New Jersey Trout Fishing

Guide to catching rainbow, brook, brown and lake trout in area lakes

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Last updated on January 22, 2026.

Best Trout Species, Lakes, Lures & Bait

New Jersey offers fantastic trout fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. The state is known for its robust populations of both stocked and wild trout, providing a diverse and exciting fishing experience.

Trout Fishing Video

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Fishing For Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout are one of the most fished for trout species in the state, and can be found in numerous New Jersey lakes and rivers. Known for its tasty pink flesh, rainbows are a favorite among the vast majority of trout anglers in the state. It also appeals to the fly fisherman as it can be caught on flies as well as other small baits and lures. It feeds on small insects, minnows, crustaceans and worms. It is ideal for both sport and dining pleasure. More...

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Fishing For Brook Trout

Brook trout, with their stunning colors and willingness to bite, can be found in remote mountain streams and creeks across the state. These small but feisty fish can provide an exciting fishing experience for those willing to explore New Jersey's more secluded and scenic locations. The primary food source of brookies is small insects, mollusks, crustaceans and other small fishes. In lakes where brook trout are stocked, shade over shallow cover is a great place to start. More...

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Fishing For Brown Trout

Brown trout, another prized trout species, can be found in select New Jersey lakes and rivers. Many of these fisheries are attracting anglers from near and far. These elusive and wary fish offer a challenge to anglers, requiring stealthy presentations and precise casting to entice a bite. Brown trout feed on worms, minnows, insects and crustaceans. Larger browns can be taken on jerkbaits, small crankbaits and spinners. More...

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Fishing For Lake Trout

Lake trout are by far the largest of the trouts. They live in deep, cold lakes and feeds on virtually all forms of flesh which exist in its home waters. It's rich flaky flesh makes it a tasty table favorite. During early spring, lake trout can often be found in the shallow areas of lakes, readily taking dry flies, wet flies, and other slow-moving presentations. As surface temperatures rise, these trout typically migrate to deeper waters, prompting anglers to employ trolling with heavier tackle as the primary technique using spoons and baitfish-imitating lures. More...

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Trout Fishing Lakes

Rockaway River and many of the major lakes including Lake Hopatcong, Merrill Creek Reservoir, Monksville Reservoir, Oak Ridge Reservoir, Round Valley Reservoir, Spruce Run Reservoir, Swartswood Lake and Wanaque Reservoir have one or more species of trout. Consider ice fishing for trout in winter at some of these fisheries.

Select the best trout lures and baits

Trout spinners, crankbaits and jerkbaits work well for shallow, reasonably active fish. Salmon eggs, worms and prepared baits will work at virtually all depths.

State Trout Records

The state record rainbow trout was caught from Lake Hopatcong.

The state record brook trout was taken out of the Rockaway River.

The state record brown trout came from Round Valley Reservoir.

The state record lake trout was caught in Round Valley Reservoir.

New Jersey Trout Information

Click here to find a list of New Jersey waters stocked with trout.

Additional trout information

The 5 primary trout species are rainbow, brook, brown, cutthroat and lake trout. Browns are considered the most difficult to catch and brookies are the easiest. Pure cold water is key to survival of the trouts.

Watch trout fishing videos to see trout anglers in action.

Trout Unlimited

Trout locations and info, by state

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