Spring Stream Trout on Spinners

Spring is a time of renewal—for both trout and trout fishers. My go-to setup starts with checking the condition of my braid. If needed, I’ll spool up with 8lb Hyperglide braid and pair it with a fresh 10lb fluorocarbon leader. Even if the leader looks okay, I always swap it out—especially if it’s been sitting in storage since last season. You’d be surprised how much chafe and UV damage it can cop over time.

Reel maintenance is also key. A general service and grease-up ensure smooth performance when that early-season brown hits hard. One thing many anglers overlook are rod eyelets. A few seasons back, I kept losing fish and couldn't figure out why… until I noticed a missing insert on the second guide.

A tiny sharp edge was slicing my line like a knife. Since then, a full rod check is non-negotiable.

River and stream fishing is where I spend most of my springtime. For these tight, overgrown banks, I favor a short rod—usually around 6ft or less. It makes casting in dense terrain far easier and more accurate. Footwear is another big deal. I rotate between grippy old runners, crocs with solid soles, or river shoes—whatever gets the job done safely.

A good bum-bag holds pliers, scissors, spare leader, Spinmax and B-Max lures, phone, GoPro, and a knife—handy if we keep a trout for dinner.

Impoundments, on the other hand, usually mean boat fishing. That means checking all safety gear is up to date and in good condition—and packing plenty of snacks (trust me, a hangry crew is not fun). I spool up with either 12lb rainbow braid or Hyperglide paired with a12lb leader—ideal for larger impoundment trout. We often troll through known productive areas, especially near inflows after rain. Casting into those spots where freshwater trickles in can be deadly trout sit there waiting for bugs, frogs, and worms to wash through.

There’s just something about it—tight casting into moving water, working a run, and watching a flash of silver strike from the shadows. It’s a full sensory reset. No matter the kind of day I’ve had, that rhythm of cast-and-retrieve calms the noise.

Small streams are my favorite. But trout in these waters spook easily, so stealth is crucial. I stay low, approach pools slowly, and avoid casting shadows across the water.

Early in the season, I lean into high-flow tactics. I love a wet spring—the extra water stirs up the food chain and triggers post-spawn feeding. One of my top techniques is casting across a rapid into the slack water on the other side, especially with a heavier Spinmax(like a 6.4g Blinky or Flamingo). Bring it back through the fast water where trout lie in ambush at the seam—waiting to smash anything drifting past like a moth, grub, or worm.

●       Early Season: Spinmax 6.4g in Blinky or Flamingo—the pinks just work. If water is low and clear, I’ll switch to a floating Bmax 60Mad Minnow or Goldie. The belly flash of the Mad Minnow seems to trigger that natural predatory instinct in trout.

●       Late Season: I still use Bmax floating lures but might go more natural—imitating juvenile trout or small baitfish that are more active later in the season.

I’m honestly happy catching either! But around here, rainbows tend to fight a little harder—especially in colder spring waters. Technique-wise, I don’t really change my approach. For me, it’s more about matching lure action and size to the water conditions than to the species.

When I see bugs hatching in the air come spring, I take note. I try to match what I see—whether that’s a moth, hopper, or small fish. Later in summer, nothing beats using unweighted, live grasshoppers caught in the bush—especially around February and March when they’re most active.

The Swampy Plains River is agem—whether I’m fishing from a boat or casting bankside.

But come summer, I head deep into the bush, catching and drifting hoppers across wild alpine streams. The setting, the simplicity, and the explosive takes—unreal.

·        Sun protection is non-negotiable: Long sleeves,hat, and good polarized sunnies to cut glare and spot fish.

·        Gumboots or river shoes: Especially importantfor high-country rivers—snakes are a real concern.

·        Learn your knots: Tie them well and test themhard before casting out. There’s nothing worse than losing a good fish to afailed knot.

·        Be stealthy: Stay low, avoid casting shadows onthe water, and always approach the next hole with care.

·        Watch the hatch: Matching natural food sourcesto your lure presentation is key, especially during spring emergence

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Tightlines for the new season — hope you all hook into a few rippers! Shea Bloom.

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