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Fish Species - Details

BROWN TROUT (Salmo trutta) Other Common Names German brown trout, brown, brownie, Lochleven trout Identifying Characteristics Usually tan to golden brown in color, with dark spots on the entire body, but few or none on tail. Spots are often surrounded by a light halo. A smaller number of red or orange spots are scattered along the body. The tail is square. 9 to 10 rays in anal fin. Habits and Habitat Found in a variety of waters, from streams and rivers to ponds, lakes, and reservoirs. Preferred temperature range is 50 to 65 degrees; 60 degrees is ideal. A suspending fish that normally doesn't wander far from its home waters. Spawns in late fall, usually toward the end of the salmon runs. Slightly less tolerant of warm water than rainbow trout. Large browns are often active at night, particularly in summer. Tackle and Techniques Use light to ultra-light spinning or fly-fishing tackle for stream fish, and medium weight tackle for lake fish. Live baits such as worms, minnows, insect larvae, and small chubs, work well. Flies such as wooly buggers, muddler minnows, and big millers work well, especially at night. Caddis, blue wing olives, and tricos produce well during the day. Lures, such as spoons and spinners, in silver and fluorescent colors, and minnow plugs also work well. Night fishing is often very productive, especially in fall in streams where lake-run fish are spawning. Eggs, single and sacs, produce well when lake-run fish are spawning in streams. Current State Record 33 pounds, 2 ounces; caught by Tony Brown on Lake Ontario on June 10, 1997.