In Vermont, the trout fishing season is finally opening its doors to anglers on April 12. While the state still has some lingering snow cover, the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department has assured that the season can be an exciting and successful one for those who take the right approach.
Key Strategies for Early-Season Trout Fishing
- Adjust your tactics based on conditions
- Look for small to medium low-elevation rivers or streams with minimal spring runoff
- Use larger baits to entice trout
- Choose tactics that allow you to fish along the bottom
These strategies can help you find success with trout even in the early season.
Effective Bait and Lure Options
- Nightcrawlers, egg imitations, and bright-colored spoons and spinners for spin-anglers
- Large, more visible flies such as wooly buggers, streamers, or San Juan worms for fly anglers
Larger baits and lures can be particularly effective in enticing early-season trout to bite.
Choosing the Right Locations
| Location | Description | Recommendation |
| Deep holes behind current breaks | Conservation of energy by trout in high-flow conditions | Focus on slow retrieval along the bottom |
| Areas with big boulders, downed trees, or log-jams | Trout often rest in these areas | Approach from downstream to fish along the bottom |
These locations can provide a better chance of catching trout.
Wild Trout Stocking and Catch-and-Release Fishing
“Despite unpredictable weather, anglers report impressive catches during opening weekend,” said State Fisheries Biologist Shawn Good. “Early in the season, like on opening weekend, you’ll probably have more success if you focus on waters known to hold wild trout.”
“Nearly all waterbodies are now open to catch-and-release fishing for trout in Vermont outside of the normal harvest season,” said Good. “Only artificial lures and flies are allowed during catch-and-release season.”
Catch-and-release fishing is an excellent option for those who don’t intend to keep trout.
Staying Informed
“This is a great tool for anglers to see what nearby waters have been stocked, as the page gets updated several times per week,” said Good.
Click the “See What’s Been Stocked” button to stay informed about trout stocking updates.
Getting Started
“Just like any other time of year, anglers fishing early in the spring should adjust their tactics based on conditions,” said Good. “Trout will become more active with warmer water temperatures. If you can find a good location and present your bait or lure without spooking the trout, you’ll have a good chance of catching a few fish and enjoy a nice day outside.”
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to catch some trout this season. Follow these tips and you’ll be well on your way to a successful early-season fishing experience.
