Trout can hone in on the scent of salmon eggs from far away.
Trout sense food and danger in a variety of ways. A trout’s sense of smell is one of its primary means of survival. This is the second installment in the post series: Trout Senses. The first post describes trout vision, discussing subjects such as sight outside of the water and the trout’s night vision.
Using Scent to Catch Trout
Trout do have a keen sense of smell and track food accurately from quite a distance. One of the most commonly used baits that emits scent is salmon eggs. There are also other baits that naturally emit scent or sprays can be used on lures to create a simulated scent. Both methods have provden to work to attract trout.
Covering Your Scent to Catch Trout
Trout also use their sense of smell to detect danger. Trout are fond of clean, clear water and often feed on the surface, but this makes them an easier target causing trout to be very leary of any signs of danger. Trout can detect oils emitted from other animals, including humans, that triggers their instinctual alarms. This can cause them to dart for cover and stop feeding. In order to avoid spooking trout with your scent you should usually fish upstream. You should also be careful to avoid contact with unnatural chemicals in items such as bugspray and sunblock. While these are often vital items you should be careful to rinse your hands completely before touching your lure.
I hope these tips on trout smell provide better fishing. Good luck!