This new certified-weight record for Westslope cutthroat trout shocked fish biologists.

When Luke Anderson of Moscow headed to the St. Maries River in search of Westslope cutthroat trout, setting a new state record was probably the last thing on his mind. Or was it?

While Luke is officially Idaho's newest certified-weight state record holder, Westslope cutthroat trout in Idaho grow much larger than his 13.6-inch, sub-one-pound fish. Idaho's current catch-and-release state record, caught in Lake Pend Oreille, measured 27 inches, while the certified-weight record just across the border in Washington stands at 4.71 pounds.

So why is Idaho's certified-weight record for one of its most iconic native trout species so small? The answer involves decades of fisheries management history, but also includes changes to the State Record Fish Program.

Luke deserves congratulations for securing his place in the record books, and he’s also a part of the bigger conservation story of one of Idaho's favorite native trout.

We know you have questions, which is why you should check out the link below for the full story. https://idfg.idaho.gov/.../new-certified-weight-record...