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Brown Trout

Brown Trout

Brown Trout are a non-native species in Illinois, first introduced to the United States in 1883 from Germany. These European natives have adapted well to Illinois waters, particularly in Lake Michigan and select coolwater streams.

Scientific Name: Salmo trutta

Physical Characteristics:
  • Brown Trout are distinguished by their olive-brown backs with scattered dark spots, orange or rust-colored spots on their sides (particularly red spots on the lower body), and black spots on the upper body surrounded by pale halos.
  • They can exceed 40 pounds in weight, though stream-dwelling fish typically range 15-22 inches and 1-5 pounds, while Lake Michigan browns commonly reach 10-20+ pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • In Illinois, they inhabit Lake Michigan year-round and are found in coolwater streams primarily in northern watersheds including the Apple River, Rock River, upper Kishwaukee River, and Kankakee River systems.

Key Locations

  • Lake Michigan hotspots include Milwaukee Harbor, Chicago lakefront harbors (Montrose, Burnham, Diversey), and areas near warm-water discharges.
  • For stream fishing, target coolwater streams like the Apple River (stocked twice yearly), Kankakee River, and Rock River tributaries.

Specific Spots

  • Brown Trout prefer deeper, darker locations with cover - target undercut banks, deep pool heads, eddies behind boulders, and areas near structure.

Brown Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Brown Trout in Illinois?

For conventional tackle, use spoons (Little Cleos, Krocodiles), crankbaits (Rapala Husky Jerks, Jointed Rapalas), and spawn sacs near river mouths. Lake Michigan trolling with Moonshine spoons and large crankbaits.

What flies work for Brown Trout in Illinois?

Top patterns include Pheasant Tail Nymphs (sizes 16-22), Hare's Ear Nymphs, Prince Nymphs, Woolly Buggers (sizes 4-10 in black or white), Muddler Minnows, Elk Hair Caddis (sizes 12-16), Blue Winged Olives (sizes 18-22), and Chernobyl Ants.

When is the best time to fish for Brown Trout in Illinois?

The best Brown Trout fishing in Illinois occurs in Lake Michigan from April through October, with peak periods during spring (April-May) for nearshore action and fall (September-October) for pre-spawn feeding.

How do you catch Brown Trout in Illinois?

Lake Michigan trolling is effective with planer boards at 10-40 foot depths. Streamer fishing with articulated patterns.

What do Brown Trout eat?

Brown Trout are more predatory and piscivorous than other trout species, feeding primarily on aquatic insects (mayflies, caddisflies, stoneflies), terrestrial insects, small fish including sculpins and minnows, and larger prey like crayfish and even mice.

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