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Brown Trout

Brown Trout

Brown Trout in North Dakota are non-native fish introduced from Europe, specifically brought to North America in 1883 when eggs from Germany arrived at hatcheries in New York and Michigan.

These fish are more adaptable than other trout species, able to survive in warmer water conditions up to 75°F compared to rainbow trout, though they still prefer cold, well-oxygenated waters.

Physical Characteristics:
  • North Dakota holds the state record at 31 pounds 11 ounces from Garrison Tailrace.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • North Dakota's habitat doesn't provide suitable conditions for natural trout spawning and reproduction, so all trout populations depend on regular hatchery stocking.

Key Locations

  • Found primarily in the Missouri River System and select lakes where they're regularly stocked, including the Garrison Dam Tailrace, Apple Creek, and Heart River.
  • The Garrison Dam Tailrace below Garrison Dam is the premier location, known for trophy trout including rainbows and browns exceeding 20 pounds.

Specific Spots

  • They prefer deeper pools, undercut banks, hard surfaces, and ambush points.
  • Focus fishing around structures, deep pools, undercut banks, and current breaks.

Brown Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Brown Trout in North Dakota?

Effective fly patterns include Woolly Buggers in various colors, Clouser Minnows, Elk Hair Caddis, Stimulators, Pheasant Tail nymphs, Hare's Ear nymphs, and Blue Winged Olives during winter hatches. Use colors that match local baitfish like white, silver, olive, Black Dungeons, and Woolly Buggers for streamers.

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

Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when they're most active, with summer offering good opportunities during early morning and evening hours.

How do you catch Brown Trout in North Dakota?

Focus on streamers at Garrison Tailrace since fewer insects are available. Use dry flies or nymph fishing on Heart River and Apple Creek. Focus fishing around structures, deep pools, undercut banks, and current breaks.

What do Brown Trout eat?

They're opportunistic predators that shift their diet with size - smaller browns (2-12 inches) consume primarily aquatic insects like mayflies, caddisflies, and midges, while fish over 12 inches become increasingly piscivorous, feeding on fish, crayfish, and fish e.g.gs.

Where do Brown Trout live in North Dakota?

North Dakota's habitat doesn't provide suitable conditions for natural trout spawning and reproduction, so all trout populations depend on regular hatchery stocking.

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