The fins are white or yellow tipped and there is a slash of orange to yellow on the lower jaw. The Arizona trout is not a large fish, and thus is well suited for life in small streams. They seem to prefer small-sized streams at high elevations. The fish rely primarily on pool development, undercut banks and overhanging riparian vegetation for cover. Feeding habits of the Arizona trout seem to vary according to size.
Flies are the major food for sub-adult fish, while adults feed primarily on caddis flies.
Numerous land insects are also taken by all sizes of this fish. Currently, Arizona trout range is increasing due to joint conservation efforts by state and federal agencies and private organizations. The Arizona trout is listed as a Federally threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. The primary cause for listing is that it readily interbreeds with other members of the genus Salmo. To assure generic purity, all other trout must be removed from a location.