Trout Fishing Tips

Fishing with Nymphs - For Beginners

2012-01-10T08:54:00.001-07:00

Now that the weather has turned cold again, trout have gone deeper in the water again seeking comfort and food. Nymphs are a great source of food for trout during the Winter and Spring months. Nymphs are immature insects that start life underwater and then emerge to the surface when reaching maturity.

When fishing with artificial flies, the trick is to make them look as real and natural as possible. When fly fishing, casting your nymph upstream and letting it sink as it rides the current downstream helps. Letting the fly rest on the bottom and rise to the top gives the appearance of a natural nymph emerging to the surface.
The video below demonstrates this technique.

Here's another great video - demonstrating the use strike indicators and fishing a double nymph rig.

You don't have to be a fly fisher to fish with nymphs. Many spin fishers fish with nymphs too! If you're nymphing with a spinning rod, you'll want to use a float. There's a great article on spin fishing with nymphs that shows you how to rig your pole and offers fly selection advice and more.

If you're having trouble catching trout, try fishing with nymphs!

Fly Fishing for Trout - Part 6

2012-01-08T16:51:00.001-07:00

This is the final video in the Fly Fishing for Trout video series by Gary Borger. In this series, Gary continues his discussion on fly selection and presentation on the water. He also covers how to tie to a perfection loop knot for quick leader changes.

You can watch the rest of the videos in the Fly Fishing for Trout series by clicking the links below:

Fly Fishing for Trout - Part 1
Fly Fishing for Trout - Part 2
Fly Fishing for Trout - Part 3
Fly Fishing for Trout - Part 4
Fly Fishing for Trout - Part 5

Fly Fishing for Trout - Part 5

2011-12-22T07:35:00.000-07:00

Part 5 of the Fly Fishing for Trout video series discusses various insects that trout eat and compares those insects to artificial flies. It also discusses casting and fishing techniques that help attract trout to your artificial fly.

Click the links below to see more lessons in the Fly Fishing for Trout video series:

Fly Fishing for Trout - Part 4

2011-12-20T11:52:00.000-07:00

Below is the 4th video in the Fly Fishing for Trout series by Gary Borger. This video covers insects and fly patterns that have been proven effective to catch trout.

Click the links below to see more lessons in the Fly Fishing for Trout video series:

Fly Fishing for Trout - Part 3

2011-11-15T10:19:00.001-07:00

Below is part 3 of the Fly Fishing for Trout video series. This video lesson covers the basics of roll and overhand casting. The video also covers the common mistakes made when fly casting. It also discusses trout feeding lanes and how to fish them.

Click the links below to see more lessons in the Fly Fishing for Trout video series:

Fly Fishing for Trout - Part 2

2011-11-14T12:25:00.001-07:00

A while back we started posting a video series designed to help folks fly fish for trout. You can view part 1 of the Fly Fishing For Trout Video series by clicking here.

You can watch part 2 of this video series below. This lesson covers fly casting, cinch knots and more. You'll how to perform a roll cast as well as fish a section of water in a river. Gary Borger is a master trout angler and does an excellent job of providing help to those wishing to fly fish for trout!

To see Part 1 of Fly Fishing for Trout, click here.

To see Part 3 of Fly Fishing for Trout, click here.

Arizona County Lakes Recently Stocked with Trout

2011-10-31T11:56:00.000-07:00

The Arizona Fish and Game Department has been busy stocking trout in various lakes and streams around Arizona this month. And in November, Watson Lake will get its first stocking of trout for the winter. This is only the second time in decades that Watson Lake has had trout planted in it.

The Lower Salt River near Phoenix will also be stocked with rainbow trout in November.

For more information about this series of trout stockings in Arizona waters, click here.

Fall Trout Fishing

2011-10-26T10:48:00.000-07:00

Now that temperatures are cooling off in many parts of the country, trout fishing should start heating up! It's no secret that Fall is one of the best times for trout fishing activity. Cooler surface water temps make for a more comfortable environment for trout.

If you've never trout fished before or are looking to take your kids fishing, this is the perfect opportunity. Kids will enjoy fishing a lot more if they're actually catching fish and so taking them fishing during the fall months will better their chances.

Below are some fall trout fishing tips.

Fly Fishing for Trout

2011-04-03T15:13:00.001-07:00

It's that time of year again ... the weather is warming up, and trout activity is heating up! If you've ever wanted to learn how to fly fish for trout, this video is for you! It's the first video on a 6-part series and covers the basics of fly fishing for trout - including what kind of insects trout eat.

While this information is important to all trout anglers, it's especially important to the fly fisher because they're using artificial flies that are designed to mimic real insects. This first video, talks a lot about different insects and how it applies to selecting flies. It also covers trout lies (i.e., places in the water where trout tend to hold).

Even if you're not interested in fly fishing, the information in the video is useful to all trout anglers.

To see Part 2 of Fly Fishing for Trout, click here.

Conquering the Northwest Lakes

2011-03-20T16:11:00.000-07:00

The Pugett Sound Fly Fishers are offering a one day seminar titled, "Conquering the Northwest Lakes" on April 9, 2011. Members and non-members are invited to attend this seminar (cost is $65 for non-members and $40 for members).

The seminar will share key strategies and tactics for fishing the Northwest Lakes, ten habits for success, hatch guide, fishing tips for for bad days, and more!

For more information about the "Conquering the Northwest Lakes" seminar, click here.

For more trout fishing events, click here.

2-Day Fly Fishing Seminar for Women

2011-03-19T15:54:00.000-07:00

If you're woman and live in New York, you may be interested in this 2-Day Fly Fishing Seminar which will be held May 14 and 15, 2011. The clinic is intended to give women a relaxed and comfortable environment to learn fly fishing as well as improve their skills. Women will learn everything from beginning fly fishing to advanced tips and techniques.

The seminar will take place at the NYS DEC Salmon River Fish Hatchery, 2133 Co. Rte. 22, Altmar.
Classes will begin at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 14 and Sunday, May 15. Breakfast and lunch are provided.

The deadline to register is April 30, 2011. Registration is $20 per day and $35 for both days. Participants must be age 18 or older and have a current New York State fishing license. Class size will be limited to 20 students.

For more information, about the women's fly fishing seminar, click here.

Trout Fishing Tips for Spring

2011-03-08T14:54:00.000-07:00

Although this past week has been a bit cooler than expected in some parts of the world, it won't be long before the Spring trout fishing season starts heating up! Once the weather warms up a bit more, trout will become active predators and feeders. Here's a few trout fishing tips to help you catch more trout this spring.

First, as water temps warm up a bit, trout will be moving closer to the surface and near shallow banks. Warmer, oxygenated water will wake trout out of the sluggish state they've been in during the cold winter months. This means they will begin actively preying on other fish and aquatic insects.

While artificial lures and power bait continue to produce results in the Spring, fishing with natural baits can produce even better results this time of year. Night crawlers, mealworms, minnows, shrimp, eggs, and the like are natural food sources for trout. These baits also have natural odors associated with them which attract hungry trout!

Since trout are feeding near the surface, you want to fish near the surface ... though you may still need to experiment with a different depths. Learning to read trout lies and moving water will help you pick good fishing locations.

If you do want to give your favorite lure a try, here's a great article by Game and Fish Magazine on 10 Great Spring Trout Lures.

If you're new to trout fishing, check out our beginning trout fishing article. There's no time like the present to learn how to trout fish!

Last Trout Stocking in Santee Lakes

2011-03-07T14:03:00.000-07:00

The last of the trout stockings for the Santee Lakes will take place by the end of the week. About a 1,000 pounds of rainbow trout will be split into Lakes 3 and 4. As many of you know, bigger trout have stocked the last couple of years in the San Diego lakes.

The Santee Lakes are part of a water recycling/recreation program in San Diego, California. Seven lakes comprise the Santee Lakes. Lakes 2, 3 and 4 are stocked with rainbow trout. You don't need a California fishing license to fish these lakes, but you do need to buy special lake permit.

For more information about the Santee Lakes (including trout fishing tips), click here.

New Rainbow Trout Record in Nevada

2011-03-03T07:45:00.001-07:00

Nevada's state record for the largest rainbow trout was broken on February 10, 2011 by a Mike Mott. This 64 year old angler caught the trout on a fly rod while fishing at the Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Best of all, Mike had only learned to fly fish a year earlier and so is still considered a novice by experts!

Mike's rainbow trout weighed 16 lbs, 8 ounces and measured 30.5 inches in length. The previous record weighed 16 lbs, 4 ounces. Despite the previous record being an inch longer, the weight of the new trout was sufficient to clinch the record.

Mike Mott was fishing with a stonefly nymph on floating line when he made his catch.

You can read the full story of Mike's record rainbow trout by clicking here.

Float Fishing for Trout

2011-03-01T12:57:00.000-07:00

Floats (also called Bobbers) are popular with many trout anglers. In fact, every trout angler ought to have a few in their tackle box. Floats (or Bobbers) are typically used when trout are feeding just under the water's surface. That's because floats are ideal for keeping your baited hook near the water's surface. And the best part is that you can lengthen or shorten your leader to increase or decrease the depth you'd like to fish at.

Floats come in different shapes and sizes. If you've never fished with one before, the video below shows you the basic setup for trout fishing.

Trout Fishing Events Around the World

2011-02-26T08:59:00.001-07:00

We've added a new feature to our web site. It's a calendar! As Spring approaches, trout fishing will start heating up shortly. As such, there's trout fishing workshops, clinics, derby's and more being scheduled to help folks enjoy the upcoming trout fishing season.

So we thought it would be nice to track all these events on a calendar to make it easier for you to keep track of trout fishing events in your area. To check out our new trout fishing calendar, click here.

Open Season for Gila Trout in Arizona

2011-02-25T08:19:00.000-07:00

It's official. The proposed amendment for the first ever Gila Trout season in Arizona was enacted on February 23, 2011.

Anglers can now catch and possess ONE Gila trout at Frye Mesa Reservoir. However, anglers are encouraged to practice catch and release since Gila trout are still a threatened species.

The Arizona Game & Fish Department has some nice photos on their Facebook page of the recent stocking that took place.

For more information about Gila trout, click here.

Sebago Ice Fishing Derby Offering Big Prizes

2011-02-21T08:09:00.000-07:00

Trout Anglers in Maine might like to check out the Ice Fishing Derby in Sebago, which will be held the 26th and 27th of February, 2011.

