Big trout are the result of abundant insect life, clear rivers and lakes, a temperate climate (meaning waters stay cool all year round), plus low angling pressure. In New Zealand, these conditions are common which means rainbow trout are usually 1–2 kg in weight, but in larger rivers and lakes.
Why does New Zealand have such big trout?
The salmon farms present in each section of canals provide a unique fishery dynamic whereby the trout and salmon in the canals benefit greatly from the additional food sources they provide. For this reason, the size and condition of the canal fish is unmatched by any other New Zealand freshwater sports fishery.”
How big do brown trout get in NZ?
In New Zealand brown trout often reach 800 millimetres and 5 kilograms. Most fish caught by anglers are smaller – typically 1–2 kilograms.
Where are the biggest brown trout in the world?
The Biggest Brown Trout in the World (According to the IGFA)
The biggest brown trout of all time was caught in New Zealand. It was a 42-pound beast caught in the Ohau Canal.
How did brown trout get to New Zealand?
Brown trout are native to Europe and were first introduced into New Zealand in 1867 from British stock which had been established in Tasmania only three years earlier.
Why are some trout bigger than others?
Like all animals, trout exhibit individual differences in the way they respond to the environment and their ability to grow is no different. This is a reflection of the inherent genetic differences between individuals.
What is considered a big brown trout?
long and 5.5 kg (12 lbs) are rare, but in Lake Superior they are often bigger. The Minnesota state record for this fish is 7.56 kg (16-lbs. 12 oz). Because brown trout are somewhat resistant to the pressures of fishing, they can easily get to 5-7 years old.
What is the largest species of trout?
Lake Trout are the biggest. Brook Trout are generally the smallest and have unusual markings. Splake and Tiger Trout only really exist in deliberately stocked populations, although they can show up in the wild. They’re more aggressive than most Trout species.
How old is a 20 inch rainbow trout?
In less than two years, these farmed rainbow trout can reach a length of 20 or more inches and weigh around 6 to 8lb.
What is a trophy sized trout?
Trophy trout are categorized by CDFW as larger than 2.99 pounds each, but can be much larger. Another category of large trout released by CDFW each year is “super-catchable,” which are fish between 1.1 and 2.99 pounds each.
Where is the best brown trout fishing?
10 Top Spots for Trophy Brown Trout
- Colorado River, Colorado. A sleeper spot for monster browns. Tim Romano.
- North Platte River, Wyoming. Hit the town of Casper, Wyo., and be sure to stop by the Ugly Bug. Tim Romano.
- Missouri River, Montana. Don’t let the crowds dissuade you—there are enough fish to go around.
How big can brown trout get?
It varies from light silvery brown to the more common golden brown hue, and has darker spots on its back and sides, with a pale belly. It is medium to large in size, measuring in at around 40-80cm and weighing up to 15kg.
What’s the biggest fish ever caught on a fishing rod?
Great White Shark
His largest monster, a Great White Shark weighing 3,427 pounds, still remains the largest fish ever caught by rod and reel. His colorful reputation made him an instant inspiration for the infamous shark fisherman known as Quint in the film Jaws (1975).
Are trout indigenous to NZ?
Most people think of trout and salmon, but these are not native to New Zealand. It’s quite a surprise to learn that there are about 40 species, including whitebait, smelt and mudfish.
When were brown trout introduced to New Zealand?
1860s
Summary. Brown trout (Salmo trutta) were introduced to New Zealand by acclimatisation societies from the 1860s onwards in efforts to establish recreational fisheries.
Do brown trout go to sea?
This species has two possible life-cycle patterns. While brown trout are purely freshwater-resident, ‘sea trout’ migrate to the sea to feed and mature. Some Scottish rivers are home only to brown trout populations.
How old is a 15 inch brown trout?
Growth rates in lakes are typically faster, with three-year-old Brown Trout reaching 11-18 inches and four-year-olds averaging 13-21 inches in length.
Do brown trout eat rainbow trout?
Apart from eating their own, they also feed on other trout, which is not considered cannibalism, as these trout belong to other species. In fact, all kinds of smaller trout have been found in the stomachs of caught brown trout. What is this?
How do you bite a large brown trout?
While brown trout are very susceptible to live worms, artificial plastic worms work very well too. On an aggressive bite, you can work them more efficiently and actually catch more fish than with live bait. When it comes to trout lures, inline spinners and 3”-5” crankbaits work very well brown trout fishing.
How do you catch a giant brown trout?
Fish them under a float at a depth just above the bottom and drift them along areas that hold browns. A long rod comes in handy for drift-fishing, as does a reel with a smooth drag to compensate for light 5- to 6-pound-test leaders, which are necessary to fool wary brown trout topping 20 pounds.
How deep do brown trout go?
How deep do brown trout live. Brown trout (Salmo trutta) prefer to stick close to the surface, although some complete dives down to 90ft (28m). In extreme water conditions, they might go deeper following the thermocline.
Justin Shelton is a professional cook. He’s been in the industry for over 10 years, and he loves nothing more than creating delicious dishes for others to enjoy. Justin has worked in some of the best kitchens in the country, and he’s always looking for new challenges and ways to improve his craft. When he’s not cooking, Justin enjoys spending time with his wife and son. He loves exploring new restaurants and trying out different cuisines.