Tiger Trout
Tiger Trout are a rare and striking hybrid between a female brown trout and male brook trout, distinguished by their unique tiger-like markings that cover their back and sides.
Most Tiger Trout in Colorado are sterile hybrids produced through specialized hatchery techniques and stocked to control rough fish populations and provide unique angling opportunities.
Their aggressive nature and distinctive appearance make them a prized catch for anglers seeking something unique.
- In Colorado, they feature a brown-gray body with golden yellow to orange coloration along the sides, vivid yellow vermiculation similar to brook trout but more pronounced, and orange fins with a distinctive square, forked tail.
- They commonly reach 2-5 pounds with potential to exceed 20 pounds and 20 inches in length.
Fishing in Colorado
South Platte River
Arkansas River
Pueblo Reservoir
Tarryall Creek
Chatfield Lake
Cherry Creek
Grape Creek
Fountain Creek
Rampart Reservoir
Monument Creek
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Tiger Trout are found in cold, clear waters throughout Colorado including various alpine lakes, and select streams and reservoirs where both parent species are present.
Key Locations
- Monument Reservoir in Las Animas County, Barker Reservoir, various alpine lakes, and select streams and reservoirs where both parent species are present.
- Focus on Monument Reservoir and other designated trout-only waters where they're regularly stocked, as well as streams and lakes containing both brook and brown trout populations.
Specific Spots
- Focus on current edges, undercut banks, rock and boulder pockets, and areas with overhanging vegetation.
- Tiger Trout often hold in deeper water.
Tiger Trout FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Tiger Trout in Colorado?
Use spoons, spinners, jigs, and larger animated lures. Silver rooster tails and larger hard-bait lures work well at places like Barker Reservoir.
What flies work for Tiger Trout in Colorado?
When targeting younger Tiger Trout feeding on insects, employ beadhead nymphs and generic dry fly patterns that match local hatches. As they mature into piscivorous feeders, switch to streamers and larger animated flies that attract their attention.
When is the best time to fish for Tiger Trout in Colorado?
Late spring through early fall when they're most active, with summer and early fall being optimal. Avoid spawning times in fall when they may be less active and more vulnerable.
How do you catch Tiger Trout in Colorado?
Trolling can be effective from boats. Focus on current edges, undercut banks, rock and boulder pockets, and areas with overhanging vegetation.
What do Tiger Trout eat?
These aggressive feeders start by consuming aquatic insects as juveniles but quickly transition to a piscivorous diet, feeding almost entirely on smaller baitfish as adults. This fish-eating behavior allows them to grow rapidly.
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