Fly Fishing for Brook trout
25 May 2025
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Fly Fishing for Brook trout
Brook trout
Salvelinus fontinalis
Where you can find Brook trout
On this map you see where there were observations of Brook trout around the world, to give you an idea in which continents, countries and waters you can find this fish species.
Where can you fly fish for brook trout?
Brook trout are native to Eastern North America, inhabiting rivers, lakes, and streams across Canada and the United States. They're also found in parts of Europe and Asia, including Iceland and Scandinavia.
In the U.S, the most productive brook trout fishing is in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states, particularly Pennsylvania, New York, and Vermont. Specific locations like the Au Sable River in Michigan, Rapid River in Maine, and the Shavers Fork River in West Virginia are renowned for their brook trout population.
Internationally, the Alta River in Norway and the Laxa in Adaldal River in Iceland are also famous for their brook trout fishing.
How to fly fish for brook trout
Brook trout spawn in the fall, typically between September and November. During this period, they can become aggressive, making streamer fishing an effective approach.
After spawning, eggs incubate over the winter and hatch in early spring. Young trout, known as fry, then emerge. At this time, brook trout feed heavily on small insects, making nymphing a productive strategy.
Throughout the summer months, brook trout often feed near the surface in the early morning and late evening, making this an ideal time for dry fly fishing.
What are the best flies for brook trout?
The selection of flies for brook trout should reflect the insects that are currently hatching in the area. Here are a few favorites among fly fishers, which not surprisingly are all flies that are used to target brown trout, grayling and rainbow trout as well.
Adams: This is a versatile dry fly that can imitate many different types of insects, making it a go-to choice in many situations where brown trout are feeding on the surface.
Elk Hair Caddis: The Elk Hair Caddis imitates the caddisfly, a common food for brook trout.
Pheasant Tail Nymph: This nymph is useful for mimicking mayfly nymphs.
Woolly Bugger: This streamer fly can imitate a variety of larger prey, including leeches and small fish.
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