The shape and origin of these lakes range from former clay or gravel pits over small stretches of water of natural beauty, crystal clear dune lakes and spring water lakes, to natural woodland lakes. All these trout lakes have one common denominator, namely a healthy, controlled population of 30 – 40 cm trout. In many lakes there are trout which weigh 10 -15 lb and even as much as 25 lb. The record stands at over 30 lb.

Feel free to experiment

Some people erroneously believe that fishing in a trout lake is always easy, offers no challenges, and can be done relatively effortlessly. In some lakes, trout are so choosy at times that they only accept one specific food item! This peculiarity can make it almost impossible to entice the trout to bite. At other times, the fish may be very active and be swimming vivaciously just beneath the surface and biting almost as soon as the bait is presented. It is therefore always best to try various methods and techniques to find the most effective combination for the conditions on that particular day.

The easiest way for beginners to outwit trout is by fishing with a float and natural bait. In addition to the basic tackle of a 6 – 8 foot spinning rod and a small spinning reel with a 0.20 – 0.30 mm line, the angler needs a float, some lead, a size 2 – 6 single hook and bait such as a large worm wriggling seductively on the hook, a pair of shining yellow maize kernels, or maybe the popular “Power Bait”, which is a garish coloured bait, which lures the trout out of hiding and tempts them to investigate and bite.

Try a spinner

Experienced spinners know how to outwit trout. This involves casting spinners or spoons and searching different depths and locations. For trout lake fishing, some of the Danish angler's favourite spinners are Vibrax, Mepps Aglia no. 2 – 3, Jensen Insect, the Reflex-Spinner, the Panther-Spinner, and the Rooster Tail, which is available in silver, copper, gold, fluorescent and black, with 4 – 12 gm weights. The tackle, i.e. rod, reel and line, is basically the same as for bait fishing.

Fly fishing

There is a clear advantage in a long cast when fishing in a trout lake, as this establishes contact with the fish. The right choice for this is an 8 – 10 foot AFTM class 5 – 6 fly fishing rod, the appropriate reel, and about 50 m of 20 pound backing line. During the cold season, a sinking line is usually used. This is normally replaced by a floating line in spring. The tip of the leader should be at least 2 m long and should not be less than 0.20 mm thick at the tip. Streamer, wet flies, dry flies, and nymphs are being used in trout lakes, depending on the season and the current nutrient conditions of the lake in question. The effectiveness of each lure often differs from lake to lake.

Fishing permits cost DKK 50 – 250. The prices are somewhat reduced for children. Regulations are different from lake to lake. In some locations only spinning and fly fishing are permitted, and in others natural bait such as worms and corn may also be used. Maggots are not permitted. The administrators of some lakes impose limits on the number of fish that may be caught, while still others demand a basic fee for the ticket and additional fees for every fish caught.

You can get further information on the trout lakes in a specific area by contacting the local tourist bureau. Or contact the local tackle shops where you always get good advice on weather, season and local conditions. 

Author: Peter Steensen