Trout Brown
name: Trout Brown
other names: Brownies, Earth Trout
Eyes moderate sized, jaw extends behind orbit when closed, gill openings large. Lower jaw of mature males becomes large and hooked. Colour varies with age and water conditions but hallmark features are large brown and red spots on the sides and upper surfaces of head and body. Dorsal and adipose fins spotted, caudal fin largely without spots, apart from the upper and lower rays. In streams the colouring is a light brown with silvery sides and pronounced black spots on the back whereas in large lakes or in the sea the overall coloration tends to be more silvery. In spite of the strict requirements the brown trout is still one of the most adaptable. It can survive in fresh water, estuaries and the sea. Also like salmon the brown trout can migrate to the sea.
The brown trout is native to Europe and western Asia and was introduced into North America in 1883. It can be found in most waters in Canada with the exception of Prince Edward Island and Manitoba. The essential requirements for brown trout to survive are clear, well-oxygenated cool water, for breeding and a maximum of 25C. This is usually found in mountain or upland streams, away from occupied, cultivated or overgrazed lands, but may also be in lakes or farm dams in which the catchments is well managed.
Generally feeds on aquatic and terrestrial insects, crabs, frogs and small fish if they are available, if necessary, will even feed on zooplankton such as daphnia. In streams Brown Trout feeds from the bottom or from drift or the water surface.
Brown trout have been known to reach ages of 13 years. Fish over 10 lbs are common in larger water bodies but most small streams and rivers have an average size of 1 to 2 lbs
Brown trout may be caught on the same tackle and baits as rainbow trout, but are often more difficult to catch. The best time to catch large adult brown trout is in autumn during spawning. Tackle for river fishing is based on a standard eight or nine foot rod matched with a number four or five line. Leaders with a two to six pounds test point will be required. Tackle for Lough fishing is specialised in that a long rod of about ten or eleven feet is needed for traditional wet-fly fishing, as well as a range of wet-fly patterns. A number six or seven floating or intermediate line should be matched to the rod.
