Fishing for Rainbow Trout
Identification, habitat, techniques, and tackle—then find a captain who targets them.
Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) are a medium-bodied salmonid recognized by a broad pink to red lateral stripe running from gill plate to tail, silver flanks, and dark spots on the back, dorsal
Rainbow trout inhabit a wide range of coldwater habitats: clear mountain streams, lowland rivers, reservoirs and deep lakes. In streams they use riffles and pocket water for feeding and pools,
Match the hatch when possible: dry flies and emergers on calm mornings and evenings, and nymph rigs under an indicator during most of the day. Streamers and baitfish-imitating lures work when trout
Fly anglers: 3–6 wt rods for typical inland rainbows, 6–8 wt for larger lake fish or light streamer work, and 7–8 wt or heavier for steelhead and big streamers. Use floating lines for dries and
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Captains Who Target Rainbow Trout
No captains in our directory currently list rainbow trout as a species they target. Browse all captains to find someone who might target it, or check back later as our network grows.