Brook Trout

Key identifying characteristics:

• Back is olive-green, brown or black; belly is silvery or white
• Light wormlike markings and spots on dark background, some red and blue
• White leading edge on lower fins, set off by black line
• Square tail
• Mouth extends backwards to well beyond the eye

Distribution/Habitat:

• Brook trout (also known as speckled trout) are among the world's most highly-prized gamefish. They are found in much of Ontario from the small brooks of southern Ontario farmland to the larger rivers, ponds and lakes of the north.
• Water temperature is a key factor in determining brook trout habitat. They need a year-round supply of cold, clear water, as well as plenty of cover from overhanging branches, logs, and rocks. Streams with cool, quiet pools between runs of fast water and rapids are typical habitat, as are clear, cold lakes and beaver ponds.

Angling Tips:

• Inland-lake brook trout are most active during spring and fall, and can be found near overhanging trees, submerged wood and rocky points and shoals. River brook trout hold in cold pools at the base of falls and rapids throughout the summer, but spread out during the spring and fall.
• During high-water periods, worms and other natural baits are preferred. As the water temperature rises, the trout move out of the deep pools into the riffles in search of insects; this is the time to use a flyrod and flies. A light-action 7-foot rod and a spinning reel holding 4 to 8-pound test will handle brook trout.

Common Baits:

• Small minnow-imitating  plugs
• Spoons
• Jigs,
• Spinners
• Artificial flies
• Worms
• Minnows
• Leeches
• Insects

Illustration credit: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service