The Basics of Trout Identification: A Must-Watch Video for Fly Anglers from Huge Fly Fisherman

The Basics of Trout Identification: A Must-Watch Video for Fly Anglers from Huge Fly Fisherman

Whether you’re casting for native cutthroat in the Middle Fork of the Salmon River or chasing rainbows in a Montana freestone, knowing how to identify your catch is a skill that elevates your experience. That’s why we’re excited to highlight The Basics of Trout Identification, a YouTube video by Ben Sittig, aka Huge Fly Fisherman.
This engaging, informative video is a goldmine for anglers of all levels, blending science, practical tips, and humor. Here’s why it’s a must-watch and how it can level up your fly fishing in 2025.
Why Trout Identification Matters

Identifying trout isn’t just about logging your catch or impressing your fishing buddies. It’s about understanding the species you’re targeting, their behaviors, and their habitats, which directly impact your fly choices and techniques. Mistaking a cutthroat for a rainbow could mean using the wrong pattern or, worse, violating species-specific regulations in sensitive waters. Plus, knowing your trout fosters a deeper respect for the ecosystems we fish, especially in wild places like the Middle Fork.
Ben Sittig, a Colorado-based guide with a fisheries biology degree, delivers a masterclass in this video. His expertise and witty delivery make complex topics accessible, whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned angler.
What You’ll Learn from The Basics of Trout Identification
Clocking in at around 10 minutes, this video packs a punch with actionable insights on identifying common trout species in North American waters. Here’s what you’ll take away:
  1. Key Physical Traits:
    • Sittig breaks down how to spot differences in coloration, spotting patterns, and fin characteristics across species like rainbow, brown, cutthroat, brook, and even quirky variants like palomino trout. For instance, he highlights the red throat slash of cutthroat and the worm-like vermiculations on brook trout.
    • Clear visuals make it easy to translate these lessons to the river.
  2. Taxonomy 101:
    • With his biology background, Sittig simplifies trout taxonomy, explaining how species fit into the salmonid family and clarifying terms like “char” (e.g., brook trout) versus true trout.
    • This context helps you understand why certain trout prefer specific habitats or feeding patterns.
  3. Avoiding Common Mix-Ups:
    • Sittig tackles frequent errors, like confusing cutbows (cutthroat-rainbow hybrids) with pure rainbows. He also delivers a humorous reality check on “palomino trout,” often just hatchery-bred oddities.
  4. Field-Ready Tips:
    • The video offers quick identification tricks for the water, such as checking spotting above or below the lateral line or looking for white fin edges. These are perfect for fast decisions when handling a fish.
  5. Conservation Awareness:
    • Sittig subtly emphasizes the value of protecting wild and native trout, aligning with MiddleForkFly’s commitment to sustainable angling in pristine watersheds.
Why Huge Fly Fisherman Nails It
Sittig’s approach is a winning mix of education and entertainment. His snarky humor keeps you hooked, whether he’s poking fun at angler egos or giving a nod to trout expert Dr. Robert Behnke. As a guide in Colorado—home to a diverse trout population—he grounds the science in real-world experience. Viewers rave about the balance, with comments calling it “informative and entertaining” and dubbing Sittig “Huge” for his outsized impact.

His fisheries biology degree adds credibility, ensuring the info is accurate without feeling like a lecture. It’s the kind of video you’ll rewatch before a trip to brush up on your skills.
Why This Matters for Middle Fork Anglers
For those fishing the Middle Fork of the Salmon or similar Western rivers, trout identification is critical. Our waters host native westslope cutthroat, rainbow trout, and occasionally bull trout (a protected char species). Sittig’s video helps you:
  • Spot Native Species: Distinguishing westslope cutthroat from rainbows ensures you follow Idaho’s catch-and-release rules for natives while appreciating their unique beauty.
  • Fine-Tune Tactics: Cutthroat often rise to surface flies, while rainbows may key in on nymphs. Knowing your target species guides your fly box, from Parachute Adams to Pheasant Tails.
  • Stay Legal: Bull trout, sometimes mistaken for brook trout, are protected in the Middle Fork. Sittig’s tips on their lack of white fin edges help you avoid costly mistakes.
How to Apply This on the Water
After watching The Basics of Trout Identification, here’s how to put Sittig’s lessons to work on your next Middle Fork adventure:
  1. Prep Ahead:
    • Study the video to memorize traits of cutthroat, rainbow, and bull trout. Focus on spotting patterns (e.g., cutthroat’s sparse lower-body spots) and fin colors.
    • Review Idaho Fish and Game rules for the Middle Fork to understand species-specific regulations.
  2. Observe in Action:
    • When you hook a fish, take a moment to check its features. Look for a throat slash, spot distribution, or fin edges, as Sittig suggests.
    • Snap a quick photo if you’re unsure, then compare it to the video later for practice.
  3. Build on the Basics:
    • Pair Sittig’s insights with MiddleForkFly’s local knowledge. Our guides can help you match flies to species, like using caddis dries for surface-feeding cutthroat.
    • Keep a small field guide or laminated cheat sheet in your pack for quick reference.
Why You Should Watch Now
The Basics of Trout Identification is more than a tutorial—it’s a gateway to becoming a more confident, informed angler. Whether you’re fishing the Middle Fork’s crystal-clear pools or exploring new waters, this video equips you to identify your catch with precision, respect the resource, and make smarter decisions on the fly. At MiddleForkFly, we love resources that blend education with passion for the sport, and Huge Fly Fisherman delivers exactly that.
So, grab a coffee, settle in for 10 minutes, and watch The Basics of Trout Identification. Then hit the Middle Fork with newfound skills and a deeper appreciation for the trout we chase. Got questions about applying these tips or planning your next trip? Reach out to MiddleForkFly—we’re here to help you make every cast count.
Tight lines!
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