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Do trout like colder water or warmer water? When are they more active related to time of day and temperature of water?

While my expertise is primarily in bass fishing, I can share some general insights on trout, which might be helpful for you. Trout, like bass, are influenced by water temperature, but their preferences can differ significantly.

Trout are generally cold-water fish, thriving in temperatures between 50°F and 60°F (10°C to 15°C). When water temperatures are within this range, trout are usually more active and feed more aggressively, making them easier to target for anglers. As temperatures deviate from this range, particularly getting warmer, trout's metabolism increases, but their oxygen levels decrease, which can lead to less feeding activity and more stress on the fish.

Throughout the day, the activity levels of trout can also fluctuate. During cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, trout might be more active and feed near the surface or in shallower waters. In contrast, during the warmer parts of the day, they might retreat to deeper, cooler waters.

If you're targeting trout, consider these temperature and time-of-day factors to optimize your chances. For instance, using techniques like fly fishing with dry flies or nymphs can be effective in the morning or evening, while deeper water tactics might be necessary during midday heat.

If you have specific scenarios or further questions about trout fishing or bass fishing, feel free to ask!

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