Illustration by Jose Curtice

Redband trout dwell in the waterways of Montana, Washington, Idaho, Oregon, California and Nevada. The Redband trout evolved in a harsh, high desert habitat and can endure higher water temperatures that other fish cannot. Though very adaptable, redband trout continue to disappear because of destroyed habitats and competition from other kinds of fish. Redband trout look a lot like rainbow trout, with a reddish-orange band of color along their sides. Another special characteristic of the redband are the larger, oval “parr” marks that last into adulthood, and the bright white tips of the fins. Redband trout prefer small, cool streams with plenty of natural cover. Like other trout, they feed on insects, crustaceans and smaller fish.
(adapted from the Native Fish column in Trout magazine, written by Gregg Patterson)