Rainbow Trout (Inland)

RAINBOW TROUT RANGE IN ONTARIO

Map showing rainbow trout range in Ontario

modified from: Mandrak and Crossman (1992)



Typical length:  20-40 centimetres (8-16 inches)


Typical weight:  0.45-1.36  kilograms (1-3 pounds)


Ontario record:  18.5 kilograms (40.7 pounds)

 

Similar fish:

brook trout

brown trout

juvenile Atlantic salmon


 

rainbow trout

 

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

 

Distribution/Habitat

 

  • 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.


Angling Tips:

 

  • The rainbow is a popular fish because of its fighting ability, dash and beauty. They rise readily to a dry fly floated downstream with the current. They will also take a range of spinners and plugs, as well as various salmon egg baits and yarn flies.

 

Common Baits:

 

  • Spoons
  • Plugs
  • Worms
  • Spinners
  • Flies

 

 

 

rainbow trout (inland) banner graphic