Billy Rosner (Wild Country Guide Service) shares some great tips for catching trout on streams and inland lakes across the Upper Midwest.

Trout fishing is one of my favorite activities, especially when it comes to fishing for brook trout and brown trout. Every year, I gather with my brothers to go down memory lane and fish in the spots my dad introduced us to many years ago. It’s always a blast and a great opportunity to reconnect with nature.

Exploring Trout Fishing Opportunities

Trout fishing opportunities can be found all across the Midwest, and with a little bit of homework and checking with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), you can discover some hidden gems in your local area. Many inland lakes are now stocked with different species of trout, providing excellent fishing opportunities. Some of these trout can grow to be quite large, making for an exciting catch.

Stream Trout Fishing

If you’re interested in stream trout fishing, there are plenty of options available. Native brook trout and German brown trout can be found in many streams, and in this article, I will share some tips and techniques for stream trout fishing.

1. Do Your Homework Before heading out to fish, it’s important to do some research and gather information about the streams in your area. Check with the DNR to find out which streams have trout populations and any regulations or restrictions that may apply.
2. Choose the Right Equipment When it comes to stream trout fishing, you don’t need a lot of fancy equipment. A lightweight fishing rod, such as the St. Croix lake trout fishing rods or pack rods, will work well for targeting brook trout in streams. For bait, live bait like half a crawler on an average number six Aberdeen hook with a split shot can be effective.
3. Look for Structure Just like fishing in lakes, finding structure is key to locating trout in streams. Look for cut banks, logs, rocks, and any other underwater structures where trout may be hiding. Be sneaky in your approach and move around until you find a trout.
4. Try Different Lures In addition to live bait, you can also try casting lures to entice trout in streams. A smaller blue fox spinner, like a number zero or one inline spinner in orange, can be effective. Casting a number five Rapala original floating lure or a number seven or nine photograph lure can also attract brown trout in streams.
5. Slip Float Technique Another technique you can try in streams is using a slip float. This simple setup involves using a slip float with a VMC church’s hook tipped with a minnow. Fish the breaks and points that are similar to those you would target when fishing for walleye. This technique can be effective for catching trout in streams.
6. Enjoy the Catch Trout, especially small brook trout from streams and brown trout from lakes, are great eating. Whether you cook them in a cast iron pan or on the grill, they make for a delicious meal. Trout fishing is not only a fun activity, but it also provides an opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the peacefulness of the outdoors. Whether you’re fishing in streams or inland lakes, there are a few tips and techniques that can help improve your chances of success.

When it comes to stream trout fishing, it’s important to do your homework before heading out. Research the streams in your area and check with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to find out which streams have trout populations and any regulations or restrictions that may apply. This will ensure that you’re fishing in the right areas and following the rules.

In terms of equipment, you don’t need anything too fancy for stream trout fishing. A lightweight fishing rod, such as the St. Croix lake trout fishing rods or pack rods, will work well for targeting brook trout in streams. For bait, live bait like half a crawler on an average number six Aberdeen hook with a split shot can be effective. This setup allows you to present the bait naturally and entice the trout to bite.

When fishing in streams, it’s important to look for structure. Just like fishing in lakes, trout in streams tend to congregate around cut banks, logs, rocks, and other underwater structures. These structures provide cover and protection for the trout, so casting your bait or lure near them can increase your chances of success. Be sneaky in your approach and move around until you find a trout.

In addition to live bait, you can also try casting lures to entice trout in streams. A smaller blue fox spinner, like a number zero or one inline spinner in orange, can be effective. The bright color and spinning action of the spinner can attract the attention of the trout and trigger a strike. Casting a number five Rapala original floating lure or a number seven or nine photograph lure can also attract brown trout in streams. Experiment with different lures and colors to see what works best in your local area.

Another technique you can try in streams is using a slip float. This simple setup involves using a slip float with a VMC church’s hook tipped with a minnow. Fish the breaks and points that are similar to those you would target when fishing for walleye. This technique can be effective for catching trout in streams.

Trout, especially small brook trout from streams and brown trout from lakes, are great eating. Whether you cook them in a cast iron pan or on the grill, they make for a delicious meal. Trout fishing is not only a fun activity, but it also provides an opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the peacefulness of the outdoors.

So, if you’re looking for a new fishing adventure, I highly recommend trying trout fishing in streams and inland lakes. With a little bit of research and the right equipment, you can have a great time exploring beautiful locations and catching some impressive trout. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, trout fishing is a rewarding experience that is well worth your time.

Remember to check with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for information on trout populations and any regulations or restrictions that may apply in your area. Doing your homework and following the rules will ensure that you have a successful and enjoyable fishing trip.

So, grab your fishing gear, head out to the streams and inland lakes, and enjoy the thrill of trout fishing. It’s a fantastic way to spend time with family and friends, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories. Happy fishing!