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Brown Trout

Brown Trout

Brown Trout are a non-native species in Massachusetts that were first introduced in 1883 from Germany. Originally from Europe, northern Africa, and western Asia, they have become well-established throughout the state's coldwater fisheries.

Brown trout are highly adaptable and aggressive predators that can withstand warmer water temperatures than brook or rainbow trout, giving them a territorial advantage.

Scientific Name: Salmo trutta

Physical Characteristics:
  • These trout are distinguished by their brown or yellow-brown body with numerous spots below the lateral line - black spots with pale halos on the upper body and red spots on the lower body.
  • They have a small pointed head with a large mouth extending past the eye, and an adipose fin with a red margin.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They're found in Massachusetts rivers including the Deerfield, Westfield, Housatonic, Hoosic, Swift, Millers, Quinapoxet, Ware, and Farmington, with the Deerfield River being particularly notable for its wild brown trout population (80% of sampled fish were wild).

Key Locations

  • The Deerfield River is premier water, especially the 1.6-mile stretch from Fife Brook Dam's Long Pool to the railroad trestle, and the catch-and-release section from the railroad underpass to Mohawk Campgrounds.
  • The Swift River in Belchertown, Westfield River through Chesterfield Gorge, and Housatonic River also provide excellent opportunities.

Specific Spots

  • Target undercut banks, boulder-filled pocket water, pools below riffles, and areas with structure like fallen trees.

Brown Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Brown Trout in Massachusetts?

Pheasant Tail Nymphs (sizes 16-22) - the most productive pattern statewide. Other essential nymphs include Hare's Ear, Prince Nymph, Pat's Rubber Legs for stonefly imitations, and Copper Johns. For dry flies, match seasonal hatches: Hendricksons in spring, followed by Sulphurs, Cahills and Isonychias through summer.

How do you catch Brown Trout in Massachusetts?

Indicator nymphing is most effective, but tight-line Euro techniques also work well. During summer, fish deeper when water temperatures exceed 65°F, and focus on faster, more oxygenated water.

What do Brown Trout eat?

Young brown trout primarily eat aquatic insects like mayflies, caddisflies, and midges, along with terrestrial insects. As they mature beyond 12-14 inches, they become increasingly piscivorous, feeding on smaller fish, minnows, sculpins, crayfish, and even mice.

Where do Brown Trout live in Massachusetts?

They're found in Massachusetts rivers including the Deerfield, Westfield, Housatonic, Hoosic, Swift, Millers, Quinapoxet, Ware, and Farmington, with the Deerfield River being particularly notable for its wild brown trout population (80% of sampled fish were wild).

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