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Brown Trout

Brown Trout

Brown Trout are a non-native species introduced to Vermont in the late 1800s that now have spawning populations in most drainage basins throughout the state.

These European-origin fish are more tolerant of warm water temperatures and pollution than other trout species. They are opportunistic but selective feeders and grow faster and larger than brook or rainbow trout.

Scientific Name: Salmo trutta

Physical Characteristics:
  • Light brown coloration with dark spots intermixed with reddish-orange spots surrounded by light halos, especially prominent in streams.
  • Vermont's state record brown trout weighed 22 lbs. 2.5 oz., caught in Sherman Reservoir in 1990.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They typically inhabit the lower reaches of cold-water streams with deep, slow-moving pools and runs, as well as larger lakes with sufficient depth for year-round cool temperatures.
  • Have spawning populations in most drainage basins throughout the state.

Key Locations

  • Vermont's premier brown trout waters include the Batten Kill, Middlebury River, Neshobe River, Dog River, Castleton River, Poultney River, Furnace Brook, Otter Creek, and lakes Bomoseen, St.
  • Catherine, and Memphremagog.
  • Trophy stocking occurs on Black River, Winooski River, Lamoille River, Missisquoi River, Walloomsac River, Passumpsic River, East Creek, Otter Creek, and Deerfield River.

Specific Spots

  • Brown trout prefer deep, dark spots with dense cover including undercut banks, deep pool heads, eddies behind boulders, and areas with overhead cover.

Brown Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Night crawlers, small minnows, spinners, small lures, trolled stickbaits and crankbaits, live baitfish for ice fishing.

What flies work for Brown Trout in Vermont?

Dr.y flies: Elk Hair Caddis (sizes 12-16), Blue Winged Olives (sizes 18-22), Chernobyl Ant (sizes 8-12), hopper patterns during summer and fall. Nymph patterns: Pheasant Tail (sizes 16-22), Hare's Ear, Prince Nymph.

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

Brown trout fishing in Vermont is most productive from April through early fall, with trophy stocking occurring in late April through May. Ice fishing with live baitfish under tip-ups is excellent during winter. Avoid fishing from late October through December during spawning season.

How do you catch Brown Trout in Vermont?

For fly fishing, use dry flies, nymph patterns, and streamers. Traditional wet flies with soft hackle are effective when swung through runs. Spin fishing, trolling in lakes, and ice fishing with live baitfish under tip-ups.

What do Brown Trout eat?

Fish under 10 inches primarily eat aquatic and terrestrial insects, while larger fish shift to fish and crustaceans.

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