How Big Do Trout Have to Be to Keep – Knowing the Legal Size Limits

Introduction

Trout are a popular game fish that can be found in many lakes and rivers throughout North America. For anglers looking to take home their catch, knowing the size limits for keeping trout is important. In this article, we explore the various types of trout, their size requirements for keeping, and useful tips for selecting the right size trout.

Types of Trout and Their Size Requirements for Keeping

Trout come in a variety of species, each with its own size requirements for keeping. The most common types of trout include brown trout, rainbow trout, brook trout, and cutthroat trout.

Brown Trout

Brown trout are among the largest of the trout species, typically reaching lengths of up to 30 inches. Depending on the state, the minimum size requirement for keeping brown trout ranges from 12 to 18 inches.

Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout are smaller than brown trout, usually growing to between 8 and 20 inches in length. The minimum size requirement for keeping rainbow trout generally ranges from 10 to 14 inches, depending on the state.

Brook Trout

Brook trout are smaller than both brown and rainbow trout, typically measuring between 6 and 16 inches in length. The minimum size requirement for keeping brook trout generally ranges from 7 to 12 inches, depending on the state.

Cutthroat Trout

Cutthroat trout are the smallest of the trout species, usually measuring between 6 and 14 inches in length. The minimum size requirement for keeping cutthroat trout generally ranges from 8 to 14 inches, depending on the state.

Understanding the Regulations on Trout Size Limits

In addition to state regulations, there are also federal regulations governing the size limits for keeping trout. Anglers should familiarize themselves with both federal and state regulations when determining the size limits for keeping trout.

Federal Regulations

The federal regulations for trout size limits vary by species. For example, the federal regulation for keeping brown trout is 12 inches, while the federal regulation for keeping rainbow trout is 14 inches.

State Regulations

In addition to federal regulations, states may also have their own regulations regarding the size limits for keeping trout. Anglers should check with their state’s wildlife agency to determine the size limits for keeping trout in their area.

The Science Behind the Size of Trout You Can Keep

In order to understand the size limits for keeping trout, it’s important to understand the science behind their growth, migration patterns, and spawning habits. These factors all play a role in determining the size of trout you can keep.

Growth Rates

Trout can grow quickly, with some species reaching lengths of up to 30 inches. However, the rate of growth varies by species and environmental conditions. Factors such as water temperature, food availability, and predation can all affect the growth rate of trout.

Migration Patterns

Trout can migrate long distances in search of food or suitable spawning grounds. This means that anglers may encounter trout of different sizes depending on the time of year or location they are fishing in.

Spawning Habits

Trout spawn in the spring and early summer months. During this time, trout are more likely to be found in shallow waters where they can lay their eggs. As a result, anglers may encounter smaller trout during this period.

How to Measure the Size of Trout Before Keeping Them

Before keeping a trout, anglers should always measure it to ensure it meets the size requirements. There are several methods for measuring the size of trout, including using a ruler, fish tape, or fish caliper.

Using a Ruler

Using a ruler is the simplest way to measure the size of a trout. Place the ruler against the side of the trout and measure from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail.

Measuring with a Fish Tape

Fish tapes are specialized tools used for measuring the length of fish. They are often more accurate than rulers, as the tape can be wrapped around the body of the fish to get an exact measurement.

Measuring with a Fish Caliper

Fish calipers are another tool used for measuring the size of fish. Calipers work by clamping onto the body of the fish and providing an exact measurement. This method is ideal for larger trout, as it can provide an accurate measurement without damaging the fish.

Tips for Selecting Trout That Meet the Size Requirements for Keeping

When selecting trout to keep, anglers should follow these tips to ensure they select ones that meet the size requirements:

Know the Regulations

Anglers should familiarize themselves with the federal and state regulations regarding the size limits for keeping trout. This will help them avoid unintentionally taking home a trout that is too small.

Choose Larger Fish

When selecting trout to keep, anglers should choose those that are larger than the minimum size requirement. This will help ensure that the trout they take home meet the legal size limits.

Check the Waters Before Fishing

Anglers should also check the waters before fishing to ensure they are not fishing in areas where the trout are too small. This will help them avoid inadvertently catching a trout that is too small to keep.

Conclusion

Knowing the size limits for keeping trout is important for anglers looking to take home their catch. Different types of trout have varying size requirements, so anglers should familiarize themselves with the regulations before fishing. Additionally, anglers should use a ruler, fish tape, or fish caliper to measure the size of a trout before keeping it. Following these tips will help anglers find the perfect sized trout for their needs.