Rainbow Trout (Inland)

Length:  15-40 cm. (6-16 in.)

Distribution/Habitat:
south of a line from Kenora to Kesagami Lake

Similar fish:

• Brook Trout
• Brown Trout
• Juvenile Atlantic Salmon

Key identifying characteristics:

• many small black spots on body;
• spots over tail in radiating rows;
• pink lateral stripe;
• leading anal fin ray extends the length of the fin;
• long, stocky caudal peduncle

Rainbows are widely distributed in the Great Lakes and in many tributaries of the Great Lakes watershed, as well as in some inland lakes.

Rainbows are found in cold streams, and warmer streams as well. Swift, turbulent water is preferred, but the fish adapts to a range of conditions in rivers, streams, ponds and lakes.

The rainbow is a popular fish because of its fighting ability, dash and beauty. It rises readily to a dry fly floated downstream with the current. It will also take a range of spinners and plugs, as well as various salmon egg baits and yarn flies. Rainbows are also fond of live baits, such as:

• earthworms;
• angleworms;
• minnows;
• grasshoppers; and,
• grubs.

Most live baits and some of the artificials, are fished by drifting them downstream beneath specialized floats.