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Brown Trout

Brown Trout

Brown Trout in Kentucky are a non-native coldwater species originally introduced from Europe in the 1880s.

They are more predatory and piscivorous than other trout species and are more tolerant of warmer water than brook or rainbow trout, making them well-suited for Kentucky's climate.

Physical Characteristics:
  • They are distinguished by their brown or yellow-brown coloration with black spots surrounded by pale halos on the upper body and red spots on the lower body.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • In Kentucky, brown trout are found primarily in tailwaters and select streams.
  • In Kentucky's tailwaters, brown trout now comprise about 50% of the trout population alongside rainbows.

Key Locations

  • The Cumberland River tailwater below Wolf Creek Dam represents Kentucky's premier brown trout fishery.
  • Other productive waters include the Herrington Lake tailwater (Dix River), Hatchery Creek, and several Daniel Boone National Forest streams including Chimney Top Creek, East Fork Indian Creek, Trammel Fork, Laurel Creek, and Big Caney Creek.

Specific Spots

  • They prefer deep pools, undercut banks, dense cover, and areas with strong current breaks.
  • The Cumberland River tailwater from Wolf Creek Dam to the Tennessee state line offers the best opportunities, with deeper pools and areas with shoreline cover being most productive.

Brown Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Brown Trout in Kentucky?

Elk Hair Caddis (sizes 12-16), Blue Winged Olive patterns (sizes 18-22) during winter hatches, Chernobyl Ants (sizes 8-12) in summer, and hopper patterns during late summer. Productive nymphs include Pheasant Tail Nymphs (sizes 16-22), Hare's Ear Nymphs, and Prince Nymphs.

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

Late winter through early spring and again in late summer through early fall, avoiding the October-December spawning period.

How do you catch Brown Trout in Kentucky?

For stream fishing, target overcast conditions and murky water, focusing on pool areas and heavy cover. Use crawfish patterns and insect imitations that get down to the bottom where browns typically feed. Night fishing with mouse patterns can be extremely effective for trophy browns.

What do Brown Trout eat?

These fish are more predatory and piscivorous than other trout species, with larger browns (12+ inches) primarily feeding on fish, crayfish, mice, and frogs, while smaller fish consume aquatic insects like mayflies, caddisflies, and midges.

Where do Brown Trout live in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, brown trout are found primarily in tailwaters and select streams. In Kentucky's tailwaters, brown trout now comprise about 50% of the trout population alongside rainbows.

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