I've never caught a trout

I'm not typically a trout fisherman but I've caught quite a few (but in California) so maybe my inexperience might match up a bit with yours and it could bring some success. My typical set up starting from the hook end is a very small treble hook on a very light monofilament leader, 2 to 4 pound test depending on how line shy they are. The leader length depends on the depth of the water and where the trout are staging. That is hard to tell from the shore (no fish finder) so you'll have to experiment with different lengths in different locations. The other end of the leader you tie a loop knot. So your leader consists of a treble hook on one end and a loop not on the other. I'd suggest starting with a 4 foot to 6 foot leader. Set that aside when you've got that rigged. On your main line, slide your line though an egg sinker and tie on a swivel snap. The egg sinker can slide easily up and down the line and that can be important when the fish take the bait. So then, put powerbait or an inflated nightcrawler on the treble hook and attach the loop end of the leader to the swivel snap. When you cast out, the egg sinker will provide the weight to get you out there and the powerbait or inflated nightcrawler will float above the egg sinker. Reel in until you feel the weight of the egg sinker and stop, maybe giving just a little slack. Trout tend to let go if they feel initial resistance and that's how the sliding egg sinker comes into play. How long to leave it there comes from experience but that kind of rig you could leave it in one place for 10 to 20 minutes and it wouldn't be unusual. If nothing picks it up, bring it closer to shore maybe 5 -10 feet at a time and let is sit there again. Repeat the process in different locations until you find fish. If you do catch fish, knowing what you were doing and where, i.e. how far out, length of leader, type of bait, etc. will help you establish successful patterns. Trout tend to hang out together so where there is one, generally there are more. Don't be afraid to experiment and figure out what works. You will get snagged with this type of rig depending on the bottom so if you are in a lot of structure you might want to move. I have not found that trout tend to group around structure like bass do. Hopefully that helps a bit, as I mentioned before I don't trout fish much so I'm no authority but it has worked for me. Perhaps someone else can give you better advice so feel free to disregard mine.....lol. Good luck!!