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Brown Trout

Brown Trout

Brown trout are non-native predatory fish that have become Montana's most prized trophy species. Introduced from Europe in 1889, they now support some of the strongest wild populations in the country after Montana ceased stocking in 1974.

These aggressive predators are more tolerant of environmental disturbances than native species.

Scientific Name: Salmo trutta

Physical Characteristics:
  • Can reach impressive sizes - the state record is 29 pounds, with fish over 20 inches considered trophies and anything over 24 inches being fish-of-a-year quality.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They inhabit Montana's major river systems, preferring lower gradient waters with temperatures between 60-70°F.

Key Locations

  • Montana's major river systems including the Madison, Missouri, Yellowstone, Bitterroot, Blackfoot, and Beaverhead Rivers.
  • Productive locations include the Madison River's "50 Mile Riffle" section, Missouri River near Craig and Helena, Yellowstone River in Paradise Valley, and the Bitterroot and Blackfoot Rivers.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on undercut banks, deep pools, structure, weed lines on lakes, and areas below riffles.
  • Fish large streamers along banks and drop-offs.

Brown Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Brown Trout in Montana?

Essential fly patterns include Parachute Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Chubby Chernobyl, bead head nymphs (Hare's Ear, Prince, Pheasant Tail), brown rubber legs, and olive woolly buggers. Spring streamer fishing with patterns like sculpins and leeches.

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

Spring (March-May) for aggressive pre-spawn feeding, summer (June-August) for consistent dry fly action, and fall (September-October) for the best trophy fishing when they become territorial before spawning. Winter nymphing can be productive in tailwaters with consistent flows.

How do you catch Brown Trout in Montana?

Summer tactics focus on matching hatches with specific patterns. During hatches, sight-fish to rising trout with dead-drift presentations. For trophy fish, fish large streamers along banks and drop-offs, especially during overcast conditions. Winter nymphing can be productive in tailwaters with consistent flows.

What do Brown Trout eat?

Brown trout are highly opportunistic feeders with a diverse diet including aquatic insects (mayflies, caddis, stoneflies), terrestrial insects (grasshoppers, ants), small fish, sculpins, crayfish, and even mice and other trout. Large browns become increasingly piscivorous, often feeding nocturnally on substantial prey.

Where do Brown Trout live in Montana?

They inhabit Montana's major river systems, preferring lower gradient waters with temperatures between 60-70°F.

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