This is the 11th Annual Ice Fishing Derby in Sebago, and this year they're offering a $100,000 prize to the person who catches the largest Lake trout (and here's the catch) .... which breaks the Maine State Record (which currently sits at 31 lbs and 8 oz). The Maine State Record for Lake Trout was recorded in 1958 and hasn't been broken yet. If an angler is lucky enough to break that record during the derby, he/she will walk away with the $100,000 prize!

Other prizes include a Polar Craft Boat, Gift Certificates, Ice Fishing Sleds, and more.

For more information about the Sebago Ice Fishing Derby and entry fees, click here.

Wireless GPS Trolling System For Trout Fishing

2011-02-18T13:51:00.101-07:00

I love electronic gadgets and today stumbled across this wireless trolling GPS unit. If you love trolling for trout, you might be interested in this GPS trolling unit. Check it out.

Minn Kota i-Pilot Wireless GPS Trolling System - Terrova

The revolutionary i-Pilot uses GPS technology to store and retrieve locations and paths on the water. Its intuitive features including CoPilot wireless functions navigate and position your boat for you, improving your bait presentation and letting you focus on fishing. i-Pilot installs simply; just replace the top of the motor head, activate your remote, and you're ready to fish. Features:

Record a Track: Simply push the Record button and fish along your

desired course. i-Pilot will store that track to memory (up to three

separate tracks). When you want to retrace a course, i-Pilot™

Playback functions will automatically guide your boat down the track.

Spot-Lock: Spot-Lock works like an electronic anchor. With the push of a button, Spot-Lock will keep you on the fish. Spot-Lock Recall lets you return to that spot later.

CoPilot and Cruise Control: Select and maintain a consistent speed for optimum bait presentation with cruise control, and use the legendary speed and steering functions of Minn Kota CoPilot to precisely control your boat.

Advanced CoPilot: Just point your trolling motor in the direction you want to head and activate Advanced AutoPilot. i-Pilot keeps you on your heading and delivers you there with GPS accuracy, compensating for wind, waves, currents, or drift. . Minn Kota® i-Pilot Wireless GPS Trolling System

Free Fly Fishing Lessons in Texas

2011-02-18T07:31:00.000-07:00

The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in Athens will be hosting a fly fishing day on March 12, 2011 (9 am to 4 pm). This is a great event for beginners wanting to learn to fly fish and for advanced anglers wanting a bit of help with casting and other things.

Several local fly fishing clubs will be on hand to help teach people how to fly cast, tie knots, and more. All equipment will be supplied by the clubs, so you don't need to bring any. To see a complete list of topics covered, click here.

The classes are FREE, but registration is required because spaces are limited. To reserve a spot, call Craig Brooks at 903-670-2222.

For more information about these fly fishing lessons, click here.

Trout Fishing Videos

2011-02-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I mentioned that we were doing a lot of updates to our website. One of the updates we worked on yesterday was a new trout fishing video library. There are loads of videos out there offering instruction on various aspects of trout fishing. Some of these videos are region specific and others specialize in a specific trout species.

If you're new to trout fishing, you'll really enjoy Scientific Angler's videos on trout ... which cover all the basics of trout behavior, feeding habits and how to catch them.

You can check out our new trout fishing video library by clicking here. And for even more videos about trout fishing, click here. Once on this page, look to the right and click the link that reads, "trout fishing videos".

Updates to TroutFishingHelp.com

2011-02-16T16:43:00.001-07:00

Although it's been a few days since we last blogged, we've been hard at work updating our website to make it easier for you to get your hands on the trout fishing resources you need to catch more trout!

We've totally redone the home page to make it easier to access other pages and resources on our site. As such we're in the process of adding loads of new pages to TroutFishingHelp.com, each specializing in a different area of trout fishing. So expect to see more links added to the home page over time (so check back often).

We hope you'll find the new layout more user-friendly and helpful. In addition to the website, we are also working to update the Trout Fishing Tips eBook too. The newer version will have a lot more information about trout lures and how to select them for various fishing conditions. So stay tuned for those updates.

As usual, we'd love to hear from you - especially if you're looking for a particular trout fishing resource that you're having trouble finding. We'd like to help. And course, feel free to share your favorite trout fishing tips with us!

Ice Fishing For Trout Video

2011-02-10T13:14:00.000-07:00

Ice fishing for trout this winter? If so, you may find this video helpful. This video was developed for beginner and advanced anglers alike. It covers everything you need to know to ice fish for trout.

This video is available for download and you can either rent or buy it. Either way, you can watch it instantly after purchase. Check it out: Ice Fishing for Trout with Nathan Zelinsky.

For more information about ice fishing for trout, click the links below:

Ice Fishing With Tip-Ups

Ice Fishing Tip for Rainbow Trout

Turn Your Bait Into A Spinner

2011-02-03T16:05:00.000-07:00

A couple of days ago, I shared some of the best lure tips for trout fishing. One of those tips was to tip your lure with some sort of bait (nightcrawler, PowerBait, etc.). That trick will work with any trout lure (spinners, spoons, etc.).

Well there's actually a lure manufacturer that makes a lure (called the, Minnow Mangler) that is designed specifically for adding minnows to it. The design combines a spinner with some other bait, such as a minnow, though you can add whatever live or plastic bait you prefer to it.

The Mangler - fishing lures also makes lures that glow in the dark and make noise (also mentioned in the "best lure tips" article mentioned above). Check them out and tell us what you think.

Proposed Open Season for Gila Trout in Arizona

2011-02-02T08:28:00.000-07:00

Gila trout are one of Arizona's two native trout (the other being Apache trout). Because of limited numbers, Arizona's have not been allowed to catch them (though New Mexico anglers have). That may change very soon.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department have received a request to set a limited Gila Trout Season, where anglers would be allowed to catch one trout. This request was prompted by the fact that a New Mexico hatchery has surplus of Gila trout. If approved, the trout would be stocked in the Frye Mesa Reservoir.

For more information on the proposed Gila Trout season, click here.

Best Trout Fishing Lure Tips

2011-02-01T11:26:00.002-07:00

While lures have a long track record of catching trout, there are some tricks you can use to make your lure of choice more attractive to trout. I've used all these tricks myself with success.

Lure Tip #1 - Tipping The Lure

Adding a small piece of nightcrawler, minnow, powerbait, etc. to the hook of your lure is called, "tipping the lure". The idea is to add scented bait of some sort to the lure to make it more attractive. So not only is the lure attracting trout by vibration and flash, but also by scent. Nightcrawlers are popular tips for lures, but you could use anything that trout like to eat.

Lure Tip #2 - Greasing the Lure

Since trout are attracted to potential food by scent, you can also rub some trout attractant on your lure (called greasing the lure). I personally like to grease my leader and lures when fishing with lures. If you don't have any trout attractant, and you've already caught at least one fish, you could also rub your lure against the fish's side. This transfers smelly fish slime to the lure, again, making it smell more natural and attractive.

Lure Tip #3 - Tricking Up Your Lures

This technique is a simple matter of using colored marking pins and tape to spice up a plain silver, nickel, or gold colored lure. The nice thing about this trick is that it can save you money in buy the same lure in multiple color combination. Although the video was created for bass fisherman, the technique works with trout lures as well.

Lure Tip #4 - Vary Your Retrieve Speed

After casting a lure into the water, many anglers tend to retrieve the lure at a constant speed. While this will catch some fish, varying the speed can catch even more. Many lures are designed to imitate bait fish and they don't swim at a constant rate (nor do they swim in a straight line). So varying your retrieval speed will do two things. First, it changes the depth of your lure. Reel fast, and your lure will rise to the surface. Reel slow (and even stop reeling once in a while) and it will sink. This can give the appearance of an injured bait fish (which trout often find irresistible).

The second thing varying the retrieval speed does, is it makes the lure presentation look more natural. In other words, if you're lure isn't swimming in a straight line at a constant speed, it tends to look less like an artificial lure and more like a natural bait fish swimming around.

Lure Tip #5 - Color Selection

It's no secret that lures look differently underwater then they do out of water. They also look different in direct sunlight, under cloudy haze, etc. Lures not only look different to us in different water and weather conditions, but they also look different to trout under the same conditions. Not only this, but lures will different underwater too at various depths, in clear water, murky water, blue water, green water, etc. Understanding this will help you choose better lure colors before you cast your line.

There is a lot more detail in my Trout Fishing Tips eBook about how weather conditions and water conditions affect lure color and effectiveness, but in a nutshell, here are some tips you can try when selecting your next lure.

On dark cloudy days and in murky water, try dark colored lures. On bright sunny days, try light colored lures (including lures with gold and nickel finishes).

Lure Tip # 6 - Add Some Noise

In conditions when your lure might be hard to see (such as dark and murky water), using a lure that makes noise can help attract fish. Some lures make a rattling sound as they move through the water. Rapala makes some great lures that make noise.

Lure Tip #7 - Add Some Glow

In underwater conditions where your lure might be very hard to see (such as at night), using a glowing lure can help make it more visible to trout. Berkely even makes a Glowing PowerBait Wiggler that was designed to be added to lures. Using these wigglers not only employs Lure Tip #1 but also this lure tip. The Mangler - fishing lures has some interesting glowing lures.

Have any more lure tips? We'd love to hear them. Feel free to share your own favorite lure tips here.

Modifying Trout Spoons For Better Success

2011-01-31T13:42:00.000-07:00

Here's a great tip on modifying your Salmon Spoons. Of course, even though this video talks about spoons used for salmon fishing, the concept can be applied to other trout lures as well

New Mexico Trout to Offer Fly Fishing Classes to Veterans

2011-01-28T08:42:00.000-07:00

The New Mexico Trout Fishing Association will begin offering fly tying and fly casting classes to patients of the Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center in Albuquerque. There will even be some day trips included in the classes.

This wonderful outreach is part of Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing. This project is dedicated to the physical and emotional rehabilitation of disabled active duty military personnel and Veterans through fly fishing and fly tying education and outings.

This program is free for veterans, and New Mexico Trout will provide equipment for those who need it.

Fly tying classes are scheduled to begin on Feb 9, 2011. Additional classes will be held on:

Feb. 16, 2011
Feb. 23, 2011
March 9, 2011
March 16, 2011
March 23, 2011
April 13, 2011
April 20, 2011

All classes will start at 6 pm in the Recreation Hall (Bldg. 2) of the medical grounds, and run til about 7:45 pm.

Fly casting classes will be begin in April 2011 (time and dates still to be determined). Fishing outings will start in June and run through mid-September (more information still to come). Fly fishing outings will normally depart from the V.A. grounds at 7 am and return about 4 pm.

