Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout
The Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout is one of Montana's two native cutthroat subspecies and part of the state fish designation.
Today, pure populations in Montana occupy only 32% of their historical range, with genetically pure populations found in just 10% of historically occupied fluvial habitat.
Most remaining indigenous populations inhabit headwater streams, though the main Yellowstone River still supports significant numbers.
Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri
Distinguished by prominent red slashes on the lower jaw, they have golden-brown coloration with medium-large black spots concentrated toward the tail. Spawning fish range from 200-600mm long.
Fishing in Montana
Missouri River
Sun River
Smith River
Belt Creek
Marias River
Benton Lake
Holter Lake
Teton River
Dearborn River
Little Muddy Creek
What to know
Habitat Distribution
Native to the Yellowstone River drainage, they historically occupied waters from near Cooke City downstream to the Tongue River watershed.Key Locations
Key productive waters include the main Yellowstone River through Paradise Valley, tributary streams in Yellowstone National Park (Slough Creek, Soda Butte Creek, Lamar River), and high mountain lakes throughout the Yellowstone drainage. Spring creeks in Paradise Valley also hold populations.Specific Spots
In the Yellowstone River system, they spawn in tributary streams using seemingly marginal boulder-dominated habitat with gravel patches.Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What flies work for Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout in Montana?
Essential fly patterns include Parachute Adams, Stimulator, and Elk Hair Caddis throughout the season. For seasonal hatches, carry Pale Morning Duns and Baetis patterns for early season, Golden Stoneflies and Salmonflies for June-July hatches, and terrestrial patterns like ants, grasshoppers, and beetles from late...
When is the best time to fish for Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout in Montana?
The best fishing for Yellowstone Cutthroat in Montana occurs from late June through October, after spring spawning ends. Spawning occurs from May through July when water temperatures reach about 5°C and spring runoff subsides - this is when anglers should avoid targeting them.
How do you catch Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout in Montana?
A tandem rig with a terrestrial trailing an emerger can be deadly. When fish won't come to the surface, try double-nymph rigs or small streamers. On popular waters like Slough Creek, expect to tippet down and change flies frequently.
What do Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout eat?
They're opportunistic feeders, spending 80% of their day foraging primarily on aquatic invertebrates and terrestrial insects. In some populations, fish make up a substantial portion of their diet.
Where do Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout live in Montana?
Native to the Yellowstone River drainage, they historically occupied waters from near Cooke City downstream to the Tongue River watershed.
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