Species guide

How to catch European whitefish

Coregonus lavaretus

Stylized 2D illustration of European whitefish
freshwaterbrackishgame fishSalmonidae

The European whitefish is a predatory freshwater and brackish water fish known for its elongated, streamlined body. It inhabits lakes and rivers across Europe and parts of Asia. This species is prized for sport fishing and can reach impressive sizes.

Where they live

Found in freshwater and brackish environments across Europe and Asia, including lakes and slow rivers.

Typical size

Up to about 73 cm

What they eat

  • aquatic insects
  • stoneflies
  • leeches
  • midges
  • chironomid larvae
  • beetles
  • terrestrial insects

Best baits

  • worms
  • insect larvae
  • small aquatic insects
  • flies

Best lures

  • small spoons
  • spinners
  • soft plastic lures imitating insects

How to fish for them

  • float fishing
  • ledger fishing
  • ultralight spinning
  • fly fishing

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