The East Fork of the Whitewater River is the primary feeder to Brookville Reservoir. At the dam in Brookville, Indiana, the river is released, forming the "Brookville Tailwater". While the tailwater flows only 2 miles before its confluence with the West Fork of the Whitewater River, those 2 miles of river are home to nice populations of Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout (yes, trout fishing in Indiana!).
The tailwater fishes well year-round when water flows are wadeable. Of course, the US Army Corps of Engineers operate the dam with flood control as their primary objective so when they need to lower the level of the lake, stand back; but they have been responsive to the requests for flow controls on the tailwater when flooding is not a concern.
Our flyfishing guides know the water intimately... every hole, every run; they also know how to read the water flow gages, and predict what the USACE will do the flows the following day; they know when to fish, what to fish, and how rising or dropping flows affect the fishing.
Standard tailwater tactics using small nymphs and wet flies are the most consistent producers, but there are also frequent midge hatches and the occasional small mayfly hatch to bring fish to the surface. Drifting a midge dry or nymph in the surface film to rising trout can be hours of fun. Streamer fishing can also produce some nice fish, with the streamer selection staying on the small side. Leech and baitfish patterns such as Wooly Buggers and lightly dressed Clousers are the wisest choice, although there are some very large sculpins present as well, so throwing big junk might draw a big fish.
If you haven't yet fished the Brookville Tailwater, consider booking a trip to become acquainted with this great little fishery.