Although this program is free, veterans must pre-register since space is limited. For more information or to signup, contact Michelle McKenzie at (505) 265-1711 (ext. 4160) or email her at michelle.mckenzie@va.gov.

Veterans also may call Dave Patton of New Mexico Trout at (505) 681-0835 or e-mail him at pattondj@comcast.net for more information.

Ice Fishing Tip for Rainbow Trout

2011-01-27T08:50:00.000-07:00

Some folks think trout hibernate during the winter months, but that's not true. They do get a bit sluggish and less active, but they do still need need to eat to survive. The difference in winter is that they're looking for an easy meal. They don't want to have to work as hard for their meals in the winter months.

That said, many anglers enjoy ice fishing for rainbows during the colder months. If you're one of those anglers, you may want to try the trout tip offered in this video.

So next time you're out ice fishing for rainbows, try adding a nightcrawler to your tip-up. Have other ice tips for trout, let us know.

For more winter trout fishing tips, click here.

Winter Trout Fishing Tips

2011-01-26T13:03:00.000-07:00

Despite the fact that many of us have had a few warmer days this month, we're still in the heart of the winter trout season. This means that you have to adjust your tactics a bit to accommodate slow, sluggish trout.

Trout do not hibernate, but they do become lethargic in cold water. They still need to eat, but they're less likely to be aggressive predators. Instead, they'll eat whatever comes near them. So to catch them, you have to not only have to get your baited hook or fly near them, but you many also have to offer them something they can't resist.

Spoons tend to work well in winter months for this reason. The flash emitted as they move through the water can excite fish and cause them to strike at it. This flash can also "wake" them out of a lethargic stupor. This strike is not always one of hunger, but sometimes one of defensiveness ... in that the trout is trying to protect its territory from unwanted intruders.

So when trout fishing in winter, try using a variety of spoons (different colors, sizes, etc.). And course try to fish them in deep pools or warm pockets of water where trout may be holding. Learning to read the water, is important when trout fishing.

Spinners can also be effective lures when trout fishing in the winter. Like spoons, spinners emit a flash as they move through the water, but they're vibration is different. This vibration can also help entice a sluggish trout into checking your offering. Once again though, you want to get the spinner close enough to a trout lie to entice the fish without scaring them away.

If you're fly fishing, nymphs and other wet flies are usually the best bet during the winter months. Fly fishing during the winter tends be more challenging than spin fishing, because of the fact that there aren't as many insects around.

Lighter line (or at least leaders) can also help during the winter months ... especially if you're fishing in clear water. Trout will often taste bait before eating it 9which is why some strikes tend to be subtle). This is especially true in the winter months. Using a lighter line can help disguise the fact that your baited hook is a trap (so to speak).

Another thing to adjust is the time of day you go fishing. During the summer months, we conditioned to fish in the early morning hours and at dusk. The afternoon hours (between 10 am and 2 pm) are generally the worst hours to fish during the summer months. However, during the winter months, fishing between 10 am and 2 pm tend to produce better results. This is because the water warms up a bit during these hours and warmer water means less sluggish trout.

Trout fishing may be slow in the winter months, but you can still catch trout. So don't give up.

How to Rig Double Nymphs for Trout Fishing

2011-01-20T10:46:00.000-07:00

Every serious fly fisher generally has a nice supply of nymphs in their arsenal. Nymphs are designed to imitate the juvenile stage of aquatic insects. The nymph stage of an insects life begins after they hatch and when they start to grow. Nymphs are sub-surface insects and typically remain in this stage for weeks to years (depending on species of insect). Once they mature enough, they migrate to the surface and begin emergence.

So because nymphs are underwater insects, the artificial flies created to imitate nymphs are classified as wet flies (that is, they are fished below the water's surface). Trout strikes tend to be more subtle with nymphs than with dry flies, so many anglers like to use strike indicators. Yarn, corkies and even dry flies, are popular strike indicators.

If you're state allows it, you can even rig two nymphs on your line to increase the chances of trout strikes. The video below shows you how to rig double nymphs.

To learn how to rig a dry fly as a strike indicator, click here.

Wooly Bugger Tips

2011-01-18T08:26:00.000-07:00

The Wooly Bugger is a favorite fly for trout anglers. It's a wet fly, so it's generally fished below the water's surface. Wooly Buggers are a type of streamer (a large artificial fly that is designed to resemble bait fish or other aquatic prey). Carrying a selection of Wooly Buggers in different sizes is a good idea.

Because the fly is fake, you have to fish it in a way that makes it come alive so trout will be attracted to it. The video below shows you how to fish with a Wooly Bugger.

How to Use Dry Flies As Strike Indicators

2011-01-17T07:46:00.000-07:00

Tired of using yarn and cork indicators when fly fishing? Check out this guy's solution! He uses artificial flies as indicators. This is trout fishing tip is for the advanced angler, but the video does an excellent job of showing you exactly how to rig a dry fly as an indicator while fishing with a nymph.

2011 Fly Fishing Film Tour

2011-01-15T08:22:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again when the Fly Fishing Film Tour is making the rounds. Throughout February, March and April, the Fly Fishing Film Tour will be visiting over 80 cities in 2011. The goal of these tours is to inspire film makers who make outdoor sports and education videos. Folks making videos for outdoor enthusiasts are especially encouraged to attend one of the Fly Fishing Film Tours.

But even if you don't make films or videos, the annual event has become popular for it's entertainment value. For more information about the 2011 Fly Fishing Film Tour (including tour dates), click here.

2011 World Fly Fishing Championship

2011-01-12T09:39:00.000-07:00

While updating the website this morning, I noticed that the dates for the upcoming 2011 World Fly Fishing Championship dates had been posted on the FIPS-Mouche website and wanted to share the information here.

The next World Fly Fishing Championship will be held in Italy 28 Aug. - 4 Sep., 2011.This will be the 31st Annual World Fly Fishing Championship. There's even a facebook page to help folks follow the 2011 tournament. Team USA also has a facebook page now.

Last year's championship was held in Poland and the Czech Nymphs took the gold in the competition.

For more information about the 31st World Fly Fishing Championship, click here.

Fishing With Bobbers

2011-01-11T10:28:00.000-07:00

A lot of trout anglers like to use bobbers when fishing. Whether or not you use a bobber has a lot to do with where trout are actively feeding. If trout are feeding near the bottom of a lake, then a bobber won't help you much. But if they're feeding near the surface, then using a bobber is a good idea.

Bobbers offer two main advantages. First, they keep your baited hook near the surface of the water. So if you're fishing a lake (for example), your baited hook typically hangs below the bobber the length of your leader. Generally speaking, most trout leaders used in spin fishing is 18-24 inches in length. So if using a bobber while lake fishing, you're typically fishing 18-24 inches below the surface.

Another advantage of fishing with bobbers is that they serve as a strike indicator. When the bobber dips below the water's surface, it's usually means a fish is checking out your bait and this is the time to set the hook.

Bobbers can be used when fishing in lakes and streams too (even though these bodies of water are usually much shallower than lakes).

Bobbers come in various sizes and colors. The smaller the bobber, the easier it will be for a fish to pull it under the water when it strikes (so it disappears from your sight). When fishing for smaller fish, smaller bobbers are preferred because because they don't interfere with a fish strike as much.

There are a few different different ways to rig a bobber on your rod and some of this depends on the type of bobber used (used stationary bobber, slip bobber, etc.).

Below are some videos you may find helpful.

Slip bobbers offer the advantage of making it easier to adjust the depth of your hook.

How to Tie Egg Loops

2011-01-10T07:34:00.000-07:00

Egg Loops are a type of knot that are often used by salmon and steelhead fishers to attach a leader to the hook. Salmon and Steelheader fishers like this know because it's strong and helps roe and shrimp stay on the hook longer.

If you've never tied an egg loop before, the videos will teach you how to tie it. If you are familiar with tying the egg loop, you might find the "pimped out egg loop" useful.

For help in baiting the hook with roe, click here.

Winter Trout Flies

2011-01-07T09:15:00.002-07:00

Fly fishing in winter is challenging for a lot of anglers because trout tend to feed below the surface this time of year. And if you want to catch them, the fly fisher typically needs to fish nymphs and other wet flies.

Some of the more popular nymphs to fish with during the winter season include the Wooly Bugger, Wooly Worm, Hare's Ear and Muskrat Nymph. Large stoneflies and dragonfly nymphs can also be good for catching trout in the winter.

The golden rule in choosing a fly is to observe insects are currently hatching. In winter, where you typically don't see any insects flying around, looking under rocks in the water can be helpful. Overturning a few rocks will give you an idea of what trout are feeding on ... as well as help you select an appropriate nymph to entice them with.

Bass Pro Shops offers a nice selection of freshwater Wooly Buggers in different sizes. They offer other assortments of flies as well in nice kits.

For more winter trout fly fishing tips, click here.

For more general winter trout fishing tips, click here.

Ice Fishing with Tip-Ups

2011-01-05T13:27:00.001-07:00

Since many of us live in areas currently covered in snow and ice, I thought some ice fishing tips would be helpful. And I love videos for obvious reasons. This video below offers some tips for ice fishing with tip-ups.

For those who aren't familiar with them, tip-ups are strike indicators that rest above your ice fishing hole. Your line is typically attached to one end of the tip-up and lowered into the water and a flag is attached to the other end. When a passing fish strikes your line, the flag raises to let you know you a fish may be on the line.

The advantage of using tip-ups is that you can sit warmly in an ice shanty and watch your tip for strikes rather than sit in the cold holding a pole. Another advantage is that you can fish multiple lines at once.

The video below offers a few tips for ice fishing with tip-ups.

Click here to see an ice fishing tip for rainbow trout.

New Trout Records for 2010

2011-01-04T10:51:00.001-07:00

There were some new trout records set in 2010 and I thought it would be fun to share them here with you. While Roger Hellen's 41.8 lb brown trout was certainly the highlight of the year, there were also several new state records set.

Roger Hellen's 41.8 lb brown trout shattered the previous 1986 IGFA line-class record and tied the Tom Healy's all-tackle record which was set in 2009. The only reason Hellen's brown trout didn't break Healy's record was because of an IGFA ruling which states the new record must weigh more than the previous record by certain margin. Hellen's fish is also Wisconsin's new brown trout record.

