Fin's Fish Guide
The River trout (Salmo trutta fario) is a freshwater fish of the family Salmonidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Cool streams and rivers of Europe, North Africa and western Asia; stocked in many places for angling.
Description
The river trout is the resident form of the Atlantic trout (Salmo trutta): it spends its whole life in cool, oxygen-rich streams and rivers and does not migrate to sea. River trout are bronze to yellowish brown with black and often red, pale-ringed spots and a reddish edge to the adipose fin. They usually grow to 20 to 40 cm and rarely exceed 50 cm. The fish holds its own spot, often behind a stone or under an overhanging bank, and hunts insects, crustaceans and small fish. In the Netherlands the river trout lives in fast-flowing streams in Limburg, the Achterhoek and the Veluwe.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the River trout?
The River trout has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Bronze-coloured trout with black and often red, pale-ringed spots, an adipose fin with a reddish edge and a fairly large mouth.
Where does the River trout live?
The River trout lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Cool streams and rivers of Europe, North Africa and western Asia; stocked in many places for angling.
How big does the River trout get?
The River trout grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the River trout dangerous to humans?
No, the River trout is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the River trout edible?
Yes, the River trout is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the River 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 River trout?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the River trout is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone