Head-to-head
Atlantic Salmon vs Brook Trout
How the tackle for atlantic salmon and brook trout compares, and whether one setup can reasonably cover both.
Photos: Wikimedia Commons (free licences) - credits on each species page.
Last reviewed 26 September 2026 · Editorial policy
Side by side
Tackle comparison
| Atlantic Salmon | Brook Trout | |
|---|---|---|
| Water | Both | Freshwater |
| Regions | UK, EU, CA, US | US, CA, EU |
| Typical weight | 5–20 lb | 0.25–2 lb |
| Main line | 15–25 lb | 2–6 lb |
| Rod | Double-handed 13–15 ft fly rod, or heavy spinning rod, 11–15 ft | Ultralight to Light, fast action; or a #2–#5 fly rod, 5–8.5 ft |
| Reel | Large-arbor fly reel with strong drag, 8–10wt | 1000 spinning, or a fly reel for #2–#5 line |
| Hooks | Size 4–12 salmon tubes and doubles | Size 10–18 flies; size 8–12 bait hooks; small inline spinners |
| Best conditions | A falling river after rain, with water temperature above about 42°F (6°C). | Cool water under roughly 65°F (18°C); overcast days and the first rise after rain. |
Verdict
Can one setup do both?
Line ranges don't overlap
Atlantic Salmon typically needs 15–25 lb line and brook trout 2–6 lb. The gap is big enough that separate outfits are the sensible choice.
Shared methods
Techniques that work for both
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.
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