Brown Trout

While Bartlett, Illinois, isn't exactly a brown trout mecca, dedicated anglers can find opportunities in the surrounding waterways. Focus your efforts on the deeper, cooler sections of the DuPage River and its tributaries. These streams are often stocked, so check the Illinois Department of Natural Resources stocking reports before you go. Spring and fall are the prime times, when water temperatures are favorable and trout are more active. Early mornings and late evenings are often the most productive. A key tip for success is to downsize your presentations. Light line, small spinners, and nymphs that imitate local insects can be deadly. Access can be tricky in some areas, so be sure to scout out public access points and respect private property. Remember that brown trout in this region may be smaller than what you'd find in more renowned trout destinations, but the challenge of catching them in a less-than-obvious location can be incredibly rewarding.