IDAHO – For those seeking a new way to explore the outdoors this summer, Idaho Fish and Game is promoting the Western Native Trout Challenge — a multi-state fishing adventure that supports native trout conservation across the western United States.
The challenge, hosted by the Western Native Trout Initiative (WNTI), invites anglers to catch native trout species across at least four states, with a minimum of six different species needed to complete the basic level. Idaho alone offers five eligible species: Redband Trout, Westslope Cutthroat, Yellowstone Cutthroat, Bonneville Cutthroat, and Bull Trout.
Registration costs $25, with $23 going directly to trout habitat restoration efforts, including migration barrier removal, habitat recovery, population surveys, and outreach programs.
Participants not only contribute to conservation but also get to experience remote and scenic areas throughout the West. Depending on travel plans, anglers may encounter Gila Trout in the Southwest, Rainbow Trout in Alaska, or Golden Trout in California.
The program is part of a broader effort under the National Fish Habitat Partnership, aimed at improving conditions for native fish species in 12 western states.
For more information or to sign up, visit the Western Native Trout Challenge website at westernnativetroutchallenge.org. Idaho-specific planning tools, including species maps and distribution data, are available via the Idaho Fishing Planner and Trout Challenge Maps Page.