Big trout
 

Despite being out of commission since June with a respiratory issue 2017 has still been a year of PB's for me. Feeling better now I'm thinking of launching the river rat in the Raritan again to pick up where I left off and target the larger fish being stocked this week. I know where the holes are and leaves are not as much an issue from a boat. The spring stockies were a dime a dozen with gold spinners but I'm thinking the big girls would prefer a larger/slower presentation (like a rapala) going into warmer water with bigger appetites. Any intel from those with experience with the bigger bows is greatly appreciated, thanks in advance!

Re: Big trout
 

Hmmm I'm always looking for advice too.

My plan is to jig and jig and use some floating rapalas (smallest model) and rooster tails.

Stockies in spring hit the weirdest things such as a half senko on a jig before, I don't think these guys would be different.

But surely theres better advice on this board than this.

Re: Big trout
 

You want my advice................wait till November.

Re: Big trout
 

Pink salmon eggs

Re: Big trout
 

That scent is deadly- it also attracts fish LOL :D

I still gotta half jar, might use it. But a better idea would be to dip my jigs in the liquid.

Re: Big trout
 

been four months since I wet a line, I'm not waiting another. with luck I'll be out there in November too! :D

Re: Big trout
 

I'm thinking that the larger fish, presented with a new world full off potential pray will instinctively go after the largest meal requiring the least effort. A rapala fits the bill, I'm thinking about slow trolling a few off my stern, (the larger size may discourage the smaller fish), and throwing oversized spinners to the holes and laydowns as I pass them.

PS- Andy only gets small trout with those maribou's! :p

Re: Big trout
 

Where and when are they stocking fall Trout in the main stem of the Raritan? Are you fishing for the big holdovers that are already in the water?

I fish plugs, jigs and sometimes bait if I'm desperate. But I'm all for plugs! That twitch twitch boom turns me on!

Re: Big trout
 

Not main stem, I launch at the confluence, as far as I know that's the last stocking stop on the NB in the fall this year. from there I can cover the NB up to the rt202 bridge (another possible stocking point), and the SB up to Studdiford (possibly the last stocking point on the SB), if anyone knows if they passed over those spots let me know. that's three potential stocking areas, the waters in between them, as well as the wide main stem down to the head dam I can cover. gonna try to get the larger bows they throw in.

Re: Big trout
 

They are hatchery fish, don't over think this one. ANYTHING shiny.