How to Attract a Gold Trout

The golden trout, a subspecies of the rainbow trout, is the state fish of California. Prized for its taste, it can be found in many freshwater streams around the Sierra Nevada mountains in California and New Mexico. Their environments make fly fishing a natural choice if you are interested in trying to catch them. However, like all other species typically taken in this manner, the proper selection of flies and casting technique are essential to a successful excursion.

Things You'll Need

  • Fly fishing equipment
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Instructions

    • 1

      Select a fly that best resembles the prevailing insects on the surface of the water where you are fishing, usually grasshoppers, dragonflies, mayflies, ants, beetles, stoneflies caddisflies, or other surface skimmers. Be sure that you have a wide selection of flies available in case your initial selection does not attract any fish.

    • 2

      Search for pockets of water behind large rocks, fast-moving water just above a waterfall or rapids drop, the sanctuary underneath a waterfall, or spring holes. These are the prime resting and feeding places of golden trout.

    • 3

      Position yourself as far away from the habitat as you can get and begin to cast your fly along the surface of the water in your target area. If you get no bites for a significant amount of time, consider changing flies or casting in a new location.