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RAINBOW TROUT
Scientific Name:
Oncorhyncus mykiss
Identification
The rainbow trout is named for the broad, lateral stripe on its sides, which ranges from pink to red. Its back is olive-green, and its belly is whitish with heavy black speckling on all fins and the entire body.
Habitats and Habits
Rainbow trout
are native to the Pacific drainages of western North America but
have been introduced throughout mountain
streams in North Carolina. As with other trout, rainbows inhabit
streams, rivers, ponds and lakes with good water quality and temperatures
that rarely exceed 70 F. They have a tendency to hang out in faster
currents, such as riffles and swift runs, more so than brook or
brown trout. Spawning occurs primarily in late winter.
Young rainbow trout feed on small aquatic and terrestrial insects.
Adults eat a wide variety of aquatic and terrestrial insects,
as well as crustaceans, fish and other small vertebrates.
Fishing Techniques
Fishing dry flies, streamers, and nymphs that imitate natural foods works well. This method is especially popular in North Carolina’s many streams that support wild trout. Fishing baits, such as worms and corn, are highly effective for catching hatchery-reared rainbow trout. Spin casting small spinners, spoons and crankbaits can be productive as well. Be sure to check the current trout fishing regulations on the type of lures allowed as well as the size limit and creel limit for a particular trout water before fishing.
Good Places to Fish
Check out the North Carolina Trout Maps to find trout fishing opportunities listed by counties.
NCARP Minimum Requirements: Hatchery raised: 2 lbs., 8 oz. or 18 inches. Wild trout: 12 ounces or 12 inches.
State Record: 20 lbs., 3 oz., from Jackson County, January 28, 2006
World Record: 42 lbs., 2 oz., from Bell Island, Alaska, June 22, 1970*
* Anglers
provide information on their potential world-record catches directly
to the International
Game Fish Association, which maintains the world records
for sport fishing.