Body shape :  Elongate and laterally compressed but more deep-bodied than other salmonids

Average size : 30 to 40 cm (12 to 16 in), 0.5 to 1 kg (1 to 2 lb), up to 57 cm (22 in) and over 7 kg (15 lb) in Quebec

Coloration :  Pale with dark markings; brown to olive-brown back; silvery flanks with dark spots surrounded by pale ring and rust-colored spots; dark spots on dorsal and adipose fins; occasionally, caudal fin with dark indistinct dark spots; silvery body with no prominent markings in large lake and sea-run populations.

External characteristics : Large mouth with well-developed teeth; spawning males possibly having hooked lower jaw; adipose fin well beyond dorsal fin; dorsal and pelvic fins at mid-body length; square caudal fin (slightly forked in younger fish).