There are usually enough minnows and insects living among the branches and blow-downs to keep the fish well fed. A plump spring brook trout that hit a vertically jigged spoon. Fallen evergreen trees provide the best cover. On many brook trout lakes, this usually means a cedar, balsam, or jackpine. If the tree is still alive and has green boughs hanging over the water, so much the better.
Green cover is thicker, so fish feel safer.
Last year I fished a lake that had several large, live cedars blown down along the shore. Conditions were perfect, and there were big brookies living there. If you have identified a cover-rich area on the lake you are fishing, plan your attack carefully, and keep in mind that the best spots often hold more than one brookie. Start your approach by making a long cast with a heavy-bodied spoon or spinner. Let the lure flutter down the outside edge of the cover and then start reeling.