The brown trout is not native to the United States but comes from Europe. Since their introduction to North America in 1883, the brown trout has been stocked into the waters of every continent except Antartica. This trout is more tolerant of warmer and turbid water than either the rainbow or the brook trout allowing it to have a greater habitat range. The brown trout inhabiting deeper, darker waters and undercut banks adds to the challenge anglers face when fishing for this exceptional fish.
Range: Mountain streams of Oconee, Pickens and Greenville counties. Also present in Lake Jocassee and the tailraces of lakes Murray and Hartwell.
Commonly Mistaken Species: Some species of fish that are commonly mistaken for this species:
Brook trout Rainbow trout
Habitat & Range
Brown trout can tolerate warmer water temperatures (not exceeding 68 degrees Fahrenheit for any extended period) than the brook and rainbow trout. Brown trout can be found in small creeks, rivers and reservoirs. They inhabit the deeper pools and undercut banks of these habitat types seeking out areas of low light intensity. Brown trout are better competitors than rainbow and brook trout in larger streams with multiple species.
Life History
Spawning: - Brown trout spawn from October through November when the females deposit 600-3,000 eggs into a shallow nest called a redd.
Diet: - Aquatic and terrestrial insects, crayfish and fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Size
8-10 inches 4-8 ounces in streams to several pounds in Lake Jocassee and lakes Hartwell and Murray tailraces.
Lifespan
Approximately 18 years (southern populations 7-10 years)
State Record
: 17 pounds 9.5 ounces (1987)
