Trout is the common name for freshwater fish species. They are native to the Northern Hemisphere and have been widely introduced to other locations of the globe. The ones living in different environments can have drastically different colors and patterns. They can even rapidly change color to camouflage, and get darker when feeling aggressive, and lighter when being submissive.

When Mama Trout and Papa Trout spawn Mama fish buries her eggs in a gravel nest scooped on a streambed. Sometimes on our hikes up in the mountains, we come across them spawning as they swiftly scurry away. Sorry, kids. We were just nerding out and didn’t mean to cause coitus interruptus. Next time, use a “Do Not Disturb” sign to prevent blue balls.

As “oily fish” Trout are nutrient-dense and offer a variety of health benefits, especially for the heart and the brain. Being low in mercury they are a safe addition to your diet for fulfilling your body’s need for B-complex vitamins, vitamin D, potassium, omega-3 fatty acids, and last but definitely not least, whole protein.

Even wildlife including brown bears, and birds of prey such as eagles and osprey find fish desirable. As a matter of fact, living a few yards away from the Bitterroot River, we often see ospreys and eagles dive into the river and fly away with a fish firmly clenched in their talons. Sometimes the fish wiggles too much and slips away, so our patient bird tries to retrieve it once the coast is clear to land on the ground.

If you like your fish dinner cooked and more sophisticated than the eagle’s, follow our Smoked Trout and Dill Walnut recipe. The walnuts add a mildly tangy and earthy flavor to the fish while keeping the pesto under budget because as you probably know pine nuts are worth their weight in gold, and frankly, I think walnuts taste better. The dill herb mix takes your pesto to the next level. These wild-tasting nuts are made in small batches to ensure optimum quality, they help boost your immune system and help keep your heart healthy, and best of all, they are fun to munch on! Grab yourself a bag and let the fun begin!