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Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout in New York are non-native fish introduced in 1874, originally from the Pacific Coast of North America. In New York, rainbow trout are widely distributed through stocking programs in over 3,000 miles of streams, rivers, and lakes.

Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus mykiss

Physical Characteristics:
  • They typically range from 14-20 inches and 1-6 pounds in streams, though lake-dwelling fish can grow larger, with trophy specimens exceeding 10 pounds.
  • These vibrant fish display iridescent pink, purple, and blue colors along their sides with a distinctive pink or reddish stripe and scattered black spots across their fins.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • In New York, rainbow trout are widely distributed through stocking programs in over 3,000 miles of streams, rivers, and lakes.

Key Locations

  • Prime rainbow trout waters include the St.
  • Lawrence River, Finger Lakes region, Adirondack streams like the West Branch Ausable River, Catskill waters including the Delaware River system, and various NYC reservoir tailwaters like the Croton River system.
  • Target the St.
  • Lawrence River for trophy-sized fish, the Finger Lakes for diverse opportunities, and Adirondack streams for wild trout.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on deep pools, runs, and areas with structure like logs, rocks, and undercut banks.
  • During summer, target shaded areas and cooler, oxygen-rich waters.

Rainbow Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Rainbow Trout in New York?

small spinners, spoons, stick baits, jigs and soft plastics, worms, salmon e.g.gs, small fish, crankbaits.

What flies work for Rainbow Trout in New York?

Parachute Blue Winged Olives and Adams (sizes 12-20), Sparkle Duns (sizes 16-18), Purple Haze flies for heavy hatches, Griffith's Gnats (sizes 18-22) for midges, streamers like Muddler Minnows and Wooly Buggers (sizes 8-10), Nymph patterns such as Pheasant Tail Nymphs and Prince Nymphs (sizes 10-14).

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

The best rainbow trout fishing in New York occurs from April through October, with peak action in spring and fall when fish are most active. During summer, target shaded areas and cooler, oxygen-rich waters. Fall fishing becomes productive again as temperatures cool.

How do you catch Rainbow Trout in New York?

For spin fishing, small spinners, spoons, stick baits, jigs and soft plastics are effective. During summer, use worms, salmon e.g.gs, or small fish under floats. Fall fishing becomes productive with spinners, spoons, and crankbaits.

What do Rainbow Trout eat?

Rainbow trout are opportunistic predators feeding on aquatic insects (mayflies, caddisflies, stoneflies, midge larvae), small crustaceans like crayfish and shrimp, minnows including juvenile fish, worms, larvae, and fish e.g.gs.

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