Hook, Line, and Shield: An Officer's Guide to Trout Fishing

Hook, Line, and Shield: An Officer's Guide to Trout Fishing
By: Michael Drago

Police officers are often accustomed to high-pressure situations and stressful work days. When it comes time to unwind and relax, there's nothing quite like a quiet day at your local stream or pond with a pole in hand. With colder weather approaching, trout are becoming increasingly more active, making them a fishing favorite for people of all skill levels. Whether you are a seasoned angler or just starting your fishing journey, this guide is tailored for you to relax and reconnect with nature.

For many states, fall trout stocking is rolling around once again. The most important thing to know is your state's stocking schedule and locations. This information can be found easily on your state's website along with the exact number of trout being stocked in any given location. When it comes time to decide where you want to fish, there are some other factors to take into consideration such as your distance from the location and how you are planning to trout fish. When using a spinning rod, you will find that lakes or slow-moving water are prime fishing grounds for your gear, whereas a fly fisherman will often opt for skinnier, fast-moving streams.

Another essential part of catching trout is understanding their behavior. Trout are cold-water fish, meaning that they thrive in colder water. This knowledge can help us track down where the fish may be. Trout in lakes will often spend their time toward the deeper water where the temperature is colder than by the surface or shorelines. When it comes to rivers and streams, trout will look for breaks in the current. These breaks are generally behind structures such as rocks, stumps or even fallen trees. These obstructions in the water create a “hole” behind them where trout are most likely to sit. Whether you're fishing in a lake or stream, it's important to remember that trout like to feed from noon until the sun sets, making it prime fishing hours.

Trout can be picky eaters, so it's also essential to bring the right lures for your trip. If you are fishing a lake or a wide and slow river, one possible lure is a Rooster Tail. Rooster Tails are a classic trout fishing lure that stocked trout love. These lures simulate bait fish in the water and trout's predatory instincts draw them in for a bite. Other popular lures include trout magnets, which are small soft plastic worms, or PowerBait, which is a scented bait that is put over a hook and does all the work for you. When choosing a color for your lure, choose a more natural color such as brown, gray or even black for clearer waters. If the water is murky, you may want to try a bright and colorful lure such as white or something neon. Fly fishermen may have a harder time choosing their bait as there are many more variables, such as local fly hatches. Although it can be challenging to figure out what fly to use, a good bet is to always bring along some of the most effective flies such as the Pheasant Tail, Hairs Ear or the Wooly Bugger. The color of your flies should stay natural with the most effective being brown, green, gray and black.

Trout fishing is a great way for officers to escape from the demands of their profession. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to fishing, the key is to check your state's stocking schedule, select the right location and approach and understand the behavior of these cold-water residents. Stock up on the right lures or flies, choose the appropriate bait colors, and relish the moments by the stream or pond. Trout fishing isn't just about catching fish; it's a way to escape and unwind from a stressful workday amid nature's beauty. So, gather your gear, head to your favorite fishing spot and relax and reconnect with Mother Nature. Best of luck on the water!

Michael Drago is a Kutztown University of Pennsylvania alumni with a degree in Public Relations. Drago now works as a Public Relations specialist at The Blue Magazine.