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Golden Trout

Golden Trout

Golden Trout are one of the world's rarest trout species and are not native to Utah.

Originally from California's Sierra Nevada Mountains, they were first introduced to Utah in the 1920s-1930s and have established small but persistent populations in remote high-altitude lakes in the Uinta Mountains, primarily above 10,000 feet elevation.

Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus mykiss aguabonita

Physical Characteristics:
  • These stunning fish display bright golden-yellow coloration on their sides and belly, with distinctive red-orange lateral lines, olive-green backs, and prominent black spots on their backs and fins.
  • Adult fish typically measure 5-7 inches in Utah waters, though they can reach up to 11 inches.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Remote high-altitude lakes in the Uinta Mountains, primarily above 10,000 feet elevation.

Key Locations

  • Echo Lake in the Murdock Basin of the Uinta Mountains is Utah's most reliable Golden Trout fishery.
  • In Utah, they inhabit Echo Lake in the Murdock Basin and select waters in the Atwood Creek Dr.ainage.

Specific Spots

  • Wade out 20-40 feet from shore where Golden Trout typically cruise.

Golden Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Golden Trout in Utah?

Effective dry flies include size 12-14 Elk Hair Caddis, Parachute Adams, Royal Wulff, and small ant patterns. For subsurface fishing, try size 14-18 scuds (especially orange and pink patterns), size 16-18 Hare's Ear nymphs, Copper Johns, and small jigs.

When is the best time to fish for Golden Trout in Utah?

The best time to fish for Golden Trout in Utah is during summer months from July through September when high-altitude lakes are ice-free and accessible. Target Golden Trout outside of their spawning period (late June-July) to avoid disturbing vulnerable fish.

How do you catch Golden Trout in Utah?

Practice catch-and-release to preserve these rare populations, keeping fish in the water as much as possible and using barbless hooks.

What do Golden Trout eat?

Golden Trout are opportunistic carnivores feeding primarily on aquatic insects including caddisflies, midges, chironomid larvae, and small crustaceans like scuds. They also consume terrestrial insects that fall into the water.

Where do Golden Trout live in Utah?

Remote high-altitude lakes in the Uinta Mountains, primarily above 10,000 feet elevation.

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