No distinct side stripe. First introduced in California in 1894, brown trout have become abundant throughout the state. They feed on insects, crayfish, and other fish, including their own young. Because they grow quickly and are naturally wary, this trout can become quite large. In the warm months of the year they stay in the cooler, deeper areas of lakes and rivers.
Brown trout are very competitive and tend to crowd out other fish, including other trout.
The meat of this trout is often pink and is excellent eating. Bottom of gills have two distinct red stripes on each side. This cutthroat sub-species, native to the Truckee, Carson, and Walker River systems, is classified by the California Department of Fish and Game as a threatened species. Lahontan cutthroat prefer cold water lakes and rivers and feed on insects and smaller fish. Like other trout, cutthroats bite best in the early morning and evening hours.