Bull Trout
Salvelinus confluentus
A federally protected char species of the Pacific Northwest, bull trout inhabit the coldest, cleanest rivers and lakes from Oregon to Montana. Where legal to target (regulations vary widely by state and water), bull trout are powerful predators that grow large and fight hard. Their strict habitat requirements make them an indicator species of watershed health, and catching one in its native range is a true wilderness fishing experience.
Seasonal Activity
Best Techniques
- streamer fishing
- trolling large plugs
- casting jerkbaits
- jigging
- bait fishing where legal
Top Baits
- large streamers
- jointed plugs
- jerkbaits
- large spoons
- cut bait where allowed
Fishing Regulations
Season dates and limits for Bull Trout, by state. This list may not cover every state yet — always confirm current rules with your state's wildlife agency before you fish.
Idaho 1 zone
Federally threatened. Catch-and-release only statewide. Must be released immediately unharmed.
Effective 2025 · Source: idfg.idaho.gov
Montana 1 zone
Federally threatened species. Catch-and-release only statewide. Must be released immediately.
Effective 2025 · Source: fwp.mt.gov
Oregon 1 zone
Federally threatened species. Catch-and-release only statewide. Must be released immediately if caught.
Effective 2025 · Source: myodfw.com
Washington 1 zone
Federally threatened. Catch-and-release only statewide. Must be released immediately unharmed.
Effective 2025 · Source: wdfw.wa.gov
Report an issue
See something wrong, missing, or out of date? Let us know — we read every report.