Utah Cutthroat Slam Celebrates Record Year with New Medallion Release

The Utah Cutthroat Slam has achieved a milestone year in 2024, with a record-breaking 328 completions and the release of its newest medallion. Launched in 2016 by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources and Utah Trout Unlimited, the slam invites anglers to catch Utah’s four native cutthroat trout subspecies within their native ranges. Funds raised through registrations support conservation and outreach for these iconic fish.

To date, the slam has attracted over 5,700 registered participants from 48 U.S. states and beyond, generating more than $106,000 for cutthroat trout restoration. Since its inception, anglers have completed the challenge 1,632 times, with increasing enthusiasm fueled by the unique medallions awarded to successful participants.

Initially, a single medallion was presented to the first 1,000 anglers completing the slam, a milestone reached in September 2022. In response to growing interest, a new series of medallions was introduced, each showcasing one of the four cutthroat trout subspecies. These medallions, featuring artwork by Tim Johnson, have quickly become a coveted prize among fishing enthusiasts.

The first medallion in the series depicted the Colorado River cutthroat trout and was awarded to the next 250 completers in just 14 months. The Yellowstone cutthroat trout medallion followed, distributed over 10 months until the milestone of 1,500 completions was reached earlier this year.

On Friday, the third medallion, highlighting the Bear River cutthroat trout, was unveiled. This medallion will be awarded to the next 250 anglers who complete the slam, bringing the total number of completions to 1,750.

Program leaders credit the slam’s success to the collaboration between the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources and Utah Trout Unlimited. “Anglers love the subspecies-specific medallions,” said Brett Prettyman, Utah Cutthroat Slam Program Director in a press release. “The real reward is hearing about families and friends making lifetime memories while completing the challenge.”

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For those eager to join the adventure, registration and information are available on the Utah Cutthroat Slam website.