Who doesn’t love Trout fishing? Wading a shallow stream or casting into a remote lake, with half a dozen potential game fish waiting to take your line. It’s some of the best angling you could ask for! However, it can sometimes be confusing – you’ve caught a Trout, sure, but which Trout? With that in mind, here’s a quick run-down of two common species: Brook Trout and Brown Trout.
Brook Trout vs. Brown Trout Identification
At first glance, Brown and Brook Trout look pretty similar. They’re the same shape, and they each have spots on their sides. What’s more, both fish come in a variety of colors. Don’t worry, there are a few easy ways to tell the two species apart.
The first thing you should look at is their spots. Are they lighter than the rest of their body, or darker? If their spots are lighter, it’s probably a Brook Trout. If not, chances are it’s a Brown Trout. While you’re looking, check out the halos around the spots. These will have a bluish tint on Brookies, but will be plain whitish on Browns, if present at all.
Another useful clue is the pattern along the fish’s back. Brook Trout are known for their distinctive wormlike markings, while Brown Trout don’t have this pattern. Brookies also commonly have bright white leading edges on their lower fins, often with darker coloration just behind them. However, don’t rely on the white edging alone, as Brown Trout can sometimes show pale or white edges on their fins, too.
The tail can offer another hint. Brook Trout tend to have more noticeable markings across the tail, while Brown Trout usually have fewer spots there, often toward the upper portion. Individual fish can vary, though, so it’s best to consider the overall combination of markings and fin features when making an identification.
Bonus Round: Name That Trout!
We’ve had a lot of discussion around this image. Some people think it’s a Brook Trout, others think it’s a Splake. We’ve even had a couple of readers call it a Tiger Trout. What’s your take? Let us know in the comments!
Brook Trout vs. Brown Trout Habitat
You now know how to tell Brook and Brown Trout apart. But where should you go to catch them? Both species are incredibly adaptable in their own ways, but they do have their preferred hangouts. Knowing these is the key to landing a monster.
Brook Trout Habitat
Despite their name, Brook Trout don’t just live in small streams. These versatile fish are at home in anything from tiny creeks and beaver ponds to large lakes and rivers. They can also survive in brackish waters, and even in the ocean. In short, they can show up just about everywhere.
The one thing that Brook Trout are picky about is current. They hunt by lying in wait for food to float their way. Because of this, you’ll rarely find them in sluggish, slow-moving water. At the same time, if the current is too fast, they need to expend too much energy to hold steady in the water. They’re the Goldilocks of the Trout family: Not too fast. Not too slow. Just right.
Brown Trout Habitat
Brown Trout are more particular when it comes to finding a home. They like clear rivers and lakes with plenty of cover. They’re quite flexible about the temperature, but tend to be more common in colder waters, especially in rivers and streams.
Despite their love of clear water (or perhaps because of it), Brown Trout spend most of their time holding in cover. They hide in debris and deep pools, or among rocks and overhanging vegetation. They may seem shy, but they’ll still put up the fight of a lifetime once they take your bait.
Brook Trout and Brown Trout may seem similar at first, but these are two very distinct creatures. From the way they look to the waters they live in, there are a lot of differences between them. The one thing they do have in common is that they’re both true game fish, and a ton of fun to catch. So what are you waiting for, get out there and hook one!
If you need more information on Trout varieties, hotspots, and fishing techniques, check out our Trout Fishing Guide.
How do you identify Brook Trout vs. Brown Trout? Have you caught them both in the past? Where did you do it? Let us know in the comments below.
