Brown Trout Fishing
Coming to America from Europe and Asia in the 1880s, Brown trout can now be found throughout the country, and in many other countries and continents as well, which is why brown trout fishing is popular worldwide.
The scientific name is salmo trutta, and these fish can be recognized by their creamy-yellow sides, sometimes with reddish orange spots. Across the backs can be seen black spots with white circles and an adipose fin that is reddish-orange in color. You may find variations in the coloring and markings, as this one species has developed significant differences in its appearance. In fact, browns are known for being able to slightly alter the background color of their bodies as a camoflauge technique.
Brown trout can be caught anywhere from 6 inches to 36 inches, weighing 6 oz. up to more than 30 pounds. These fish can live more than 35 years, partly because of their adaptability to habitat and temperature.
Brown trout live in streams, rivers and lakes. They seldom are faced with an over fished issue, partly because they are harder to catch, but also because they tend to feed primarily at night or in the early morning hours. Their diet consists of a large variety of choices. In rivers and streams, the snails, crayfish and other fish pieces are eaten. When caddisflies and stoneflies are present, they are a big hit. In lakes, brown trout have the potential to grow to very large sizes because they feed on smelt and alewives. This species spawns in late fall, seeking gravel beds in shallow streams.
Fishing techniques to catch Brown trout are similar to those used for other species, such as rainbow. But more often than not, browns are much harder to catch. They have a reputation as being cunning and intellegent, but they are also territorial and sneaky. Many anglers find more success catching browns at dawn and dusk, and during the spawning season.
Lures, baits and flies are used much the same as with other trout species, but understanding the characteristics and natural tendencies of the individual variety will bring you added success. Also take into consideration the weather conditions as well as the season and time of day. All of these factors will help you discover what natural baits will be present and intriquing for the trout.
It doesn’t matter if you catch a brown with a worm, a spoon or a dry fly, the most exciting part begins with the hooking of the brown. This fish is different than his cousin the rainbow, who is notorious for his athletic demonstrations of high air acrobatics. The brown, on the other hand, tends to head for something in the water that is nearby; a rock, a log or weeds. Anything that he can get wrapped around, in an attempt to tangle and break your line. Too often, he is successful. Landing a brown is at least half the fun, and as soon as you have played the hide and seek game with him, you will understand why.
If you are hoping to capture a trophy brown trout, you need to know that there are two basic groups of browns. First, there is the group that feeds on insects and other bait drifting in the current. These fish get up to 12 inches in length, and are referred to as “drift feeders.” This group can be found resting on the bottom of the stream, waiting for food to come to them. Very rarely do drift feeders reach trophy size. On the other hand, the larger browns, those over 12 inches in length, can be found eating larger items such as baitfish, crayfish, frogs and other trout. This diet helps them reach such large sizes, often at the expense of other species, such as the brook trout.
Catching a brown trout is not only exciting and challenging, but very rewarding as well. The meat of this fish is pinkish in color and tastes delicious!
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