This month we take a look at one of the most common and important species to the fly fisher. It’s likely more books have been written, and more stories told about this species, in fly fishing circles, than any other.
Possibly the most widely distributed salmonid on Earth, the brown trout (Salmo trutta) can be found on every continent besides Antarctica. They are native to Europe but began being introduced to other parts of the world around 160 years ago. Almost all freshwater fly fishers will know of brown trout – even if they haven’t had the opportunity to catch one yet. Brown trout are an important species for fly fishers because they may well have been the first species ever to be targeted by fly fishing hundreds of years ago. That’s right – brown trout just may be the reason fly fishing exists today!
Brown trout are a perfect fish to target on fly as they are willing to rise to dry flies or will happily take nymphs or streamers – depending on where they live, the size of the fish, or what they are used to feeding on. They are one of the more adaptable trout species, which is why they can be found in so many locations around the world and can handle a wider range of water temperatures and habitats than many other salmonids.
You may be able to find brown trout in slow lowland rivers, lakes, mountain streams or even, in some places, the ocean! In some locations, such as Patagonia, The White River in Arkansas and New Zealand’s South Island – brown trout fishing has attained legendary status with people from all over the world wanting to experience these extraordinary fisheries. But you don’t need a lot of money and a passport to catch brown trout. Chances are you can try catching them not far from where you live – you may need to do a bit of research, but if you are willing, and have access to a standard fly fishing rod and reel roughly 4 – 6 weight, you can try fishing for brown trout too. Learn more great facts for kids about brown trout here.
Fly fishing for sea-run brown trout in Patagonia - see the video below or visit Catch Magazine.
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