What is the best time to fish trout? When does trout fishing tend to be more productive? Trout are most easily caught in the early morning, between sunrise and noon, and in the late afternoon, between three hours before sunset and sunset.
Trout will feed at all hours of the day and night, but the best times to catch them are typically in the morning and the afternoon. Trout thrive in the spring because of the favorable weather conditions and the sudden increase in food availability. Even more so when they are actively feeding, making them easy prey for lures, baits, and flies.
Water Temperature
Trout spend all day in the same water spot because that’s where they feel safe and where there’s food. Also, because trout can find food and favorable conditions at any time, fishing for them can be very productive at any time.
Here is a list of the best time to fish trout by hours and temperatures.
| Temperature | Day(hours) |
| 34-49 degrees | 12 p.m. to 5 p.m |
| 56-60 degrees | 11 a.m. to 5 p.m |
| 61-65 degrees | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m |
| 66-70 degrees | 9 a.m. to 1 p.m |
| 71-75 degrees | 8 a.m. to 12 p.m |
| 76-80 degrees | 7 a.m. to 11 a.m |
| 81-85 degrees | 7 a.m. to 10 a.m |
| 86-89 degrees | 6 a.m. to 9 a.m |
Best time to fish trout by season
Summer
Early mornings, when water temperatures are lowest, are ideal for trout fishing. Trout are more active and easier to catch when the water temperature is lower.
Spring/Autumn
Productivity is likely to peak in the middle of the afternoon when temperatures are typically highest. This is because, as a result of the morning’s cooler temperatures, there are fewer insects around.
Winter
Winter mornings and afternoons are, from what I’ve seen, prime trout fishing times. Cold-blooded fish like trout don’t have to worry as much about keeping warm, but as the temperature drops, the trout become less active and their bite becomes more resistant.
Conclusion
When it comes to catching trout, spring is by far and away your best bet. It’s not hard to figure out why spring is the best time to go trout fishing. They’ve spent the winter hibernating and not eating much, so now they’re very hungry and very active.