Kansas recorded new records for rainbow and brown trout in March of 2010. The new brown trout record weighed in at 4.18 lbs (measuring 20.25 inches). This fish was caught with a Kastmaster lure in Kanopolis Reservoir Seep Stream. Ten days later, a 10.29 lb rainbow trout was pulled out of Shawnee Mission Park Lake using Berkley PowerBait.

Maine recorded a new brook trout record weighing in at 9.02 ounces. This trout was pulled out of Mousam Lake The previous record (8 lbs 8 oz) was set in 1979. A new rainbow trout record was also recorded in 2010. The new rainbow record weighed 8.42 lbs and was caught in Kennebec River in Solon.

Ohio recorded a new steelhead trout record. This 21.3 lb and 38 inch rainbow trout was pulled out of Lake Erie.

South Carolina also recorded a new state record for brook trout. Amazingly enough, the previous 30 year brook trout record was broken three times in less than a week! The newest record weighs 3 lbs 9.5 oz was caught using a Super Duper Spinner in South Saluda River.

Texas recorded three new trout records back to back with the final record weighing in at 8.92 lbs and measuring 26.5 inches. This rainbow trout set the new all-tackle, rod and reel state record.

Wyoming recorded a new Tiger Trout record in November, 2010. The new record weighed 5.12 lbs and measured 23.9 inches in length. This fish was caught in High Savery Reservoir.

For more information about previous trout records, click here.

Ice Fishing Tournaments in South Dakota

2011-01-03T13:45:00.000-07:00

South Dakota has several ice fishing tournaments throughout January that local anglers may be interested in. They also have several other fishing tournaments scheduled through 2011.

Included in the tournament schedule is the 9th Annual Kids Fishing Tournament on January 15, 2011.

For a complete listing of 2011 fishing tournaments in South Dakota, click here.

Rigging Pink Plastic Worms for Steelhead Fishing

2010-12-20T15:11:00.000-07:00

Many steelhead anglers have had success with pink plastic worms. They can be fished under a float or drift fished. Since plastic worms float, you'll have to add some weight (i.e., split shot) to get them down deep enough to where trout are feeding.

The video below shows how to rig your line with a pink worm.

For more tips on rigging pink plastic worms, click here.

For more steelhead fishing tips, click here.

Fly Fishing Lessons for Kids

2010-12-15T13:26:00.000-07:00

Looking for a great gift idea for the child in your life? How about fly fishing lessons. The Rivers and Glen store in Augusta, Georgia will be holding a fly fishing clinic for kid. There are three different dates available.

December 21, 2010 from 12 - 2 pm
January 11, 2011 from 3 - 5 pm
January 24 from 3 - 5 pm

Each class is $50 and will start with the basics including tying knots and fly casting while actually fishing at the same time. Parents will be asked to drop their kids off at various local lakes (including Hammond’s Ferry ponds) for the clinic. Equipment and snacks will be provided, although kids are welcome to bring and use their own fly fishing equipment.

As kids master their skills, they'll be able to attend more advanced classes in the future. For more information about the fly fishing clinic for kids, click here. You can also call the phone number listed below for more information.

Rivers and Glen Fishing Clinic for Kids
Tuesday, December 21, noon-2 p.m. January 11 and 24, 3-5 p.m.
$50 per class
706-738-4536
We:b: riversandglen.com

Fishing With Live Shrimp

2010-12-14T10:29:00.000-07:00

Fishing with live shrimp is a favorite for many trout anglers ... especially with those fishing for speckled trout. It's a well known fact that many speck fisherman will follow the shrimp boats when fishing for speckled trout.

Rigging your pole with live shrimp can be done a couple of different ways. Regardless of the method used, be careful when hooking the shrimp so as to not kill him. The best thing to do is to hook the shrimp in the tail. This will not only help to keep him alive, but also allow the shrimp to swim freely. Small light-wire hooks are also preferred when fishing with shrimp because they allow the shrimp to swim more freely.

Not sure how to properly hook a shrimp in the tail? Watch the video below.

Free Lining

One of the most popular (and easiest) methods is to put a live shrimp on a hook and toss your line into the water. You don't need any additional weight if you're fishing near the surface, although you can add weight if you want to fish below the surface. The goal is to let the shrimp swim freely so they look more natural to trout feeding in the area. This means you need to leave the bail open after tossing your line out. Because line is being pulled off the spool (either by the shrimp or by you letting more line out as needed), this method is often called "free lining". You can see free lining in action by watching the video below.

Popping Cork

Fishing shrimp with a popping cork rig is a favorite tactic among anglers. In this method colorful, trout-attracting floats that make a popping sound are used. The popping action of the cork mimics feeding fish. The video below shows how popping corks work. Plastic or live shrimp can be used with popping corks.

Jigging

Live shrimp can also be attached to jig heads and fished deeper around docks and other deep water structures. Jigging works best in the colder months when trout are feeding in deep holes in channels off the main river. A 1/16 oz jig head with a size 2 hook should work well.

Putting shrimp on a jig head is done differently than putting shrimp on a hook for free lining. When jigging, you'll want to hook the shrimp from the underside through the head between the eyes and the brain. Amazingly enough, this will keep the shrimp alive and allow him to swim freely.

Top Five Winter Speckled Trout Lures

2010-12-12T07:05:00.001-07:00

If you live in an area where you can fish for speckled trout, you'll love this article. I stumbled across it this morning and thought it was too good not to share. It's titled, "Top 5 Winter Speckled Trout Lures".

For more speckled trout fishing tips, click here.

For more winter trout fishing tips, click here.

How to Use Augers for Ice Fishing

2010-12-09T08:24:00.000-07:00

Augers are a necessary piece of equipment if you want to do any ice fishing. The videos below explain the different types of augers and how to use them.

Types of Ice Fishing Augers

How to Use a Folding Ice Fishing Auger

Pros and Cons of Inline Ice Fishing Augers

How to Use an Inline Ice Fishing Auger

Pros and Cons of Offset Ice Fishing Augers

How to Use an Offest Ice Fishing Auger

Ice Fishing Tips - Identifying Different Types of Ice

2010-12-07T11:31:00.001-07:00

It's that time of year again where lakes are freezing over in many parts of the world. Many trout anglers enjoy ice fishing, so I thought it would be nice to share some ice fishing tips.

To ice fish, you have to use an auger to cut a hole in the ice first. As you cut through the ice, you may notice the different layers of ice. The video below will help explain the different layers of ice you may encounter.

There are different types of augers and as the video explains,the kind of auger used, often depends on the type of ice you're cutting through.

Anchor ice is the hard, submerged ice layer. It gets its name from the fact that it is "anchored" on the bottom. If cutting through anchor ice, you'll want to use an inline, solid stem auger.

Another thing to consider is the size of the hole. Fishing for large lake trout through the ice is a favorite winter activity for many trout anglers. Some of these trout are too large to be landed through a 7-inch hole. What's the solution? The video below explains.

For more winter trout fishing tips, click here.

How to use Downriggers & Dipsey Divers & Sonars

2010-11-26T13:09:00.000-07:00

In our Trout Fishing Tips eBook, we discuss the ways that downriggers, dipsey divers and sonars can help you catch more trout. This video gives shares a few tips on using these things as well.

Now that we're entering one of the more challenging seasons for trout fishing, sonars can be particularly helpful. And of course, any time trout go deeper in the water for food and comfort, downriggers can also be very helpful in getting your baited hook down to them.

Free Fishing Seminar Nov. 29 & 30

2010-11-23T09:46:00.001-07:00

Avid Anglers will have a chance to learn more about fishing including how to catch more and bigger fish from the man who writes the weekly fishing reports at Irvine Lake (California). Steve Carson is his name and he is ranked as one of the top t0 anglers in the world according to the IGFA.

The seminars are FREE and open to all who wish to attend.

The first seminar will be on Nov. 29 from 6 to 8 pm at the Sport Chalet in Marina del Rey. The second seminar will be on Nov. 30th at the Torrance Sport Chalet (same time).

Topics will include both freshwater and saltwater fishing tips. And of course, trout fishing at Irvine Lake and other urban lakes will also be discussed. There will also be a few tips for parents who are actively teaching their kids to fish.

Free seminars tend to fill up quick, so you should plan on arriving early if you want to get a seat. If you love fishing, this is a great opportunity to learn more from an experienced angler. For more information about this fishing seminar, click here.

Roe Bait Tips for Steelhead Fishing

2010-11-22T12:25:00.001-07:00

Steelhead fishing is popular with many trout anglers! There are several different fishing techniques used by Steelheaders, but fishing with roe (fish eggs) is one of them. Like salmon eggs, fishing with roe can be as simple as baiting the hook or more complicated by adding other things to the hook to make the bait more visible and attractive to fish.

The video below does a nice job of showing you different ways to bait a hook with roe for steelhead fishing.

Need help tying the egg loop knot mentioned in the video above? Check out the video below:

For more steelhead fishing resources, click here.

For advanced Steelhead fishing techniques, click here.

Dough Bait Tips for Trout Fishing

2010-11-17T08:07:00.002-07:00

Most trout anglers are familiar with dough baits such as Berkley's PowerBait. These baits are specially formulated to attract trout and the nicest thing about them is that they float ... which helps to keep your bait off the bottom of a lake bed.

Dough baits are especially effective when fishing lakes stocked with rainbow trout. That's because these baits are similar to the food fed to hatchery trout. While Berkley has it's competitors in the dough bait business, I've had the best luck with Berkley products. So I personally tend to stick with them. Rainbow glitter powerbait is one of my favorites!

Fishing with dough bait is really easy. I typically use 6-lb test line with a 4 or 2-lb leader. Between the two, I attached an slip sinker on the 6-lb test line and then tie on a snap-swivel. I attach my leader (typically 18-24 inches) to the swivel. At the end of the leader is a treble hook (usually size 12). This rig is typically a bottom fishing rig. Using powerbait on this rig gets the baited hook off the bottom of the lake (making it more visible to trout swimming by). However, I have had success using the same rig (minus the sinker) when fish are feeding off the surface.

When baiting the hook, most anglers just make a ball around the hook to cover it up. And while that does work, the video below offers a few more tips.

Another thing I like to do sometimes (especially when fishing is slow) is grease my leader and dough bait with trout attractant. The advantage of this trick is that the trout attractant can help disguise human smells transferred to my line and bait while handling them.

For roe bait tips for steelhead trout, click here.

Have any more dough bait secrets? Feel free share them here!

