Fish Profile - Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout, native to the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada range in the western United States, were introduced into North Carolina as early as the 1880s. Since then they have been stocked in most trout waters in the state, and have become the backbone of our trout fishery. Rainbows are distinguished by the presence of a pinkish to red longitudinal band, varying numbers of black spots, and a frequently pink or red gill cover. The typical rainbow trout taken from North Carolina waters is 10 inches or less in length. Fish up to 12-inches long are common, and occasionally larger specimens are taken. Rainbow trout do best in clear, cool, cascading type streams, but can survive in waters too warm or too silt- laden for brook trout. In streams where both rainbow and brook trout occur, rainbow usually dominate. Rainbow trout are known as spectacular fighters, and frequently jump from the water when hooked.

Species Facts

Science Name: Oncorhynchus mykiss Other Names: bow, redsides, red-band trout, silver trout, steelhead, kamloops Ideal Temp: 55 to 70 World Record: 42 lbs. 2 ounces, Alaska Environment: lake, stream, coastal Techniques: Light tackle, light tackle fly

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