What Are Sea-Run Cutthroat?
Yes, sea-run cutthroat trout exist. They are coastal cutthroat that migrate between rivers and nearby saltwater, feeding in estuaries and along beaches before returning to freshwater. They are found along the Pacific coast of North America, from northern California through Oregon, Washington and British Columbia to Alaska. They tend to be silvery with fine spotting, so they can look quite different from resident river cutthroat.
Short Answer on Timing
There is no single date that applies everywhere. Many anglers find the best fishing in rivers and estuaries from late summer through fall, when fish return to freshwater, with additional opportunities in spring in some systems. Local timing varies by river, year and run, so check regional reports and regulations before planning a trip.
Seasonal Overview
- Spring: Some fish are in estuaries and nearshore areas feeding on small fish, shrimp and, in some systems, outmigrating young salmon. Regulations on seasonal closures vary widely.
- Summer: Fish may be feeding in saltwater or estuaries, and early returns can start in some rivers.
- Fall: Often a popular time in rivers and tidal sections, as cutthroat return to freshwater and feed on salmon eggs and flesh where salmon are spawning (see the best time for salmon fishing for run timing).
- Winter: Some rivers hold fish, though water conditions can be challenging, and many waters have restrictions.
Tides and Time of Day
In estuaries and saltwater beaches, tide matters more than clock time. Moving water around a tide change often concentrates bait and fish, and many anglers fish the hours around high tide or the top of the incoming tide, though local patterns differ. Low light at dawn and dusk is generally productive, as with other trout. A tide table is as useful as a weather forecast; see what tides are best to fish for how incoming and outgoing water differ.
Fishing Estuaries
Look for river mouths, channel edges, oyster beds, eelgrass edges, logs and structure where fish ambush baitfish. Cast along edges and retrieve at a slow to medium pace. Be careful of tide and mud flats, which can strand people.
Fishing Rivers
In lower rivers, work pools, tailouts, log jams and undercut banks. Many of the same approaches described in how to fish for rainbow trout in a river apply, including approaching quietly and covering water. After heavy rain, see fishing for trout in muddy water.
Tackle, Flies and Lures
Light to medium-light spinning gear or a 5 to 6 weight fly rod is typical. Small spoons, spinners and minnow-style lures work, as do streamers that imitate baitfish, shrimp or small herring (see minnow fly patterns for trout), and egg or flesh patterns in fall around spawning salmon where allowed. Rinse saltwater from reels and gear after each trip. For rod selection, see best trout fishing rod.
Is Cutthroat Good Eating?
Many people find cutthroat tasty, but sea-run populations are sensitive in some areas, and many waters require release. Check regulations and any health advisories before keeping fish.
Regulations and Release
Rules for sea-run cutthroat are often specific, with size limits, closures, selective gear rules and mandatory release in many places. Check the current rules from your state or provincial agency and handle fish gently if releasing.
What About Salmon in Puget Sound?
Salmon seasons in Puget Sound change frequently by area and year. Look up the current rules from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife before fishing, and keep salmon and trout rules separate, since cutthroat may be protected while salmon seasons are open.