Trout Fishing In Connecticut

Guide to fishing for rainbow, brook, brown and lake trout in area lakes and streams.

Connecticut is renowned for its trout fishing opportunities, with a variety of trout species found in its lakes and rivers. Anglers can target three main trout species: rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout.

Rainbow trout are widely stocked in Connecticut's lakes, ponds, and rivers, offering excellent fishing opportunities. These acrobatic fish are known for their vibrant colors and strong fights. Popular trout fishing locations include the Farmington River, Housatonic River, and various stocked lakes such as Mashapaug Pond and Mount Tom Pond.

Brown trout, another prized species, can be found in many of Connecticut's rivers and lakes. Known for their elusive nature and challenging behavior, brown trout provide a rewarding fishing experience for dedicated anglers. The Farmington River, Naugatuck River, and West Branch Farmington River are popular destinations for targeting brown trout.

Brook trout, Connecticut's only native trout species, inhabit several small streams and remote locations throughout the state. These beautiful fish with their vibrant colors and speckled patterns can be found in cool, pristine waters. Fishing for brook trout often involves exploring remote areas and hiking to secluded streams, offering a sense of adventure to anglers seeking a unique trout fishing experience.

Connecticut boasts a strong tradition of trout fishing and has a history of producing impressive catches. The state record for rainbow trout stands at over 14 pounds, while the brown trout record exceeds 18 pounds. These impressive catches highlight the potential for trophy-sized trout in Connecticut's waters.

When trout fishing in Connecticut, anglers can use a variety of techniques such as fly fishing, spin fishing, or bait fishing, depending on personal preference and fishing conditions. It's important to check and adhere to fishing regulations, including catch limits and size restrictions, to protect the trout populations and ensure sustainable fishing practices.

Connecticut's lakes and rivers provide anglers with a diverse range of trout fishing opportunities. From stocked lakes and popular rivers to remote streams, the state offers something for every trout angler. Whether you're a seasoned fly fisherman or a beginner looking to catch your first trout, Connecticut's trout fishing scene promises a memorable and rewarding fishing experience.

Trout Waters

The cold waters in Connecticut make a haven for trout. You can find populations of trout in most rivers and streams plus major lakes like Alexander Lake, Amos Lake, Bantam Lake, Bashan Lake, Beach Pond, Black Pond, Candlewood Lake, Cedar Lake, Colebrook River Lake, Crystal Lake, Gardner Lake, Green Falls Pond, Highland Lake, Lake McDonough, Lake Quassapaug, Lake Saltonstall, Lake Zoar, Mashapaug Lake, Pinewood Lake, Quinebaug Pond, Rogers Lake, Saugatuck Reservoir, Squantz Pond, Tyler Lake, Washining Lake, West Hill Pond, West Thompson Lake and Wononscopomuc Lake. Numerous lakes in the state offer ice fishing in winter.

Click the images and links above for species details.

Select the best trout lures and baits

Trout spinners, crankbaits and jerkbaits work well for shallow, reasonably active fish. Salmon eggs, worms and prepared baits will work at virtually all depths.

Connecticut State Record Trout

The state record rainbow trout was caught from Mansfield Hollow Lake.

The state record brook trout was taken out of Blackwells Brook.

The state record brown trout came from West Hill Pond.

The state record lake trout was caught in Wononscopomuc Lake.

The state record tiger trout was taken out of Quassapaug Lake.

Robert Pochesci with his opening day brown trout 7lbs 7 oz, 25 1/2 inches long.

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The 5 primary trouts are the rainbow, brook, brown, cutthroat and lake trout. Browns are considered the most difficult to catch and brookies are the easiest. Pure cold water is key to survival of the trouts.

Visit the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection website for information regarding trout distribution and stocking in Connecticut.

Watch trout fishing videos to see trout anglers in action.

Additional trout information

Trout Conservation
Trout Unlimited

Trout locations and info, by state.