Fishing for Big Brown Trout: Should you fish during Spawn?
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- Опубліковано 26 вер 2024
- SHOULD YOU FISH FOR TROUT DURING THE SPAWN?
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Brown trout have a way of making anglers lose their minds. There aren’t many other fish on the planet that can cause such division among the anglers that chase them. The passion these fish seem to invoke in people is probably part of the reason that they’ve been so successful, with brown trout living from Georgia, to Maine, and all of the way out to Rocky mountains and the Sierras. These fabled fish are arguably not only the most popular trout in the US, but also the world.
Okay so let’s not beat around the bush… This video was filmed on October 15th. And I know some of you are already hopping on your keyboard to leave a comment about how I shouldn’t be fishing because of the spawn… Which is exactly what I plan on talking about in this video. But before we go to far lets go over a brief timeline of the brown trout spawn. The fish generally start pairing up anywhere between September and October as they push up the creeks or look for their favorite spawning gravel. The spawn itself, or at least what most people consider the spawn, then starts and usually goes from November into December before a majority of the fish are done. Once the fish are done spawning the eggs sit on the nests, or redds for several months before they hatch. The fry then hatch and dodge predators for the rest of their lives pretty much. Now obviously this happens differently across the US, with some fish spawning as early as October or as late as February in some tail-waters. But the general timeline you need to know is the fish pair up, spawn, and leave the eggs on the redds throughout the winter months. In other words the spawn is a long drawn out process.
I’d just like to say that I am in no way advocating for anyone to fish while the trout are spawning, and in some areas it’s even illegal. HOWEVER I think that education is far more important than making blanket statements about what people should and should not do, and I find it hilarious with some of the hypocrisies that we as anglers tolerate, and even spread, without putting much thought into it. And one of them is what I just mentioned.. people avoiding November only to fish December and January.. or whenever post spawn is where you fish. When in reality I could argue that running through a redd post spawn is not only more detrimental because they all should theoretically have eggs on them, but the redds are also more difficult to identify during that time of the year because of sedimentation and other factors. Not only that but the brown trout this time of year are skinny, worn out, and generally in bad shape after spawn. So if you’re going to take the moral high ground and not fish for spawning brown trout, you should probably take the winter off too.
The next hilarious point I’m going to make is rainbow trout… and how literally nobody cares. I mean spring time is when the highest volume of anglers are on the water, which perfectly coincides with when the peak spawn is for rainbow trout, and even cutthroat if you live out west. Yet nobody says you can’t fish in the spring? Not once have I read a comment about how I’m fishing during the rainbow trout spawn? But here I am catching rainbow trout after rainbow trout, struggling to keep them off of my fly. Also let’s not forget that during the spring is when a high majority of the baitfish spawn, such as suckers and chubs, which are the main forage for brown trout. So you’d think if we loved brown trout so much we’d care about their forage too right? I know this is ridiculous but I’m trying to make a point.
What it comes down to is that if you truly wanted to leave wild trout alone and let them spawn without interruption, you wouldn’t be fishing from October to May, and then with water temps becoming an issue you really shouldn’t be fish a lot of rivers in July and August. Which leaves… let me check.. June and September? This assumes you have both wild rainbow trout and wild brown trout in your river system, or some similar combination, But my point stays the same. I think us as anglers, especially fly anglers who practice catch and release, feel we have some moral high ground while fishing and that we do no harm. But in reality fishing, much like hunting, is an activity where we are inherently effecting the fish in a negative way. So I think we all need to take a deep breath, relax, and let people enjoy these fish. And if you love them so much that you feel the need to only fish for 2 months out of the year, then more power to you. But as long as people are following the laws and regulations let them have fun and try to educate rather than demean them. Because the more people we have enjoying fishing the more people we have to protect the fish when the time comes. Thanks for watching.
#fishing #troutfishing #flyfishing
I always appreciate your discussions on fish conversation - I wish more UA-camrs were as conscientious as you. To be sure, hypocrisies and contradictions abound in fishing. I think it’s very important that you start such conversations. Too many anglers, I think, have been dismissive about their impacts on the fisheries they claim to love for far too long. Thank you for this video; it is very timely indeed.
Thanks for the shout out, man. Good video.
Just got home and was hoping you had posted! Time to sit back and unwind with another stellar episode! I agree with every well made argument you made in your video also.
In my opinion, since the brown trout is European, I’m fine with fishing for them here in the US. As a non-native fish, I don’t think it’s worth skipping beautiful fall fishing. I’d say moreso, here in PA trying to avoid native Brook trout streams would be wiser!
