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Brook Trout

Brook Trout

Brook trout in Colorado are non-native char that were first introduced in 1872 and have since become widely established throughout the state's high-altitude waters.

They're considered a very prolific species due to their fall spawning habits and aggressive nature. They're known as aggressive feeders that will often hit lures repeatedly and are considered excellent table fare.

Scientific Name: Salvelinus fontinalis

Physical Characteristics:
  • These beautifully marked fish are characterized by their olive-green backs with distinctive worm-like vermiculation patterns, red and yellow spots with blue halos, and white-edged orange fins.
  • In Colorado's waters, brook trout typically range from 6-12 inches, though they can grow larger in lakes and reservoirs.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Brook trout thrive in Colorado's cold, clear mountain streams, beaver ponds, and alpine lakes.

Key Locations

  • Rocky Mountain National Park waters, high-mountain lakes in wilderness areas like Indian Peaks, Flat Tops, and Gore Range, as well as in streams and lakes across the San Juan Mountains.
  • Brook trout are found throughout Colorado's high-country destinations including Rocky Mountain National Park streams and lakes, wilderness areas of the Gore Range, Indian Peaks, and Flat Tops, as well as remote alpine lakes accessed by hiking.

Specific Spots

  • Target pocket water, undercut banks, deep pools, and areas around boulders and fallen logs where brook trout ambush prey.
  • In lakes, focus on drop-offs, shallow flats, 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 Colorado?

Small spinners like Rooster Tails and Mepps Aglia in gold or silver, along with small spoons. Live bait such as worms and small minnows work exceptionally well.

What flies work for Brook Trout in Colorado?

Adams (sizes 12-24), Elk Hair Caddis (14-18), Parachute Adams (12-18), Pheasant Tail nymphs (12-22), Prince nymphs (12-16), and Woolly Buggers (8-14). Small terrestrial patterns like ants (14-20) are particularly effective and underutilized.

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

Late spring through early summer and again in September-October when temperatures are cooler, avoiding their fall spawning period.

How do you catch Brook Trout in Colorado?

Target pocket water, undercut banks, deep pools, and areas around boulders and fallen logs where brook trout ambush prey. In lakes, focus on drop-offs, shallow flats, and areas where cold streams enter.

What do Brook Trout eat?

Their diet consists of terrestrial and aquatic insects, fry, crustaceans, zooplankton, and worms, making them opportunistic feeders that respond well to various food sources.

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