How To Catch Trout

The trout has rightfully earned its place as one of America's favorite fish to catch.

First off, no matter where you are in the country, there's a good chance you'll find trout. These feisty fish have adapted to a wide range of habitats, from the peaceful, calm lakes of the Midwest to the clear, fast-moving mountain streams in the Rockies, there are plenty of opportunities to cast a line for them.

Also, getting started in trout fishing doesn't require a truckload of equipment. Unlike some other types of fishing that call for lots of gear, catching trout can be as simple as having a trusty rod and reel, basic tackle, and the right bait or lure. This makes trout fishing not only affordable but also easy to get into, especially for newcomers.

If you’re into a thrilling experience, these fish sure know how to put up a spirited fight once they’re hooked. And let's not overlook their natural beauty. With their dazzling color patterns and streamlined shapes, trout are truly a sight to behold. They’ve even served as inspiration for one of our bestselling freshwater fishing shirts here.

And if you're not one for catch and release, guess what? Trout make for a pretty tasty dinner. Their tender and flavorful meat can be a real treat after a day out fishing, whether you prefer it grilled, baked, or smoked.

So join me on this trout fishing journey. Get to know trout’s habits, behaviors, and favorite places to hang out, discover the best techniques and gear for catching them, and finally, learn the top bait and lure. And always remember: when you’re out there fishing, never, ever trout yourself.

Getting to know the trout

Trout have a fascinating life cycle that involves migration. Much like their cousins, salmon, many trout live their entire lives in freshwater environments, such as lakes, rivers, and marshy areas. Their life journey starts upstream in small streams layered with gravel - a perfect place for trout to lay their eggs.

Once the eggs hatch, the newborn trout and the slightly older ones stick around upstream. Here, in these smaller bodies of water, they spend several years growing and maturing before they undertake a journey downstream. The downstream water bodies are larger and provide more room for the trout as they transition into adulthood.

But not all trout follow this exact life pattern. Some species of trout, like the steelhead and the sea trout, have a different lifestyle. They can spend up to three years of their adult lives out in the sea. After this, they return to their freshwater birthplaces to lay their own eggs.

Common types of trout

One of the most fascinating species of trout you might know is the rainbow trout. Native to the western part of North America, particularly the region west of the Rocky Mountains, they have a shape similar to a torpedo and an eye-catching pattern.

They are generally blue-green or yellow-green, with a beautiful pink streak running along their sides. They have a white belly and small black spots on their back and fins. On average, they grow to about 20 to 30 inches long and weigh around 8 pounds. But in some cases, these trout can grow up to 4 feet long and weigh a whopping 50 pounds!

Another trout you can’t miss is the cutthroat, named after the vibrant streak of red, pink, or orange that adorns the lower part of its jaw, resembling a cut or slash, and making it look like it’s bleeding. This coloring contrasts beautifully against the combination of a dark green or olive-colored back paired with vivid yellow or orange markings on their sides.

Other common types of trout that capture the interest of fishing fans are the brown trout, brook trout, splake, tiger trout, golden trout, and the bull trout.

Where can you find trout?

If you're on the hunt for trout in rivers and streams, you've got to know where to look. They tend to prefer cool, clear waters where the temperature is just right, usually between 50-60°F or 10-16°C.

Their favorite spots are behind rocks or other structures creating a textured surface with bumps or riffles. Steep or undercut banks and deeper, slower pools are also trout favorites. Notice a faster current passing by a slower one, usually at a river bend? You might find trout there too. They also like shadowy pools and spots where the stream changes direction. And don't forget about runs, which are prime trout real estate in a stream.

On the other hand, if you're scoping out lakes and ponds, look for trout near or above aquatic plants. They also gather around logs, stumps, rocks, or other structures at stream inlets, where streams flow into the lake or pond, bringing cool, fresh water and, more importantly, food!

But remember, trout in these still waters are always on the move, cruising around looking for food, though they never venture too far from cover that protects them from predators. And in moving waters, these smart swimmers simply hold their spot and wait for the water current to bring the food to them.

Techniques for catching trout

So how do you catch and reel in one of these bad boys? Here are some tried-and-true strategies.

1. Look for slow-moving water. One of the best places to fish for trout is in slow-moving water where there are logs, boulders, or other cover. A deep, slow pool at the foot of rapids or a fast run also makes for a prime fishing spot. These locations provide the trout with a sense of safety and abundant food sources. Using small spinners, no larger than a size 1, can yield good results. In clear water, aim for bright colors like silver or rainbow scale, as they tend to attract the trout's attention.

2. Look for deep holes in the summer. When it comes to fishing for trout in the summer, these fish often retreat to deep holes at the foot of rapids. They're commonly found behind, or sometimes in front of, obstructions that break the current. Your goal should be to identify these pockets and skillfully maneuver your lure over them. Remember, early mornings just after sunrise and periods following a heavy rainfall, which raises water levels and darkens water color, are optimal times for summer trout fishing.

3. Fly-fishing. Fly fishing is an excellent technique for catching trout, but it does require specialized gear. You need to have a fly rod and reel combo that's specifically designed for trout fishing. Rods made from graphite or fiberglass are usually good choices because they're durable and flexible. When you're picking out a reel, try to find one with a smooth drag system, which helps control the line when a trout bites.

   Choosing the right kind of fly is also really important. You've got several options here. Dry flies are designed to look like adult insects floating on the surface of the water. Nymphs imitate the larvae of insects or baitfish underwater. Streamers are made to look like small fish or leeches and are especially good if you're trying to catch bigger trout.

   You'll also need to get your casting technique down. Proper casting can make the difference between a good day of fishing and a great one.

