Training Center

Last Update/Review: August 6, 2002

Drawing of a bull trout This center provides methods for identifying the sportfish species anglers are most likely to catch in Alberta.

Note: Non-sportfish species, and a few uncommon sportfish species, are not described here. To identify the non-sportfish species and uncommon sportfish species, go to the detailed keys provided in the book The Fishes of Alberta (1992, Nelson and Paetz, University of Alberta Press).

The most common method anglers use to identify fish is to memorize certain key characteristics for each species. Another, more scientific method, is to use an "identification key." Both methods are presented here.

As you work your way through the following sections, you may wish to refer to the Glossary and Fish Diagram for definitions of terms used in these pages. If you are working with the scientific keys, you may refer to How Identification Keys Work.

Note: The above pages are placed in separate windows from this one so that you can refer to them without having to lose your place in the identification sections of this center. You may wish to reduce the size of these windows, using the size box at the extreme top right-hand corner of the browser window.

Links to information about fish identification:

  • Identification of Alberta's Salmonid Sportfish

    • (Developed in conjunction with Trout Unlimited Canada)
    A series of excellent illustrations with information on identifying features and example photos of the nine most common salmonid species. As well, a key to the salmonid sportfish in Alberta is available.

Note:

The following sections of this centre are in development and will be activated in the future.

  • Identification of Alberta Fish
    Key identifying features for all Alberta fish with emphasis on the common sportfish species.

  • Additional Information and Downloads
    A number of informative materials, including the following:
    • Key for Identification of Alberta Fish
    • Common and Scientific Names of Fish in Alberta

Keep checking this page for additional information and downloads!

BotBar