Primarily found in cold-water streams and rivers throughout the northern half of the United States, several different trout species provide excellent game for fishing. Any number of methods can be used for catching trout, ranging in difficulty from relatively easy live-bait fishing to the more challenging fly fishing. Knowing about these elusive creatures and how to catch them can make your next trout fishing trip more enjoyable and successful.
Types of Trout
There are several varieties of trout available within the United States. These include rainbow, cutthroat, brook, bull, brown and lake trout. Most species are found in clear, calm areas of streams and rivers. Trout can range in size from 10 to 12 inches to greater than 24 inches, depending upon the species. Many species of trout have been introduced to the United States, including the lake trout and brown trout, exclusively as a game fish.
Trout Behavior
Trout often congregate in calm waters, near large rocks, logs, or in deep holes. Some trout, such as the brook trout, are very aggressive. Others, such as the rainbow trout, tend to be more skittish. Trout are also wary fish. If they notice your shadow, or if you make too much noise they can be easily spooked. Trout often feed on insects that emerge at certain times of the year, such as mayfly or caddis fly. When fishing you may be able to use these flies as live bait or use artificial lures or flies that resemble these insects.
Tackle
A simple light or ultralight bait casting or spinning reel and rod with 4- to 6-pound fishing line and size 8 to 14 hooks can be used to fish for trout. In some areas, regulations may require that hooks be barbless. This requires more focus on catching the fish and constant tension on the line. Trout are also popular with fly fishing enthusiasts who consider it a challenging experience to catch a fish using a fly that they designed and tied themselves.
Bait
For live bait, worms, minnows or dough bait are effective. When making dough bait, remember that many trout are hatchery raised on pelleted food that is high in fish oil. Adding fish oil to your bait can increase the odds of success. Artificial lures can also be used, including spinners or jigs that can be worked through the water. In fly fishing, both top water dry flies and underwater wet flies can be effective. Flies that resemble insects that trout are feeding on are often more successful.
Regulations
Regulations regarding trout fishing vary from state to state. Seasons and catch limits are commonly regulated. In some states, a special trout license may be required, particularly when fishing in designated trout areas. Limits on the type of tackle, such as using only artificial lures or hooks without barbs, may also be enforced. It's important to check the regulations concerning trout fishing within your state prior to going fishing.
Stocking Programs
Many states recognize the value of trout fishing as a form of leisure entertainment and have instituted fish hatcheries that spawn and raise fingerling trout. They are then released into the wild in designated areas specifically set aside for trout fishing. These programs ensure that fish populations remain dense enough to accommodate fishing activities, now and in the future.
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