4. Cast upstream in moving water: If you find yourself in moving water, try casting upstream over a pool and let your crawler drift naturally back towards you. Watching your floating line can clue you into when a trout bites. In these conditions, casting a spinner or spoon slightly upriver and reeling in slack line can be particularly successful.

Gear for catching trout

When it comes to trout fishing, your equipment is a major factor in your success.

In setting up your rod and reel for trout fishing, you need to consider a few factors, such as the length, power, and action of the rod, as well as the type of reel.

When you're fishing in various bodies of water, such as lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams, a rod length of 6 to 7 feet is typically recommended. This length allows for optimal casting distance and control.

The power rating of the rod is important too. Opt for an ultralight to light power rating. This provides the sensitivity needed to detect those sneaky, subtle bites from trout. A sensitive rod can truly be your secret weapon when it comes to catching these crafty fish.

In terms of rod action, go for a moderate to fast action rating. This ensures a good balance between flexibility and responsiveness. In simpler terms, it makes it easier to cast and control the lure or bait. This mix of flexibility and control is key when you're trying to tempt a trout to bite.

When it comes to reels, spinning reels are a great choice. They're versatile, easy to use, and are suitable for both beginners and seasoned anglers. They're great for casting a variety of lures or baits and can be easily mastered with a little practice.

Look for a spinning reel with a smooth drag system and multiple ball bearings. This combination allows for smooth casting and retrieval, making your fishing experience all the more enjoyable. Remember, smooth casting and retrieval can make a significant difference when you're trying to reel in a tricky trout.

As for the size of the reel, consider the rod you've chosen. Reel sizes in the range of 2500 to 3000 are often recommended for trout fishing. This size matches well with the recommended rod length and power, ensuring a well-balanced setup.

Now, let's talk about the line. For trout fishing, use a four or six-pound monofilament line. Monofilament line offers good strength and flexibility, which are essential for accurate casting and effective hook sets. This kind of line gives you the strength to reel in your catch, while still allowing for the kind of finesse needed when fishing for trout.

The best bait and lure for trout fishing

Despite having a reputation for not being picky eaters, knowing what truly tantalizes a trout's palate can surely increase your odds of a successful catch.

One of the go-to choices for trout is insects. With an enormous appetite, trout are always on the hunt and will devour just about anything that comes their way, be it other fish, crustaceans, leeches, or worms. However, they have a special fondness for insects, making them a top choice for bait.

Minnows are like a tasty treat for trout. They're especially appealing because trout are, by nature, opportunistic eaters that feast on other small fish. Remember, though, to consider the size of your target trout when choosing the size of your minnow. Larger trout tend to prefer larger minnows, while smaller trout will usually go for smaller minnows.

Salmon eggs, another trout favorite, can work wonders too. Whether you opt for real salmon eggs or artificial, scented ones, they're proven to be quite irresistible to trout. They mimic a natural food source for trout, adding to their appeal.

Nightcrawlers and other types of earthworms also make an excellent choice for catching trout. Easy to use and readily available at most bait and tackle shops, they're a sure-fire way to attract trout. They mimic a staple in the trout's diet, making them a hit.

Flies are a particularly popular choice when fly fishing. There are many types to choose from, including dry flies, wet flies, nymphs, and streamers. The type of fly you use will depend on the type of trout you're targeting and the conditions you're fishing in, but all can be effective.

Now, let's talk about lures. Spinners bring a powerful combination of visual appeal and sensory deception that can tempt even the wiliest of trout into biting. What makes spinners so captivating to trout is their dynamic mimicry. The flash of the spinning blade cutting through the water resembles a distressed baitfish or a struggling insect, creating an alluring display that piques the predatory instincts of trout. The blade's spin also generates a vibration that enhances the illusion of the lure being a tasty morsel. These combined effects make spinners nearly irresistible to aggressive trout, and intriguing enough to entice more cautious ones.

Another big advantage of spinners is their versatility. These lures can adapt to a wide range of fishing situations. Depending on the conditions and the species of trout you're after, you can adjust various aspects of your spinner setup to increase your odds of success.

The size of your spinner, for instance, can be matched to the size of the natural prey in the waters you're fishing. In areas where smaller baitfish or insects are common, a smaller spinner may be more effective. Similarly, in waters where trout are accustomed to larger prey, a bigger spinner can grab their attention.

Spoons are another fantastic lure for trout. Their design allows them to wobble in the water, creating a vibration that's like a dinner bell for trout. As with spinners, they come in various colors and sizes, making it essential to choose the right one for your particular fishing conditions.

You'll want to begin by selecting a spoon that imitates the size and color of the local baitfish the trout in your area like to munch on. After you've made your cast, let the spoon sink down to the desired depth before starting your retrieve.

Now, the trick here is to play with the motion of the spoon. A steady, slow retrieve might do the trick, or you might need to get a bit fancier with a series of jerks and pauses to mimic a frightened or wounded baitfish.

Final thoughts

With this know-how, you're now one step closer to landing a trout, one of the nation's most beloved sportfish. By understanding the basic biology and habits of trout, picking the right gear and spot, and applying tried-and-true trout fishing strategies, your odds of a successful catch will definitely increase. Just a heads-up: patience and observation are game-changers when it comes to trout fishing. Be alert to the condition of the water, the kind of bait or lure you've chosen, and the fish's behavior. Don't hesitate to try out different strategies and tweak your method when necessary. Happy trout fishing!

Don't miss our other guides for fishing different well-loved species:

• How To Catch Carp
• How To Catch Walleye
• How To Catch Bass