I was asked the other day “What is a freestone creek” and it occurred to me that there might be some anglers who are not acquainted with the terms that describe the different types of streams. There are three main types of streams that anglers often refer to; and they are freestone creeks, spring creeks and tailwaters. So I have a brief explanation here and a much broader explanation in Troutu Class 1025 to further the understanding.
Freestone creeks originate in the higher elevations and are formed by precipitation including snow, rain and dew. They are acidic in nature and usually do not support a large population of trout. Water flow and water temperature vary greatly due to rains and snowfalls.
Spring creeks on the other hand are formed by spring water as it leaves the underground aquifers. This water is more alkaline and capable of supporting the aquatic insects that form most of the trout’s diet. As a result, the trout populations tend to be greater. Water flow and temperatures are not as affected by the rain and snowfalls.
Tailwaters are formed by the water being released from dams. It is often released from the lower levels and the temperature remains fairly constant through the entire year. Aquatic insects abound due to the alkalinity and the nutrients form the water. This type of water is much more capable of supporting the larger trout and in larger concentrations.