As Canada celebrates Outdoor Canada’s 50th anniversary, former fishing editor shares invaluable trout-fishing tips drawn from years of experience. The expertise conveyed is particularly tailored for fishing enthusiasts aiming to catch brookies, browns, rainbows, lakers, and cutthroats in the diverse Canadian landscape.
"For a quick, easy and deadly rainbow or steelhead bait, place 10 salmon or trout eggs in the middle of a cell-phone-sized sheet of spawn sac netting material," said the editor. By adding several egg-sized foam floaters, you can optimize your bait and create a compact solution. The innovation doesn’t stop there; finishing the package with silkworm elastic thread eliminates the need for knots, making this both an efficient and effective baiting method.
"For a quick, easy and deadly rainbow or steelhead bait, place 10 salmon or trout eggs in the middle of a cell-phone-sized sheet of spawn sac netting material,"
When targeting different trout sizes, understanding your approach is key. "While standard-size attractors are great for big fish, they spook smaller trout in backcountry lakes," the expert warns. It’s recommended to utilize a short spoon, minus hooks, ahead of your lure to attract smaller trout—a strategy that has proven successful with a particular favorite: the half gold/half silver Williams Whitefish.
"While standard-size attractors are great for big fish, they spook smaller trout in backcountry lakes,"
Current Season
Current Season
Current Season
Seasonal patterns also play a significant role in trout fishing, especially for steelhead. "Steelhead stack up in the fall and winter around rivermouths, but don’t cast randomly trying to catch them," the editor advised. Instead, focusing on current seams where the flow ebbs is essential, as well as areas where the stained river water meets clearer lake water.
"Steelhead stack up in the fall and winter around rivermouths, but don’t cast randomly trying to catch them,"
Anglers can also find some thrill in the art of deadsticking when targeting steelhead. "A fun way to catch steelhead hanging around rivermouths is to cast out into the lake and deadstick your bait on the bottom," the editor explained. To enhance effectiveness, it’s advised to keep your line above the waves, which can be managed easily with an elevated rod holder.
"A fun way to catch steelhead hanging around rivermouths is to cast out into the lake and deadstick your bait on the bottom,"
For those looking to fashion their own gear, a simple DIY project can yield a valuable tool. "To make an elevated rod holder, attach an 18-inch-long piece of two-inch diameter PVC pipe to a five-foot length of steel reinforcing rod using automotive hose clamps," the editor instructed. This elevates your line, making the fishing experience smoother and more productive.
"To make an elevated rod holder, attach an 18-inch-long piece of two-inch diameter PVC pipe to a five-foot length of steel reinforcing rod using automotive hose clamps,"
Another technique worth mastering is drop-shotting, which is underutilized by many anglers. "Drop-shotting is a deadly technique that few trout anglers are using," said the editor, emphasizing successful weights depending on depth. For brookies, rainbows, and splake, weights of 1/4- to 3/8-ounce are recommended, while lakers may require 1.5- to two-ounce sinkers.
"Drop-shotting is a deadly technique that few trout anglers are using,"
Summer brings its own challenges, particularly with flat, calm waters. "Flat, calm water during summer is ideal for drop-shotting for trout because you want your line to be as vertical as possible," the editor added. In these conditions, using an electric trolling motor or kicker outboard to hover over your desired spot can prove beneficial.
"Flat, calm water during summer is ideal for drop-shotting for trout because you want your line to be as vertical as possible,"
The ability to read the water, especially in rivers, is crucial for successful trout fishing. "The best trout anglers excel at reading a river, especially when they’re fishing broken water," the expert shared. Trout tend to take the path of least resistance, often seeking cover behind anything that disrupts the flow. Identifying calm seams and pockets can significantly increase success rates.
"The best trout anglers excel at reading a river, especially when they’re fishing broken water,"
Lastly, achieving a drag-free drift can substantially enhance your catch rate. "When I’m float-fishing for steelhead, I always want my bait to drift close to the bottom," the editor highlighted. Upgrading your equipment to a 13- or 14-foot-long float rod paired with a centrepin reel can optimize your technique. The design of the reel allows the line to peel off at the speed of the current, ensuring a smooth and effective drift.
"When I’m float-fishing for steelhead, I always want my bait to drift close to the bottom,"
By adopting these strategies into your trout fishing practices, you can elevate your success while enjoying the tranquil waters of Canada. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, these insights offer a fresh perspective on familiar waters, promising rewarding experiences ahead.
