Brown Trout

While Lake Station, Indiana, isn't typically known as a brown trout hotspot, the nearby stretches of the Little Calumet River and its tributaries offer a unique, albeit challenging, opportunity. These waterways, though relatively small, can hold migratory browns, especially during the fall and spring spawning runs. Focus your efforts from late September through November, and again from March to May. These fish are often heading upstream to spawn or returning to Lake Michigan after spawning. Access to the Little Calumet can be tricky; look for public access points along county roads and near parks. Be prepared to wade, as bank fishing opportunities are limited. The browns here tend to be opportunistic feeders, so try small spinners, crankbaits, or even natural baits like nightcrawlers. Keep in mind that the Little Calumet is subject to fluctuating water levels, so check conditions before you go. The fish population is not as robust as in more established trout fisheries, so practice catch and release to help sustain the fishery.