Early Spring Trout Fishing Tips

During the early spring, streams usually flow strongly and have higher water levels due to melting snow and rain runoff, so action lures like Panther Martins, Blue Fox spinners, small jerkbaits and crankbaits, as well as spoons can be used to catch rainbow and brown trout.

When the water is stained, I prefer to throw these lures on spinning tackle with 4-pound test low visibility green monofilament. If it is ultra-clear, I will use 4-pound test fluorocarbon line.

Lake Fork Guy with a mountainside brown trout

I’m particularly fond of the Karl’s Amazing Whipper Snapper in both green and bluegill.

Its mesmerizing action is truly irresistible to trout. To get under the surface, I tie a small bb split shot 2 – 3 inches above the lure and cast it into areas such as current seams and eddies.

A medium speed retrieve will do; if I see a trout following, an abrupt tug or two usually sets off a bite.

Alex Peric wading for river rainbows

The marabou jig is ideal for finicky trout or fish holding close to the bottom.

When trout won’t chase a lure, I throw the jig up current in front of them and shake it with a semi-taut line as it drifts by. When the lure passes in front of the trout, I shake the jig as close as possible to make it bite.

For active river trout, find current seams, eddies, and bends in the river.

When fishing for trout hugging the bottom, I throw a 1/8-ounce jig upstream and let it sink to the bottom, then jerk the jig off the bottom and let it fall again.

When the jig falls, strikes usually occur, so I keep my line on guard.

Sources: karls