The brook trout is the smallest in the family. However,  they are highly targeted by anglers despite their size. This type of trout has numerous nicknames, which anglers may refer to them. These include the eastern brook trout, speckled trout, not to be confused with the saltwater variety, mud trout, or the square tale. Just what exactly is a brook trout that inhabits creeks and cold-water lakes?

Are Brook Trout Good To Eat

Brook trout make excellent table fare. The fillets are pinkish-orange; like any trout they flesh is tender, flakey, and incredibly soft, making them delicate to handle. These fish are a true treat for anglers.

Remember, when fishing for and harvesting trout, follow the regulations of the state. Some states require tags for harvesting. Lastly, fishing licenses are a must for those who are 16 years old and up. 

What Is The Best Method For Brook Trout Cooking

There are many great recipes when it comes to cooking brook trout. The fish is highly versatile and can be cooked in many ways because the mild brook trout taste takes on light seasoning well. When it comes to how to cook brook trout, some of the most popular cooking methods include baking, broiling, pan-frying, and grilling. It is critical to avoid overcooking filleted trout. The flesh will become dry and unappetizing. 

Due to the fish averaging only 10” in length, an alternative to cutting fillets is to cook the trout whole. Preparing the trout whole avoids the fish from becoming dry, and most importantly, the meat is picked from the bones to prevent waste. 

How Big Do Brook Trout Get

Despite the average fish measuring 10”, the brook trout exceeds 33” in the northern portions of North America. Despite the smallest trout species being the brook trout it grows impressively large. Thus providing anglers with excellent opportunities for a hefty battle once the fish is hooked on a fly or spinning rod.

Can You Catch Brook Trout In The Southeast

Believe it or not, North Carolina brook trout, South Carolina, and Georgia are prominent in the northern portions of these three states. There has always been a misconception that this type of trout can only survive in the chilly waters of the north. 

Beyond knowing what is a brook you need to know where to catch the fish. Anglers flock to mountain streams and cold water lakes in each of these three states. Stockings occur annually to boost the populations of a wide variety of trout species. These include brook, rainbow, and brown trout. Check out the Georgia stocking schedule. 

Trout in the southeasts do not grow as large as the north, but they are exceptionally prevalent, allowing anglers to have multiple hookups in a single outing. 

What Are The Best Methods To Catch Trout

While many steer clear of casting a fly rod because of the unique approach to casting and presenting a fly, spinning combinations are equally as effective. 

Fly Fishing

Anglers targeting mud trout must utilize light tippets, rods, and small flies. Presentations that are too heavy will cause the trout to become weary in clear rivers and streams.

Keep an eye out for the types of bugs found on the surface of the water. Match the hatch when it comes to fly selection.

Focus on deep pools in streams and around rocky shorelines in ponds and lakes. Sight fishing is also popular. It is not uncommon to witness trout boiling at the surface. Fish boiling on a fly at the surface is and exciting experience to witness.

Conventional Fishing

The presentation offered by a spinning reel combo is significantly different than that of a fly rod. Despite the difference, mud trout are caught by utilizing spinning combos. 

Remember to use light lines, reels, and rods. Heavy weight line will reduce the number of strikes because of the increased line visibility and particularly in clear water. Either natural bait or artificials are effective and include small spinnerbaits and egg sacks. Remember, the fish are equipped with soft mouths therefore hooks pull free with ease. Do not over apply pressure when battling the trout.

Are You Ready To Head Out Brook Trout Fishing In The Southeast

To some, it may come as a surprise that the trout lives in the northern portions of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. Isabrook trout are extremely prevalent and provide not only an excellent fight but even better when cooked up for dinner. Remember to follow the regulations of the state in which you are fishing.