Cutthroat Trout
Coastal cutthroat trout are the only cutthroat subspecies found in Alaska, ranging from Prince William Sound south through Southeast Alaska.
They're the most common trout species in coastal Alaska, occurring in both sea-run (anadromous) and freshwater-resident forms.
Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus clarkii clarkii
Adult coloration varies dramatically: freshwater residents in small waters are golden yellow with vivid red slash marks and profuse black spotting (6-16 inches), while lake residents can exceed 24 inches with silver coloration and faint slash marks.
Sea-run fish are smaller (seldom over 18 inches) with bluish-silver coloration and faint yellow slashes.
What to know
Habitat Distribution
Sea-run cutthroat are typically found in river systems with accessible lakes, mostly south of Frederick Sound, while resident forms inhabit everything from small headwater streams and bog ponds to large deep lakes.Key Locations
Prince William Sound south through Southeast Alaska. Prime fishing lakes including Turner, Hasselborg, Distin, Jims, and Lake Guerin. Trophy lakes like Turner (catch-and-release only), Hasselborg, and Florence. Chilkat River between highway mileposts 8-25. Juneau area, Sitka, Haines area.Specific Spots
Target deeper pool habitat with cover like woody debris and undercut banks in freshwater. Lake residents chase small fish along drop-offs once they reach 14+ inches.Cutthroat Trout FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Cutthroat Trout in Alaska?
Very small spinners, spoons throughout the year. Bright flashy lures work well. Pixies, salmon eggs, or salmon fry patterns.
What flies work for Cutthroat Trout in Alaska?
Small flies, small salmon fry patterns, nymphs, wooly buggers, and leech patterns. Effective fly patterns include Glo Bug Egg, Blood Dot Egg, Stimulator, Elk Hair Caddis, Adams, Bead Head Prince Nymph, Pheasant Tail Nymph, Egg Sucking Leech, and Flesh Fly patterns.
When is the best time to fish for Cutthroat Trout in Alaska?
Peak fishing season runs May through September, with the absolute best trout fishing occurring mid-August through mid-September. Winter fishing requires different approaches. In the Haines area, fish the Chilkat River from March through mid-May between highway mileposts 8-25 when water runs clear.
How do you catch Cutthroat Trout in Alaska?
Winter fishing requires smaller presentations in slower water - use dead-drifted nymphs and smaller flies, being more persistent with presentations. Summer brings active dry fly fishing, particularly in upper river sections.
What do Cutthroat Trout eat?
They're highly predaceous carnivores feeding opportunistically on insects, young salmon, amphipods, sticklebacks, gastropods, salmon eggs, and small fish.
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