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Yellowstone cutthroat trout

Conservation > Fisheries Management Yellowstone cutthroat trout

The Yellowstone cutthroat trout is one of two subspecies of native cutthroat found in the state. Together they have been designated Montana's state fish, the Blackspotted cutthroat trout. They have a golden coloration and larger spots more widely distributed on their sides than the Westslope cutthroat trout.

The Yellowstone cutthroat, as the name implies, is native to the Yellowstone River drainage of southwest and south-central Montana. Originally their range was as far downstream as the Tongue River, but today pure, unhybridized populations are limited to some headwaters streams and Yellowstone National Park.

Yellowstone cutthroat trout are a Montana Fish of Special Concern.

Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout: A Wild Survivor

Montana is famous for its trout. Anglers travel from around the world to fish our streams and lakes.

This is the story of one of Montana's native gems, the Yellowstone cutthroat trout.

Conservation Strategy

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and its conservation partners have developed a conservation strategy for Yellowstone cutthroat trout in Montana.

A companion document presenting the conservation strategy for the Shields River watershed is also available. These plans identify available information, data gaps, and propose conservation needs to protect or restore Yellowstone cutthroat trout within its historic range.

 

Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout Conservation Strategy for Montana

 

Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout Conservation Strategy for the Shields River Watershed above Chadbourne Diversion

Conservation documents