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Brook Trout

Brook Trout

Brook trout are the only native trout species in South Carolina and are actually char, not true trout.

Their populations have been severely reduced from historical levels due to habitat degradation and competition from introduced rainbow and brown trout, now mainly confined to remote headwaters.

Some waters contain wild populations while others are hatchery-supported through regular stocking programs.

Scientific Name: Salvelinus fontinalis

Physical Characteristics:
  • They have dark-olive colored sides with pale yellow spots and scattered red spots with lighter colored halos, with bright white edges on their pectoral, pelvic and anal fins outlined by black lines.
  • During spawning season in fall, their colors become much more vivid with vibrant red to orange bellies and fins.
  • In South Carolina, brook trout averaging 4-7 inches in length and 1-3 ounces, though the state record is 4 pounds 10 ounces.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • In South Carolina, brook trout are found exclusively in mountain streams of Oconee, Pickens and Greenville counties.

Key Locations

  • Key waters include the Chattooga River system, East Fork Chattooga, Chauga River, Whitewater River, Eastatoee River, and North/Middle/South Saluda rivers.
  • Focus on the Chattooga River system (especially around Burrells Ford and the East Fork near Walhalla Fish Hatchery), Chauga River tributaries, Whitewater River above Lower Whitewater Falls, Eastatoee River gorge area, and North/Middle Saluda rivers.

Specific Spots

  • Target deep pools, areas with structure like fallen logs and undercut banks, and spring-fed sections.

Brook Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Brook Trout in South Carolina?

Tiny Rooster Tail spinners (1/16-1/8 oz) in bright colors with gold blades work well, along with small Phoebe spoons and Rapala Ultralight minnow plugs. Live baits like earthworms, grubs, and small minnows are highly effective.

What flies work for Brook Trout in South Carolina?

Top fly patterns include Adams Variant, Thunderhead, Orange Stimulator, Tan Elk Hair Caddis, Yellow Mayfly, Tellico Nymph, Green Wire Caddis Larva, and Micro Woolly Bugger.

When is the best time to fish for Brook Trout in South Carolina?

The best times to fish for brook trout in South Carolina are late spring (April-May) and fall (September-early October). They spawn in fall (September-November) in water temperatures between 40-50°F - this period should be avoided for fishing to protect reproduction.

How do you catch Brook Trout in South Carolina?

Use stealth approaches with quiet wading, light tippets, and careful presentations in clear water. Match local insect hatches when possible, and practice catch-and-release to preserve wild populations.

What do Brook Trout eat?

Brook trout are opportunistic feeders, consuming aquatic insects (mayflies, caddisflies, stoneflies), terrestrial insects (ants, beetles), worms, small fish, and crustaceans. In small southern streams, they feed primarily on aquatic insects.

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