Tempe Town Lake to be Stocked Nov. 23rd

2010-11-16T07:34:00.000-07:00

Every year the AZ Game and Fish Department stock Tempe Town Lake with thousands of rainbow trout. This year, the event will take place on November 23rd from 3 to 5 pm.

This is a fun family event which is not only FREE but there will also be fishing rods and bait available for folks who don't have their own. For many kids, this is an opportunity to catch their first fish! There will be plenty of experts around to lend a hand .... so don't worry if you don't know how to fish!

No fishing license is required during the event (3 - 5 pm).

By the way, the AZ Game and Fish Department have recently stocked all of the Urban Lakes, so anglers can enjoy more trout fishing opportunities.

Kayak Fishing - The 3 GOLDEN Rules

2010-11-14T07:37:00.001-07:00

I stumbled across this video today while surfing the internet and thought our readers might find it useful. Trout fishing in kayaks has been on the rise the last few years due to the fact that Kayaks are less expensive than boats and easier to transport.

But fishing from a kayak does pose some challenges and this video does a good job addressing some of those challenges.

New World Record Brown Trout

2010-11-12T12:14:00.000-07:00

This year during the Salmon-A-Rama tournament, Roger Hellen landed a 41 lb 8 ounce brown trout near Wind Point (Racine, Wisconsin). The trout was pulled out of Lake Michigan at 8:30 am on July 16, 2010.

Needless to say, the trout won the tournament's grand prize (and was the largest fish ever caught in the tournament). However, it took four months before the IGFA declared the brown trout a new world record in one division and a shared tie in another.

The new trout, officially broke the 24-year old record in 50-lb line class division (held by Paul Loquasto). The previous record (set on April 29, 1986 in Lake Ontario, N.Y.), weighed just 14.4 pounds. While it may seem incredible that this record hasn't been broken sooner, it may be because most anglers aren't targeting brown trout in the 50-lb line class division.

Hellen's brown trout catch will share the all-tackle record Tom Healy who caught a 41.7-pound brown trout Sept. 9, 2009 at Manistee River, Mich. If you're wondering why this record is considered a tie when Hellen's catch is an ounce heavier, you're not alone. According to IGFA rules, Hellen's trout needed to be one-half of one percent heavier than Healy's trout to claim sole ownership of the record. In other words, Hellen's trout needed to be about 2.1 ounces heavier than Healy's trout to officially break Healy's existing record. None the less, Hellen will share this record with Healy.

Hellen is having the catch stuffed for display in his home. For more information about this record brown trout, click here.

Trout Plants in Northern California

2010-11-12T10:33:00.000-07:00

During the week of 7 - 13 November, 2010, the California Department of Fish and Game will be planting trout in several fisheries in Northern California.

For more information about the fisheries being stocked, click here.

Speckled Trout Fishing Good in Florida's Intracoastal Waterway

2010-11-11T12:20:00.000-07:00

Speckled trout fishing is reported to be excellent in Florida's intracoastal waterway. Cooler temps and plenty of shrimp have played a role.

Trout are near the surface right now so topwater plugs, Mirrodines and 1/4 ounce jigs with plastic tails have yielded results. Fishing under lighted docs up and down the Intracoastal Waterway is also a good bet since specks tend to hang there. Plastic tail grubs and Mirrolures are good bets under lighted docks too. If you have a boat, you might try trolling slowly on the creeks and grass edges

You cand read the full report on Speckled trout fishing in the Intracoastal Waterway by clicking here.

For more tips on speckled trout fishing, click here.

Trout Fishing Report for Oklahoma

2010-11-05T09:23:00.000-07:00

There's a great fishing report out of Oklahoma this morning. Trout fishing is being reported as excellent in several fisheries at the moment.

Folks trout fishing on the Lower Illinois River are having great success above Gore Landing using rooster tails(1-2 feet below surface), flies on the surface, and power bait.

Folks fishing Pawhuska are doing well with powerbait and small spinners.

Trout fishing on the Blue River is also reported to be good. Anglers are using powerbait, inline spinners and super dupers with success.

For the complete fishing report, click here.

Trout Stocking at Beaver Lake

2010-11-02T12:27:00.000-07:00

Beaver Lake is scheduled to be stocked with rainbow trout on November 8th, 2010. The department of fish and wildlife is planning to release 2,300 rainbow trout.

Beaver lake is open year-round for fishing. The daily bag limit is five fish — and only two of the fish exceed 15 inches in length — and bait anglers must keep the first five trout caught.

Since temperatures are cooling down, trout fishing action should be heating up! While Beaver lake has a maximum depth of about 50 feet, try fishing closer to the surface (up to about 18 feet in depth). Lures, PowerBait, etc. should all be good.

Trout Fishing Activity is Heating Up at Dsvis Lake

2010-10-18T17:50:00.000-07:00

J and J’s Grizzly Store and Camping Resort out at Davis Lake (California) is reporting that trout fishing activity is really heating up! Not only are the number of catches improving, but also trout sizes are increasing. Anglers are reporting catching trout in the 20+ inch size.

Try fishing near the surface (and up to 18 feet below). Bank Mallard Cove is a hot spot at the moment. Power Bait and Nightcrawlers have been successful!

For a more detailed fishing report at Davis Lake, click the link above.

Rainbow Trout Being Released Today in Ohio Lakes

2010-10-15T10:30:00.000-07:00

Good news for trout anglers. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources will be releasing about 300 rainbow trout today at Kiwanis Recreation Park in Painesville and Granger Pond in Mentor’s Veterans Park.

Anglers should see an improvement in Steelhead trout fishing too. According to a fishing report posted on Cleaveland.com .....

Rain has kicked up local steelhead rivers and streams, especially the Rocky and Vermilion rivers. The fresh flow and cooler nights should bring some steelhead trout into the rivers. The best fishing will be in the lower stretches of the tributaries as the waters begin to go down and clear a bit.

Anglers are working spawn bags close to the river bottom, and casting spinners and spoons. Fly fishermen are tempting trout with minnow imitations and darkcolored stone fly nymphs.

You can read the entire fishing report, by clicking here.

Trout Fishing Activity Heating Up

2010-09-07T11:01:00.001-07:00

It's that time of year again, temperatures are dropping and so trout fishing activity is heating up before Winter sets in! Fall is always one of my favorite times to be out fishing. In addition to good trout activity, there's plenty of Fall scenery to enjoy (at least in my neck of the woods).

Trout fishing should continue to improve through October and even the early part of November (depending on where you live). With cooler temperatures trout will be moving closer to the water's surface which offers many advantages to anglers.

Lures, Power Bait, and nightcrawlers are good bets in Fall weather, though you'll still have to experiment to figure out which one works best on a given day.

Good Fishing Activity on Yuba River

2010-07-29T07:47:00.000-07:00

The latest fishing reports coming out the Sierras report that fishing activity has been good on the Yuba River. The trout have been small, but there is lots of them.

Fishing activity has also been good along Highway 4 Corridor, the Stanislaus is also reporting good trout activity.

You can read the full fishing report, by clicking here.

Share the Outdoor Experience with a Low-Income City Kid

2010-06-30T15:29:00.000-07:00

Want to help show a city kid what summer fun is all about? Here's your chance! There's an organization called, "The Fresh Air Fund" that is dedicated to helping low-income city kids enjoy a summer experience they'll never forget.

Here's how it works ....

Folks volunteer to host a child in their home for 2 weeks. The goal is to help that child enjoy the great outdoors with you and your family. So whether, you're in to hiking, fishing, camping, boating, etc. ... you have an opportunity to share the great outdoors with a city kid who who might not otherwise have this opportunity.

The Fresh Air Fund is in need of host families for this summer. Host families are volunteers who open their hearts and home to a child from the city to give them a Fresh Air experience that can change lives. Here's a little more about the program.

Even if you can't host a child, you might like to consider making a donation to the program. You can donate online ... and if you donate now, your donation will be matched dollar for dollar.

To learn more about the Fresh Air Fund, click here.

If you've ever worked the program or know anybody who has, we'd love to hear your story!

Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge Closures

2010-06-18T15:33:00.000-07:00

The Arizona Fish & Wildlife have recently closed portions of the Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge due to heavy Mexican Drug and Human traffickers.

Although there isn't any fishing at Refuge, it is is (or was) a popular recreation spot. So I wanted to make folks aware of the dangers in the area of the Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge.

For more information, click here.

National Fishing & Boating Week

2010-06-05T11:53:00.001-07:00

National Fishing and Boating Week (NFBW) is coming up June 5-13 and is a great way to get families outdoors and in the conservation mindset! There are many different activities to participate in during NFBW.

Those looking to participate should visit TakeMeFishing.org, where they can find waterways and fishing hotspots near them, plan trips and even get assistance in getting a fishing license or registering a boat. There's also a full list of events, or for information on planning events.

Also keep in mind that 37 states offer Free Fishing Days during NFBW.

Trout Fishing Remains Excellent in Florida

2010-06-01T13:08:00.000-07:00

It's been another great week for trout anglers in Florida. Anglers having been catching 18-24 inch trout around Hurricane Pass.

Folks fishing near Dunedin Causeway have reported great success using live shrimp (on a rig with split shot)! Folks fishing north of the Dunedin Causeway along the Intracoastal Waterway spoil islands have been scoring good numbers of trout 18 to 20 inches. Live shrimp and sardines has yielded the best results.

More more fishing reports in and around Florida, click here.

Speckled Trout Biting Feverishly in Florida

2010-05-28T15:47:00.000-07:00

Captain Mark Howard reported today that the speckled trout in the Brandenton area of Florida are biting feverishly on moving water. He also went on to say that shiners hooked in the pectoral area have triggered the most strikes. Captain Howard also recommends fishing the drop-off of flats and the intercoastal waterways.

You can read his full report by clicking here.

For more speckled trout tips, click here.

Arizona State Parks Open for Camping & Fishing

2010-05-28T11:05:00.000-07:00

Now that it's Memorial Day weekend, many Arizona State Parks and Campgrounds are opening up. Some of these spots offer great fishing opportunities.

Some of the more popular camping and fishing spots in Arizona include:

Dead Horse Ranch (Cottonwood)

Fool Hollow Lake (Show Low)

Lyman Lake (St. Johns)

Patagonia Lake (Patagonia)

Roper Lake (Safford)

Alamo Lake (Wenden)

Lake Havasu (Lake Havasu)

Enjoy the weekend and happy fishing!

Splake Trout in Copperas Pond

2010-05-17T12:44:00.000-07:00

We received this email tip from of our readers and wanted to share it.

