Bull trout 101: What anglers should know about this protected Idaho species
For many anglers, bull trout remain a mystery. While they can be common in remote streams, bull trout aren’t often found in frequented fisheries. I’m a prime example — I fish more than most, and I’ve only tangled with a small handful of bull trout over the years.
A recent note from a reader reminded me there is still a lot of misinformation out there when it comes to bull trout. And when another reader sent a photo of his son holding a nearly 30-inch whopper, I figured it was time to devote a column to this protected Idaho species.
What’s a bull trout? Let’s start with the basics. Bull trout are actually char, a related species of salmonid that prefers cold water. It’s a common misnomer — brook trout and Mackinaw trout are also char. Bull trout are also referred to as Dolly Varden at times. There is some debate, but most biologists differentiate Dolly Varden and bull trout as separate, closely related char species.
Why are they protected? Bull trout were listed as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act in 1998. In Idaho, that means bull trout fishing is allowed, but harvest is not. Because they prey upon young salmon and steelhead, bull trout and Dolly Varden were aggressively overfished in the early 1900s. Their habitat has also been impacted by mining and dams. Despite their threatened status, bull trout populations are thriving in many of Idaho’s cool, clear mountain drainages. There has been talk of potentially reopening harvest in Idaho in the future, but for now, they remain protected.
Can we fish for them? Yes. There are no rules against intentionally targeting bull trout. Not many anglers do, but bulls possess many desirable qualities — most notably their large size (fish over 30 inches are possible) and aggressive attitudes (adults feed almost exclusively on smaller fish). Fish-imitating lures including Rapalas, spinners, spoons, swimbaits and streamers make good bull trout tackle. When targeting bull trout (or any catch-and-release species), artificial lures and barbless hooks are a good idea.
Where can I catch a bull trout? Prepare to go off the grid. Bull trout prefer the clear, cool waters of Idaho’s central mountains. They are common in the Salmon River drainage and many of the small streams that crisscross Idaho’s rugged mountain terrain. They can also be found in select alpine lakes. From the Treasure Valley, the nearest fisheries where anglers might encounter a bull trout are the South Fork Boise River and the tributaries of Arrowrock and Lucky Peak reservoirs.
What do I do if I catch one? Bull trout should always be handled with extreme care — the penalty for accidentally killing one can be the same as intentionally poaching one. Limit their time out of the water, snap a quick picture and release them unharmed. The state catch-and-release record program allows you to get your name in the books without harvesting the fish, too. The current mark is 30.5 inches.
How do I identify a bull trout? Usually, it’s not too difficult. Their blue-grey bodies with orange-pink spots and white-tipped fins are unique in most of the waters they inhabit. The difficulty comes when other char species are present, as they look alike and also hybridize, further muddying the waters. I experienced this first-hand on an ice fishing trip to Warm Lake. The bottom line? If you are fishing where bull trout live, learn how to recognize them. And if you don’t know, let it go!
Tight lines!
You’re Invited to Panfish School!
My next fishing class is set for Sept. 29 at the Hilton Garden Inn Boise Spectrum. Panfish School will focus on the top lures, locations and strategies for catching bluegill, crappie and perch in Idaho waters. Get all the details and sign up on at www.tightlines208.com.
Jordan Rodriguez has been fishing Idaho waters since he was a teen. Share your fish stories, adventures, tips and tricks with him at tightlinesboise@gmail.com or visit www.tightlines208.com.