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Brook Trout

Brook Trout

Brook Trout are New Jersey's official state fish and only native trout species, designated in 1992. Despite being called 'trout,' they are actually char, distinguished by their dark bodies with light spots rather than light bodies with dark spots.

Scientific Name: Salvelinus fontinalis

Physical Characteristics:
  • These beautiful fish display olive-green backs with distinctive vermiculated (worm-like) patterns, yellow and blue-rimmed red spots along their sides, and orange fins with white leading edges.
  • Colors intensify dramatically during fall spawning season.
  • In New Jersey streams, Brook Trout typically reach 6-12 inches, though larger specimens up to 20 inches can be found in more productive waters.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Brook Trout populations have declined significantly, now occupying less than half their historical range in New Jersey, confined primarily to small cold headwater streams in the northwestern portion of the state plus one southern watershed.

Key Locations

  • Target the cold, spring-fed streams of northwestern New Jersey, particularly in the Kittatinny Mountain region including waters like Dunnfield Creek, and streams in High Point State Park, Stokes State Forest, and Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
  • The state record is 7 pounds, 3 ounces from the Rockaway River.

Specific Spots

  • Look for pools, undercut banks, and areas behind boulders or fallen logs where trout hold in the current.

Brook Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Small lures: #0-1 Mepps spinners, Blue Fox spinners, small spoons, and 1/16 oz lures work well. Live bait options include worms, mealworms, and small minnows, though artificial-only regulations apply in many areas.

What flies work for Brook Trout in New Jersey?

Effective patterns include Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Pheasant Tail nymphs, Hare's Ear nymphs, and Woolly Buggers. Match terrestrial insects like ants, beetles, and grasshoppers, especially under overhanging trees.

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

Prime Brook Trout fishing in New Jersey occurs from late April through June and again in September-October. In summer, focus on the coldest water available, often deeper pools or areas near spring inputs. They spawn in fall (September-October) - this is a time to avoid fishing for them.

How do you catch Brook Trout in New Jersey?

Fish upstream casting and let offerings drift naturally. Target moving water with good current and oxygen - riffles, runs, and areas with 'bubbles.'.

What do Brook Trout eat?

They feed opportunistically on terrestrial and aquatic insects, crustaceans, worms, and small fish. In small streams they primarily eat aquatic insect nymphs, while larger populations consume terrestrial insects like ants and beetles during growing season.

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