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Cutthroat Trout

Cutthroat Trout

Cutthroat trout are Washington's native trout species, with two subspecies present: coastal cutthroat (Oncorhynchus clarkii clarkii) and westslope cutthroat (O. clarkii lewisi).

Coastal cutthroat are widely distributed throughout western Washington west of the Cascades, while westslope cutthroat inhabit central and eastern Washington. The state also has introduced Lahontan cutthroat.

Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus clarkii clarkii (coastal cutthroat), O. clarkii lewisi (westslope cutthroat)

Also known as sea-run cutthroat (for anadromous coastal populations)

Physical Characteristics:
  • Coastal cutthroat have dark green backs with olive sides and silver bellies, featuring numerous irregular spots over their entire body, including below the lateral line.
  • They're distinguished from rainbow trout by red slash marks under the lower jaw (where they get their name) and small teeth on the back of the tongue.
  • Resident cutthroat average 7-9 inches, but can grow to 10-18 inches in quality populations, with the state record being 12 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Coastal cutthroat are widely distributed throughout western Washington west of the Cascades, while westslope cutthroat inhabit central and eastern Washington.
  • Some coastal populations are anadromous, known as 'sea-run' cutthroat, which venture into Puget Sound, Hood Canal, and other marine waters.

Key Locations

  • Prime waters include the numerous lakes throughout western Washington counties like King, Snohomish, Skagit, and Whatcom, plus coastal streams and Puget Sound tributaries.
  • The Yakima River system in central Washington offers excellent westslope cutthroat fishing.
  • High mountain lakes above 3,500 feet provide backcountry opportunities, though many require hiking and are stocked rotationally.

Specific Spots

  • They prefer deep pools and locations along lake shorelines with abundant submerged debris.

Cutthroat Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Popular spinner brands like Blue Fox, Vibrax, Mepps, Triple Teasers, and spoons like Little Cleo and Flafishes.

What flies work for Cutthroat Trout in Washington?

Effective patterns include Elk Hair Caddis (size 16-18), Pheasant Tail Nymphs (size 18), Prince Nymphs (size 14), Chubby Chernobyl hoppers, Royal Wulff (size 10), and black Woolly Buggers (size 6).

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

Spring (April-May) offers excellent action, particularly for Blue Winged Olive hatches. Summer lull as fish move to deeper waters to escape heat in July-August. Fishing is poorest during late winter spawning periods.

How do you catch Cutthroat Trout in Washington?

Popular techniques include stillfishing and trolling for lake fishing. Dr.y flies work well when fish are surface feeding, while nymphs and streamers are productive subsurface. Match the hatch with PMDs, caddis patterns, BWO imitations, and terrestrials in appropriate seasons.

What do Cutthroat Trout eat?

These fish are aggressive and opportunistic feeders, preying on insects, leeches, crustaceans, and fish.

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