With over 37 years of fishing under his belt, expert trout guide Graham shares insights on the best baits for trout in 2026. His extensive experience allows him to differentiate between high and low-percentage baits, providing valuable advice for both novice and seasoned anglers.
"In my opinion, all species of trout like the same baits," said Graham, underscoring a shared preference across various trout types. Understanding the difference between high-percentage and low-percentage baits is crucial for successful angling.
"In my opinion, all species of trout like the same baits,"
High-percentage baits are those that trout are likely to bite into frequently, while low-percentage catches the attention of fewer fish. According to Graham, many anglers unknowingly waste time and resources on less effective options:
Race Results
"Most anglers do not know the difference between the two, which leads to anglers wasting time, money, and fewer fish landed." For the savvy angler, this distinction can significantly enhance fishing results.
Graham’s insights highlight that the baits employed by professional trout guides often differ from those used by the average fisherman. "Good trout guides have figured out what works and what doesn’t, so you should trust them and use the same baits that they do," he advised, setting the stage for his curated list of effective baits.
"Good trout guides have figured out what works and what doesn’t, so you should trust them and use the same baits that they do,"
The recommended baits for trout encompass a variety of options:
1. **Rebel Wee-Crawfish**: Although not a traditional bait, this lure is highly effective. 2. **Parachute Adams**: This artificial dry fly is a favorite among many. 3. **Trout Magnets**: Widely recognized as a solid bait option by anglers. 4. **Spinners**: Not conventional bait, but noted for success. 5. **Powerbait Trout Nuggets**: Particularly beneficial for freshly stocked trout. 6. **Black and Gold Tobys**: A spoon that has shown impressive success in New Zealand. 7. **Green Power Eggs**: Popular for trout fishing. 8. **Huhu Grubs**: Highly regarded is a New Zealand-native bait. 9. **Crickets**: Listed as a high percentage bait due to their effectiveness. 10. **Shrimp**: Favored by anglers who also prefer artificial lures. 11. **Mad River Trout Worms**: Another top pick for river conditions. 12. **Bread**: A notable homemade bait option. 13. **Meal Worms and Grasshoppers**: Occasionally effective, though not always worth the effort. 14. **Marshmallows**: Generally viewed as a low percentage bait. 15. **Corn**: Should be avoided according to experienced fishermen. 16. **Salmon Eggs or Cured Salmon Eggs**: Especially the Pautzke brand's Ballz of Fire. 17. **Night Crawlers and Dew Worms**: Commonly recommended across various platforms. 18. **Wax Worms**: A bait noted for its effectiveness. 19. **Powerbait Mice Tails**: Another option in the Powerbait family. 20. **Powerbait Dough**: Frequently mentioned as effective due to its scent. 21. **Hellgrammites**: Another high percentage bait that shouldn’t be overlooked.
While many of these baits are effective, Graham warns that many frequently recommended options are actually lower on the effectiveness scale.
"If I were to start using most of those baits, even I would catch less trout!" he exclaimed, starkly highlighting how challenging it can be for less experienced anglers.
Graham stresses that successful trout fishing often comes down to a few high-percentage bets:
**Garden Worms**: Considered one of the most effective baits in both lakes and rivers, with small dew worms being the preference.
"Do not ball up your worm on the hook!" he cautioned. The right hook and technique matter significantly in increasing your chance of landing fish.
**Insects**: The effectiveness of large mayfly and stonefly nymphs cannot be understated. Graham suggests using a small size 12 Raven Specimen hook for these options.
Current Season
As the 2026 fishing season unfolds, anglers seeking to maximize their catch will do well to heed Graham's expert advice and prioritize first-rate baits and techniques. While trends in bait may shift, the fundamentals of successful trout fishing remain rooted in knowledge, skill, and experience.
