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Cutthroat Trout

Cutthroat Trout

Cutthroat trout are not native to Maryland but were introduced to the North Branch of the Potomac River where they are found today.

These Pacific salmon family members are closely related to rainbow trout and can interbreed with them to produce fertile hybrids called 'cut-bows.'

Also known as cut-bows (when hybridized with rainbow trout)

Physical Characteristics:
  • The defining characteristic is the distinctive red, pink or orange slash mark on the underside of the lower jaw or below the gills, which gives them their common name.
  • In Maryland waters, cutthroat trout average 2-5 pounds and 9-11 inches long, though the Maryland record was a 7-pound 9-ounce, 29-inch fish caught in the North Branch Potomac in 2000.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found in the North Branch of the Potomac River in Maryland.

Key Locations

  • The North Branch Potomac River is the primary location to target cutthroat trout in Maryland, where they exist in special management areas with specific regulations.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on highly oxygenated, cold water areas including pools, eddies, undercut banks, and areas with cover like fallen trees or large rocks.
  • Target slack water areas where fish can conserve energy while feeding.

Cutthroat Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Cutthroat Trout in Maryland?

Top dry fly patterns include Elk Hair Caddis (size 16-18), Pale Morning Dun (size 14), Chubby Chernobyl patterns for July and late summer, and Royal Wulff (size 10) as attractor patterns.

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

Spring and fall provide the best fishing opportunities when water temperatures are ideal and fish are most active. Avoid fishing during spawning periods in spring.

How do you catch Cutthroat Trout in Maryland?

Top dry fly patterns work during caddis hatches in mornings and evenings and mayfly hatches in slower water. For nymph fishing, bounce patterns along the bottom through various water types. Streamer patterns can be dead-drifted, swung, or stripped.

What do Cutthroat Trout eat?

Their diet is similar to other trout, feeding primarily on aquatic invertebrates including mayflies, caddisflies, and terrestrial insects that fall into the water. As they increase in size, they tend to prey more frequently on smaller fish.

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