Officially designated as Montana's state fish, the Westslope Cutthroat's historical range included all of Montana west of the Continental Divide, as well as the upper Missouri River drainage. The average size of these fish is 6 to 16 inches, depending on habitat. It is often difficult to distinguish the westslope from other cutthroat species, but it tends to have more small spots by the tail and none by the pectoral fin. Also, the Westslope Cutthroat Trout is more of a silvery or greenish color than other cutthroats.
Summary
Officially designated as Montana's state fish, the Westslope Cutthroat's historical range included all of Montana west of the Continental Divide, as well as the upper Missouri River drainage. The average size of these fish is 6 to 16 inches, depending on habitat. It is often difficult to distinguish the westslope from other cutthroat species, but it tends to have more small spots by the tail and none by the pectoral fin. Also, the Westslope Cutthroat Trout is more of a silvery or greenish color than other cutthroats.