Cutthroat Trout
Cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii) are a species of freshwater fish that are native to western North America. They are named for the distinctive red or orange slash marks that can be found under the lower jaw of the fish.
Cutthroat trout are found in a variety of habitats, including streams, rivers, and lakes, and are adapted to survive in cold water environments. They are generally smaller than other trout species, with an average size of 12-24 inches, although larger individuals can be found in some locations.
Cutthroat trout are highly prized by anglers for their fighting spirit and willingness to take a fly. They are also popular with anglers because they are found in many parts of the western United States and Canada, and are relatively easy to catch.
In addition to being popular with anglers, cutthroat trout are also an important economic resource, as they are often raised in hatcheries and sold to fish farms and restaurants. However, the introduction of non-native species, habitat loss, and other factors have caused declines in some populations of cutthroat trout, and conservation efforts are underway to protect and restore these fish in their native range.
History of Cutthroat in North America
Cutthroat trout is a type of fish that is native to North America, specifically to the western United States and Canada. The fish is named after the distinctive red or orange slash marks that are present under its lower jaw. Cutthroat trout are found in various habitats, including streams, rivers, and lakes. They are popular sport fish and are also valued as a food source.
The history of cutthroat trout in North America dates back to the Pleistocene Era, which lasted from about 2.6 million to 11,700 years ago. During this time, cutthroat trout were widely distributed throughout much of western North America. However, due to a combination of factors, including habitat loss and the introduction of non-native fish species, the range of cutthroat trout has decreased significantly in recent times. In some areas, the species has been extirpated (locally extinct) or is at risk of extinction.
In recent years, conservation efforts have been undertaken to protect and restore cutthroat trout populations. These efforts include habitat restoration projects, the removal of non-native fish, and the introduction of hatchery-raised fish into areas where the species has been extirpated.
8 Places to Fish for Cutthroat Trout in the United States
Here are eight places in the United States where you may be able to fish for cutthroat trout:
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming: Cutthroat trout are native to the park's streams and rivers and are a popular target for anglers.
Snake River, Wyoming: The Snake River is home to a variety of cutthroat trout, including the Snake River fine-spotted cutthroat trout, which is found only in this river.
Deschutes River, Oregon: The Deschutes River is home to a number of cutthroat trout subspecies, including the redband cutthroat trout and the Columbia River redband cutthroat trout.
Green River, Utah: The Green River is home to a number of cutthroat trout subspecies, including the Colorado River cutthroat trout and the Bonneville cutthroat trout.
San Juan River, New Mexico: The San Juan River is home to a number of cutthroat trout subspecies, including the Rio Grande cutthroat trout and the San Juan cutthroat trout.
Gila River, New Mexico: The Gila River is home to the Gila trout, which is a subspecies of cutthroat trout.
Merced River, California: The Merced River is home to the Central Valley cutthroat trout, which is a subspecies of cutthroat trout.
Truckee River, Nevada: The Truckee River is home to the Lahontan cutthroat trout, which is a subspecies of cutthroat trout.
Please keep in mind that fishing regulations, including season dates and catch limits, vary by location and may change from year to year. It is important to consult local fishing regulations before embarking on a fishing trip.