The various species of trout are some of the most sought after game fish. In North American freshwater there are three main species of trout, Brown, Rainbow, and Brook. Trout can have many different colorations depending on their habitat. Other species of trout are found in salt water. All trout are considered good eating, and many are raised on farms both for release in streams and lakes and as food fish.
      The brown trout was imported to Canada by early settlers, and is now found throughout northern North American waterways. It is a long-lived fish in the wild and so it can become rather large. Brown trout are night feeders, and are a challenge to catch.
      The more familiar rainbow trout are found in areas west of the Rocky Mountains. Rainbows in streams are more colorful, while rainbow in lakes are more silvery. They are fascinating game fish due to some extraordinary abilities. From a fixed position, a rainbow can reach speeds of up to 23 miles per hour in only one foot. The line pull is 33 feet per second, and they are so strong that they can break a leader that is rated twice their body weight. If a human were used for comparison that would mean breaking a monofilament line rated at about 350 pounds. Rainbow trout are fighters when hooked; they will leap out of the water to try to shake out a hook, jumping into the air up to 3 to 4 times their body length.
      Brook trout are native to northern parts of North America. They thrive in the clear, cold water of northern waterways that are well oxygenated. They are easy to catch, especially in spring and fall when the cold water keeps them more active.