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Brook Trout

Brook Trout

Brook Trout are New York's official state fish and the only native salmonid species in much of the northeastern US.

These colorful char are native to all 18 major watersheds and remain relatively stable statewide, though populations have declined in Long Island and Ontario watersheds due to urbanization and habitat degradation.

Scientific Name: Salvelinus fontinalis

Physical Characteristics:
  • These colorful char are distinguished by their dark green to brownish bodies with distinctive marbled patterns, red spots surrounded by blue halos, and white leading edges on their lower fins.
  • In streams, expect smaller fish (5-9 inches), while ponds and lakes can produce trophy fish over 3 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Brook Trout are native to all 18 major watersheds and remain relatively stable statewide, though populations have declined in Long Island and Ontario watersheds due to urbanization and habitat degradation.

Key Locations

  • The Adirondack Mountains offer over 500 brook trout ponds and streams, while the Catskill Mountains provide excellent stream fishing.
  • Prime locations include the Ausable River system, Saranac Lake Chain, and countless headwater streams throughout mountainous regions.
  • In the Adirondacks, focus on the St.
  • Regis Canoe Area, Pharaoh Lake Wilderness, and West Canada Lake Wilderness.

Specific Spots

  • They prefer rocky substrates with abundant cover like boulders, undercut banks, woody debris, and overhanging vegetation.
  • Target structure like drop-offs, inlet areas where streams enter ponds, undercut banks, submerged logs, and areas with upwelling groundwater.

Brook Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Small lures: Blue Fox Vibrax spinners (size 2), Mepps Black Fury, Panther Martin, Rooster Tail, Little Cleo spoons (1/5-1/4 oz), and Lake Clear Wabblers with trailing worm. Live bait includes worms, crickets, mealworms, and small minnows.

What flies work for Brook Trout in New York?

Essential fly patterns include Woolly Buggers (black/olive), Mickey Finn, Gray Ghost, Hornberg, Muddler Minnow, Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, and Blue Winged Olive in sizes 6-16.

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

Brook Trout season in New York runs April 1 to October 15 in lakes and ponds, with catch-and-release permitted year-round on most waters. Prime fishing occurs May 10 through June 15 when shallow waters warm and food becomes abundant, and again in September-October as waters cool.

How do you catch Brook Trout in New York?

Cast upstream and let current carry bait naturally downstream to fish. Match major hatches including Blue Winged Olives, Hendricksons, and various caddis species. Use live bait under bobbers.

What do Brook Trout eat?

Brook Trout are opportunistic feeders consuming aquatic insects (mayflies, caddisflies, stoneflies, midges), terrestrial insects, small fish (minnows, sculpins, darters), crustaceans, and various larvae.

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