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Brown Trout

Brown Trout

Brown Trout in New York are a non-native European species that have become integral to the state's freshwater fisheries.

Originally introduced in 1883, they've established wild populations throughout New York's waters, particularly in the Catskills and Adirondacks.

Scientific Name: Salmo trutta

Physical Characteristics:
  • Typically range from 15-22 inches in streams, averaging 1-5 pounds, though adfluvial (lake-dwelling) browns can reach over 20 pounds.
  • They're distinguished by yellow-orange-olive-brown sides with black, brown, and red spots.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Inhabit diverse waters from legendary Catskill streams to the Great Lakes tributaries and Finger Lakes region throughout New York's waters, particularly in the Catskills and Adirondacks.

Key Locations

  • Catskill streams like the Delaware River system, Beaverkill, and Willowemoc Creek, Great Lakes tributaries and Finger Lakes region.
  • Specific Catskill waters like the Delaware River system (West and East Branches), Beaverkill River around Roscoe, Willowemoc Creek, Neversink River, and Esopus Creek.
  • In the Adirondacks, fish the West Branch Ausable River and Saranac River.

Specific Spots

  • Prefer cold, well-oxygenated waters with overhead cover like undercut banks and overhanging vegetation.

Brown Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Small spinners (Rooster Tail, Blue Fox Vibrax), spoons (Little Cleo, Krocodile), and minnow plugs (Rapala Original Floating, Husky Jerk).

What flies work for Brown Trout in New York?

Dr.y flies like Parachute Adams (#12-16), Elk Hair Caddis, Blue Winged Olives (#18-22), and Klinkhammer emerger patterns. Nymphs such as Pheasant Tail (#16-22), Hare's Ear, Prince Nymph, and Copper John. Streamers like Woolly Bugger (black preferred), Muddler Minnow, and patterns imitating small trout.

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

The prime season for brown trout in New York runs April 1 through October 15, with fall being especially productive as fish prepare for spawning and become more aggressive. Spring offers excellent dry fly fishing during major hatches, while fall provides opportunities for larger fish with streamers.

How do you catch Brown Trout in New York?

For fly fishing use dry flies, nymphs, and streamers. For spin fishing use spinners, spoons, and minnow plugs.

What do Brown Trout eat?

Diet includes aquatic invertebrates like mayflies (Blue Winged Olives, Hendricksons, Green Dr.akes), caddisflies, stoneflies, and terrestrial insects, plus smaller fish as they mature. More predatory than other trout species, readily eating smaller fish including other trout.

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