Fin's Fish Guide
The Sea trout (Salmo trutta trutta) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Salmonidae that grows up to 140 cm.
Atlantic coast from northern Spain to the Barents Sea, the North Sea and the Baltic, and the rivers draining into them.
Description
The sea trout is the migratory form of the Atlantic trout (Salmo trutta). Young sea trout grow up for two to three years in streams and rivers, then turn into silvery 'smolts' and migrate to sea, where they grow fast on crustaceans and small fish. Adults are silvery with dark, often cross-shaped spots and can reach 140 cm. They return to the river where they were born to spawn on gravel beds in winter; the males then develop a hooked jaw. In the Netherlands sea trout pass through the large rivers, Lake IJssel and the North Sea Canal on their way to spawning streams in Germany and Belgium.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sea trout?
The Sea trout has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Silvery, streamlined trout with dark, often cross-shaped spots and an adipose fin; males develop a hooked jaw in the spawning season.
Where does the Sea trout live?
The Sea trout lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Atlantic coast from northern Spain to the Barents Sea, the North Sea and the Baltic, and the rivers draining into them.
How big does the Sea trout get?
The Sea trout grows to a maximum of about 140 cm. On average the species is around 72 cm.
Is the Sea trout dangerous to humans?
No, the Sea trout is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Sea trout edible?
Yes, the Sea trout is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Sea 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 Sea trout?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sea trout is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone