Bringing in the Big Browns

Although the brown trout is widely distributed, it is considered by many fly fishermen the ultimate challenge. This is due mainly to its secrecy and unpredictability. These provide constant challenges to anglers.

Brown trout can be found in rivers and natural stillwaters. Time of day will factor into the feeding pattern of this trout. Low light conditions will cause the trout to seek shallows, margins and thin water. Harsh light tends to drive it into undercut banks, deep pools and deeper areas in lakes.

Also, look out for brown trout around obstructions such as tree roots and fence lines. In addition, the species tends to prefer drab, insect-oriented patterns. It is wise to use smaller rather than bigger flies and pay attention to presentations, using as fine a leader as possible.

Preferred Flies: For Spring Creek fishing use the Flashback Pheasant Tail or Blue Dun (or Pale Blue Dun). In the Freestone Stream, one can win with the Parachute Hare's Ear or the Bead Head Stonefly Black. For Stillwater fishing, the Mink Zonker proves very successful.