Brown trout is one of the most popular game fish species among anglers worldwide. Known for their elusive nature and voracious appetite, brown trout are a prized catch that can be found in rivers, lakes, and streams throughout the United States.
If you’re an avid angler, you may be wondering what the state record for brown trout is in your area. State records are a point of pride for many anglers, as they represent the largest fish ever caught in a particular state.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what the state record for brown trout is and where it was caught. Let’s dive in!
What Is a State Record?
Before we get into the specifics of the state record for brown trout, let’s first define what a state record is. A state record is the largest fish of a particular species that has been legally caught by an angler within the borders of a given state.
To qualify for a state record, the fish must be weighed on a certified scale and witnessed by at least two people who are not related to the angler. The catch must also be verified by a representative from the state wildlife agency.
What Is the State Record for Brown Trout?
The state record for brown trout varies from state to state and can change over time as new catches are made. As of 2021, here are some of the current state records for brown trout:
- Michigan: The Michigan state record for brown trout is currently held by Tom Healy, who caught a 41-pound, 7-ounce monster in Lake Michigan in 2009.
- Pennsylvania: The Pennsylvania state record for brown trout is currently held by Robert Ferraro Jr., who caught a 20-pound, 9-ounce beast from Lake Erie in 2019.
- Colorado: The Colorado state record for brown trout is currently held by Tim Little, who caught a 24-pound, 4-ounce giant in the Arkansas River in 2007.
- Wyoming: The Wyoming state record for brown trout is currently held by Nick Waggoner, who caught a 27-pound, 8-ounce monster from the North Platte River in 2015.
It’s worth noting that these are just a few examples of the current state records for brown trout. Depending on where you live or where you plan to fish, the state record could be higher or lower.
Where Can You Catch Big Brown Trout?
If you’re looking to catch a big brown trout and maybe even break your state’s record, there are a few places that are known for producing monster browns.
One such location is the Great Lakes region, where brown trout can grow to massive sizes due to a combination of abundant food sources and favorable water conditions. Lake Michigan and Lake Huron are particularly good places to try your luck.
Another option is to head west to states like Colorado and Wyoming, where there are numerous rivers and streams that hold trophy-sized browns. Some popular spots include the Arkansas River in Colorado and the North Platte River in Wyoming.
The Bottom Line
The state record for brown trout varies depending on where you are and can change over time as new catches are made. If you’re looking to catch a big brownie yourself, consider heading to areas known for producing large fish or hiring a guide with local knowledge.
Remember, catching a state-record fish takes skill, patience, and a bit of luck. But with persistence and dedication, it’s certainly possible!
