Fly Fishing For Smoky Mountain Brookies

The Brook Trout is the only native species of trout in the Smokies. Subjected to habitat loss, due to harsh logging practices early in the century and the introduction of new fish species, the Brook Trout lost most of it's area. Many restoration efforts and regulations have been put in place to protect this beautiful fish. Many streams now have a healthy population of brookies, with more waters open to fishing.

Brook Trout are an incredible fish to catch, as they area strong fish, with a seemingly endless fight and glow with their shear beauty. Many inhabited streams are small tight quartered areas, with thick rhododendron growth. Generally, in tradition, small light weight, fast action fly rods are used when pursuing brookies, making the fight of this small trout outstanding.

Understanding wild Brook Trout is the important part of catching them. They live in solitude and generally shy from other fish. Typically one fish is caught per hole, or a section of a pool. They pick their 'lair' wisely, good cover is the most important factor . Cover being the key, they are typically found deep under a log pile, in undercut banks, and under the edges of large rocks, wherever they feel safe. An elusive fish, they avoid danger at all costs, and will typically remain hidden after being spooked for a long period. Care should always be taken when approaching a Brook Trout 'haunt'.

Being opportunistic feeders most of the time, Brookies are not as skeptical of the fly pattern or presentation. If they have even the slightest attraction, they will generally strike, at least once. Typically looking for an easy and filling meal, a brookie will try to eat good sized flies. Choose a fly that looks buggy and of fair size. Sometimes Roughing the fly up a little will prove to have great results. Present the fly near the suspected lair, Brookies are typically not chasers like Rainbows, they like to 'get in...and get out'!

Targeting Brook Trout is the key to catching more. Look for the hiding spots in each hole.Keep a low profile, and avoid spooking them. Don't bother with trying to spot them in the hole, it usually won't happen. Choose a fly that looks like a good easy and filling meal. Like a half dead hopper, on it's way out, with legs spread wide. Easy and Delicious!! Implementing this into a fishing regimen, and targeting brookies, patterns will be seen and a better angler will be made.