The Official Montana State Fish

Blackspotted cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii)

The Oncorhynchus clarkii, or Blackspotted cutthroat trout, is a species of fish that is native to the western United States and Canada. It is commonly found in the cold, clear streams and lakes of Montana, making it a fitting choice for the state fish. This species is named after William Clark, who along with Meriwether Lewis, first documented the fish during their famous expedition in the early 1800s.

One interesting fact about the Blackspotted cutthroat trout is that it is the only native trout species in Montana. It has distinctive black spots on its back and sides, with a reddish-pink stripe along its lower jaw. The males of this species develop a bright red coloration on their throats during the spawning season, giving them the name "cutthroat." They are also known for their excellent jumping ability, often leaping out of the water to catch insects or avoid predators.

Another unique aspect of this fish is its life cycle. Unlike other trout species, the Blackspotted cutthroat trout has a relatively short lifespan, typically living only 3-4 years. They spawn in the spring, traveling upstream to lay their eggs, and then return to their home streams to spend the rest of their lives.

The Blackspotted cutthroat trout was designated as the official state fish of Montana in 1977. This decision was made due to its cultural and historical significance to the state, as well as its importance in the local ecosystem. Unfortunately, this species has faced challenges due to habitat destruction, overfishing, and competition with non-native species. However, conservation efforts and regulation of fishing have helped to stabilize the population and maintain its status as the Montana state fish.

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