Colorado River Cutthroat Trout
Oncorhynchus clarkii pleuriticus
Colorado River cutthroat are brightly colored native trout of the high country, found in small creeks and alpine lakes where a dry fly and a long hike go together.
- 2States
- 54River guides
- July–SeptemberBest time
Where to find Colorado river cutthroat trout
Darker states have more Colorado river cutthroat trout river guides. Tap a state to see its rivers.
Most Colorado river cutthroat trout rivers
- Wyoming44 rivers
- Utah10 rivers
Top rivers for Colorado river cutthroat trout
Fly fishing for Colorado river cutthroat trout
The Colorado River cutthroat trout is native to the upper Colorado River basin, including the Green River drainage. Today most wild populations live in Colorado, Utah and Wyoming, often in small, isolated headwater streams and high-elevation lakes.
Non-native trout pushed Colorado River cutthroat out of much of their original range, and many remaining populations sit above barriers that keep other trout out. State agencies work to protect and restore these native fish, and some streams have special catch-and-release rules.
Most stream fish are small, often 6 to 12 inches, but they are colorful and eager to rise. Alpine lakes can hold larger fish. For fly anglers, fishing for Colorado River cutthroat usually means a hike into beautiful country with a light rod and a small box of dries.
How to identify Colorado river cutthroat trout
Colorado River cutthroat have a bright red-orange slash under the jaw, golden to olive sides that can turn brilliant red in spawning males, and large black spots that are heavier toward the tail.
How to catch Colorado river cutthroat trout
-
Pack light
A short 3- or 4-weight rod, a small fly box and tippet are all you need for most high-country creeks.
-
Fish midday at elevation
At high elevation, insects often hatch late morning to afternoon. That is often when cutthroat rise best.
-
Watch the weather
Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the high country in summer. Plan to be off exposed ridges and lakes by early afternoon.
-
Fish the lake edges
In alpine lakes, cutthroat cruise the shoreline and inlets. Cast ahead of cruising fish and let the fly sit.
-
Protect the natives
Many Colorado River cutthroat streams are catch-and-release. Use barbless hooks and never move fish between waters.
Find Colorado river cutthroat trout water near you.
- Fishability score for every river near you, updated live
- Live flows and water temps for the rivers you fish
- Hatch timing for your watershed
Colorado river cutthroat trout FAQ
Where can I catch Colorado River cutthroat trout?
Most wild populations are in high-elevation streams and lakes in Colorado, Utah and Wyoming. State wildlife agencies list many native cutthroat waters.
What flies work for Colorado River cutthroat?
Attractor dries like the Royal Wulff, Stimulator and Parachute Adams work well. Small nymphs, ants and beetles are good backups.
How big do Colorado River cutthroat get?
Stream fish are often 6 to 12 inches. Some lakes hold fish of 16 inches or more.
Are Colorado River cutthroat protected?
They are a native species of conservation concern, and many waters have special rules like catch-and-release. Check state regulations.
What rod should I use for high-country cutthroat?
A 7- to 8-foot 3- or 4-weight is ideal for small streams. A 5-weight helps with wind on alpine lakes.
When is the best time to fish the high country?
July through September, after snowmelt, is usually best. Lakes may stay iced over into early summer at the highest elevations.
