A Helpful Guide on How to Catch Tiger Trout

As an avid fisherman, one type of fish I’ve always wanted to capture was the Tiger Trout. It isn’t only their colorful and attractive looks, but because of how uncommon it is, considering it a challenge to capture! Because of how difficult it is to find in the wild, learning how to catch tiger trout will take a lot of research and patience.

With that being said, it’s still possible to catch one to show off or put on the dinner table! I did the research and tried these methods myself, so read on as I show you the steps on how to catch Tiger Trout successfully.

How to Catch Tiger Trout 

Catching trout in still waters (lakes and ponds) and moving waters (rivers and streams) involves different techniques. Fishing tactics, fish location, and behavior can vary depending on what type of water you’re fishing at. But how can you catch Tiger Trout?

Tiger Trouts are actually bred and raised in fish farms then sent to the wild waters to control rough fish. You can find them in various states, though they usually thrive in cold environments.

The best time to catch Tiger Trout is when they remain in the shallows and are easily accessible from shore. Given this, spring and fall are the ideal seasons for Tiger Trout fishing because the water temperature is cool, reaching 45°F (7.2°C), and the feeding activity occurs in the shallows.

For a successful catch, follow these steps to try catching one of your own now:

Step 1:

Cast your line during the evening time, specifically when the sun’s about to go down. Many fishermen also recommend that you fish late in the evening, when Tiger Trout are mostly out. 

It’s best that you fish from the shore, as shallow water’s cooler and it attracts Tiger Trout better. When casting closer to the shore, I recommend you use lure imitating minnow, or large silver streamers.

Step 2:

Use floating lines when fishing, moving your bait around the surface of the waters. This imitates an insect, enticing Tiger Trout. You should do this while fishing from a pontoon boat or float tube since you’re closer to the shore. 

Tiger Trout like insects and would pursue mosquitoes, flying ants, midges, and damselflies. However, if there are already a lot of insects living in the area, the fish may not find the bait as appealing.

If you feel like the fish are deeper than the shore, go for a wet fly weighted using a sinking line. As for the bait, use wooly buggers, scuds, and nymphs, minnow imitations, or dark-colored leeches.

Step 3:

Once you do get a Tiger Trout coming your way and farther from the shore, lure it with popping gear that is attached with nightcrawlers. You can also try spinners and lures without bait.

If you’re still fishing without casting, attach dead minnow to the line and drop it off the boar’s side. Release the line gradually until your bait’s deep underwater, then pull it up. This movement would imitate live bait in distress, attracting Tiger Trout to try eating it.

While Tiger Trouts can be challenging to find in some areas, it’s not that difficult getting strikeouts. Since they feed constantly and are very territorial, Tiger Trouts will bite your bait and have it easier for you to catch them.

Where To Find Tiger Trout?

You can find Tiger Trout in locations with cold water conditions and moving water. They’re vigorous swimmers, allowing them to swim against the water current while staying in oxygen-rich water.

North America and Canada are more likely to have Tiger Trout in their bodies of water. The water conditions in most southern states, on the other hand, are generally not ideal for this species of fish.

You have a better chance of finding Tiger Trout in areas where smaller fish abound because they feed on these smaller fish. 

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What Line to Use? 

Light to medium spinners is best for Tiger Trout. Go for ultra-light rods for feel and sensitivity, using a 4-6 pound line and number 6-8 bait hook with split shots fastened.

What Lures to Use?

The best lures to use are inline or flashing spinners since they imitate small minnow, which is what Tiger Trout usually feed on. Spinners that have hair trailers or hackles can give you more strikes compared to bare hook ones.

You can also go for silver spinners, which look like silvery-hued minnows Tiger Trot look for as well. For waters that are turbulent or discolored, go for gold or copper spinners.

For catching early-season Tiger Trout, go for spoons that flutter and wobble. These are better than spinners when used in swift water.

What Bait to Use?

Like mentioned, I highly suggest you use nightcrawlers, power bait, or salmon eggs as bait. These types of bait would lure Tiger Trout into strikes without them expecting it.

Can I Fly Fish?

Yes, you can also try fly fishing for Tiger Trout, as many have found success through it! With a well-placed fly, you’re able to produce an amazing strike that can attract and have Tiger Trout coming towards you. Just make sure you use the right combo of lures and bait.

Once you’ve caught your Tiger Trout, make sure you store it well (better invest in the best coolers for boat) to cook once you get home! 

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Besides these steps, check out this awesome video on these fishermen catching tiger trout:

Wrapping It Up

While it may seem difficult catching Tiger Trout, it’s entirely possible as long as you have the patience and know where to fish. From the location down to your skills, you’ll be able to attract and catch one for yourself.

I hope this article on how to catch Tiger Trout helped you out! So don’t wait any longer and begin aiming to catch your big one now.

If you have any questions or want to share your tips and experiences on catching Tiger Trout, then comment below. Your thoughts are much appreciated.