Trout Fishing Guide
Trout are one of the most popular freshwater fish — learn the best lures, techniques, and where to find them.
Top Trout Lures
In-Line Spinner
Rooster Tail, Panther Martin, Mepps. The #1 trout lure — works in streams, rivers, and lakes. 1/16-1/4 oz.
Spoon
Kastmaster, Krocodile, Little Cleo. Great for casting and trolling in lakes. 1/8-1/4 oz.
PowerBait
Dough bait for stocked trout. Fish on the bottom with a small hook. Deadly in ponds and lakes.
Fly (Fly Fishing)
Nymphs, dry flies, streamers. The traditional way to fish for trout in streams and rivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
In-line spinners (Rooster Tail, Panther Martin) are the most versatile trout lures. Small spoons (Kastmaster, Krocodile) work well in lakes. PowerBait dough is deadly for stocked trout. Fly fishing with nymphs and dry flies is effective in streams. Match lure size to the fish: 1/16-1/8 oz for small streams, 1/8-1/4 oz for rivers and lakes.
Trout prefer cold, clean water (50-65°F). In rivers, they hold behind rocks, in pools, and along current seams. In lakes, they relate to drop-offs, springs, and structure. Stocked trout are less picky and can be found in ponds and warmer water. Wild trout are more selective and require stealthier presentations.
Use a 6'-7' ultralight or light spinning rod. Line: 4-6 lb monofilament or fluorocarbon. Trout are line-shy, especially in clear water. Use the lightest line you can manage. For fly fishing, a 4-5 weight rod with floating line covers most situations.
Early morning and late evening are best because trout feed in low light. Overcast days are good all day. In summer, fish early before the water warms. In spring and fall, trout feed throughout the day. Winter trout fishing is slower but still productive with small, slow presentations.
Natural colors for clear water: brown, olive, gold, silver. Bright colors for stained water: chartreuse, orange, pink. In lakes, silver and gold spoons work well. In streams, brown and olive spinners match the natural prey. PowerBait comes in many colors — orange and chartreuse are popular for stocked trout.