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Brook Trout

Brook Trout

Brook Trout are Maryland's only native trout species and technically a char, distinguished by light spots on a dark background rather than dark spots on light backgrounds like other trout.

Brook trout populations have declined dramatically - 72% have been extirpated from their historic Maryland range, with only 1% of watersheds considered intact.

Scientific Name: Salvelinus fontinalis

Physical Characteristics:
  • They're relatively small, rarely exceeding 9-10 inches in Maryland streams, though a 12-inch brook trout is considered a trophy.
  • The Maryland state record is 6 pounds 2 ounces from the North Branch Potomac.
  • These beautiful fish display vermiculated olive-green backs fading to orange flanks with red and blue-haloed spots, and distinctive white-edged fins bordered by black stripes.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Now concentrated in three main areas: northern Baltimore County (Gunpowder watershed), the Catoctin Mountains of Frederick County, and far western Maryland, primarily Garrett County.
  • The Upper Savage River system in Garrett County represents Maryland's stronghold population and is considered one of the best brook trout systems in the mid-Atlantic.

Key Locations

  • Upper Savage River system in Garrett County, Big Hunting Creek in Frederick County, Gunpowder Falls below Prettyboy Dam, various streams in the Catoctin Mountains, and the Savage River Tailwater.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on deeper pools, undercut banks, and areas with cover like fallen logs or boulders.

Brook Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Small spinners like Mepps, Rooster Tails, or Panther Martins in gold or silver. Small spoons and inline spinners work well. Garden worms for bait fishing.

What flies work for Brook Trout in Maryland?

Woolly Buggers (olive, black, white), Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Royal Coachman, Royal Wulff, Pheasant Tail Nymphs (sizes 14-18), and beadhead patterns.

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

Late spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) when water temperatures are optimal and fish are most active. Spawning occurs in fall (late October to early November) when fishing should be avoided to protect spawning populations.

How do you catch Brook Trout in Maryland?

Practice catch-and-release, especially in eastern Maryland waters where brook trout harvest is prohibited. Use barbless hooks and handle carefully. Focus on deeper pools, undercut banks, and areas with cover like fallen logs or boulders.

What do Brook Trout eat?

They're opportunistic feeders consuming aquatic insects (larvae and adults), terrestrial insects, small fish, worms, mollusks, crustaceans, and even small amphibians and mammals.

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