Rainbow Trout

Illustration by: Rick Hill

Identification: The Rainbow Trout has a streamlined body, an adipose fin, and large mouth with an upper jaw that barely extends beyond the rear margin of the eye. It is distinguished from Brown and Brook Trout by having many small black spots on the caudal fin and on the back and sides. Adults have a broad pink to red stripe along the side. Rainbow Trout usually reach 12-14 in. and less than 1 lb. in small to medium streams, but may attain larger sizes (over 10 lbs.) in rivers and tailwaters of reservoirs.

Distribution and Habitat: Native to drainages of the Pacific Coast, the Rainbow Trout is stocked as a sport fish in the coolest creeks, streams, rivers, and reservoirs across the state.

Rainbow Trout

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