Located in the Southeastern United States, the Smoky Mountains are part of the Appalachian Mountain Range. Within this mountain range are several hundred miles of prime, native brook trout streams. The Southern Appalachian strain of brook trout is the only native species of trout within the Smoky Mountains. Due to harsh logging practices and the introduction of non-native fish, the brook trout has lost a high percentage of its habitat. Regulations and restoration projects are in effect to restore and protect brook trout fisheries.
Native Brook Trout
Brook trout thrive in cool, clean water and seem to be the primary species of fish inhabiting streams above 3,000 feet in elevation. Within these small mountain streams, brook trout grow to an average of 6 to 8 inches in length. Rarely, brookies will grow to larger lengths, when the water is sufficient enough to support it. Brook trout tend to be opportunistic feeders, rarely willing to pass up an easy meal.
Learning the Brook Trout's Habitat
Fly fishing for brookies is similar to fishing for other species of trout. Knowing their habitat, choice of flies, and being able to read trout waters is the key. Similar to brown trout in their choice of habitat, brookies like dark lairs where they can easily take cover from danger. Usually they seek cover along under cut banks, around logs, and large rocks with edges to hide under. An inconsistent feeder, brookies may leave their lair to take a fly with caution while another time they may dart from cover and attack with vigor.
Brook Trout Fly Selection
When approaching a likely hole for brook trout, one with good cover, take a moment to study the water. Instead of looking for the typical feeding area, search out the best and most likely hiding spot. Look for an area with good cover and an easy access to a feed zone for an intriguing meal. Once a "haunt" is found, present a fly to a fish in normal fashion. When fishing a dry fly, try use a “buggy” looking fly. Choose a pattern that floats high on the water and has good natural resistance against submersion.
Attractor patterns such as a royal wulff or a stimulator work well. Elk hair caddis and hopper patterns are a sure bet and have high floating characteristics. Try to keep the fly riding as high as possible with the aid of a fly floatant. If a “buggy” pattern is not available, make one. This is a simple tip that works well to entice more strikes; take a fly and rough it up little between two stones. Make it look like a beat up old fly. When presented on the water, it will look like a big bug of sorts, potentially injured and an easy meal.
After a few trips on the streams targeting these elusive fish, anglers will begin to think like a brook trout, and begin locating holes with ease, and have a better understanding of fly selection. Learning to catch this elusive fish, will in return make the angler an all around better fly fisherman.
Michael Lambert - Michael C Lambert , I reside in Sevierville Tennessee,in the beautiful Smoky Mountains, where I own and operate Smoky Mountain Streamside ...
