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Cutthroat Trout

Cutthroat Trout

Cutthroat Trout are not native to Tennessee waters but have been successfully stocked by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency in select coldwater fisheries since 2021. These western trout species have thrived in Tennessee's coldwater tailwaters.

Physical Characteristics:
  • These western trout species are distinguished by their distinctive red or orange 'cutthroat' slash marks on the underside of the lower jaw.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Tennessee's coldwater tailwaters.

Key Locations

  • South Fork Holston River below Boone Dam, Caney Fork River below Center Hill Dam, Hiwassee River below Appalachian Dam, and Elk River below Tims Ford Dam.
  • In 2021, TWRA stocked 2,500 cutthroat trout in the Boone Dam tailwater, with additional stockings in the Caney Fork River, Hiwassee River, and Elk River below Tims Ford Dam.

Specific Spots

  • They are typically found in the deeper pools and current seams of tailwater fisheries.
  • Fish the current seams, deeper pools, and areas with cover like undercut banks or fallen timber.

Cutthroat Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Cutthroat Trout in Tennessee?

Elk Hair Caddis (size 16-18), Pale Morning Dun (size 10-16), Pheasant Tail Nymphs (size 18), Prince Nymphs (size 14), Woolly Buggers (size 6), and Royal Wulff (size 10) as an attractor pattern. During summer terrestrial hatches, Chubby Chernobyl grasshopper patterns are extremely effective.

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

The best fishing occurs from late March through June when water temperatures are optimal and again in fall as temperatures cool. Cutthroat trout spawn in spring when water temperatures reach 42-46°F (generally February through July depending on elevation and water temperature), during which time they should be avoided...

How do you catch Cutthroat Trout in Tennessee?

Fish the current seams, deeper pools, and areas with cover like undercut banks or fallen timber. Best success comes from matching current insect hatches and focusing on the coldwater releases immediately below dams where oxygen levels are highest.

What do Cutthroat Trout eat?

Cutthroat trout are opportunistic feeders with diets consisting primarily of aquatic insects including caddisflies, stoneflies, mayflies, and midges, as well as terrestrial insects like ants, beetles, and grasshoppers that fall into the water.

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