It's true, I'm no trout fisherman. My knowledge of trout fishing is limited to experience over the last 2 or 3 years, before that I had no trout knowledge whatsoever. So if you're an "advanced" or "experienced" trout angler, you'll probably not even want to read this article. But for those wishing to "wet their feet" to trout fishing like I did 3 years ago, read on and maybe I can teach you what I know!

First off, brown trout are found just about everywhere. Every small river or creek with moderately clear water should hold at least a few of them. I have found this in the Haldimand Norfolk area anyway. Dams, waterfalls, and bridges are good places to start, as they usually have some public access nearby.

Areas like the one on the right are definitely good trout habitat. Now, I don't want to draw attention to one specific area, because this is really about finding your own trout streams! I have found a couple in my area that hold trout, and nobody else thinks they can support fish.. I've even caught brook trout from them!

Now, to start out I immediately bring an ultra light rod/reel with 2-6 lb. test. I prefer 4lb Rapala Long Casting line, because it seems to cast very accurately and is sensitive, which is a must in clearer water, especially for trout.

The lure of choice for trout is almost always a 1" or 1 1/2" red devil or five of diamonds pattern spoon. Any brand will work, just make sure it's a casting spoon and not a trolling spoon. Other possibilities are small in-line spinners (like Terminator's great line of in-liners), small (1" or less) grubs or tube jigs, or bait like corn, worms or minnows. Often later in the day I can get away with using a smaller (2") crankbait in the backs of holes and catch somewhat larger trout. Try your best to "match the hatch" and use what the trout seem to be eating at that time of year.

ALWAYS be in "stealth mode" when chasing trout. Keep casts low to the water, accurate, and as quiet upon lure entry as possible. A splash too large, a footstep in the sand or even waving your arms can spook trout into lockjaw easily. Sometimes when I try out one hole the way I normally would and have limited success, I will go as far as to crawl to the next one and stay crouched when casting. Often it can and does make a difference. If it weren't for my bad back, I would probably do that all the time!

From personal experience, the way the trout work are they will stay towards the front section of the holes in the morning when they feed, and somewhat scatter throughout the daytime, and move to the back as the evening comes around. At night time they will be scattered once again, but they will most likely be on top and feeding.

When night fishing for trout, remember to be even quieter than usual, and to keep your flashlight away from the water as much as possible. In fact, just keep it off if you can. The light can easily spook them into the depths, or just screw up their eyesight temporarily.. and let's face it, trout pretty much need their eyes to feed.

If you are good at fly fishing, then go ahead and give it a shot. I personally could not flyfish if my life depended on it, nor do I have the interest to learn. I have tried on many occasions to fly fish, but always end up switching back over to my ultra-light... some things just don't appeal to some people (even with proper teachers around). And it's not a patience factor either, as I have been outfished on many occasions by fly fishermen when it comes to trout. Basically my only advice for fly fishing is to once again, match the hatch and use whatever insect is in season at that time of year.

As you can see, I am no trout professional, nor will I ever be one. But if you're like me and you need something to fish for in the spring that puts up a decent fight and is also a challenge, give brown trout a shot! You just might get "hooked"! Good luck and tight lines,

- "Big Bass" Rich -