Common names
Steelhead, Steelhead trout
Rainbow trout
Oncorhynchus mykiss
- Mixed
Max length48 in
Common length23.5 in
Length typeTotal Length
Max weight55 lb 2 oz
Depth range0 - 656 ft
Max age11 years
Water typeMixed
Water temperature50 - 75 °F
Fish info
Short description
Rainbow trout colouration varies widely between regions and subspecies. Adult freshwater forms are generally blue-green or olive green with heavy black spotting over the length of the body. Adult fish have a broad reddish stripe along the lateral line, from gills to the tail, which is most pronounced in breeding males. The caudal fin is squarish and only mildly forked. Lake-dwelling and anadromous forms are usually more silvery in colour with the reddish stripe almost completely gone. Juvenile rainbow trout display parr marks (dark vertical bars) typical of most salmonid juveniles. In some redband and golden trout forms, parr marks are typically retained into adulthood. In many regions, hatchery-bred trout can be distinguished from native trout via fin clips.
Habitat
Rainbow trout can easily adapt to various aquatic habitats and environments. They prefer cool freshwater streams with gravel bottoms and natural cover, such as downed trees and boulders. but they are also found in marine & brackish waters.
Distribution
Wild-caught and hatchery-reared forms of the species have been transplanted and introduced for food or sport in at least 45 countries and every continent except Antarctica.
Behaviour
Rainbow trout are predators with a varied diet and will eat nearly anything they can capture. They are not as piscivorous or aggressive as brown trout or chars. Rainbow trout, including juvenile steelhead in fresh water, routinely feed on larval, pupal and adult forms of aquatic insects (typically caddisflies, stoneflies, mayflies and aquatic diptera).
Edibility
One of the healthiest fishes you can include in your diet (packed with nutrients). Rainbow trout meat is mild, with a delicate, nut-like flavour. The flesh is tender, flaky and soft.
Lure suggestion
The most popular method for rainbow trout fishing is fly fishing. The use of lures presented via spinning, casting or trolling techniques is common. Some effective lures you can use are spinners with flat blades, minnow-imitating crankbaits, bead-head nymphs, 1/64th-ounce micro-jigs or small spoons. Good baits: yabbies, worms, maggots, crickets, synthetic baits.