By Greg Thomas

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Bull trout numbers declined severely in the 1980s and 1990s, but the trout are making a comeback thanks to their protected status. In Idaho anglers may specifically target bull trout, but they may not keep the fish. In Montana anglers may target bull trout only in the Hungry Horse Reservoir, in Swan Lake, and on the South Fork Flathead River. In each state, bull trout must be immediately released after capture.

We can't tell you exactly where we went, but here's a hint: try the Clearwater River system and its abundant tributaries. Some other top Idaho bull trout streams are the Selway and Lochsa rivers, the North Fork Clearwater River, St. Joe River, and Kelly Creek.

Also note that in British Columbia anglers catch plenty of bull trout, including some 15-pound brutes in the Elk River system near the town of Fernie.