The lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush), a large, cold-water char native to northern North America, is renowned for its size, longevity, and prized status among anglers. This species thrives in deep, clear, and cold lakes, making Canada and the United States the top countries for lake trout fishing, both commercially and recreationally. Canada, particularly in provinces like Ontario, Manitoba, and the Northwest Territories, boasts some of the world’s most productive lake trout fisheries, supporting both local consumption and a vibrant sport-fishing tourism industry. The United States, especially in the Great Lakes region—most notably Lake Superior and Lake Michigan—also has a significant lake trout fishery, though much of it focuses on restoration and recreational angling due to past population declines from overfishing and invasive species. While commercial harvests have diminished, these countries remain leaders in lake trout management, conservation, and recreational fishing, attracting anglers from around the globe.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Canada | 237 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.