trout questions

[onefishtwofish]

We fished the Redtrout and learned we still have a lot to learn on catching big trout. We catch them, but usually when we are targeting reds. Unless we are intending to have a fish fry, we usually turn all trout back, of any size. We have caught some real nice ones over the last few years, but just not regularly. I am obviously not asking for holes-we know where to go if we just want some trout action, but it is usually the little uns when I have guests with me so they can have some action.

So what are some key hints on where to look? Shallow flats, near deeper channels? I usually catch my better trout on mixed bottom, or in the typical red locations. I know there is a boatload of experience of trout fisherman on here, so just thought I could get some general ideas from some of ya'll.

[silverking]

You've answered your questions yourself. Read over your post and then remember big trout get big for a reason. A true gator is more wary than any of the bonefish I've ever chased. They are a special breed and very cautious about noise, boat traffic and angling pressure.

[Reel Cowboy]

You've answered your questions yourself. Read over your post and then remember big trout get big for a reason. A true gator is more wary than any of the bonefish I've ever chased. They are a special breed and very cautious about noise, boat traffic and angling pressure.

I thought trout got big by keeping them in a crab trap, safe and feed with only the finest mullet in Perry?

[wevans]

You've answered your questions yourself. Read over your post and then remember big trout get big for a reason. A true gator is more wary than any of the bonefish I've ever chased. They are a special breed and very cautious about noise, boat traffic and angling pressure.

I thought trout got big by keeping them in a crab trap, safe and feed with only the finest mullet in Perry?

That's just the big tourney Trout

[wevans]

But back to the question. 90% of the really big Trout that I have caught has been in 2 foot or less of water and most are by themself. So if I want a big one, I usually don't stay in any spot that I am catching a lot of Trout at and yes, they are a lot like Reds, only more skittish

[captkeyser]

Big trout are ambush predators... you typically aren't going to find them crusing just any old flat. You will find them in areas where there are hiding spots. Whether it be sand depressions, oyster bars, etc. On extemely low tides you will find them in area where the water is just a bit deeper than surrounding areas.

Once you have pinpointed a good location, then you move to presentation.

Big Trout feed primarily on fish: pinfish, pigfish and mullet to name a few. So, throwing an imitation shrimp in our area isn't really imitating the primary prey.

I like topwater plugs. They tend to like them as well.

Hope that helps.

[onefishtwofish]

I know that reds will hold on certain structures. But when we have those really memorable days, everything is right and we work a school of reds over. Big trout are not like that, right? We are looking for loners like someone said above. I'll power pole down and keep working the reds a lot of times. But trout, not so much? I know we catch the lttle uns that way, but I am talking the big uns.

Thoughts on line? I am mostly light line - mono for topwater and flouro for subsurface lures. The majority of my reels are 6-10# Is 10# too much in our neck of the woods? Should I think lighter line?

Thanks for all these thoughts and ideas too folks.

[Reel Cowboy]

Bait fish DO NOT attack big trout. Cast in such a way as to make your lure look natural. Weak, easy prey mullet don't swim against the tide/current, especially on top of the water.
Also remember that big trout got that way by being scared to death of stuff that didn't look normal.

Think and act like a wounded/maimed mullet and you'll attract them if they're around. But if they're not around, you're just wasting time.

Now the guide that taught me those few tricks will teach you as well, just e-mail him at warriorcharters@fairpoint.net to get a charter set up.

[silverking]

I use light braid (10# or less), but if I'm targeting big trout specifically I'll bump my leader (flouro) up to 20 pound test. Those big fish will thrash and shake. Your reels should be fine. Fish a little lighter drag and don't horse 'em.

As Capt. Keyser pointed out, topwater plugs that imitate bait are excellent lures. I have also caught quality fish on DOA shrimp, although my best catches (including a 10-pounder in IRL) has been with DOA shallow-running BaitBusters. Black/silver, black/gold, green/silver flake and the classic red head/white body are my favorite colors. Black/gold/orange is also a popular big trout pattern.

[captkeyser]

I think you should use heavier line. I use 10lb power pro and 15lb leader on all of my spinning rods. I throw 15lb Berkley Big Game on my bait casters. Where big trout are found, 15lb is the bare minimum you want to use due to the the structure you should be fishing around.

10lb test is fine for the juvies, but momma will make you regret your decision real quick when she pops you off on what she was using for her hiding spot.

[wevans]

I fish with #17 Spiderwire XXX Mono on all of my inshore and Bass rods it's amazing how small the diam. is on #17 mono now-a-days

[silverking]

My boat name is Fin-esse, not Winch 'em In.

Most braids over-test so you're fishing line heavier than what's labeled on the package. I also double the line to the leader for an added shock absorber.

[MudDucker]

Chunk'n wind!

[BAD BEHAVIOR]

Being the KING of BIG TROUT, I know only one true "secret" to catching those BIG MAMAS!!! DONT EVER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE FISH JT51'S HOLES!!!!
DINK TROUT CITY!!!!