Copperas pond in Essex County in up state new york has large splake trout in it. Apparently the local fishing guides don't normally mention this. Our reader reports that he caught a 3 plus pounder there and hooked into a larger fish which snapped his 8-lb test line.

We'd love to hear from other trout anglers who have tried their luck at Copperas pond.

This blog has moved

2010-04-30T09:57:00.001-07:00

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Fishing Derby Saturday in Southern Maine

2010-04-30T09:27:00.000-07:00

The Southern Maine Fish and Game will hold its 51st annual Free Kids Trout Fishing Derby from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday (1 May 2010). The derby will be held at a spring-fed pond next to the club's 30 Martin Road headquarters. Seacoast children, ages 15 and younger, are welcome to cast for some of the freshly stocked trout in the pond.

Each kid will receive a free lure courtesy of the Kittery Trading Post. The event is rain or shine. Trophies and prizes will be given in several categories, including first fish, first limit, youngest fisherman/fisherwoman, largest fish and more. Food and refreshments will be available.

For more information, click here.

Monster Lake Trout Caught While Ice Fishing

2010-03-11T16:57:00.000-07:00

Here's one of those trout catches that many anglers can only dream of! This video was produced by JigHeadsTV.

These anglers were ice fishing on Lake Superior when they caught this monster Lake Trout. It's a great catch and even greater that they released the fish back into the lake. The only downside is that more care could have been taken when handling the fish since catch-release was intended from the start.

$1200 a Day Lake Ontario Boat Derby

2010-02-16T09:37:00.000-07:00

Summer is fast approaching and this year, Lake Ontario (in Canada) will be hosting a new $1200 a day Boat Derby. This is event will run concurrently with the Summer Derby beginning June 19th and running through July 18th, 2010. The LOC boat derby also coincides with the lsat two pro-arms and will utilize the LOC weigh-in stations, hours, and rules (other than described below).

Better yet, if you're submitting fish for consideration in the LOC Summer Derby, all rules, such as all members must be entered would have to be followed ... so yes, you could win in both derby's.

The LOC Boat Derby prize will be $600 a day for the largest salmon (minimum 20 lbs) and $600 a day for the largest trout, one winning fish per day per boat.

The accepted minimum weight for trout will be:

Lake trout 15 lbs
Rainbow steelhead 13 lbs
Brown trout 10 lbs.

The goal is to make all trout competitive. For example: If a 12 lb brown trout were entered, it would take a 17.01 lake trout to beat it.
The price for entry is $600 for active USCG registered captains and $300 for non-captains and this covers everyone on the boat.

If you don't hold a USCG license and didn't book a charter in 2009 or 2010, you can join at the $300 rate.

Checks and 1099’s will be sent to the person who registers and any distribution of funds to fishing partners is the responsibility of that person. The weigh in station that weighs each of the daily fish will collect $25.

If enough people haven't signed up for the LOC Boat Derby by May 15th, it will be canceled. So you might want to sign up as soon as possible.

Signing up is easy ... and you can do it online or by mail.

To register online,click here.
To register by mail, click here.

You will be able to sign up at weigh in stations and registration outlets after the minimum entries have been met, but with cash or check ONLY.

Registration will be available after the boat tournament starts, but there is no pro rating of the fee and there is no daily entry fee to this event.

Monies collected over the stated prize structure of $36,000 and administrative fees will be divided up and awarded as prizes for the largest fish in each division.

For more information about the LOC Boat Derby, click here.

By the way, there's only 72 days left til the start of the Spring LOC Derby
(April 30 - May 9, 2010).

2010 Fly Fishing Show

2009-12-21T10:15:00.000-07:00

We've gotten a couple of emails asking about the 2010 Fly Fishing Show. So we thought we'd post the dates here for everybody! So if you're interested in attending, you can catch the 2010 Fly Fishing Show at any of the places mentioned below:

Denver, CO
January 8, 9, 10
Denver Merchandise Mart

Marlborough, MA
January 15, 16, 17
Royal Plaza

Somerset, NJ
January 22, 23, 24
Garden State Convention Center

Charlotte, NC
January 29, 30
Charlotte Merchandise Mart

Bellevue, WA
Postponed until 2011

Pleasanton, CA
February 26, 27, 28
Alameda County Fairgrounds

Pasadena, CA
March 13, 14
Pasadena Convention Center

For more information, about the 2010 Fly Fishing Show, click here.

How to Clear Muddy Fish Ponds

2009-11-19T11:09:00.000-07:00

One of our readers wrote in the other day asking what he could do to clear his muddy pond. The pond is home to speckled trout and became muddy after heavy rains. Since the pond is rather small, a quarter acre in size, the muddy water doesn't seem to be clearing.

In response, I did some research and came across this article published by a group in Texas. Hoping others will benefit from the information, I wanted to publish the link here.

The article is title, "Clearing Muddy Ponds", and you read it by clicking here.

Folks at Virginia Tech published another good article, titled, "Clearing Muddy Pond Waters."

If you have a fish pond you need to take care of, make sure there is plenty of grass around the shoreline. This will help prevent more mud from washing into the pond during a good rain.

There are compounds you can add to the pond to help clear the water also. The most popular compounds include gypsum, agricultural or hydrated limestone, aluminum sulfate (also called, alum). But be careful using these compounds as they can change the pH of the water.

Adding Alum to the pond will lower pH, and keep in mind that trout typically don't do well in water with a pH lower than 6. The lower the pH, the more acidic the water. If using Alum, most experts recommend using it in conjunction with limestone at a ratio of 2:1 (Alum to limestone).

Read the above mentioned articles for more information and if you have questions, your local fish and game department will most likely be able to offer more detailed help in regards to using compounds to clear your muddy fish pond.

Fossil Creek Opens October 3rd

2009-09-29T14:10:00.000-07:00

Roundtail chub are native to Arizona and are commonly referred to as "Verde Trout". These fish live in the Verde River and are known to bite on many of the same lures and baits that trout do.

The Arizona Fish and Game Department has been working the last few years to turn Fossil Creek into a prime fishery for Verde Trout. On October 3, 2009, Fossil Creek will open for the first annual Verde Trout fishing season.

Fossil Creek will open the first Saturday in October every year and remain open through April 30th. Only the middle 4.5 miles of the creek is open to fishing (there will be signs).

Since this is a special fishery, special rules are in place including:

Single Barbless hooks only
Artificial lures and flies only
Catch and release only

The fishery is open to both spin and fly fishers alike, provided they follow the rules mentioned above. Of course, all other Arizona Fishing Regulations remain in effect as well.

The AZ Fish and Game Department hope that this fishery will help anglers learn more about its native fish.

Other fish can also be found in Fossil Creek including the Speckled Dace, Longfin Dace, Desert Suckers, and Sonora Suckers.

You can find more information about each of these fish, by clicking here. Just click on each of the pictures on the web page for more detailed info.

Fossil Creek is located on the Tonto and Coconino National Forests approximately 15 miles east of Camp Verde and 5 miles west of the town of Strawberry. You can find it by driving along Forest Service Road 708.

Cooler Weather Means Better Trout Fishing

2009-08-24T16:14:00.002-07:00

I don't know about the rest of the country, but where I live (northern Arizona), temperatures are starting to cool down ... which means the Fall trout fishing is just around the corner.

Trout become a lot more active when warm summer temps starting cooling down. They like cooler water (which is typically more oxygenated) and so will start feeding near the water's surface. This is good news for anglers!

This time of year, the best trout fishing still tends to be early morning and early evening ... but as mid-day temps drop further, trout will be easier to catch all day long.

Happy fishing!

Mepps Spinners Aren't Just Good for Trout Fishing

2009-07-19T06:47:00.002-07:00

Mepps Aglia Spinners have been a favorite lure for trout anglers since their invention. These simple in-line spinners have a great success rate in catching trout. Check out any trout angler's tackle box, and you're sure to find a couple of these spinners in it.

While in-line spinners aren't typically used by bass anglers, one guy discovered that Aglia spinners have helped him catch more white bass than the traditional spinner baits usually favored by bass anglers.

Judging by the Mepss Lure Selection guide, this comes as no surprise to them. They suggest several different Aglia spinners for white bass anglers.

So why are in-line spinners (like the Aglia) often overlooked by bass anglers? Probably because they're famous for getting stuck on weeds and rocks and anglers are always losing them. Unfortunately for anglers, large fish often hide in those same weeds and rocks (especially bass) and so if you want to catch them, you'll have to contend with the frustrations of getting your spinner stuck (and possibly losing it).

One of the attitude problems that many anglers tend to adopt is a "spare the spinner" mindset. Out of fear of losing $3-$6 lures, they tend to avoid rocky, weedy areas when fishing. While this can be more cost effective for the angler, the downside is that you're sacrificing opportunities to catch more and larger fish.

One way to combat this mindset is to make your own spinners. You can buy the parts in bulk and assemble your spinners which in turn can greatly reduce the cost of each spinner. And when they cost less, you don't mind losing them as much.

So the moral to story is don't be afraid to think outside the box (as this one bass angler did) and don't worry so much about losing those spinners (especially when the opportunity exist to catch more and larger fish).

Fishing Report for New Mexico

2009-07-18T08:06:00.002-07:00

Wondering how the fishing has been in New Mexico? A new fishing report for the week of July 16 has just been published.

Trout fishing has been good to fair on the Canjilon lakes. Anglers have been using worms, salmon eggs and spinners. Same is true for the Chama River, although trout anglers have also been using grasshoppers with success there.

Anglers at Eagle Nest lake have been catching good size rainbow trout from the bank using worms, power bait and spinners.

You can read for the full fishing report by clicking here.

Fishing Report for Southwest Colorado

2009-07-17T08:41:00.003-07:00

Trout anglers are doing well in Southwest Colorado. Beaver Creek Reservoir is full and anglers are catching brown and rainbow trout on salmon eggs and powerbait.

Folks at Big Meadows Reservoir have been catching brook trout on flies, lures and other baits.

Read the full fishing report by clicking here.

Trout Fishing Good in Great Falls, Montana

2009-07-17T08:09:00.002-07:00

According to fishing report released today, anglers are having great success trout fishing in Great Falls, Montana.

Anglers are catching brook trout on night crawlers and gold spoons. Folks trolling cowbells tipped with night crawlers are also have great success.

To read the full fishing report, click here.

What Lure Works Best for Trout Fishing?