Technically, you are European, too. Should we hit you with burgers while you are on a date because you are European? This trout had lived in the US more than 70% of the population.
Free burgers!
Man, wild trout is wild trout. Respect them all, avoid redds and lay off during the spawn so we have something to catch in the future!
@@NikolaStamenov-qc1wv it’s still an invasive species, and while I never go out of my way to harm any creature, if a few brown trout on a given stream don’t breed, it has little affect overall. We need to remember that actual life isn’t a Disney fairytale. These fish do not process “love” and “intimacy” on a level equal to humans. Some species simply need managed to maintain healthy balance in streams. Our local TU is actually shocking a local mountain stream and relocating brown trout to a nearby river because they are overtaking our native Brook char (our state fish in PA). I believe in population management is the key to keeping all wildlife populations healthy. And by the way brown trout are one of my favorite fish and I always release ANY fish I catch. I’m a wildlife artist and illustrator and I respect brownies very much. Afterall…who brought them here? I’d be interested to read any studies where the impact of fall fishing has had measurable affect on brown trout populations. I doubt there’s a massive effect. To be safe, I stay off of native Brook char streams in autumn to avoid impacting them, because they actually *are* struggling, and largely because of brown trout introduction. Gill lice introduced from stocked trout are also affecting our Brook chars. I catch and release all fish, and they don’t leave the water out of respect for the fish. I think people tend to get a little ridiculous about this sort of thing with brown trout, which again, is an invasive species crowding native fish out. No need to be high browed about it. If a few less brownies breed per year, then that’s nature. Do herons, eagles, and mergansers stop trying to eat trout on redds? Nope. But I can promise you they don’t release them (like I do) when they catch one.
@@JP-dz7zu that’s not how it works. I catch and release all my fish. There is absolutely NO shortage of wild brown trout where I live. They are prospering and even overtaking our native Brook char in some streams here in Pennsylvania. Our local Trout Unlimited chapter is working with biologists to shock one particular stream and relocate timo the Little Juniata River where they can grow larger and not compete with our native little brookies.
As long as you put them back using common sense, fishing even the spawn is totally ok and it doesn’t hurt the trout or their spawning activities. Hey here is using basic common catch and release methods. Great video and I appreciate receiving it, thanks!!!!!
A fish on the bed is harmed by being caught. Especially for bass but also for trout. Released fish in general only have a 60% chance of survival
Also, as he said, fishing during/post spawn is detrimental because you end up ripping up the beds without realizing
this is totally fake. I catch sometimes female in late spawn also in April and they squirt out lot eggs during and prerelease. Is absolutly a bad idea fishing any fish during spawn
Most if not all Brown trout in the USA came from hatchery stocks if they do spawn now it’s only due because of fisherman like yourself with the catch n release mine sets if those who think otherwise go play golf! Thanks again for such great video contacts your a joy to watch 🎉
Not where I’m from. They only breed rainbows in the hatcheries.
And if you want to get technical browns aren’t even native to the US. They were brought over here in the 1860s which technically make them invasive species
You are quite the lucky duck! What a creek, the falls, the fish and the snags. Great video Jon!
What! Trout anglers making condescending and judgmental comments on the internet about other people fishing for trout? No way…
😂😂😂 so true
I ff pretty often and a lot of guys give some of us regular guys grief. I saw a guy goin in on a 7yr old kid for lipping a trout, like chill bro, he’s 7 😂
Thank you for a thought provoking and balanced take on the subject of fishing to spawning trout.
Great video! I've released fish and seen them run right back to the redd. Spawn season varies stream to stream. If I run into spawners I'm more careful where I wade. If I see multiple redds in a pool I go around. Just my 2 cents worth.
I never target a fish that is spawning. But if I catch one well.... Great video!!!
Season stops in October 1st and opens on 1st May following year, I'm thinking for the same reasons you mentioned cuz they don't just spawn for 1 month so hopefully gives em plenty of time to do what's needed.
Super well presented, so informational, and such a fluid conversation throughout the video! Major props man. Bees knees right there 👍 Holly cow those are some gorgeous fish. Love it. Are you in PA? Looks awesome
I live in Canada with the mighty Bow River 10 mins from me. Here in Alberta our waters close Nov 1st until June 15 for spawn. There are very little streams or river we can fish during the winter months.
Most lakes are open though and we have lots.
Pretty sure the Bow is open all year and it’s only catch and release. At least from Banff to Bassano dam.
@@PlantedElement only sections of it are open all year and correct catch and release only. Im allergic to fish and can't stand the smell at all. So unless the wife or dog wants one that's all I do is catch and release.
