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Brook Trout

Brook Trout

Brook Trout in Washington are actually chars (Salvelinus fontinalis), closely related to Bull Trout and Lake Trout rather than true trout.

They're widely distributed across Washington's high mountain lakes and streams, found in counties from King and Pierce to Okanogan and Pend Oreille, with over 200 documented fishing locations.

Scientific Name: Salvelinus fontinalis

Also known as squaretail

Physical Characteristics:
  • They're distinguished by light spots on a dark background, red spots surrounded by blue halos along their sides, and distinctive white margins on their ventral fins.
  • Their backs feature dark wavy 'worm marks' or vermiculations, and they have only slightly forked tails.
  • Brook Trout in Washington average 12-16 inches but can reach 18+ inches in quality populations.
  • During spawning, their colors intensify dramatically with bright orange bellies.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They inhabit both high lakes (typically above 3,500 feet) in the Cascades and Olympics, as well as lowland waters.

Key Locations

  • Popular areas include the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, North Cascades (Cutthroat Lake, Rainy Lake), and south Cascades around Mount Rainier.

Specific Spots

  • Target structure like boulders, fallen logs, drop-offs, and areas where cold streams enter lakes.
  • In streams, focus on pocket water, undercut banks, and deep pools.

Brook Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Small lures like Rooster Tails, Mepps Aglia spinners, small spoons (Kastmaster 1/8-1/4 oz), and Panther Martin spinners in gold or silver.

What flies work for Brook Trout in Washington?

Productive fly patterns include Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Pheasant Tail, Woolly Bugger, and Muddler Minnow. Small dry flies like black gnats, Royal Wulffs work well on surface, while nymphs, streamers, and chironomids are effective subsurface.

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

Summer fishing from July-September is excellent in high mountain lakes and streams where water stays cool.

How do you catch Brook Trout in Washington?

Brook Trout fishing in Washington peaks during late spring through early summer and again in early fall when water temperatures are optimal. Fish early morning and evening for best results.

What do Brook Trout eat?

Brook Trout are opportunistic feeders consuming zooplankton, aquatic insects, scuds, terrestrial insects, and small fish. In alpine settings, scuds are particularly important for growth.

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