Bull Trout

The Bull Trout, salvelinus confluentus, is a member of the char family, along with Brook Trout and Lake Trout. Native to western North America the Bull Trout is known as a voracious predator of other fishes. This fish may reach large size especially in deep lakes with forage fish available. Bulls also eat insects, crustaceans, and mollusks. They require cold, clear, running water.

The Bull Trout and the Dolly Varden have been confused with one another because they are very similar in appearance. The Bull Trout is so named because of its blocky, flat head that occurs in larger fish.

The background color of Bull Trout is gray infused with green. The body is covered with small white and/or pale yellow spots. Some individuals have red or pink spots. The best way to identify a Bull Trout is lack of black spots on the tail fin. In lakes with prey available they can reach sizes of 28 to 36 inches, and weigh 10 to 20 pounds or more. The largest Bull Trout occur in lakes with a population of Kokanee salmon. They can live to be 20 years old and more.

Bulls generally are found on the bottom of whatever body of water they are in.

Special note: The Bull Trout is a protected species in Idaho. It is on the US Endangered Species List. All fish caught must be released unharmed back into the water. For heavens sake, don't get caught with one of these fish in your creel!

Pend Orielle Lake holds the world record Bull Trout at 32 lbs.