Brook Trout — US fishing guide

Salvelinus fontinalis
Salmonidae
Svenska: Bäckröding

Brook Trout is one of North America's most sought-after freshwater game fish, found across appalachians, northeast, cold mountain streams. Below is where it lives, when it bites and how to catch it — plus the top US lakes where it has been recorded.

At a glance

Typical habitat
Cold clear oxygen-rich streams and mountain lakes
Active times
Daytime
Best season
Cooler season
US range
Appalachians, Northeast, cold mountain streams

How to catch Brook Trout

Small spinners and dry flies; requires cold clean water

Browse by state

Top 5836 lakes nationally

Frequently asked questions

Where do you find Brook Trout?

Brook Trout typically holds around cold clear oxygen-rich streams and mountain lakes. In the US it is common across appalachians, northeast, cold mountain streams.

When is the best time to catch Brook Trout?

Brook Trout is most active daytime, with the best fishing cooler season.

What is the best way to fish for Brook Trout?

Small spinners and dry flies; requires cold clean water

All US fish species