Other Common Names:

Native Trout, Cut, Red Throat, Mountain Trout, Black-spotted Trout

State Record:

15 pounds 0 ounces

Identifying Features:

Cutthroat trout have a greenish back with black spots. Their sides are olive to silver in color. They have a red "cut-throat" mark on their lower jaw.

Typical Adult:

Length: Up to 19 inch
Weight: Up to 5 pounds (may reach 40)
Life span: Up to 7 years

Habitat:

Cutthroat trout inhabit cold streams and mountain lakes in the western U.S. The preferred water temperature is 55-62 °F.

Feeding Behavior:

Cutthroat trout feed on insects and small fish, and occasionally trout eggs, crustaceans, frogs, and earthworms.

Reproductive Behavior (Spawning):

When: Spring
How: The female constructs nest-like depressions called "redds" by brushing aside gravel in small streams. The adults do not guard the nest.

Did You Know:

There are 14 different recognized subspecies of cutthroat trout.

Cutthroat trout do not successfully spawn in lakes.