Brook Trout

Salvelinus Fontinalis

Timothy Kusherets

The Brook Trout has a mish mash of markings that may leave some anglers scratching their heads. With a brownish body, white belly, pink to orange spots on the underbelly, asymmetrical opaque spots found on its side, and squiggly splotches on the dorsal lateral area, this fish is in a class of its own.
The average weight of this fish is from three to five pounds but has been known to attain thirteen at the most. This fish prefers crystal clear water that is both frigid cold and well oxygenated. It can be found in streams small enough to accommodate salmon and steelhead at the same time.
Distribution of this fish ranges all over northern regions of North America and Europe. It’s not a particularly well known species of game fish but will put up very good fights imitating steelhead battles on occasion.
Since these fish prefer cool clear water sneaking up on them can be hard to do for the novice. Brush, trees, and just getting down low towards the surface are the best ways to hide from their line of sight. Match clothing to the surrounding foliage and move slow. This is one skittish fish and will bolt at the first fast moving shadow. Brookies can be found holding near undercuts at the height of a sunny day and will only come out when shadows get longer in the afternoon. Spoons, spinners, and flies are the favorite treat of this elusive species. When drift-fishing be sure to use corkies that are either size 14 or 12. Black and chrome are the best colors to use, accompanied with a No. 4 hook. Leaders should be particularly long when fishing clear waters where visibility is unlimited.

© Timothy Kusherets 2004/08