Rainbow Trout
Rainbow Trout were introduced to New Hampshire in 1878 from California and are not native to the state.
New Hampshire's acidic waters generally don't support natural rainbow trout reproduction, though juvenile rainbows have been captured in some Connecticut River tributaries in Pittsburg and Clarksville.
In New Hampshire, rainbow trout are annually stocked in numerous waters with very little natural reproduction occurring.
Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus mykiss
- They typically display blue-green or yellow-green coloration with a distinctive pink streak along their sides, white underbelly, and small black spots on their back and fins.
Fishing in New Hampshire
Merrimack River
Contoocook River
Great Bay
Lake Winnisquam
Lake Winnipesaukee
Piscataqua River
Sunapee Lake
Pemigewasset River
Bellamy River
Squam Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Rainbow trout prefer cool, clear rivers, streams, and lakes with swift-flowing sections for young fish and deeper water for adults.
- They're highly migratory and mobile, moving between different habitat types.
Key Locations
- Prime locations include the Connecticut River's trophy stretch, Pemigewasset River from headwaters to Plymouth, Androscoggin River, Saco River, Swift River along the Kancamagus Highway, and numerous stocked lakes like Winnipesaukee, Newfound, Winnisquam, Big and Little Squam, Crystal Lake, Mascoma, and many designated trout ponds.
Specific Spots
- Target swift-flowing riffle habitat in streams and deeper water in lakes.
Rainbow Trout FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What flies work for Rainbow Trout in New Hampshire?
Top fly patterns include Copper Johns (size 14), Pheasant Tail Nymphs, Wooly Buggers in olive or white, Elk Hair Caddis for dry fly fishing, and small Zebra Midges (size 18-20) in winter.
When is the best time to fish for Rainbow Trout in New Hampshire?
Rainbow trout fishing in New Hampshire is best from April through October, with prime action in spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when water temperatures are optimal.
How do you catch Rainbow Trout in New Hampshire?
For fly fishing, essential techniques include nymphing and using streamers. For trolling in lakes, use traditional streamers.
What do Rainbow Trout eat?
These fish are typical salmonid predators, feeding heavily on aquatic and terrestrial insects, other fish, crustaceans, and various organisms.
Where do Rainbow Trout live in New Hampshire?
Rainbow trout prefer cool, clear rivers, streams, and lakes with swift-flowing sections for young fish and deeper water for adults. They're highly migratory and mobile, moving between different habitat types.
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