Tiger trout are a hybrid species, produced by breeding a female brown trout with a male brook trout. The result is a beautiful fish characterized by pronounced worm-like markings on its back, resembling the stripes of a tiger, hence the name “Tiger Trout.”
These hybrids are sterile, similar to mules in mammalian biology, meaning they do not reproduce. Instead, they direct all their energy into growth, making them one of the fastest-growing trout species. They are also the most aggressive trout species, making them exciting targets for anglers.
If you have Tiger Trout on your bucket list, there are about a dozen of lakes in Alberta that are stocked with Tiger Trout.
To catch these elusive creatures, you’ll need not only patience and skill but also the right gear, techniques, and fishing spot.
Tips for Catching Tiger Trout
- Understand their Behavior: Tiger trouts are aggressive predators with a preference for cooler waters. Hence, they are usually found in deeper zones during hot summers and shallow areas during spring and fall.
- Best time to fish: Early morning or late evening are the best times to fish for tiger trout, as they tend to feed aggressively during these periods.
- Use the right bait: Tiger trouts have a diverse diet, including insects, smaller fish, and crustaceans. Worms, minnows, or insects like mayflies and caddisflies can work as effective live baits.
- Fly Fishing is Effective: Streamers that mimic their natural prey often yield good results.
Tiger Trout Gear
- Rod & Reel: A medium-light rod paired with a fast-action spinning reel is most effective for tiger trout fishing. The sensitivity will help detect bites quickly, and the strength is enough to handle the fight these trout put up.
- Line: A 4 to 6-lb test monofilament line is usually sufficient for tiger trout. Remember, these fish are quick and clever, so a thinner line is less likely to be detected.
- Hooks: Size 10-14 hooks work best when using live bait. If you’re fly fishing, select appropriately sized fly hooks based on the type of fly you’re using.
- Lures and Flies: Popular lure choices include spinners, spoons, and small crankbaits in natural colors. For flies, Woolly Buggers, nymphs, and streamers in sizes 8-14 are all effective choices.
- Waders: A good pair of waders is essential for any trout fishing trip, allowing you to get closer to the fish without disturbing them.
- Net: A rubber-coated net is recommended for catch-and-release fishing. It’s less damaging to the fish and helps ensure they can be safely released back into the water.
- Remember, fishing for tiger trout is about more than just catching a fish. It’s about enjoying the challenge and spending time in nature.
Best Lakes to Catch Tiger Trout in Alberta
Below is the list of some of the lakes that were stocked with Tiger Trout in 2023:
- Blood Indian Creek Reservoir – located about 260 km east of Calgary. You can catch Brown, Brook, Rainbow, and Tiger trout here
- Dickson Trout Pond – located 59 km SW of Red Deer
- Rat Lake – located 30 km SW of Rocky Mountain House
- Cardiff Park Pond – located 31 km north of Edmonton
- Bear Pond – located along Highway 532 in Kananaskis Country near Calgary
- Star Lake – located 63 km west of Edmonton
- Beaumont Pond – located 35 km south of Edmonton near Nisku
- Big Iron Lake – located along Highway 532 in Kananaskis Country next to Bear Pond
- Spring Lake – located 51 km west of Edmonton in Spring Lake Village
- Black Nugget Mine Pit – small pond 90 km SE of Edmonton
- Boulder Lake
- Twin Lakes (East Twin Lake)
- Captain Eyre Lake
- Chain Lakes
- Dillberry Lake
- East Dollar Lake
- Hasse Lake
- Jack Fish Lake
- Little Bear Lake
- Niemela Reservoir
- Salter’s Lake
- Elk Point Pond
- Enchant Pond
- Huber Reservoir
- Kerbe’s Pond
- Kraft Wimborne Pond
- Len Thompson Pond
- Little Beaverdam Lake
- McVinnie Reservoir
- Pleasure Island Reservoir
- Ponoka Centennial Park Pond
- Shell True North Pond
- Strathmore Children’s Pond
- St. Paul Fish Pond
- West Rivers Edge Pond