Body shape :  Spindle-shaped, more elongate than other salmonids

Average size :  40 to 50 cm (16 to 20 in), 0.7 to 1.5 kg, often > 5 kg (1.5 to 3 lb, often > 11 lb)

Coloration :  Body grayish to black with numerous cream-colored spots

External characteristics : Stout head; large mouth with well-developed teeth; adipose fin well beyond dorsal fin; dorsal and pelvic fins at mid-body length; caudal fin deeply forked.