BROWN TROUT
Salmo trutta

Preferred Habitat: Clear, cool waters not in excess of 68 are the preferred habitat of brown trout. This species will inhabit the deeper pools and undercut banks of suitable mountain streams. It will seek out areas of low light intensity such as that found under submerged logs or stream banks.

Common Size: 8-12 inches, 4-6 ounces in streams to several pounds.

Food Habits: Brown trout generally emerge from their darkened hiding areas at night to feed on insects, crawfish and other invertebrates as well as other fish. This fish is very opportunistic and will eat anything that moves.

Spawning: Spawning activity occurs from October through November when the females deposit 600-3,000 eggs into shallow nest-like depressions called "redds". Most trout populations in this state depend on hatchery production.

Miscellaneous: The brown trout is not native to the United States but originally found in Europe. Since their introduction to North America is 1883, the brown trout ahs been stocked into the waters of every continent except Antarctica. This trout is more tolerant of warmer and more turbid water than either the rainbow or brook trout; therefore, its range of habitats is greater.

The secretive nature of the brown trout accounts for its inhabiting deeper, darker waters and undercut banks and adds to the challenge anglers face when fishing for this exceptional fish.