Is it leagal for persons to fish streams that are mainly known for smallmouth fishing under the pre-tense that they are trout fishing but yet, the don’t fall under the dnr guidelines as designated “trout” streams? And if they are not “designated trout water” and yet the land around the water is private, but yet persons have entered the water way by “public” means, i.e. bridge, cullvert,???
I’m kind of wondering the same thing myself. A certain river I know of has some huge browns that have migrated down from a small tributary and are present in pretty good numbers. My brother and i are tempted to give it a try pre- normal season for Trout even though it’s not supposed to have Trout in it.
You can still fish for trout out side of a designated trout stream. What designated trout stream means it there is a strip of land on both sides of the stream that anyone can fish regardless of it being public or privately owned. So long as you access the water from a public access, you are permitted to fish the waters as long as you stay on that area of land permitted by law. If you fish a stream NOT designated as a trout stream and you walk onto private land you can be kicked of and charged with trespassing. You are not stuck to fishing trout in designated trout streams only. If you got a hot spot not a designated trout stream have at them. Good luck.
I fish for big trout in portions of streams not designated as trout water with nice results. The rules might be different in other state but a trout stamp and realistic trout gear should convince a Ranger your after trout in the non-designated water.
All trout eater in Minnesota is not open to the public. Check the DNR Site for the rules.
The DNR works with landowners to acquire easements to trout stream corridors. As trout anglers, we need to do our part to improve angler/ landowner relations so future generations of anglers have good access. Just because you do not see a “No Trespassing” sign doesn’t necessarily mean you can access private property. Know the State Trespass law as it relates to trout fishing and always ask if you are not sure. Here are a few things to keep in mind while enjoying your favorite trout stream:
Do Not Litter. Littering is the single biggest complaint the DNR
receives each year regarding trout anglers. Pack out more than you
brought in.
Avoid gates and fences if you can, and always leave them as you find them.
Be cautious around livestock and do not harass livestock.
Be courteous when parking your vehicle. Do not block field drives or park where it creates unsafe or inconvenient situations for you or others.
Thank the landowners that allow you to fish on private property. And thank those landowners who are part of the trout stream easement program, too!
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You can still fish for trout out side of a designated trout stream. If you got a hot spot not a designated trout stream have at them. Good luck.
But without a trout stamp, I believe you cannot ‘possess’ a trout. I think your subject to C&R. If you deep hook one, cut the line. I don’t have my regs right here, but I’m pretty sure I right on this…. 
Quote:
What designated trout stream means it there is a strip of land on both sides of the stream that anyone can fish regardless of it being public or privately owned. So long as you access the water from a public access, you are permitted to fish the waters as long as you stay on that area of land permitted by law.
If this was the case why would the DNR spend money purchasing easements from land owners? Also, why would the trout maps have special colors for streams with easements? I am not an expert but this does not sound right to me? I have been told that if you stay in the water you are fine, but isn’t there enough water with easements? Why would you want to deal with the hassle?
Just my $.02!
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