Brown Trout
LOCATIONS
BODIES OF WATER
Brown trout, known for their beauty and fighting ability, can be found in select bodies of water throughout the South/Gulf region. While they are not as common as other trout species in this area, there are several locations where brown trout can be targeted.
Georgia: Chattahoochee River, Toccoa River, Smith Creek, Noontootla Creek, Dukes Creek.
Alabama: Little River, Sipsey Fork, Bear Creek, Choccolocco Creek, Tallapoosa River.
Mississippi: Tippah County Lake, Chalybeate Lake, Okatibbee Lake, Lake Lamar Bruce, Lake Bill Waller.
Louisiana: Kisatchie Bayou, Little Tchefuncte River, Tangipahoa River, Bayou Courtableau, Calcasieu River.
Texas: Guadalupe River, Llano River, South Llano River, Blanco River, Pedernales River.
Oklahoma: Lower Mountain Fork River, Lower Illinois River, Blue River, Glover River, Barren Fork Creek.
Arkansas: White River, Little Red River, North Fork River, Spring River, Buffalo National River.
Tennessee: Caney Fork River, Clinch River, South Holston River, Hiwassee River, Little River.
STRUCTURE/HABITAT
Brown trout prefer cold, clear waters with plenty of oxygen and structure. They are often found in rivers and streams with moderate to fast currents and rocky bottoms. In lakes, they inhabit deep, cool areas with access to shallow feeding zones.
Look for brown trout near riffles and runs, where the faster currents provide oxygen and carry food downstream. They seek cover near submerged logs, boulders, undercut banks, and deep pools. Brown trout are also known to hide in pockets of shade provided by overhanging vegetation or steep banks.
PATTERNS
SPRING
During the spring, brown trout become more active as water temperatures rise. Look for them near their spawning areas, such as gravel beds or tributaries. They are more aggressive during this time and will strike a variety of baits and lures. Focus on presenting your bait or lure in areas with structure and moderate currents.
SUMMER
In the summer, brown trout seek cooler water temperatures and may move to deeper sections of rivers and lakes. They become more selective in their feeding and may require a more subtle presentation. Early morning and late evening fishing can be productive, as brown trout are more active during these cooler periods of the day.
FALL
As fall arrives, brown trout become more aggressive, feeding actively to build up energy reserves for the winter. They may move into shallower areas near structure and riffles. Use a variety of baits and lures to entice strikes. Pay attention to changes in water temperature and adjust your fishing techniques accordingly.
WINTER
During the winter months, brown trout can still be caught, although they may be less active and require more patience. Look for them in deeper pools and slow-moving sections of rivers and near deep areas in lakes. Slow presentations with live bait or lures can be effective during this time.
Bait
Brown trout are opportunistic feeders and will strike a variety of baits and lures. Effective bait options include live minnows, nightcrawlers, and insects such as grasshoppers and crayfish