Alot of our waters are catch and release only. Lakes are where you get to keep most fish all year.
So cool seeing you in the Dryft Seekr waders. I LOVE mine. Had an epic fishing day at my favorite place. No big Browns. Just lots of fun wild bows! Keep on keeping on buddy. And good info.
Love to see a guy who is responsible and teaches the people the Karen's of their hypocrisy not to mention the show us how to fish thank you very much from Northern Ontario Canada
Awesome content and great job at teaching this part of fly fishing and conservation. Being a great conservationist is King when you enter any natural habitat. People need to realize we are visitors and have a decision to be responsible for our actions while there. Enjoyed watching you catch and always tight lines.
Since we have 3 species of Trout in the middle Atlantic states we have trout spawning activity from October through April.
In Virginia we have both fall and spring rainbow spawners so what are we supposed to do?
Only fish the warm months? then we get bashed for that
Use your best judgment and treat the resources with respect and all will be well
Just to add my $.02 I give you a thumbs up on everything you just said. Even though I do very little trout fishing, because I don't think there are any trout in Illinois, everything you just preached about applies to those of us who fish still waters. Thanks HFA.
Hello, I want to take up Fly-Fishing but I do not have a Fly rod, what is a good beginner rod I could get? Thanks. Awesome vid by the way!
If you scroll a good ways back I believe he has a video on this. It might’ve been a Walmart challenge type of video.
Redington Crosswater fly set ups are pretty good imo
Get an Orvis Clearwater package
Point made. I agree, 100 %
Hey Sir, would you consider doing a video on your "go to" or "confidence flies"?
First & foremost fish squish,step'n on reed is far more damaging to fish population,agree education is the key & paramount,closing an area during spawing helps,but fishing with common sense & eduction is far more valuable & important,great video & great information
Trying to learn more about fly fishing and gear. I have seen many of your videos.
Can you share the type of wadding shoes you wear and you never seem to slip even when running up and down the stream. And what waders do you use.
I think upon the countless folks I watch walking over beds and fishing reds. I think there is a right way and wrong way to fish during spawn, most don't know the right way. I also things some fisheries should be closed in certain parts of the river during spawn. I think you discount how much walking in river beds messes up spawn.
Nice video, always good to strike up debate. Here in Scotland Brown Trout season generally finishes on or around the 6th of October and starts again in the middle of March. Illegal to fish between these months apart from stocked open water.
Detailed knowledge beats blind dogma every time!
Thanks for making all of this content and I am so happy when I watch your videos and you inspired me to fly fish so all I have to say is thanks
So Im not asking for your exact location, but I would like to ask how you find these amazing creeks to fish. The abundance of wild brown trout is amazing, Im just wondering if there is any websites, apps, etc. Thanks for your information you provided in this video. Thanks!
It's an argument that can go either way. Giving them a break is just a way to be a good steward to wild trout and it's my choice... Thanks
Beautiful water. I really enjoy your videos. What rod are you streamer fishing with ?
Thanks.
-Ben
This is my favorite thing to do!!
Great video! Keep up the good work man
Pretty interesting that in the US you are allowed to even fish trout streams in autumn/winter. In Europe, as far as I know, all trout streams close trout fishing at September 30th. Personally, I like the points you make, but still, fishing in a stream where trout are already spawning is a no go for me (personally). Best from Switzerland
Would love to come learn and fish with ya!
In Ireland, trout fishing closed during winter months. Give fish a chance to spawn.
Another great video, and some beautiful fish! What was your gear setup? Very neat outfit. 🎣👍
Another great video! thanks
I’m from California and all creeks from November till the 3rd weekend in April are closed for trout fishing which is a law that should be a lot of places
Looks like you were using some bigger lures than usual, is that cuz of the size of trout or time of year of is it just a trial n error see what they're biting on?? Very cool episode and those brown trout are beautiful and so many good size 👌
You are 100% right about how ridiculous people can be sometimes when it comes to considering when or not to fish. It's true that they never talk about spring fishing when rainbows are spawning, and if we talk deeper about conservation, it should be way more important to protect rainbows than browns, specially in the west were is their native range. Rainbows are native to western us, and browns aren't even native to America.
UK, most brown trout fisheries close end of September or October until February or March to allow fish to spawn and recover. What line is that? Looks nice and supple. Cortland streamer still?
In France (I'm French) trout fishing is forbidden from mid October to beginning of March to allow trout to spawn and recover as well as the babies to start growing and avoiding to disturb them as eggs or to small. And it is a law for the entire country. Even if I'd love to to fish for them in winter and late fall I think it is a very good thing for them and their habitats!
