How To

How to Catch Brook Trout

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Brook trout live in the mountain waters of the Rocky Mountains west. These trout are very plentiful in the higher mountain streams and creeks that exhibit highly oxygenated water. Many brook trout grow to be "bruisers" of more than 10 inches and make wonderful sport for young and old anglers alike.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Fishing tackle
Bait

Step 1

Find a suitable stream or creek to fish for brook trout. These fish need very clear and clean water to flourish. The higher up the creek, the more plentiful and healthy the fish become.
Step 2

Test the water's temperature. Brook trout prefer waters below 60 degrees F. Any stream water warmer than this will drive the trout higher up the waterway in search of a cooler climate.
Step 3

Identify the brook trout as having a dark green background interrupted by yellowish strands running the length of the fish's back. Some exhibit yellow spots or red spots having a bluish halo around them.
Step 4

Collect bait for the fishing trip. Brook trout enjoy most insect bait, including grasshopper or mayflies. These fish will also hit on live worms as well. Use trout floats to put a line downstream with live bait.

Tips & Warnings

Brook trout love the eggs of river suckers. If there are sucker eggs in the river, move a quarter mile upriver to find a hungry brook trout.
Always keep hands wet when handling a brook trout. Dry hands remove the protective layer of slime on the fish and cause infection when released.
Obtain fishing license and permits to fish for brook trout.
Adhere strictly to the limit and count allowed by law.

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