 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.
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