golden-trout
Species Facts

Science Name: Oncorhynchus aguabonita
Other Names: Kern River trout, mountain trout
Ideal Temp: 58 to 62
World Record: 11 lbs. WY
Environment: streams and lakes
Techniques: light tackle, fly
Range: This fish is found at high elevations in a small area of east-central California
Description

This is the most colorful of all trout. The sides are bright gold, with a crimson streak that runs from the gill plate almost to the tail. The back, tail, and dorsal fin have black spots. All lower fins have white tips. Golden trout were originally limited to lakes and streams located in altitudes over 6000 feet, but they have since been stocked in lower-lying bodies of water. Transplanted fish tend to show less color.

Subspecies Experts disagree in taxonomy of golden trout, but most recognize subspecies, the South Fork Kern River golden, and the Little Kern River golden.

Hybrids Often hybridizes with rainbow and occasionally with cutthroat.

Table Quality The pinkish flesh is slightly oilier than that of most other trout, but is excellent when eaten fresh or smoked. It does not keep well for extended periods.

Habitat Originally, golden trout were found only in cold mountain lakes and streams about an elevation of 6,000 feet. But they have been stocked in many small lakes at lower elevations. Then can tolerate temperatures up to 72, but most of their waters do not get that warm. They prefer water of about 58 to 62F.

Food Habits The diet consists mainly of small crustaceans and adult and immature insects, especially caddisflies and midges.

Spawning Habits Golden trout spawn in early to mid-summer, usually at a water temperature of about 50F. Steam-dwelling fish spawn in the stream itself or in small tributaries. Lake dwellers spawn in inlets or outlets. The female digs several redds, usually at the tail of a pool, and deposits eggs in each. After spawning, the adults return to their home pools or to the lake.

Age and Growth Golden trout grow slowly. In most waters, the maximum life span is 7 years, with the fish topping off at less than I pound.

Tips for Fishing

The mystique surrounding golden trout makes them highly desired game fish. They are most common in mountainous areas accessible only by hiking. Good fighters for their size, goldens can be very fussy, taking only flies that closely match the insects they are eating. They can also be caught on tiny spinners and spoons, and on natural baits such as worms, crustaceans, insects and salmon eggs.