Rainbow Trout
Rainbow Trout are Montana's most popular game fish, though only the native Columbia River redband trout in the upper Kootenai River drainage are actually native to the state.
Most rainbow populations result from extensive stocking that began in 1889, with hundreds of millions introduced over the past century.
They're highly adaptable, thriving in streams, rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and ponds across Montana, tolerating a wider temperature range than most trout species.
Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus mykiss
Also known as Columbia River redband trout
- Montana's rainbows typically measure 14-20 inches, with the state record exceeding 33 pounds and fish up to 10 pounds common in productive waters.
Fishing in Montana
Missouri River
Sun River
Smith River
Belt Creek
Marias River
Benton Lake
Holter Lake
Teton River
Dearborn River
Little Muddy Creek
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Upper Kootenai River drainage for native Columbia River redband trout.
- Thriving in streams, rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and ponds across Montana.
Key Locations
- Missouri River (especially near Craig), Madison River, Yellowstone River, Gallatin River, Bighorn River, and numerous lakes like Flathead Lake and Fort Peck Reservoir.
- Target the Madison River for classic western trout fishing, and the Yellowstone River during summer terrestrial hatches.
Specific Spots
- Focus on deeper pools and slower water in spring, target banks and structure during terrestrial season, concentrate on tailwaters during peak summer when other rivers warm.
- In lakes, fish the thermocline or shallow areas during cooler months.
Rainbow Trout FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Rainbow Trout in Montana?
Panther Martin spinners in brown/gold, Cast Master spoons in gold, and rainbow-colored Rapalas.
What flies work for Rainbow Trout in Montana?
San Juan Worms (sizes 10-12 in hot pink), Otter's Soft Milking Eggs (size 12 in peach/pink), Pat's Rubberlegs (size 10 in black/coffee), Copper Johns (sizes 8-10), Purple Haze Parachute (sizes 14-18), Pheasant Tail Nymphs (sizes 18-22), Blue-Winged Olives (sizes 18-22), Pale Morning Duns (sizes 16-20), Elk Hair Caddis...
When is the best time to fish for Rainbow Trout in Montana?
Prime rainbow trout fishing in Montana occurs from April through October, with spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) often producing the best results due to cooler temperatures and active feeding. Target the Missouri River from April-July and September-November for exceptional nymphing and dry fly action.
How do you catch Rainbow Trout in Montana?
For fly fishing focus on nymphing and dry fly action. Fish the thermocline with flashy nymphs and leeches in lakes, or sight-fish to cruising trout in shallow areas during cooler months.
What do Rainbow Trout eat?
Rainbows are opportunistic feeders, consuming aquatic and terrestrial insects, plankton, smaller fish, and occasionally forage items like crayfish and mice. River populations focus primarily on insects while lake-dwelling fish rely heavily on zooplankton and forage fish.
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