Taimen: a practical guide to the world’s largest trout
The Siberian taimen (Hucho taimen) is the largest member of the salmon family. Fish over 1.2 metres are caught every season in Mongolia, and legends speak of two-metre giants in remote headwaters.
Where to find them
Taimen live in cold, clean rivers of northern Mongolia — the Eg, Delger, Onon and upper Selenge systems are the best known. They hold in deep pools below riffles and ambush prey at dusk.
When to go
- Late June – July: after the spring spawning closure, fish are feeding hard, though rain can colour the water.
- September – early October: prime season. Cool water, stable levels, aggressive fish.
Catch and release
A mature taimen may be 20–30 years old. Every fish released is a fish that keeps the river alive.
Use single barbless hooks, keep the fish in the water, and support its belly when photographing. Taimen are protected in Mongolia and must be released.