Love your videos as always man!!! Keep in the good work!
Same here in Switzerland 👍
Germany too!
Latvia as well!
I really think it makes sense. Not all people are thinking as much as this guy when fishing in autumn or winter. Therefore, regulations are probably the only way to prevent damage and give us a chance to find other species to fish for😜
Bosnia too.
Trout, unlike salmon eat during the spawning season. You don't want to fish for trout on redds (you will probably only hook them if you snag them), but they will move to feeding lanes when they are feeding. Catching the fish while they are feeding doesn't interfere with their spawning. Another thing that happens during the spawning season is that the fish that are not spawning eat eggs. I have caught big rainbows and cutbows downstream from brown trout redds on egg patterns. Again, the fish spawning won't bite, but if you cast downstream, you might catch another species.
Last spring, I caught several rainbows in a pool where they were feeding. They were not spawning yet and acted pretty normal. Above that pool, I encountered a bigger rainbow that was actively and aggressively feeding. That was a fish that had been spawning but was now feeding.
If you spook fish on redds, you might be disrupting their spawning if there are two fish. However, if there is only one, it may be digging the redd or waiting for a mate. I try not to spook fish on redds, but when they are actively spawning, they do not spook easily.
Spawn is great, ecspecially over bare pebble botom with a treble hook and a weight seems to get em good
Such an epic video
Tell me the details on your rod wt / length , reel and line and tipet size
Thanks
Looks like browns are getting smaller on that creek
What size streamer do you use??
Well said.
Is this PA? Was thinking of moving to an area with new trout water. PA seems to have a lot but hard to know where public water is.
Great video
It's bad form to fish for any trout salmon or steelhead when they' re on their redds. Leave them alone. I love fall fishing for trout especially Brookies and Browns. Their colors are dazzling but on the redds leave them be. In October browns are usually in pre spawn mode so fishing for them is not an issue.
My home state sees Browns on the redds usually in late October through November
How are you liking Kelly's streamer rod? I thought about buying one.
Coming from a bass angler…I don’t understand the big deal if you catch and release quickly and effectively those fish will go rt back to there spawning area like nothing happened ? Why do people try and make trout fishing so complicated for no reason
please tell me what line you use? And what is the length of the leader?
Enjoyed 😀👍
In Greece is illegal to fish for trouts, from November to midies of March!
Good content, bringing up great points….. your comment about about no one saying anything about spring fishing or the rainbow spawn is so interesting based on where you are located (east coast vs west) the internet war here in Colorado is just as aggressive for rainbows and cutthroats as it is brown trout….. the truth is if you are a true purest against fishing the spawn of any trout then you should not fish from basically late September through June ! Which is just ridiculous….. out here in Colorado we have both completely over zealous “protectors “ that actually will fight and pull guns on people fishing within 50 yards of a redd and the. We have idiots that will Intentionally rip streamers and drift pegged eggs right across active Redds…. Both are completely wrong…. To be honest from oct - Jan or march- end of may you are fishing to either a pre spawn, active spawning or post spawning fish…..
Long winded but at the end of the day simply avoid fishing to grouped up fish in riffles on cleared out gravel…….
The battle over this is actually crazy out here in the western US ….. ( funny how most of the authorities over these fisheries don’t close any of it though )
Do you use a small float indicator?
What wt rod and type of flyline are you using?
well said bro, people need to wake up
Just dont floss spawning fish off redds and you're fine. The haters can hate.
You should not fish during the spawn. As a fish scientist i can tell you that it would be even better if we could start off season 1 month before they even start. They need time to make eggs and invest a lot of energy. And studies have shown that catching a fish couple of days before spawning can influence that fish not to spawn at all on that season because of stress.
What chest cam do you use?
I think the spawn is fine to fish. Especially if the fish are turned back.
Fr I can’t stand the way you fight a fish. Too aggressive not smooth which is were all that slack in the line comes from which ultimately loses fish 😅 can’t horse the big gems
I'd fish if I wouldn't get arrested or fined 😂
If you catch and release I don't see the harm.
Fishing the spawn doesn’t matter but exposing one of the best streams on the east coast is a different story .
What do u mean by exposing?
The fishing pressure goes down 90% when the weather gets cold anyway. If those fish have lived 50,000,000 years i don't think a few lines in the water a week is going to do shit.
Dude I hate, HATE
That stupid tree in the first hole.
they aren't even native so why not
Brown trout are trash
When do trout spawn
Education is all that matters. Good video. Pity for that brown in the very first minute. 😉