What do spawning trout eat?

Spawning trout, like other trout, are opportunistic feeders. However, their diet changes slightly during spawning season. Here's a breakdown:

Before spawning:

* Insects: They primarily feed on aquatic insects, both larvae and adults, including mayflies, caddisflies, stoneflies, and midges.

* Other invertebrates: Crustaceans, such as scuds and crayfish, are also a significant part of their diet.

* Small fish: They might occasionally eat smaller fish, like minnows.

During spawning:

* Reduced feeding: Trout generally eat less during spawning season, focusing their energy on reproduction.

* Limited diet: They may still eat some insects and other invertebrates, but their primary focus shifts to finding a mate and defending their territory.

After spawning:

* Recovery: They start eating more again to replenish their energy reserves.

* Return to normal diet: They revert to their typical pre-spawning diet.

Important factors influencing diet:

* Water temperature: Cold water temperatures can slow down metabolism, resulting in less food intake.

* Water flow: Spawning areas often have faster currents, making it harder to catch prey.

* Competition: During spawning, trout might compete with other trout for food and territory.

Remember: This is a general overview. The specific diet of spawning trout can vary depending on the species, location, and available food sources.