Fly Fishing Flies & Fly Fishing Gear

Are you new to trout fishing? Or are you a seasoned trout angler who is just looking for some trout fishing tips and techniques? Well, this article is for you. In this article I’m going to outline (to the best of my ability) the best way to catch a trout. Is there actually a “best way” to catch a trout?

It most certainly seems to me that there is. I’ve been using the technique that I’m going to outline for more than 20 years, and know how effective it is. I was introduced to the technique by my fishing mentor (JRW) and have been successfully using it ever since. Once this technique is understood and implemented, it is extremely effective. Many of you might already use a variation of this incredible technique?

For the purposes of this article, the technique will be outlined for use in the flowing waters of eater a small river or stream. This is where I personally enjoy fishing, and these types of waterways are where I know the effectiveness of the technique. Don’t worry though, with some simple variations the technique can be used in most any fishing situation.

Before I begin I want to make sure that you understand one basic premise. When trout fishing, you should always employ fishing line that’s as light as possible. In my opinion, this means that no fishing line heavier than six-pound test should be used for trout fishing. I personally use and suggest four-pound test, but six-pound is passable. The bottom line is to always use fishing line that’s as light as possible when trout fishing.

Now I will outline the best way to catch a trout. Begin by grabbing the end of you line (coming from the end of your rod tip) and tying on a small barrel swivel. A size 10 or 12 barrel swivel will usually suffice. Now tie on a set of pre-tied gang hooks to the opposite end of the barrel swivel. Gang hooks are simply a pair of small hooks tied in tandem. Gang hooks enable worms (either live or synthetic) to be presented in a completely realistic manner. This makes a huge difference in bite and hook up rates.

At this point bait your gang hooks with a worm, again either live or synthetic (such as power worms or gulp worms). Split shot sinkers are now added for weight above the barrel swivel. The size and amount will vary depending on the depth of the water and current flow. The goal is to have your offering bounce along the bottom as it flows naturally with the current. A couple of “normal” size split shot should get you started. If your offering flows with the current without you feeling a thing, it’s not enough weight. If you get snagged, it’s too much weight.

In time, the split shot decision will become much easier. Keep in mind, as you begin to employ this system that getting snagged is simply party of the deal. So don’t let is frustrate you too much. As my mentor used to say, “If you’re not getting snagged, you’re not fishing in the right place!” In any case, this is the rig and subsequently the best way to catch a trout. You simply cast your offering parallel to yourself, close your bail, and feel your bait as it flows naturally with the current. With practice, distinguishing between the bottom and bites becomes easy.

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