This fish grows upto to 3' (91 cm). Elongate, slightly compressed; back dark olive-brown; sides silvery-grayish; young have dark caudal spot. Head long, flattened above; mouth terminal, large, extends to small eye; no barbels. Fins plain, reddish in males; 8 dorsal fin rays, origin behind pelvic fin insertion; 8 anal fin rays; caudal fin moderately forked. Habitat Clear, deep pools over sand and rocks in creeks, rivers, and lakes.
This fish was once considered a major predator of young salmons, but while both fishes may compete for food and space, most waters inhabited by Sacramento Squawfish are too warm for young salmons and trouts.