Fly Fishing for Cutthroat Trout

Where can you fly fish for cutthroat trout?

Cutthroat trout, distinguished by the red slash marks on the lower jaw, are predominantly found in the cold, clear, freshwater bodies of the Western United States. The receding glaciers of the last Ice Age left these charming fish in the free-flowing streams and alpine lakes across the region.

Cutthroat trout are in their prime visual form during their summer spawn, exhibiting an intense, fiery-red throat slash and deep colors that range from olive to gold. These trout inhabit states from California to New Mexico, with a high concentration in Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, and Idaho.

How to fly fish for cutthroat trout

A weight-forward floating line is recommended, and if trout seem to be feeding deep, sinking leaders can be added. Be sure to pack plenty of leader material as the rivers are often rocky, increasing the likelihood of frays or breakage.

Patience and persistence pay off when fishing for cutthroat trout. Similar to their relatives, the rainbow trout, cutthroat can sometimes be choosy with their food.

Consider focusing on deeper pools downstream of a fast-moving section that oxygenates the water, or the shallow edges of calm pools.

What are the best flies for cutthroat trout?

Cutthroat trout's diet comprises insects, smaller fish, and crustaceans and you can use the same flies that are used for other trout species.

The typical dry flies like the Elk Hair Caddis, CDC, Black Gnat, Blue Winged Olive, etc are good choices. For nymphs, it's the classic Buzzer, Phaesant Tail Nymph, Hare's Ear, and the likes.

If the fish are actively chasing, but not surface feeding, you can try small streamers such as the Mickey Finn or the Woolly Bugger.