This article looks at the species commonly known as Snowtrout and points out some interesting facts for anglers looking to catch something a little exotic. Most species will succumb to the art of the fly fisherman and for those anglers who love their surroundings as much as their catch, fishing for these little beauties can be a wonderful experience.
- There are fifteen species of snow trout (or Snowtrout).
- It’s not worth listing them all here, but it’s worth noting that they all belong to the family Cyprinidae, which means that ichthyologists classify them as Minnow/Carps, not Salmonidae, the family that contains true salmon and trout.
- The snow trout species that grows the most is Diptychus maculatus, also known as the Scaly Osman. These can reach 70 centimeters in length. Scaly Osman is a recognized game fish and, although it feeds mainly on plants that cling to rocks in fast-flowing rivers and streams, they supplement this diet with invertebrates that inhabit this same environment. This means that the nymph is a great option.
- In all, four of the Snowtrout species are recognized as game fish. In addition to the scaly Osman above, there are also Dinnawah Snowtrout (Schizothorax progastus), Snow Trout (Schizothorax richardsonii), Chirruh Snowtrout (Schizopyge esocinus).
- Snow trout is a term used exclusively for species found in the high altitude rivers and streams of the mountain ranges collectively known as the Himalayas. Almost all species are found in some part of India, but the range includes Nepal, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Bhutan, Sikkim, China (Tibet), and Uzbekistan.
- Most Snowtrout species are herbivorous. Several species have evolved special apparatus to scrape algae and other vegetation away from stones. Only Dinnawah Snowtrout is recognized as a full-fledged carnivore.
- Both the Dinnawah Snowtrout and the Snow Trout are considered good to eat. This may not be the main factor in the decision to set out for the Himalayas in search of exotic species, but it is worth noting. It would be a shame to catch a few and not try them. Is there anything better than freshly caught fish yourself?
- Two of the species, the snow trout and the Sattar snow trout (Schizopyge curvifrons) can be found in commercial fisheries in the UK. Too bad the Dinnawah Snowtrout wasn’t brought along as well. Maybe there is a good reason for this.
- Most Snowtrout species are classified as moderately vulnerable. Those species that do not reach large sizes are generally classified as low vulnerability and, unsurprisingly, those that are recognized as game fish are classified as more vulnerable. That is an issue that fishermen should be concerned about.
- Lastly, all Snowtrout species are harmless to humans. Good to Know.