Golden Trout of South Fork Kern and Golden Trout Creek
According to Behnke (2002), the South Fork Kern and Golden Trout Creek goldens likely invaded these streams about 70,000 years ago, and were isolated ever since. For whatever reason, they evolved a spectacular coloration--surely some of the most beautiful trout in the world.
Unfortunately, many (perhaps all) have been hybridized with rainbow trout, due to misguided stocking practices in the 1950s and 1960s. Nevertheless, the California Department of Fish and Game has made valiant efforts over the years to protect these fish in their native streams through fish removals and the construction of fish barriers. And because of that, you can still find fish in these streams with very little evidence of hybridization.
On the deep gold foundation, the crimson belly and throat, the red lateral line, and the brassy green back are stunning in their intensity. The fins are usually orange, and a dark border frames a white tip on the pelvic, anal, and dorsal fins. The golden trout from the South Fork of the Kern and Golden Trout Creek usually have fewer spots than those of the Little Kern. What spots they do have are usually large, rounded, and concentrated on the caudal peduncle.
The California Department of Fish and Game stocked golden trout throughout the state in the 1950s and 1960s, and even shared some with other states in the West, so don't be surprised if you find them well outside their native range. Every one of the transplanted populations, unfortunately, has been hybridized with rainbows to some degree, but there is still no mistaking them
The Golden Trout Wilderness is difficult to access, but if you can get yourself in there, you can still fish for these trout in their native range. And it's supposed to be a spectacular area, even if you don't catch any fish. The last time I checked, it was open to fishing from the last Saturday in April until November 15, artificial flies and lures only. Check with the California Department of Fish and Game, though, before casting your line.
There may be more information on these fish in the forums, trip reports, and other posts. Click here.
Oncorhynchus mykiss
Oncorhynchus mykiss aguabonita
