Know the Difference: Salmon and Brown Trout

Attention Anglers:

Know the Difference Between Salmon and Brown Trout

Migratory and landlocked Atlantic salmon juveniles and adults can be difficult to distinguish from brown trout. There are size and bag limit restrictions that differ for these two species; therefore, it is important to know how to identify them properly.

Young Salmon & Brown Trout

Here’s what you need to know:

Set young salmon free! Study these pictures and note the points of difference between young salmon and brown trout. If you catch a salmon parr or smolt, remove the hook gently and place the fish back in the water to grow up.

Atlantic Salmon Parr

Similar markings to a brown trout.

• Jawline extends to midpoint of eye
• No Spots on dorsal fin
• Adipose fin not tinged with red (greyish)
• Very forked tail

Brown Trout Parr

A colorful fish with red and black dots along its sides and very similar in appearance to salmon parr.

• Jawline extends to posterior of eye
• Spots usually evident on dorsal fin
• Adipose fin tinged with red
• Tail more rounded, less forked

Salmon Smolt

Almost totally silver. Generally lacks the vertical sidebars of the salmon parr or brown trout.

• Jaw extends to midpoint of eye
• Black spots on upper sides and cheeks
• Vey Forked tail.

Adult Salmon & Brown Trout

Here’s what you need to know:

The more obvious differences between adult salmon and brown trout may be found in the head and tail areas. Knowing them may help the angler release a fish more quickly. When in doubt about identifying adult salmon and brown trout, play it safe and release the fish unharmed.