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Cutthroat Trout

Cutthroat Trout

Cutthroat Trout are not native to Kentucky waters, but they are now stocked annually in the Lake Cumberland tailwater as part of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources' trout program. The Lake Cumberland tailwater (75.

2 miles) is currently the only Cutthroat Trout fishery in the state, managed as a put-grow-and-take fishery.

Physical Characteristics:
  • The species is distinguished by characteristic red or orange slash marks under their lower jaw.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • The Lake Cumberland tailwater (75.2 miles) is currently the only Cutthroat Trout fishery in the state.
  • In Kentucky's tailwater environment, they thrive in the cold, well-oxygenated waters released from Wolf Creek Dam.

Key Locations

  • Lake Cumberland tailwater below Wolf Creek Dam.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on deeper pools and current breaks where trout hold, and fish areas with good oxygenation from the dam releases.
  • Fish across rocky or pebble bottoms.

Cutthroat Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Cutthroat Trout in Kentucky?

Small shad-colored suspending jerkbaits, in-line spinners in white or red, and small silver casting spoons.

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

The tailwater provides year-round fishing opportunities since water temperatures remain consistently cool. Summer fishing is particularly productive as the cold water acts like natural air conditioning, and trout bite actively throughout the day regardless of air temperature.

How do you catch Cutthroat Trout in Kentucky?

Fish suspending jerkbaits with an erratic retrieve across rocky or pebble bottoms, or slow down the presentation by letting the lure float downstream with gentle twitches. Cast in-line spinners and spoons at 45-degree angles upstream, keeping them off the bottom while maintaining flash.

What do Cutthroat Trout eat?

These trout are opportunistic feeders that primarily consume aquatic insects when young, transitioning to a more varied diet as adults including other fish, crustaceans, terrestrial insects, and various invertebrates.

Where do Cutthroat Trout live in Kentucky?

The Lake Cumberland tailwater (75.2 miles) is currently the only Cutthroat Trout fishery in the state. In Kentucky's tailwater environment, they thrive in the cold, well-oxygenated waters released from Wolf Creek Dam.

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