GOLDEN TROUT

The Golden Trout is a true alpine treasure, native only to the high-altitude waters of the southern Sierra Nevada Mountains in California. It’s California’s state fish, prized by anglers not just for its stunning appearance, but also for the adventure it takes to catch one. Most Golden Trout live in remote streams and lakes that require long hikes, offering an incredible wilderness fishing experience.

Golden Trout are small but radiant, with a glowing golden body, bold red stripes along the lateral line and belly, and scattered dark spots mostly near the tail. They were once considered a subspecies of rainbow trout, but today stand on their own — a symbol of fragile wilderness ecosystems.

While they’ve been introduced in high-mountain lakes across western states, pure wild Golden Trout are only found in California’s headwater streams, and conserving them is a high priority due to habitat loss and hybridization.

Record Size: 11 lbs (introduced population)

Where to Find Them: Remote mountain streams, glacial lakes, especially above 8,500 feet in elevation

1. Golden Trout are only native to California, in the Kern River headwaters.
   
   

2. They’ve been called “the most beautiful trout in the world.”
   
   

3. Despite their size, catching one is considered a lifetime achievement for many anglers.