Brown Trout

Finding Brown Trout near Bloomington, Indiana, requires a bit of travel, as they are not native to the immediate area. However, some streams in southern Indiana, stocked by the DNR, offer limited opportunities. While not directly in Bloomington, a day trip to some of the tailwaters below dams further south might be fruitful. Spring and fall are the best times, coinciding with stocking schedules. Focus on areas with riffles, runs, and pools, using small spinners, spoons, or drifting nymphs. A practical local tip is to consult the Indiana DNR stocking reports to find the most recently stocked streams. These reports will give you the best chance of finding trout. Brown trout in these stocked streams are typically in the 10-14 inch range, providing a fun challenge for anglers. Remember to check the specific regulations for the stream you're fishing, as some may have catch-and-release restrictions.