Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Units Program: Idaho
Education, Research and Technical Assistance for Managing Our Natural Resources

Idaho Project


Movement, mortality, and habitat use of westslope cutthroat trout in the South Fork Clearwater River watershed

January 2013 - December 2015


Personnel

Participating Agencies

  • Idaho Department of Fish and Game

Westslope cutthroat trout (WCT) are among the most popular sport fishes in Idaho. Although many systems in northern Idaho support high densities of large individuals, WCT in the South Fork Clearwater River are present at low density and few large fish are present. The leading hypothesis is that high temperatures are having a deleterious effects on WCT in the system. The purpose of this research is to provide insight on the the movement and habitat use of WCT in the South Fork Clearwater River basin using a combination of radiotelemetry and snorkeling techniques. Results of the study will be used by managers to better manage fish and habitat in the system.