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Brown Trout

Brown Trout

Brown Trout in South Carolina are a non-native species introduced from Europe in 1883 that have established excellent populations throughout the mountain streams of Oconee, Pickens, and Greenville counties.

Scientific Name: Salmo trutta

Physical Characteristics:
  • Wild brown trout display distinctive dark olive coloration with brilliant yellow sides, large black spots, and brilliant red spots on sky-blue halos, while the body color fades from olive to a richly colored yellow belly.
  • They average 8-10 inches in streams but can reach several pounds in Lake Jocassee and the tailraces of lakes Murray and Hartwell.
  • The state record is 17 pounds 9.5 ounces.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Mountain streams of Oconee, Pickens, and Greenville counties.

Key Locations

  • Chattooga River (supporting wild populations from the NC-SC state line to Big Bend Falls), East Fork Chattooga, Chauga River tributaries like Stakey Creek and Bone Camp Creek, Whitewater River, Lake Jocassee, and the tailraces below lakes Hartwell and Murray.
  • Prime locations include the upper Chattooga River in Ellicott Rock Wilderness, East Fork Chattooga near Walhalla Fish Hatchery, Chauga River tributaries on U.S.FS property, Whitewater River above Lower Whitewater Falls, and Lake Jocassee's deep, clear waters.

Specific Spots

  • Prefer deeper pools and undercut banks with low light intensity.
  • They prefer the deeper, darker waters.
  • Deeper pools and undercut banks, and darker waters.

Brown Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

1/8 to 1/16 ounce Rooster Tails, small jigs, inline spinners, diving plugs, spoons, and crayfish patterns. Deep-diving plugs and spoons for trolling, live bait for night fishing.

What flies work for Brown Trout in South Carolina?

Dr.y flies like Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Parachute Adams, March Browns, and Blue Wing Olives in spring and fall. Effective nymphs include Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear, Prince Nymphs, Copper Johns, and Zebra Midges year-round. During summer, switch to terrestrial patterns like beetles, ants, and grasshoppers.

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

Most catchable from March through June and October through November when regular stocking occurs. Spring and fall when water temperatures are optimal.

How do you catch Brown Trout in South Carolina?

For conventional tackle fishing. On Lake Jocassee, troll deep-diving plugs and spoons using downriggers, or try night fishing with live bait for trophy fish. In tailwater areas below dams, fish during water releases and use streamers or weighted nymphs to reach deeper holes.

What do Brown Trout eat?

They feed on aquatic and terrestrial insects, crayfish, and fish, becoming increasingly piscivorous as they mature beyond 12-14 inches.

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