Floating jerkbaits can take big trout in high, cloudy streams

When it comes to catching trout, there is no shortage of effective methods to get the job done. Flies, live bait, spoons, spinners or salmon eggs – there’s no shortage of opinions on what the most effective way to fish for brookies, browns and rainbows.
I would argue that for the most part, it can all come down to the water conditions. I would also argue that under most conditions, spinners take that award for me if your goal is to catch as many trout as possible. However, I have found that under certain circumstances, spinners can be out-fished with floating “jerkbaits” when water runs higher, and cloudier than preferred.