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Brown Trout

Brown Trout

Brown Trout in North Carolina are a non-native species originally from Europe and western Asia, introduced to the state in the late 1800s to early 1900s.

Physical Characteristics:
  • These fish are distinguished by their golden-brown to olive-brown coloration with yellowish sides, dark spots encircled by light yellow or white halos, and orange or red spots on their sides.
  • In North Carolina streams, they typically range from 8-14 inches and weigh 2-4 pounds, though they can grow larger than Brook or Rainbow Trout.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Brown Trout are found exclusively in the mountain region of western North Carolina, restricted to cold, clean mountain streams and lakes.
  • They can tolerate slightly higher water temperatures than native Brook Trout, allowing them to inhabit lower reaches of rivers and streams.

Key Locations

  • Prime North Carolina waters include the Davidson River (ranked as one of the nation's top 100 trout streams), Tuckasegee River, East Fork of the French Broad River, Wilson Creek, and Raven Fork in Cherokee.

Specific Spots

  • Target deep pools, undercut banks, fallen timber, and areas with current breaks where these reclusive fish hide.
  • They prefer deep, dark spots with dense cover including undercut banks, fallen trees, submerged timber, and sharp current breaks.
  • Focus on structure and current breaks.

Brown Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Brown Trout in North Carolina?

Copper or gold colored spinners and spoons work well for Brown Trout, along with small crankbaits. Natural baits like worms and corn are effective for hatchery-reared fish, while live bait such as crayfish, grasshoppers, and small baitfish appeal to larger specimens.

What flies work for Brown Trout in North Carolina?

Effective fly patterns include dry flies, streamers, and nymphs that imitate natural foods - particularly soft-hackle flies which can represent various stages of aquatic insects.

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

The best times to fish for Brown Trout in North Carolina are April-June and October-December, with optimal feeding occurring in water temperatures of 50-65°F.

How do you catch Brown Trout in North Carolina?

Always approach from downstream when fly fishing since trout face upstream. Match local insect hatches when possible.

What do Brown Trout eat?

As opportunistic feeders, young Brown Trout consume small aquatic and terrestrial insects, while adults eat larger prey including crayfish, mollusks, fish (including other trout), earthworms, snails, salamanders, and frogs.

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