Fin's Fish Guide
The Brown trout (Salmo trutta) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Salmonidae that grows up to 140 cm.
Originally in Europe, North Africa and West Asia, in cool rivers, lakes and coastal waters; introduced worldwide.
Description
The Atlantic or brown trout (Salmo trutta) is a salmonid of the family Salmonidae with an adipose fin between the dorsal and tail fins and a body covered in black, often red-ringed spots. The species has two ways of life that also differ in appearance: the river trout spends its whole life in streams and rivers and rarely exceeds 50 cm, while the sea trout migrates to sea as a young fish and returns silvery and up to 140 cm long to spawn. Both forms can come from the same parents and each has its own page in the app. In the Netherlands river trout live in streams in Limburg, the Achterhoek and the Veluwe; migrating sea trout pass through the large rivers and Lake IJssel.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brown trout?
The Brown trout has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Salmonid with an adipose fin and black spots often ringed with red; occurs as a resident stream form and as the sea-migrating sea trout.
Where does the Brown trout live?
The Brown trout lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Originally in Europe, North Africa and West Asia, in cool rivers, lakes and coastal waters; introduced worldwide.
How big does the Brown trout get?
The Brown trout grows to a maximum of about 140 cm. On average the species is around 72 cm.
Is the Brown trout dangerous to humans?
No, the Brown trout is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Brown trout edible?
Yes, the Brown trout is a highly prized food fish.
Easily confused with
These species look like the Brown trout and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Salmo
More from the family Salmonidae
Want the complete picture on the Brown trout?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brown trout is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone