Those who enjoy fishing likely enjoy trout fishing because of the abundance of different kinds of trout in the different waterways of our land. Fishing for trout is particularly popular with those who enjoy freshwater fishing, as trout is most commonly found in freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams. On the other hand, saltwater fishermen can also enjoy the sport of trout fishing because there are certain trout species, such as steelhead trout, that spend at least part of their lifespans in the ocean.

Successful trout fishing depends first of all on being able to understand the stream in which you are fishing. Experts agree that most trout fishing should be done in streams that evidence what is called a "riffle-run-pool" pattern in the water, which repeats itself again and again. Riffles occur wherever there is shallow, fast moving water. When you are trout fishing, it is best to cast for trout in riffles in morning or evening periods. Trout feed at these times of the day and will hang out in the riffles looking for food.

Between the riffles and pools in a stream are runs. The current in a run is slower than in a riffle and the water is deeper. Usually, trout can be found in a run at just about any time of the day, so these areas should never be neglected.

A pool is what will appear in a stream on the other side of a run. Here the water is moving so slowly that it will appear almost smooth. It will also be darker than other areas of the stream because the water will be deeper in a pool than elsewhere. Because it is cool in this part of the stream, larger trout often like to set up camp here during the hottest part of the day, and many trout fishermen find that they catch their biggest fish in the pools.

In addition to knowing where to find trout in a stream, successful trout fishing also depends on the proper releasing of caught trout that is too small to keep. If fishermen do not release their fish properly, the trout will die, and if enough trout die, everyone who loves fishing will suffer. When trying to release a trout back into the stream, avoid touching it as much as possible. Keep your fingers out of its gills and do not rip out the hook, otherwise it might be irreparably harmed. Releasing the trout properly will keep the stream well-stocked with fish for years to come.