Fishing
Arctic Grayling Restoration Project
Fishing Regulations on Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge
Game Fish of Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge
Game Fish of Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge
Arctic Grayling
Native Arctic grayling are distinguished by large dorsal fin, larger scales than trout and forked tail. Spawns in the early spring. Historically, spawning runs of many thousands were seen in most streams of this area. Now, only a remnant population is found, mainly in Red Rock Creek. Aquatic insects and crustaceans form the bulk of the grayling’s diet. In 2010 the Arctic grayling population in the Centennial Valley were listed as a Candidate Species under the Threatened and Endangered Species Act. All grayling caught must be released immediately.
Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout
A non-native, Yellowstone cutthroat trout are distinguished by two red slash marks on the underside of jaw and large, round, black spots. Found primarily in Red Rock Creek. Spawns in the spring. Hybridizes readily with rainbow trout. Feeds mainly on aquatic insects and less frequently on small fishes.
Rainbow Trout
A non-native, rainbow trout are distinguished by pink side streaks and lack of red cutthroat jaw slashes. Spotting smaller and more irregularly shaped than cutthroat. Found primarily in Elk Springs Creek. Spawns in the spring. Feeds mainly on aquatic
Brook Trout
A non-native, brook trout are distinguished by numerous light colored "worm tracks" on the darker upper body and red spots with blue halos. Introduced from the eastern United States. Found throughout the Refuge waters. Spawns in the fall. Feeds mainly on aquatic invertebrates and small fishes.
Mountain Whitefish
A native member of the trout family that is distinguished
by a slender shape, large scales, silver color devoid of spots, and a small mouth that is
slightly downturned. Whitefish feed on insects, fish eggs, and small fishes. These fish
are fall spawners and can be found in Red Rock Creek.
