Maine’s Arctic char are showing off their stunning fall colors

BANGOR DAILY NEWS • September 20, 2026

Maine’s fall foliage isn’t the only place to find spectacular colors this time of year. Some of Maine’s rarest fish are now showing the brilliant orange-red colors they develop for their fall spawning season. Arctic char — also known as blueback trout and Sunapee trout — are native to only two states: Maine and Alaska. Maine has 14 lakes and ponds where Arctic char populations remain, most of them in the northern and western highlands. Several of those waters are state heritage fish waters, which are managed to protect native fish populations.