Long Time / First Time - Wild or Stocked?

[TheDuke44]

Hi all - long time reader of the forum(s) but finally decided to join! I'm a lifelong bass fisherman who has finally caught the bug of chasing trout on the fly. After my fair share of schooling on the streams at the hands of my own ignorance, I am starting to get the hang of things but still have A LOT to learn!

My most recent trip brought about my personal best - the brown seen below! With my lack of knowledge on the subject, I'd appreciate any pointers on how to better identify a wild fish from a stocked fish. While it was caught in a pretty well-stocked creek, holdovers and wild trout do exist in the area.

Would love to hear what you all have to say on the subject, and I look forward to participating in future threads!

 

[tomgamber]

It has a slight blue spot but a better look at the fins could tell you more. I'm no expert but if I had to make a bet I'd say its a holdover. If I had caught it, I'd say nice fish and move on. Your newfound interest and concern for wild fish is appreciated.

 

[PatchezMDM]

Welcome. I have no ability to tell one fish from the next except by species. I just say nice fish or dink. Put 'em back and keep fishing.

 

[wildtrout2]

Looking at the spot pattern again on that brown, I still believe it to be a stocker. My opinion hasn't changed since you asked yesterday on the Beginner Forum. 😉

 

[afishinado]

Please do not post the same thread in multiple forums.

T

Thread 'Wild or Stocked?'

Jun 12, 2025

Hi all - I'm a lifelong bass fisherman who has finally caught the bug of chasing trout on the fly. I am starting to get the hang of things but still have A LOT to learn!

My most recent trip brought about my personal best - the brown seen below! With my lack of knowledge on the subject, I'd appreciate any pointers on how to better identify a wild fish from a stocked fish. While it was caught in a pretty well-stocked creek, holdovers and wild trout do exist in the area.

• TheDuke44
• Replies: 3
• Forum: Beginner Forum