About Dolly Varden
Are Dolly Varden good to eat? Yes, Dolly Varden are excellent table fare with firm, flaky white meat and mild flavor. They rank among the better-tasting freshwater fish when properly handled and prepared fresh.
Where are Dolly Varden most common? Alaska contains the largest and most diverse Dolly Varden populations, though they occur throughout the Pacific Rim. Coastal areas typically support the highest densities.
How big do Dolly Varden get? Most Dolly Varden range from 12-20 inches and 1-5 pounds. Northern subspecies can exceed 30 inches and 20 pounds in optimal conditions. The largest recorded specimens came from Alaska and northern Canada.
What's the difference between Dolly Varden and rainbow trout? The key difference is spot coloration: Dolly Varden have light spots on dark bodies (they're chars), while rainbow trout have dark spots on light bodies. Rainbow trout also have a distinctive pink stripe and different fin characteristics.
Can you keep Dolly Varden? Regulations vary by location and season. Many waters allow limited harvest of Dolly Varden, while others are catch-and-release only. Always check current local regulations before keeping any fish.
Do Dolly Varden spawn like salmon? Similar timing (fall) but different outcomes. Dolly Varden can spawn multiple times throughout their lives, while most salmon die after spawning once. They also don't undergo the dramatic physical deterioration seen in salmon.
Conclusion
Dolly Varden represent remarkable examples of adaptation and resilience among North American char species. From their colorful literary naming origin to their complex life histories spanning freshwater and marine environments, these fish embody the diversity and beauty of northern aquatic ecosystems.
Understanding Dolly Varden identification, habitat requirements, and behaviors enhances both angling success and conservation awareness. Whether you encounter them in Alaska's pristine wilderness or Pacific Northwest coastal streams, these spotted chars offer glimpses into the intricate connections between cold, clean waters and the specialized fish they support.
Their story reflects broader themes in fisheries management - from early misconceptions and persecution to modern science-based conservation. Today's stable populations result from improved understanding, protective regulations, and habitat conservation efforts that benefit entire aquatic ecosystems.
For anglers seeking memorable fishing experiences with beautiful, hard-fighting fish, Dolly Varden provide excellent opportunities. Their wide distribution, multiple life history forms, and excellent eating quality make them valuable additions to any fishing adventure in their native range.
As climate change and development pressure continue challenging cold-water species, Dolly Varden serve as important indicators of ecosystem health. Protecting their habitats and maintaining sustainable fishing practices ensures future generations can appreciate these remarkable fish and the pristine waters they call home.
Ready to expand your knowledge of related species? Explore our comprehensive guides to types of saltwater fish or discover the best freshwater fish species to enhance your angling adventures across diverse aquatic environments.
Planning your next fishing adventure? Check our guides for fishing license costs and types of fishing techniques to make the most of your time on the water.