ALBERTA: WESTSLOPE CUTTHROAT TROUT

Why this is one of Canada’s must-have fishing experiences

Despite their geographically confusing name, Alberta’s westslope cutthroat trout are actually found on the eastern slopes of the Rockies. And while all trout are pretty, cutties may be the prettiest of all, with their arc of dark spots on flanks ranging from silver to yellow-green. Capping it all is that distinctive red-orange slash below the jaw, giving the fish their slightly gruesome moniker.

Native to Alberta’s Bow and Oldman River drainages—and stocked elsewhere—cutties are found in rivers ranging from mid-size down to tiny tributaries, plus a scattering of alpine lakes. And since they require especially clear, cold, clean water, these fish truly live up to that old adage about trout living in beautiful places. Food is relatively scarce in those waters, however, so cutties are typically hungry, and willing to take a whack at almost anything edible looking that drifts by or swims within range.

Alberta’s record cutthroat is a thunderous nine pounds, but most anglers would consider a two-pounder a trophy. Not that cutties are coveted for their size. Instead, fishing for westslope cutthroats offers the complete, classic trout experience: hiking into secluded, stunning surroundings and using simple fly-fishing or spinning gear to bring a magnificent little fish to hand.

WHEN TO GO: Mid-June to October

HOT TACTIC: Drifting dry flies in both lakes and rivers

LEARN MORE: www.travelalberta.com

THE HOT SPOTS

1. Blackstone River
2. Bow River
3. Carbondale River
4. Castle River system
5. Crowsnest River
6. Dutch Creek
7. Highwood River
8. Hummingbird Creek
9. Livingstone River
10. Lost Creek
11. Lynx Creek
12. North Ram River
13. Oldman River
14. Racehorse Creek
15. Rawson Lake
16. Rummell Lake
17. South Ram River
18. St. Mary River
19. Stenton Lake
20. Upper/Lower Kananaskis Lakes