How To Catch Trout In Heavy Current

To most trout fisherman, you know the deal when you're chasing your target species. You'll be fishing in a lot of rivers, streams, and channels. Getting to and from the spots you wish to cast will be difficult. And the current might be an issue. Catching trout in heavy current is possible, though, and if you know what you are doing, fast moving water can even be an asset. You obviously don't want to be wading in white water rapid territory, but a little bit of ripping water can turn the bite on. Here are a few ways to make sure every time you're out on the river, you can catch trout in heavy current.

1. Try Flies

Fly fisherman are never afraid of a little current, and for good reason. When water is moving quickly and banging up against the banks, forage fly fishermen are trying to imitate are common snacks for trout. Trout in heavy current are on the move, and they don't have much time to decide whether your fly is a real tasty morsel or a one way ticket to your Instagram page. Keep casting an insect like the K&E Mayfly Larva, and eventually you'll get bit.

2. Find Structure

Trout in heavy current aren't ALWAYS on the move, however. Often times these currents are in deeper waters, and trout are holding against structure below the water like boulders or laydowns. If you can find a branch in the middle of the current, spot some boulders below the surface, or locate any structure at all, try to fish around it. Drown a grasshopper, add dough bait to a few split shots, or sink a soft plastic.

3. Hit The Banks

Much like fish moving to structure in fast moving water, they will also hug the banks. Trout in heavy current act much like humans in heavy current. Think about rafting, tubing or floating. If it ever picks up a little more than you are comfortable with, you immediately look to the shore. You try to find something to hold onto. Fish do the same thing. They will lurk in seams up against the bank and wait for snacks to float by. Cast as close to the bank as you can where trout in heavy current are waiting for a snack to fall in.

4. Stick Around A While

Fish in currents are less prone to being spooked or scared out of their habitat, so you'll want to work a piece of water completely and thoroughly. The turbulent water will distract fish from your presence, and you will be able to fish it more effectively without scaring them up the stream. Cast in a current-filled area over and over and over (and over), trout in heavy current need a reminder that you are even there before they decide to take a ride on your line.

5. Go With The Flow

Use the current to your advantage. Fish baits meant for added action. Soft plastic worms like the Trout Magnet Trout Worm will have plenty of wiggle to get bit. Add some weight (split shots will work best) to your presentation to get down to the bottom quick, but not too much where the current can't budge your hook. You'll want to bounce along the bottom just enough as it carries through the current.Fishing for trout in heavy current can be a daunting task, but is equally as rewarding if you know what you're doing. Use the current to your advantage and don't be afraid to work a spot for a good, long while. Attack the bank as you pepper the sides of the river or stream with casts. Make sure to work the structure all along the river, trying to play a little hide-and-go-seek with rainbows, brooks, or browns. Last but not least, think like a fly fisherman, even if you haven't busted out the fly rod. Small insect imitators can be MONEY when chasing trout in heavy current.