Body shape :  Elongate and spindle-shaped, slightly laterally compressed

Average size : 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in), over 9 kg (20 lb) in the Great Lakes

Coloration :  Varies with habitat, size and sexual condition; river residents and spawners generally darker, with more intense markings; lighter, brighter and more silvery body with less intense markings in small lake residents (Kamloops trout) and in large anadromous individuals or Great Lakes area residents (steelhead).

Pale with dark markings; bluish, greenish or brownish back; silvery flanks with large, pinkish-red horizontal band (more intense during spawning) and numerous small black spots; dorsal and caudal fins with regularly-spaced rows of black spots; black-edged adipose fin with several black spots.

External characteristics : Large mouth with well-developed teeth; adipose fin well beyond dorsal fin; dorsal and pelvic fins at mid-body length; square or slightly forked caudal fin.