Cutthroat Trout is a popular game fish species that is found in Wyoming’s rivers and streams. Many anglers are curious about the regulations regarding keeping Cutthroat Trout in Wyoming. In this article, we will explore the rules and regulations regarding keeping Cutthroat Trout in Wyoming.
What is a Cutthroat Trout?
Cutthroat Trout is a species of trout that is native to the western United States. They are named for the distinctive red slash under their jaws, which resembles a cut. Cutthroat Trout are highly prized by anglers for their fighting ability and delicious taste.
Can You Keep Cutthroat Trout in Wyoming?
The short answer is yes, you can keep Cutthroat Trout in Wyoming, but there are several rules and regulations that you must follow.
Regulations
In Wyoming, there are different regulations depending on where you catch your Cutthroat Trout. For example, if you catch a Cutthroat Trout in Yellowstone National Park, you must release it immediately. However, if you catch a Cutthroat Trout outside of the park boundaries, you may keep it as long as it meets certain length requirements.
The length requirements vary depending on the specific waterway where you caught the fish. For example, if you catch a Cutthroat Trout on the Green River below Fontenelle Dam, it must be at least 15 inches long to keep. On the other hand, if you catch a Cutthroat Trout on Big Sandy River above Big Sandy Reservoir, it must be at least 8 inches long to keep.
It’s important to note that some waters have special regulations that may limit or prohibit keeping any fish at all. It’s always best to check with local authorities or consult fishing regulations before heading out to fish.
Limits
In addition to length requirements, there are also limits on how many Cutthroat Trout you can keep. In Wyoming, the daily limit for Cutthroat Trout varies depending on the specific waterway where you’re fishing. For example, on the Snake River below Jackson Lake Dam, the daily limit is two Cutthroat Trout.
It’s crucial to follow these limits and regulations to ensure that Cutthroat Trout populations remain healthy for future generations of anglers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, yes, you can keep Cutthroat Trout in Wyoming, but there are regulations that you must follow. These regulations include length requirements and daily limits, which vary depending on where you’re fishing.
It’s important to always check local regulations and consult with local authorities before heading out to fish for Cutthroat Trout. By following these rules, we can ensure that Cutthroat Trout populations remain healthy for years to come.