2009-07-13T19:04:00.005-07:00

One of the questions I get asked a lot is, "What lure works best for trout fishing?" Of course there are different variations of this question, such as "What lure works best in lakes?", etc.

While the question is simple enough, the answer is not. There are too many different variables involved in fishing to say that one lure works best. In fact, one of the biggest frustrations in trout fishing is that one lure may work great one day and not all the next. Why? There are a lot of possible reasons for this.

Several variables affect trout fishing including:

Water temperature
Water clarity
Water color
Weather conditions (sunny, cloudy, windy, rain, ice, snow, etc.)
Season (spring, fall, winter, summer)
Available food sources
Pressure from other anglers

These are only a few of the variables which affect trout fishing. And of course, each of the variables mentioned above not only affect trout, but also your lure selection. The reason why is too complicated to explain in a blog post, but are addressed in the Trout Fishing Tips eBook.
But in short, the variables mentioned above affect how your lure looks underwater to trout. These variables also influence trout activity and feeding habits.

Trout are sluggish in very cold water and therefore might need a bit more flash to entice them into striking. And yet too much flash, might scare them off.

Water color and clarity can affect a trout's ability to see your lure. A bright red lure in your tackle box will appear black in blue water. That's because red is filtered out in blue water. The deeper the lure is fished, the blacker it will appear under water. This is just one example of how water color and clarity can affect how trout see your lure under water.

Advanced anglers have observed that dark colored lures tend to work well on overcast days, murky water and when fishing at night. Likewise, nickel and silver lures tend to work better on bright sunny days.

These are some of the reasons that a lure may work well one day and not the next. There's just too many variables involved in fishing.

The real key to successful trout fishing is to understand trout: their physical needs as well as how their environment affects them. This understanding will help you in turn better understand how different lures, baits, and fishing tactics affect your ability to catch trout.

Advanced anglers will pay attention to all of these factors and take note of what lure, bait or fishing tactic worked given a certain set of conditions. Often times, they will keep track of these details in a fishing log or fishing software program. After a while, they'll start to notice trends which will help them make better lure selections, etc.

So while there's no real answer to the question, "What lure works best for trout fishing?", hopefully the information above will help you understand some of the variables affecting your lure selection.

Free Fishing on July 4th in North Carolina

2009-06-22T14:57:00.003-07:00

Looking for something fun to do on July 4th? Why not fish?! It's an activity the whole family can enjoy. Even folks who don't like to fish will enjoy the time outdoors with picnic or BBQ while the kids fish.

If you live in North Carolina, you can fish for free on July 4th ... no fishing license or trout stamp is required. All other fishing regulations, such as fish length and daily possession limits, as well as bait and tackle restrictions and park-use fees, apply.

Already have plans this year? There's always next year then. Every year North Carolina designates July 4th as a free fishing day in an effort to raise interest in the sport.

For more information about North Carolina's free fishing day, click here.

Want to know where the best fishing spots in North Carolina are, click here.

Fishing is Good!

2009-06-03T16:05:00.002-07:00

Sorry I haven't been posting lately. We've been having an unusual cool summer in Arizona thanks to rain. This means the trout fishing at my local lakes has been better than usual and needless to say, I've been taking advantage of it!

If you're new to trout fishing, remember that mornings and dusk are typically the best times to catch trout during warmer summer months.

For more summer trout fishing tips, click here.

Free Fly Fishing Workshop for Beginners in New Hampshire

2009-04-13T08:03:00.003-07:00

Hillsborough residents will have an opportunity to learn fly fishing May 16-17, 2009. This workshop is FREE and geared toward beginners, age 13 and up. Kids under 16, must be accompanied by an adult.

If you want to participate, you must print and return the registration form by May 1, 2009.

The workshop will cover the basics of equipment, fly casting, stream ecology, knot tying, safety and how to find those "hot spots" along New Hampshire's rivers and lakes. The highlight of the two days will be Sunday, when folks will head out to a local fishing hole and put their newly learned skills to the test!

Participants should plan to bring their own or borrowed equipment. A limited number of rods will be available for use; when you register, please let Fish and Game know if you will need to borrow their equipment.

For more information, about this beginning fly fishing workshop, click here.

2009 Trout Season Opens April 4th in Illinois

2009-04-02T12:55:00.003-07:00

Folks in Illinois are anxiously awaiting the opening of the 2009 trout season. This year, Saturday April 4th will mark the opening of the 2009 trout season. Folks can begin fishing for trout at 5 a.m.

More than 60,000 trout have been stocked in 43 locations across Illinois. Anglers 16 years or older do need a valid Illinois fishing license along with an inland trout stamp.

For more information about the 2009 Illinois trout season, click here.

Fishing at Pyramid Lake

2009-03-25T08:36:00.005-07:00

Pyramid Lake is a favorite fishing hot spot for many California and Nevada anglers. Located in in Northwestern Nevada (about 35 miles Northeast of Reno), Pyramid Lake is on the Paiute Indian Reservation (which means you need a special tribal permit to fish there, which can be purchased online.).

If you've never been there and are imagining a beautiful lake similar to Lake Tahoe, think again. Pyramid Lake is nothing like Lake Tahoe. Despite being North of Lake Tahoe, Pyramid Lake is at a lower elevation, which means the water is shallower, warmer, and substantially more alkaline than Tahoe.

It's the Lahontan Cutthroat trout that draw anglers to Pyramid Lake. Listed as Nevada's state fish, these cutthroat trout are native to tributaries in the eastern Sierra. Because of size and bag limit restrictions, Pyramid Lake offers trophy trout opportunities for anglers.

Fishing in Pyramid Lake is full of challenges, especially in the warm summer months when the lake becomes highly stratified. As stated in the Trout Fishing Tips eBook, understanding how the environment affects trout behavior is often critical to catching trout.

Tui-chubs are a prime food source for Lahontan Cutthroat in Pyramid Lake. Since these chubs often appear yellowish-green in color, chartruese or green fishing lures tend to be very effective at Pyramid Lake.

Fly fishers also do well at Pyramid Lake. In fact, in 2008 a new fly rod record was set for an 11-lb, 1-oz. cutthroat trout caught on a 12-lb tippet.

For more information about fishing at Pyramid Lake, click here. This article was written by a fish biologist and is one of the best articles ever written.

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Fishing Resources Now Online

2009-03-24T09:03:00.003-07:00

I apologize for not posting as much as we'd all like lately. But as many of you know, I've been hard at work updating the "Trout Fishing Tips" eBook as well as the web site. Last week I released the newest version of the eBook. PC users can download the latest version now (you know the link).

In my latest attempts to supply you with the latest information about trout fishing, I've created a new page on the site that contains links to books, video and more ... a sort of fishing store, if you will.

All of the products listed on the new page are sold through Amazon.com. My goal was to bring the best and most useful products to you, so you didn't have waste hours on the site searching for items of interest.

Amazon has a lot of cool things on the site, including apparel and gifts for anglers. You can also create a "wish list" at Amazon and then as you browse the new web page, add products to it - so your loved ones will know exactly what to buy you when they're looking for that perfect gift!

To check out the new trout resources web page, click here. And be sure to bookmark (or add it to your favorites) too!

Trout Berry Dough Bait Press

2009-03-23T10:18:00.005-07:00

Tired of the mess dough baits (such as PowerBait) leave on your hands? If you answered yes, then you may like the Trout Berry Dough Bait Press. This little gadget is designed to get perfect balls of dough bait on your hook, and not on your hands.

For folks who don't like getting their hands messy, this is a handy little fishing gadget. But it does serve another important function as well.

One of the primary concerns of anglers is not to transfer unwanted odors from their hands to their baits, knowing that these human odors can turn fish off. Sunblock, lotion, and bug sprays are some of the odors that anglers may have on their hands when fishing. While these things are necessary to protect anglers, they can be inadvertently transferred to your bait while handling it - which can then turn fish off.

This is where the Trout Berry Dough Press can help. This gadget eliminates the need for you to touch the bait, thereby keeping you from transferring unwanted odors to your bait. If your bait smells "fishy", it will smell more natural to fish.

Watch the Trout Berry Demonstration video to see how it works.

The Trout Berry Dough Bait Press has also recently been reviewed by Salmon, Trout, Steelheader magazine. You can read the review by clicking here.

Software Can Help You Catch More Trout!

2009-03-10T13:22:00.005-07:00

Most anglers would rather be out fishing than sitting in front of their computers (me included). However, did you know that there's a software program specifically designed to help you become a better angler and catch more fish?

Advanced anglers know that catching fish is more skill than just luck. These anglers catch more fish than others because they study the science behind fishing. They learn how fish behave in various water and weather conditions. They learn how water temperatures, dissolved oxygen levels and food sources affect where trout may be hanging out.

Advanced anglers also understand that their offering (lure or bait) will look different underwater depending on water color, clarity and lighting conditions (sunny, cloudy, nighttime, etc.). They learn that some colors work better in certain conditions and will tailor their lure selection based on this knowledge.

It can take years to learn all of this information and how it relates to catching fish. But many anglers don't pay much attention to these details. This is where software can help!

We've developed a software program to track these important details for you. It's called, Fish Tracker. All you have to do is enter the relevant information after you catch a fish and let the program do the rest.

Fish Tracker will keep track of all of your catches and the details surrounding them. Then it will analyze the data for you and present it in a brief report so you can easily see what worked in the past. This information can save you hours of frustration when fishing.

The cool thing about Fish Tracker is that you can sort information by fishing spots, weather conditions, species, water temperature, etc. You can also track more than one angler's catches and you can upload photos too. So you can keep track of your kid's catches too. Nothing like a little family competition!

While there's other software programs out there, Fish Tracker is simple to use and designed for the average angler - so it's less expensive than other programs. The only downside is that it's not MAC compatible (sorry MAC users).

Our goal has always been to help you catch more trout ... and we've developed Fish Tracker to help you do just that. Not sure if Fish Tracker is for you? No problem, we've developed a trial version of Fish Tracker so you can try it before you buy it.

For more information about Fish Tracker, click here.

Trout Fishing on the Casselman River

2009-02-23T09:24:00.004-07:00

The Casselman River provides excellent trout fishing opportunities for folks living in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Large rainbow and brown trout are stocked each spring and fall, giving anglers the opportunity to catch a trophy-size trout.

The Casselman River is a specially managed fishery ... which means that from October 1 - June 15, fishing is catch-and-release only, and anglers must use artificial lures or flies.

For more information about trout fishing in the Casselman River, click here.

