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Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout in Michigan are non-native fish originally from the Pacific Coast, introduced in the late 1870s. They are one of four trout species inhabiting Michigan waters, with both resident stream fish and lake-run steelhead forms.

Also known as steelhead

Physical Characteristics:
  • Rainbow trout can be identified by their silvery rainbow-colored sides with dark spots along the back.
  • Resident rainbows typically remain smaller since they stay in streams and rivers, rarely growing over 25 inches, while steelhead can exceed 25 inches and grow over 25 pounds due to abundant lake forage.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They inhabit Michigan's major river systems and both resident and steelhead forms are found in Great Lakes tributaries.
  • They're believed to have naturally reproducing populations in Michigan rivers like the Clinton, Huron, Au Sable, and Muskegon.

Key Locations

  • Productive locations include the Au Sable River system, Manistee River and tributaries like Pine River, Pere Marquette River, White River, Muskegon River, Boardman River, Little Manistee River, and Great Lakes tributaries during steelhead runs.
  • They inhabit Michigan's major river systems including the Manistee, Au Sable, Pere Marquette, White River, Boardman River.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on pools, riffles, undercut banks, areas with overhanging vegetation, and gravel runs.
  • In lakes, target drop-offs and areas where baitfish concentrate.

Rainbow Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Rainbow Trout in Michigan?

Todd's Wiggle Minnow (best overall lake pattern in brown trout, red and white colors), Parachute Adams (sizes 10-18), Blue Wing Olives (sizes 18-22), Pale Morning Duns (sizes 16-20), Elk Hair Caddis (sizes 14-16), Beadhead Hare's Ear Nymph (sizes 10-16), Pheasant Tail Nymph (sizes 18-22), Woolly Buggers, and e.g.g...

When is the best time to fish for Rainbow Trout in Michigan?

The best times for rainbow trout in Michigan are spring (March-May) and fall (September-December), with steelhead runs occurring from mid-October through April. Spring offers the best steelhead fishing, while summer focuses on lake fishing with streamers and nymphs.

How do you catch Rainbow Trout in Michigan?

Focus on pools, riffles, undercut banks, areas with overhanging vegetation, and gravel runs. In lakes, use sinking lines and count-down methods to reach fish in deeper water, targeting drop-offs and areas where baitfish concentrate.

What do Rainbow Trout eat?

They feed primarily on aquatic invertebrates including mayflies, caddisflies, stoneflies, terrestrial insects like ants and beetles, and larger fish will consume baitfish, crayfish, and fish e.g.gs.

Where do Rainbow Trout live in Michigan?

They inhabit Michigan's major river systems and both resident and steelhead forms are found in Great Lakes tributaries. They're believed to have naturally reproducing populations in Michigan rivers like the Clinton, Huron, Au Sable, and Muskegon.

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