[Aaronwright1029]

I see all these rules and regulations about trout, but what if I am wanting to fish for Smallmouth in Trout waters, do Instill have to obey all the trout rules too?

 

[nc35hunter]

I would say yes, if you are fishing in a designated Public Mountain Trout water then you are bound by those rules. Would be hard to convince a game warden that you were not at least partly fishing for trout. Also, if it were possible to get around the rules by telling a warden you were not targeting trout, the regs would become unenforceable.

That's my take anyway - Good luck.

 

[bmac]

Yes, you will be cited regardless of what your target is,

 

[cedarlakefan]

Absolutely, The trout regulations come first and govern the stream. All hatchery Supported water is closed during March, but you can fish for Smallmouth in the Delayed Harvest sections as long as you use Single hook(not a single treble, a single hook point), artificial only (no chemically enhanced, NO Powerbait, Maxscent, Gulp, or spray on attractant, etc) lures or flies. When Hatchery Supported reopens on the 1st Saturday in April it is fair game for any artificial and most natural baits. Check the regulations regarding minnows and helgramites.