Fishing Expo in Madison, Wisconsin

2009-02-18T08:04:00.004-07:00

Madison's Fishing Expo will be held February 27 - March 1, 2009. This event is always a crowd pleaser drawing thousands of fishing enthusiasts.

While always a great family event, folks will have the opportunity to get great deals on tackle, boats and trips. Ever wonder what your old fishing lure was worth? Bring it along and have it appraised at the expo.

There will also be plenty of youth activities too including a casting contest, face painting, and more. There will also be a trout pond for kids to fish in this year.

Folks wanting more to learn more about fishing for walleye, bass, muskie, and panfish can attend various seminars at the expo. For a complete list of seminars offered this year at Madison's Fishing Expo, click here.

Entrance fee is $8 for adults (kids 12 and under are free). There's also a $5 parking fee. Proceeds raised from the show will be used to fund fishing related projects throughout South Central Wisconsin.

For more information about Madison's 2009 Fishing Expo, click here.

How to Attract Trout While River Fishing

2009-02-17T17:27:00.005-07:00

Rivers, streams, and creeks are a lot shallower than lakes - which means that trout can usually see movement on nearby banks. This is why experienced anglers often use care when approaching the water (so as not to startle fish).

It's also important to stay still as much as possible when fishing on the bank. Trout have a wider field of view than we do and can often see us before we see them - and our movement will chase them away.

Likewise, careless wading and walking in the water can result in overturning rocks - which in turn send a signal to trout that you're nearby. This again, will chase them out of the area.

While excessive movement can scare trout away - being still can have the opposite effect. The more safe and secure trout feel, the more likely they will be to swim into an area. This is why trout often hang around submerged logs, undercut banks, and large rocks. These structures give them shelter from predators.

So, if you want to catch trout, you'll want to look for these structures when fishing in rivers, streams and creeks and fish close to them. The next key is to be as still as possible when fishing so as not to startle fish away.

The video below does a good job of demonstrating this point. It was created by my good friend Timothy Kusherets. It's hard to see the fish swimming by him in the first two minutes of the video. But about 30 seconds more into it, the fish become much easier to see as they rise out of the water. Notice how they gradually get closer and closer to Timothy as he continues to remain still.

Donaldson Trout Explained

2009-02-13T09:38:00.002-07:00

Donaldson trout (sometimes called, "Super Trout") is a special hybrid trout which is part steelhead, cutthroat, and rainbow trout. These trout get their name from the man who originally created this hybrid, Lauren Donaldson. If you're interested, they're officially classified as Oncorhynchus Mykiss (same as steelhead and rainbow trout).

Donaldson became very interested in fish genetics while working in a Montana fish hatchery in the 1930's. The usual practice for raising trout in hatcheries back then was to procure some roe (or fish eggs) from a stream and take them back to the hatchery for raising. Once the fish reached a catchable size, they were released back into the wild.

While this practice still continues today, some folks have taken to playing God by creating their own hyrid strains of trout. Donaldson created his "Super Trout" in 1944 at the University of Washington.

Naturally there are advantages and disadvantages to raising hybrid trout. One of the biggest advantages is that it gives anglers the opportunity to catch "trophy size" trout. This was one of Donaldson's goals when creating his trout hybrid.

Donaldson's trout are unique in that they are not only large and put up a good fight, but can also adapt to salt water (like steelhead). Their ability to adapt and survive in salt water has made them highly sought after for commercial fisheries (especially in Norway, Finland and Japan).

Several fisheries in the U.S. stock Donaldson trout for anglers including Lake Amador (California), Red Hills Lake (Oregon), and the Great Lakes, to name just a few.

Lake Amador is a popular fishing spot for Donaldson trout. The lake has its own hatchery where they raise Donaldson trout. Several tons of trout are released each year in Lake Amador.

When fishing for Donaldson trout, the key is to fish near or just below the surface (no deeper than about 3 feet). These trout tend to hang out near the surface, looking for an easy meal. If you fish too deep, your offering may be out their view. Fishing at night under a flashing bobber has been a successful technique for many shore anglers.

By the way, in case you're wondering how Donaldson trout taste, it's been reported that they taste more like salmon than trout. Many say the meat is more moist and the flavor less intense than salmon.

For more information about Donaldson trout, click here.

Fishing Cripple Creek - Virginia's Private Trout Water

2009-02-11T07:02:00.000-07:00

Cripple Creek is a private trout stream in Rural Retreat, Virginia which offers anglers the opportunity to catch trout weighing 2 lbs and over. The creek is small, only about 3/4 of a mile long, but is stocked daily with rainbow trout. Brook and brown trout are also found in Cripple Creek, although they aren't stocked.

Cripple Creek starts in Smyth county, but it's so close to the county line, that most folks associate it with Wythe County. This portion of the creek is privately owned by Ted Baumgardner and has been open to anglers for about a year now.

So if you want to fish Cripple Creek, you must call Ted or Vanessa and make an appointment. There's also a fee of $50/day per person (no discounts for children). Anglers are allowed to catch and keep 6 trout per day though! Anglers do need a valid Virginia fishing license.

In an effort to help protect the fishery, there is a limit to the number of anglers allowed to fish this creek each day. Although group bookings are accepted.

Once appointments are made, check in time is between 7:30 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. No fishermen are allowed on the creek before check in time.

There are no guide services offered at Cripple Creek. Anglers are expected to fish on their own.

For more information or to make an appointment to fish Cripple Creek, call Ted or Vanessa at (276) 621-4238.

Cripple Creek, VA

For more information about private trout waters in Virigina, click here.

23 New Trout Records in 2008

2009-02-09T16:00:00.007-07:00

The International Game & Fish Association (IGFA) approved 21 new trout records in 2008. Of those new records, the breakdown looked like this:

8 new rainbow trout records
5 new bull trout records
2 new brown trout records
2 new lake trout records
2 new tiger trout records
1 new cutthroat trout record
1 new brook trout records

One of the new trout records mentioned above was set by Sean Konrad. Recognize the name? He and his brother have set several trout records while fishing at Lake Diefenbaker in Canada. In fact, his brother Adam holds the current world record for rainbow trout. Sean set a new line class record for catching a 37-lb 4-oz. rainbow trout on 16-lb test line.

Not to be outdone by his brother Sean, Adam Konrad set another new record in August 2008. His new line class record was approved for catching a 40-lb 10-oz. rainbow trout on 12-lb test line. This rainbow trout is only 3-lbs shy of his world record catch.

The bull trout records were all set by same person (Bo Nelson). All these trout were caught in the Flathead River in Canada in August 2008. Three of the catches qualified for line class records and the remaining two qualified for fly rod records.

Both tiger trout catches qualified for line class records. One fish (13-lbs, 12-oz.) was caught in Washington state in May 2008 and the other (4-lbs) was caught in Wyoming in October 2008.

Justin Van Cleave qualified for two records (line class and junior) when he caught his 2-lb, 12-oz brown trout in the Bear River in Colorado.

Mickey Russo claimed a new line class record for catching an 8-lb, 6-oz brook trout on 6-lb test line. This trout was caught off Long Island in New York.

Pyramid Lake in Nevada is home to the new fly rod record for an 11-lb, 1-oz. cutthroat trout caught on a 12-lb tippet.

Both new lake trout records were recorded in Wyoming. The first lake trout (2-lbs) was caught at Yellowstone Lake by Mark Kemp. This catch set a line class record (12-lb test). A week later, Virginia Kemp caught 2-lb lake trout at Shoshone Lake on a 4-lb tippet (thereby setting a new fly rod record).

There's also two new trout records currently pending. Both of these new records were caught by same man in Wyoming in October 2008. He set a fly rod record for catching a 1-lb, 4 oz brown trout on a 20-lb tippet. Then on the same day, set a line class record for a 3-lb tiger trout on 12-lb test line.

Click here to see trout records set in 2007

Click here for see trout records set in 2006

Fishing Clinics in Truckee-Reno Area

2009-02-09T10:58:00.003-07:00

Orvis instructors have several different clinics for fly fishing and fly tying scheduled throughout February. If you're interested in learning more about these things, you'll want to check out the clinics offered.

For more information about these fishing clinics, click here.

Trout Fishing at Lake Amador

2009-02-07T07:53:00.006-07:00

Lake Amador has become a prime trout resort in Ione, California. For those not familiar with the area, Ione is located in North Central California (just South East of Sacramento). It's also just North of Lake Pardee and Lake Comanche (two other popular trout lakes in California).

This 425 acre lake has a maximum depth of 468 feet and approximately 14 miles of fishable shoreline. Lake levels have been down in previous years due to drought, but fishing is still good.

Like Lake Pardee and Comanche, Lake Amador offers large trout (2-6 lbs), commonly known as Donaldson trout (named after the man who created this strain). Donaldson trout are a hybrid cross of Steelhead, Rainbow and Cutthroat trout. Lakes do this in an effort to give anglers a "trophy trout" experience.

Because these are hybrid trout raised in a hatchery, they will eat PowerBait. Other trout baits and techniques are effective as well.

One of our readers reported that he witnessed a man catch one the other night at Marina using a small treble hook with Berkeley Trout Power bait. His spinning rod was rigged with a small split shot about a foot above the hook and a red lighted flasher float about 2-3 feet above the split shot. This young man tossed his line out in the dark part of the water (not under the lights) and let the flashing float do the work of attracting trout for him.

Lake Amador also boasts other "trophy" size fish including bass, catfish and sunfish. So if you're looking for a unique angling experience, give Lake Amador a try.

For more information about fishing at Lake Amador, click here.

For more information about Donaldson trout, click here.

Fly Fishing for Beginners in Texas

2009-02-03T10:26:00.004-07:00

Every year the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center tries to introduce fly fishing to those wanting to learn. And they do this by hosting an event called, Fly Fish Texas. This year, the event will take place on March 7, 2009 in Athens (9am to 4pm).

This year Fly Fish Texas will include beginning fly fishing classes for youth between the age of 6 and 18. Upon completion, youth will receive their "basic fly fishing" certification.

Casting instruction will also be offered for beginner to advanced anglers. If you're still struggling to master casting, this is a great opportunity for you.

For more information about this year's Fly Fish Texas event, click here.

2009 Trout Stockings in Virginia

2009-02-02T15:57:00.003-07:00

Virginia's Department of Game and Inland Fisheries has posted it's 2009 Catchable Trout Stocking Schedule online. This schedule shows exactly what waters will be stocked and how often.

For more information about fishing in Virginia, click here.

For a list of private trout fishing waters in Virginia, click here.