Brook Trout

By - May 19, 2004

Brook Trout Salvelinus fontinalis Habitat: The Brook Trout/ Salvelinus fontinalis is native in eastern North America has been introduced to the western states, and can be found in the five great lakes. The Brook Trout is commonly found in cool, clear and well -oxygenated streams. Brook Trout cannot survive in waters warmer than 77.5 degrees Fahrenheit.  It will kill them within a few hours. Appearance: The Brook Trout can grow up to 21 inches long and be 4-6 pounds. The heaviest Brook Trout ever to be recorded was 14.5 pounds. The average length and weight of Brook Trout is 10 – 12 inches and weigh 11 oz to 2 pounds. The Brook Trout is usually an olive color to a very dark brown on the back. The sides are typically silver colored and have pale spots. The colors intensify during spawning time. Reproduction: Around fall, the Brook Trout spawns. During spawning time the males develop a hook at the front of their lower jaw. The females create a nest and lay 100-5000 eggs. The eggs incubate through the winter. The eggs hatch in the spring. An average Brook Trout will live 5 years. Diet: Brook Trout eats whatever it finds. In smaller streams they eat nymphs and smaller fish. Brook Trout also eats insects that thrive in the water. Economic Value: The Brook Trout is very popular with anglers and is one of the easiest fish to catch. The Brook Trout is commonly fished with artificial fly; spin casting, and live bait.

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