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Brook Trout

Brook Trout

Brook trout are Michigan's state fish and one of only two native trout species in the state, alongside lake trout. They're members of the char family.

Physical Characteristics:
  • Characterized by their distinctive olive-green backs with worm-like vermiculation patterns, red spots surrounded by blue halos, and white-edged orange fins that become more vivid during spawning.
  • In Michigan waters, brook trout typically average 10-12 inches, though trophy specimens can reach 21 inches.
  • Coaster brook trout are larger, migratory brook trout that can exceed 14 pounds and spend part of their life cycle in the Great Lakes.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Brook trout prefer cold, clear streams with healthy populations throughout both peninsulas.

Key Locations

  • Prime Michigan waters include the Au Sable system, Manistee River tributaries, Jordan River, Boardman River, and numerous Upper Peninsula streams.
  • They inhabit waters like the Au Sable River, Black River, and Escanaba River, with healthy populations throughout both peninsulas.
  • A unique population called 'coaster brook trout' exists in Lake Superior tributaries.
  • Michigan's brook trout populations have faced pressure from habitat degradation and competition from introduced brown trout, leading to ongoing restoration efforts in waters like the Big Garlic River, Iron River, and Pilgrim River systems.

Specific Spots

  • Target undercut banks, behind fallen logs, deep pools, and areas with gravel bottoms.

Brook Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Panther Martin inline spinners and Rooster Tail spinners in 1/16 to 1/8 ounce are extremely effective, particularly in gold with silver blades or yellow with gold blades.

What flies work for Brook Trout in Michigan?

Michigan-specific patterns are essential: Hendrickson duns and spinners (with prominent yellow e.g.g sacks) for spring, Black Caddis with chartreuse e.g.g sacks, and Robert's Yellow Dr.ake in sizes 18-4 as a versatile pattern that imitates Sulphurs, Cahills, Brown Dr.akes, and Hexes.

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

Late spring through early fall, with peak activity in May-June and again in September.

How do you catch Brook Trout in Michigan?

Target brook trout in cold, spring-fed streams, focusing on undercut banks, behind fallen logs, deep pools, and areas with gravel bottoms. Fish close to structure and cover - if you're not occasionally snagging, you're not fishing close enough to where brook trout hold.

What do Brook Trout eat?

Brook trout are opportunistic feeders consuming terrestrial and aquatic insects, crayfish, small fish, zooplankton, and worms. Their diet varies seasonally, with terrestrial insects becoming more important in late summer.

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