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Artistic view of a Male Pteronarcys californica (Pteronarcyidae) (Giant Salmonfly) Stonefly Adult from the Gallatin River in Montana
Salmonflies
Pteronarcys californica

The giant Salmonflies of the Western mountains are legendary for their proclivity to elicit consistent dry-fly action and ferocious strikes.

Dorsal view of a Sweltsa (Chloroperlidae) (Sallfly) Stonefly Nymph from the Yakima River in Washington
This species was fairly abundant in a February sample of the upper Yakima.
27" brown trout, my largest ever. It was the sub-dominant fish in its pool. After this, I hooked the bigger one, but I couldn't land it.
Troutnut is a project started in 2003 by salmonid ecologist Jason "Troutnut" Neuswanger to help anglers and fly tyers unabashedly embrace the entomological side of the sport. Learn more about Troutnut or support the project for an enhanced experience here.

This small creek at the base of Storm King Mountain on the Olympic peninsula would not be noteworthy except that it's the only creek in which to catch the Crescenti Cutthroat, one of two salmonids (the other being a rainbow) endemic to Lake Crescent. Although no longer considered a separate subspecies from the Coastal Cutthroat, these fish are still slightly distinct in genetics and appearance from their cousins. In my experience, the fishing in the creek is not especially good, but it's scenic and there's a chance to catch a few of these unique trout. As far as I know, catch and release isn't legally required, but I strongly discourage anyone from taking one of these fish home for dinner.

Landscape & scenery photos from Barnes Creek

Barnes Creek in Washington
Marymere Falls is on a tributary of Barnes Creek. It's a massive tourist magnet. There was a group of people every 50-100 yards on the well-trodden trail to and from this falls, which is the first part of the access to Barnes Creek.

From Barnes Creek in Washington
Pretty little Crescenti Cutthroat x Beardslee Rainbow cutbow.
Barnes Creek in Washington
Barnes Creek in Washington
Barnes Creek in Washington
Barnes Creek in Washington
Barnes Creek in Washington
Barnes Creek in Washington
Barnes Creek in Washington
Barnes Creek in Washington
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