Trout Fishing 101: Ultralight Gear, Spinners and Stream Tactics

Trout live in some of the most beautiful water on earth, and catching them on light tackle is a blast. Here is how to get started.

Ultralight setup

• Rod: 5'6" to 6'6" ultralight or light spinning rod.
• Reel: 1000 to 2000 size spinning reel with a smooth drag.
• Line: 4 to 6 lb monofilament or fluorocarbon; go to 2 to 4 lb in very clear streams.

A packable telescopic trout combo is perfect for hiking to remote water.

Lures that catch trout

• Inline spinners: the classic stream lure. Cast upstream and retrieve just faster than the current.
• Small spoons: great in lakes and deeper pools.
• Minnow jerkbaits: twitch them for bigger, predatory trout.
• Flies: if you want to try fly fishing, start with a fly fishing combo and a box of nymphs and dries.

Reading a stream

Trout face upstream and wait for food to come to them. Look for:

• Seams where fast water meets slow water
• Pools below riffles and plunges
• Undercut banks and shade
• Behind boulders where current breaks

Stealth matters

Approach from downstream, keep a low profile and avoid casting a shadow over the water. Polarized sunglasses help you spot fish and avoid spooking them.

Temperature tip

Trout prefer cool water, roughly the 50s°F. When water warms into the upper 60s, fish early, find shade and springs, and handle fish quickly. Check the water temperature guide.