Tackle Box Essentials for Trout Fishing

Get Ready to Take on Trout With These Game-Changing Essentials

Whether you're wading through the crystal-clear streams of the Rockies or casting your line in a secluded forest pond, having the right gear is essential when it comes to enjoying a serene afternoon on the water. From rods to flies and everything in between, read on for our gear picks for trout fishing. 

Fun Trout Facts 

• There are over 50 species of trout. 
• Trout are sensitive to water temperature and thrive in cold, oxygen-rich waters. 
• Some trout, like the steelhead, are anadromous, meaning they migrate from the ocean to freshwater to spawn. 
• In the wild, trout can live up to 20 years, although most live 4-7 years. 
• Female trout can lay up to 5,000 eggs at a time in gravel nests called redds. 

Bass Pro Shops Trout Maxx Trout Worm  

As a kid have you ever gone outside after a rainstorm to catch nightcrawlers as they surfaced?  Trout do something similar, except with the goal of their next meal in mind!  The Trout Maxx Trout Worm from Bass Pro is 2.75 inches long and available in nine different colors. At a price point of less than $4.00, collect all the different colors and serve your local trout a buffet of epic proportions! 

Trout Magnet D2 Jig 

The Trout Magnet D2 Jig is aptly named, as it draws hungry trout to it quick as lightning, descending slowly through the water and imitating a wounded baitfish or another easy meal. This jig is available in your choice of either 1/16 oz or 1/8 oz, as well as a wide variety of color options. 

Greys Fin Fly Combo 

The Fin Fly Combo from Greys takes the thought out of finding the perfect combination of components and provides them in a convenient ready-to-go package. Simply choose from pre-selected combinations of rods, lines, and reels and you’re ready to go. The 4 piece rod packs down tight for travel, with additional features such as an alloy/wood reel seat, lined stripper guides, fin disc drag fly reel, and more.

Berkley Gulp Trout Dough  

Paired with your favorite slider rig, this dough bait from Berkley is guaranteed to get them biting. Simply form a rounded ball around your treble hook and let that baby fly!  The superior scent dispersion gets their attention as they zero in on what they see as their next meal dangling in the strike zone. Available in three flavors and seven color variations, you’ll want to grab a few to cater to the whole school. 

Rapala Original Floating 

Created in 1936 by Mr. Rapala himself, the original version was carved from cork with a tinfoil wrap to create what has morphed over the years into what we see today. Available in varying weights and colors, this lure can be fished at all water levels while you work your magic behind the reel to make it splash atop the water, make shallow dives darting back and forth from the surface, or go deep to bounce along the bottom of the stream bed.

SPOT Spot X 

One must be cautious when venturing out into the wilderness, as many do when seeking out the perfect spot to hunt or going trout fishing. The Spot X is a 2-way satellite messenger that provides peace of mind that you’ll be able to reach emergency services should the need arise. With the Spot X, you can signal search and rescue, relay your GPS coordinates and information regarding your emergency, notify your family of your situation, and more. 

Skwala RS Wader 

When you must venture into the shallows of the stream to reach the perfect spot to cast out, you’re going to want to remain dry through the journey. The RS Waders from Skwala aim to do just that. From their breathable material keeping you fresh and dry while the shoulder harness wading belt provides elevated comfort and support, these are but a few of the many reasons why these are amongst our go-to. 

Hardy Ultradisc UDLA Spare Spool 

Imagine you’ve spent thousands of dollars on a dream trout fishing adventure and upon arrival you discover the airlines have crushed your reel, rendering it inoperable. Prepare for the worst and bring a spare, such as the Ultradisc UDLA Spare Spool from Hardy. This lightweight reel comes in its own protective case and is available in eight line ratings and reel sizes, and your choice of two different colors.

Sportsman's Guide VMC Tungsten Fly Jig Kit 

Sportsman’s Guide knows variety is the spice of life when it comes to trout fishing, hence why this VMC Fly Jig Kit is a top seller. Included are six assorted fly jigs, each weighing 1/32 ounce with a #12 hook. Perfectly balanced on your line thanks to the 90-degree eye hook, your jig will remain in the ideal position as it’s worked across the water. 

TrueTimber Full Zip Performance Hoodie 

Hitting the water early means temperatures may be a bit chilly. Well known for their traditional hunting camouflage patterns, TrueTimber also offers a line for fishermen consisting of variations of blues and teals, available in hats, hoodies, and more. Their full-zip performance hoodie keeps you warm while the full-length zipper allows for ample airflow as temperatures rise.

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