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Cutthroat Trout

Cutthroat Trout

Cutthroat trout are Idaho's state fish and the dominant native salmonid in the state, with three primary subspecies: Westslope cutthroat in northern and central Idaho, Yellowstone cutthroat in eastern Idaho, and Bonneville cutthroat in southeastern Idaho (plus the Snake River fine-spotted variant in the South Fork Snake River).

Physical Characteristics:
  • These fish are characterized by their distinctive red-orange slash marks under their lower jaws, though they vary significantly in appearance - from golden to green to silvery coloration with spot patterns ranging from fine speckles to large rounded spots concentrated toward the tail.
  • Some populations like Bear Lake Bonneville cutthroat grow up to 15 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Idaho cutthroat inhabit diverse environments from small mountain streams and large rivers to alpine lakes.
  • They are found throughout Idaho's major river systems including the Salmon, Snake, Clearwater, St.
  • Joe, Pend Oreille, and Bear River drainages, with populations occupying about 80% of their historical range.

Key Locations

  • Prime Idaho locations include the Middle Fork Salmon River (fly fishing only, catch-and-release), Henry's Fork of the Snake River, South Fork Snake River, Teton River near Victor, Kelly Creek, Lochsa and Selway Rivers, St.
  • Joe River system, Bear Lake tributaries, and numerous alpine lakes in the Sawtooths.

Specific Spots

  • Target slack water, pools, undercut banks, and around structure.

Cutthroat Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Cutthroat Trout in Idaho?

Spring: Pheasant Tail Nymphs size 18, Prince Nymphs size 14, Woolly Buggers size 6. Summer: Elk Hair Caddis size 16-18, Pale Morning Duns size 14, terrestrial patterns like Chubby Chernobyls and grasshopper imitations size 8-10.

When is the best time to fish for Cutthroat Trout in Idaho?

Spring (March-June) offers excellent fishing as post-spawn cutthroat aggressively feed to recover from spawning. Summer (July-August) provides prime dry fly fishing during major hatches. Fall (September-October) can be productive with cooler temperatures making fish more active.

How do you catch Cutthroat Trout in Idaho?

Spring is ideal for nymphing or stripping streamers. Summer provides prime dry fly fishing during major hatches. Cutthroat require careful presentation and are more selective than other trout species.

What do Cutthroat Trout eat?

They're opportunistic feeders consuming aquatic and terrestrial insects, crayfish, small fish, and zooplankton. Bear Lake Bonneville cutthroat feed primarily on cisco and other fish rather than just insects.

Where do Cutthroat Trout live in Idaho?

Idaho cutthroat inhabit diverse environments from small mountain streams and large rivers to alpine lakes. They are found throughout Idaho's major river systems including the Salmon, Snake, Clearwater, St. Joe, Pend Oreille, and Bear River drainages, with populations occupying about 80% of their historical range.

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