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The mountain whitefish (Prosopium williamsoni) is a species of salmonid native to western North America.
Mountain whitefish occur in mountain lakes and streams and prefer cold, clear water. Their presence in a waterway is a good indicator the water is suitable for other coldwater species.
The mountain whitefish populations in California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, and Utah are vulnerable.
Mountain whitefish
Mountain whitefish typically forage for food on the bottom of riverbeds, using their fins to kick up aquatic insect larvae and other macroinvertebrates, especially in the evening hours. They will also consume food that drifts by while resting. They are rarely seen feeding at the surface but will eat emerging aquatic insects such as midges and mayflies.
Angler Challenges
The mountain whitefish is included in the Nevada Native Fish-Slam.
See rules for this challenge and state regulations for restrictions.
Additional Reading
Trout and Salmon of North America by Robert Behnke
Oregon Native Fish Status Report, Volumes I and II, by Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
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