Brook Trout tackle guide
Technically a charr, with worm-like markings and white-edged fins. Small waters and small fish make the lightest tackle the right choice.
Last reviewed 26 September 2026 · Editorial policy
The short answer
- Main line
- 2–6 lb
- Rod
- Ultralight to Light, fast action; or a #2–#5 fly rod, 5–8.5 ft
- Reel
- 1000 spinning, or a fly reel for #2–#5 line
- Hooks
- Size 10–18 flies; size 8–12 bait hooks; small inline spinners
- Typical weight
- 0.25–2 lb for average fish
- Best conditions
- Cool water under roughly 65°F (18°C); overcast days and the first rise after rain.
Where they live and what they eat
Habitat
Cold, clean, spring-fed streams, beaver ponds and upland lakes. Needs cooler water than most trout.
Feeding
Opportunistic: insects, larvae, small fish, worms and crustaceans. Often less wary than brown trout.
How to fish for brook trout
Fly Fishing
Casting a weighted line that carries a nearly weightless artificial fly to the fish.
Spinning with Lures
Casting and retrieving spinners, spoons or small soft plastics on light spinning tackle.
Float Fishing
A buoyant float suspends bait at a set depth and signals bites by dipping or lifting.
Practical tips
- Approach small streams low and quietly - the fish spook easily in shallow, clear water.
- Short rods cast more easily under overhanging branches.
- Many brook trout waters are fly-only or artificials-only - check local rules.
Brook Trout vs other species
Against similar species
| Species | Main line | Rod power | Hook sizes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brook Trout | 2–6 lb | Ultralight to Light, fast action; or a #2–#5 fly rod | Size 10–18 flies; size 8–12 bait hooks; small inline spinners |
| Largemouth Bass | 10–20 lb | Medium to Medium-Heavy, fast action | 1/0–5/0 worm hooks; 2–1/0 trebles on hard baits |
| Smallmouth Bass | 6–12 lb | Medium-Light to Medium, fast action | 1–2/0 finesse hooks; size 1–4 trebles |
| Rainbow Trout | 4–8 lb | Light to Ultralight, moderate action | Size 8–14 bait hooks; size 10–18 flies |
| Brown Trout | 4–10 lb | Light, moderate action | Size 6–14 hooks; size 8–18 flies |
Brook Trout through the year
See the full brook trout seasonal guide for month-by-month patterns and tactics.
Common questions
What line strength should I use for brook trout?
Most anglers use 2–6 lb (about 1–3 kg) main line. Go heavier around snags and cover, lighter in clear, open water.
What rod is best for brook trout?
A ultralight to Light, fast action; or a #2–#5 fly rod rod of around 5–8.5 ft covers most situations.
What reel size do I need for brook trout?
1000 spinning, or a fly reel for #2–#5 line.
What hook size for brook trout?
Size 10–18 flies; size 8–12 bait hooks; small inline spinners. Match the hook to the bait size rather than the fish size.
What are the best techniques for brook trout?
Proven methods include Fly Fishing, Spinning with Lures, Float Fishing.
Where do brook trout live?
Cold, clean, spring-fed streams, beaver ponds and upland lakes. Needs cooler water than most trout.
When is the best time to catch brook trout?
Cool water under roughly 65°F (18°C); overcast days and the first rise after rain. Always check local seasons and rules.