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Brook Trout

Brook Trout

Brook trout in Arizona are not native to the state but have established populations in the cold, high-elevation waters of the White Mountains and some locations on the Mogollon Rim.

Scientific Name: Salvelinus fontinalis

Physical Characteristics:
  • These char are distinguished by their dark olive-green backs with characteristic vermiculations (worm-like markings), lighter colored sides with blue halos around pink or red spots, and distinctive white edges on their lower fins.
  • Arizona brook trout typically range from 8-15 inches, though the state record approaches 5 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found in the cold, high-elevation waters of the White Mountains and some locations on the Mogollon Rim.

Key Locations

  • Hurricane Lake, Luna Lake, Big Lake, Crescent Lake, Tempe Town Lake, and various small streams throughout the White Mountains region.

Specific Spots

  • Target structure like fallen logs, submerged trees, boulders, and undercut banks where brook trout hide and ambush prey.
  • In lakes, fish around drop-offs, points, and areas where cold streams enter.

Brook Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Brook Trout in Arizona?

Small inline spinners like Rooster Tails and Mepps Aglia in gold or silver. Live bait such as worms, salmon e.g.gs, and small minnows work well, with worms being particularly effective.

What flies work for Brook Trout in Arizona?

Parachute Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Prince Hair Nymphs, Cluster Minnows, Pheasant Tail Nymphs, Woolly Buggers, and various small dry flies.

When is the best time to fish for Brook Trout in Arizona?

Most productive during spring (late April through June) and fall (September through October) when water temperatures are cooler. Early spring and late fall are particularly effective as cold water temperatures keep the fish very active.

How do you catch Brook Trout in Arizona?

For spinners, retrieve with short bursts. Target structure like fallen logs, submerged trees, boulders, and undercut banks where brook trout hide and ambush prey. In lakes, fish around drop-offs, points, and areas where cold streams enter.

What do Brook Trout eat?

They're opportunistic feeders, consuming aquatic and terrestrial insects, with their diet including mayflies, caddisflies, stoneflies, and various terrestrial bugs that fall into the water. Young brook trout feed on plankton before progressing to insects as adults.

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