Rainbow Trout
LOCATIONS
BODIES OF WATER
Rainbow trout, known for their vibrant colors and spirited fights, can be found in various bodies of water across the Southwest region of the United States. Anglers flock to these waters to target rainbow trout for their beauty and excellent sport fishing opportunities. Here are some popular locations for rainbow trout fishing in each state:
Arizona: Lee's Ferry is a renowned rainbow trout fishery, offering incredible opportunities for fly fishing. Other notable locations include Oak Creek near Sedona, where rainbow trout can be found in deep pools and runs, and the streams in the White Mountains with their scenic beauty and healthy trout populations.
California: The Upper Sacramento River is a prime destination for rainbow trout, known for its productive water and the chance to catch trophy-sized fish. The McCloud River is another famous trout stream, featuring clear, cold water and abundant insect life. Hat Creek, with its diverse habitat, is another excellent choice for rainbow trout fishing.
Nevada: Pyramid Lake is famous for its Lahontan cutthroat trout, but rainbow trout are also present in good numbers and offer exciting angling opportunities. The Truckee River, particularly the stretch below Pyramid Lake, provides excellent chances to catch both wild and stocked rainbow trout. The Walker River is another popular destination with its scenic beauty and quality trout fishing.
New Mexico: The San Juan River is a world-class rainbow trout fishery, attracting anglers from far and wide. Known for its prolific insect hatches and abundant trout populations, this river offers year-round fishing opportunities. The Rio Grande and Red River also provide excellent chances to catch rainbow trout, especially in their upper reaches.
STRUCTURE/HABITAT
Rainbow trout thrive in cold, clear streams, rivers, and lakes with plenty of oxygen-rich water. They prefer habitats with gravel bottoms, submerged rocks, fallen trees, and aquatic vegetation, which provide shelter and hiding places. Look for rainbow trout in areas with riffles, deep pools, runs, and undercut banks.
They are often found near submerged structures, such as log jams or boulders, and areas with overhanging vegetation. Pay attention to water temperature and flow, as rainbow trout prefer cooler waters.
PATTERNS
SPRING
During the spring months, rainbow trout become more active and start feeding voraciously. They can be found in streams, rivers, and lakes, especially near tributaries and areas with gravel beds. Use nymph patterns such as Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear, or Prince nymphs. Drift your flies along the bottom, imitating aquatic insects, to entice strikes from hungry rainbow trout.
SUMMER
In the summer, rainbow trout seek cooler waters and can be found in deeper pools, runs, and the thermocline layer of lakes. Early mornings and late evenings are prime times for rainbow trout fishing during this season. Use dry flies such as Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, or Stimulators to imitate hatching insects. You can also try fishing with small streamers or nymphs in deeper water to target larger trout.
FALL
As fall arrives, rainbow trout prepare for spawning, making them more aggressive and territorial. Look for them in deeper pools, riffles, and near gravel beds. Use egg patterns, such as Glo Bugs or Sucker Spawn, to mimic the eggs of spawning fish. Streamers like Woolly Buggers or Sculpzillas can also be effective in triggering aggressive strikes from rainbow trout.
WINTER
During the winter months, rainbow trout become less active but can still be caught. They tend to move to slower-moving pools, deep runs, and areas with less current. Fish with small nymph patterns like Zebra Midges, Brassies, or Midge Larvae. Present your flies slowly and near the bottom, as rainbow trout are more lethargic in colder water temperatures.
Bait
Rainbow trout are opportunistic feeders and will strike a variety of baits and lures. Here are some effective bait options for rainbow trout fishing:
Artificial Lures: Cast and retrieve various types of lures to entice rainbow trout. Popular choices include spinners, spoons, and small crankbaits in vibrant colors such as silver, gold, or rainbow patterns. Experiment with different retrieves, including steady, slow, or erratic motions, to trigger strikes.
Live Bait: Live bait can be highly effective in attracting rainbow trout. Some popular options include live worms, maggots, crickets, and mealworms. Use small hooks and light tackle to present the live bait naturally. Float rigs or bottom rigs with a split shot can be used to suspend the bait at the desired depth.
Powerbait: Powerbait is a specially formulated dough bait that releases scent and attracts rainbow trout. It comes in various colors and flavors. Mold a small amount of Powerbait onto a small, sharp hook, and use a split shot to weigh it down. Cast out and let it sit on the bottom or slowly retrieve it to mimic natural movement.
Salmon Eggs: Fresh or cured salmon eggs are a popular choice for targeting rainbow trout. They can be used on their own or combined with other baits. Thread a few salmon eggs onto a small hook and cast them out. Use a split shot to adjust the depth or drift them naturally in the current.