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Brook Trout

Brook Trout

Brook Trout are not native to Utah but have been successfully introduced to numerous waters throughout the state, particularly in high-elevation backcountry lakes and alpine streams. These fish are actually members of the char family rather than true trout.

Scientific Name: Salvelinus fontinalis

Physical Characteristics:
  • In Utah's waters, Brook Trout typically range from 6-12 inches in smaller streams and can grow significantly larger in lakes, with some waters producing trophy fish exceeding 3 pounds.
  • The state record Brook Trout of 7 pounds, 8 ounces was caught at Boulder Mountain in 1971.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found primarily in high-elevation backcountry lakes and alpine streams.
  • These waters typically sit above 8,000 feet elevation, remaining cold enough year-round to support healthy populations.
  • Boulder Mountain alone contains over 80 lakes, with 35% managed specifically for trophy Brook Trout fishing.

Key Locations

  • Boulder and Uinta Mountains' backcountry lakes, Boulder Mountain's numerous lakes, including Anderson Meadow Reservoir, Kent's Lakes, LeBaron Reservoir, Little Reservoir, and Puffer Lake.
  • The Tushar Mountain lakes near Beaver also provide excellent Brook Trout fishing.
  • The Tushar Mountains also hold Brook Trout populations in several alpine lakes.

Specific Spots

  • In streams, focus on pocket water, undercut banks, areas around boulders and logs, and pools with cover.
  • Brook Trout often hold in surprisingly small pockets of water that other anglers might overlook.

Brook Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Small inline spinners like Panther Martins, Rooster Tails, and Mepps Aglia in gold or silver. Small spoons are also effective. Traditional baits like worms remain highly effective where regulations permit.

What flies work for Brook Trout in Utah?

Productive dry fly patterns include Chubby Chernobyl, Stimulator, Parachute Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, and Royal Wulff in sizes 10-16. For subsurface fishing, try Rainbow Warriors, Purple Juju Baetis, Pheasant Tail nymphs, Prince nymphs, Beadhead Zebra Midges, and Woolly Buggers.

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

Brook Trout fishing in Utah is best from late spring through early fall, with prime opportunities from June through September when high-elevation lakes become accessible. Their feeding activity peaks during cooler water temperatures between 50-56°F, becoming lethargic when water exceeds 68°F.

How do you catch Brook Trout in Utah?

Fly fishing is highly effective for Brook Trout in Utah's alpine lakes and streams. For subsurface fishing techniques are effective. Spinning tackle works well.

What do Brook Trout eat?

Brook Trout are opportunistic feeders with a diet consisting primarily of terrestrial and aquatic insects, small fish, crustaceans, zooplankton, and worms.

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