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Coastal cutthroat trout

Coastal cutthroat trout

Oncorhynchus clarkii clarkii

Family
Salmonidae
Max Length
99 cm
Max Weight
18.6 kg
IUCN Status
NE
Water Type
saltwater, freshwater, mixed
Fishing Spots
754

Overview

The coastal cutthroat trout, also known as the sea-run cutthroat trout, blue-back trout or harvest trout, is one of the four species of cutthroat trout found in western North America. The coastal cutthroat trout occurs in four distinct forms. A semi-anadromous or sea-run form is the most well known. Freshwater forms occur in both large and small rivers and streams and lake environments. The native range of the coastal cutthroat trout extends south from the southern coastline of the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska to the Eel River in Northern California. Coastal cutthroat trout are resident in tributary streams and rivers of the Pacific basin and are rarely found more than 100 miles (160 km) from the ocean.

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

  • Earthworms

    Use on a small hook, drifted naturally.

  • Nightcrawlers

    Effective for larger trout, especially in deeper pools.

  • Mealworms

    Good for stocked trout or in streams.

  • Grasshoppers

    Great when grasshoppers are abundant near the water.

  • Salmon Eggs

    Effective during and after salmon runs.

Artificial Lures

  • Mepps Aglia #2Spinner

    Classic trout spinner, works well in clear water.

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  • Blue Fox Vibrax #2Spinner

    Vibrating action attracts trout in various conditions.

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  • Rapala Original Floater 05Crankbait

    Excellent for twitching near cover.

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  • Worden's Rooster Tail Spinner 1/8 ozSpinner

    Versatile spinner for streams and rivers.

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  • Woolly Bugger (Olive)Fly

    A must-have fly for imitating nymphs or leeches.

    Buy

Techniques

Focus on fishing near structure like fallen logs, undercut banks, and overhanging vegetation, as coastal cutthroat trout often ambush prey from these locations.

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Where to Find Coastal cutthroat trout

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for Coastal cutthroat trout?+

Popular baits for Coastal cutthroat trout include Earthworms, Nightcrawlers, Mealworms, Grasshoppers, Salmon Eggs. Tip: Focus on fishing near structure like fallen logs, undercut banks, and overhanging vegetation, as coastal cutthroat trout often ambush prey from these locations.

Where can I catch Coastal cutthroat trout?+

Coastal cutthroat trout can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include British Columbia, Canada; Washington, United States; Oregon, United States. WikiCatch lists 754 fishing spots where this species is found.

How big do Coastal cutthroat trout get?+

Coastal cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii clarkii) can reach up to 99.00000095367432 cm in length and 18.6 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is NE.

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