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When trout fishing opens, the most effective natural baits are worms, moths and minnows. These baits perfectly mimic local prey in the cold, murky waters of the early season.
The right equipment for natural bait fishing
To find trout with natural baits, it's best to use a fairly long rod (4 to 5 m, telescopic or with an inner line) fitted with a light reel. The main line can be 14-18/100 and a fine fluorocarbon leader (12/100) can be used for discretion. The sinker should be tapered (3-8 g depending on current: heavy sinkers at the top, spaced out) for a natural drift when toc fishing. Fine hooks n°10-14 are preferable.
The main techniques to be used
- River toc : go upstream, let the bait (worm or moth) drift, touching the bottom without dragging; pull back as soon as a slight tension is felt.
- Handled minnow : Using a dead minnow mounted on a barb and a 2-5 g internal weight; animate by slow jerks near obstacles.âeuros
- Posed: on lakes or in calm/troubled water, a heavy sinker (4-6 g) is used with a stop-float as a bite indicator and visual cue.âeuros
Best baits and tips for success
A variety of natural baits can be used on the opening day and on subsequent days.
Visit earthworm (2-3 per rig or large dendros) remains the safe bait. The undisputed king of river toc: thread 2-3 worms on a fine hook (10-14) for a natural drift close to the bottom.
Visit ringworm also gives good results. Excellent in still or still-lying water; a cluster of 3 to 4 teignes can be used for added attractiveness. An ideal technique for triggering less active trout.âeuros
The use of minnow is very effective on normal or high water; fish upstream with a light weight, especially in the morning on the various water veins.
Preferably fish at mid-day (water temperature +10°C), change baits every 20 to 30 minutes, and give priority to baits and current veins. If you can, try to avoid crowded spots by fishing more secluded ones.
Don't forget to bring your fishing card and find out about the regulations in force at your fishing spot.
