Basic Trout Fishing Tips
Trout fishing can be incredibly enjoyable, but even more so when you are catching fish. Whether you are fishing in a lake or river, or fishing from the shore or by boat, trout follow a number of patterns that can help you improve your odds to catch some trout.
Based on experience and research, we have come up with a great list of basic tips to ensure that you are more successful at catching some trout:
- Trout fishing is likely regulated by your state or province, it is important that you know the rules and regulations… and if necessary, acquire fishing licenses.
- If possible, get a map of the area you will be fishing.
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Use a monofilament fishing line that is no heavier than 8 pounds test in low visibility waters, and use a monofilament line no heavier than 4 pound test in clear waters.
- Use small hooks when “bait fishing” trout, sizes #6 to #12 hooks or #14 to #18 treble hooks.
- Light tackle is preferred for trout fishing. A fast action, ultra light, spinning rod between 4 and 5 feet long is ideal.
- When bait fishing for trout, attach a split shot weight to the line. This will allow you to cast more effectively as well as control the rate at which your bait will drift, if at all.
- Four consistent trout baits are live earthworms, PowerBait, salmon roe, and small bits of marshmallow.
- Cast slightly upstream when ever possible, this allows the bait to appear more realistic when drifting in the current.
- When trying to catch visible fish, go 15-30 feet downstream from the fish and cast 15-30 upstream past the fish. This will provide a lifelike drift for your bait and is most likely to entice the trout, since most trout face upstream in anticipation of food drifting towards them.