subject: Important Guidelines for Brook Trout Fishing [print this page] One of the most popular forms of fishing is Brook Trout fishing. This magnificent species of trout is notorious for being elusive and presenting a good challenge for anglers alike. They are known to be one of the smallest species of trout, but they have great color patterns and are very easy to identify. Another distinguishing factor for the Brook Trout is that they are popular to eat because they are so flavorful. In this article we will talk about some important things to keep in mind when fishing for "Brookies" and how to catch more of them in less time. Here's to your success!
Identification
Brook Trout have very identifiable characteristics, so if you are aware of what they are they can be easy to spot. They are smaller fish with a marbled pattern that extends across the body. They also have little red spots surrounded by blue circles, and you don't necessarily have to be close to them to see this.
Location
Trout are known to prefer cooler waters with high oxygen levels, but Brook Trout are especially this way. They require more dissolved oxygen than most trout, and since cold water is richer with oxygen than warm water, most of the time you will find them in cold water. Some of the best places to locate these fish are in the eastern United States and Canada where there is no shortage of cool mountain streams and springs.
Migration
We know they prefer cold water to warm water, but that does not mean you cannot find them in warmer waters. When the seasons change and the water temperature increases you can find some of them in warmer rivers and streams where the water is faster moving. Strong currents and fast moving waters contain more dissolved oxygen than slow moving or still waters, so they will seek out these areas in late Spring and throughout the Summer.
Bait and Tackle
Since most of these clever fish are hiding in streams and rivers, fly fishing can be an excellent method for catching them. They are also known to love live bait, so worms or grasshoppers can be highly effective as well. As we mentioned, Brook Trout are smaller in size and do not take big aggressive bites, so it is important to use smaller hooks. Gang hooks work really well because they tend to be small and can be disguised by your bait, especially if you use live bait. Brook Trout bait and tackle can be the keys to your fishing success!
Fishing Strategy
Most trout have a keen ability to sense small pressure waves and vibrations, and this is especially true with the Brook Trout. They can feel your movement even when you are on the river bank, so it is important to be light on your feet and to walk slowly at all times. When approaching the river, you may want to consider entering downstream from where you want to actually fish. Once you have found a spot and are ready to go, cast your line upstream and at an angle and allow your line to drift down the river over the trout so they have time to take the bait.
