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Brown Trout

Brown Trout

Brown Trout are non-native to Pennsylvania but have become naturalized since their introduction in 1886 from European strains including Scottish and German varieties.

They're now widespread throughout the state and have become the dominant trout species in many streams previously inhabited by brook trout.

Scientific Name: Salmo trutta

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They're found in all of Pennsylvania's watersheds, from limestone spring creeks to infertile headwaters, swampy outflows, larger rivers, and reservoir tailwaters.

Key Locations

  • Pennsylvania's Class A brown trout waters include famous streams like the Letort Spring Run, Little Juniata River, Penns Creek, Spring Creek, and sections of Fishing Creek.
  • Limestone streams like Big Spring Creek and the Letort offer year-round opportunities, while freestone streams like Cedar Run, Slate Run, and sections of Pine Creek provide excellent action.
  • Trophy-size browns are present in waters like Lake Wallenpaupack, Harveys Lake, Raystown Lake, Lake Erie tributaries, and the Allegheny River system.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on deeper pools, undercut banks, areas below riffles, and structure like logs and overhangs.
  • At Wallenpaupack, troll at 23-foot thermocline during summer.

Brown Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Small spinners, spoons, or crankbaits. For lake fishing: stick baits and spoons.

What flies work for Brown Trout in Pennsylvania?

Blue Winged Olives work well during rainy periods, Adams Dr.y Fly, Flashback Pheasant Tail for mayflies, Green Weenies and Green Rockworms for caddis larvae, various mouse patterns for night fishing trophy browns, ants and grasshoppers for terrestrials.

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

The best times to fish for brown trout in Pennsylvania are from May through September, with peak activity during spring and fall when water temperatures are optimal. October and November are poor times to target them due to spawning.

How do you catch Brown Trout in Pennsylvania?

For fly fishing, match local insect hatches including mayflies, caddisflies, and terrestrials. Lake fishing is productive using downriggers or planer boards. Night fishing with large mouse patterns can be extremely effective for trophy browns.

What do Brown Trout eat?

Brown trout are highly predatory, feeding on aquatic and terrestrial insects, crayfish, other crustaceans, and especially fish - with larger browns (over 12-14 inches) becoming increasingly piscivorous.

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