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Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout in North Dakota are entirely stocked, non-native fish that require ongoing hatchery supplementation as they cannot successfully reproduce in the state's waters.

Physical Characteristics:
  • Trophy-sized rainbow trout exceeding 20 pounds are found in the Garrison Dam Tailrace, with fish exceeding 20 pounds possible.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • The North Dakota Game and Fish Department stocks approximately 125,000 catchable-sized trout annually into 45-55 lakes across the state, primarily using the Shasta strain along with brown trout.

Key Locations

  • Target traditional reservoirs in western North Dakota like Northgate Dam, Kettle Lake, Kota-Ray Dam, and McGregor Dam, which receive annual rainbow trout stockings.
  • The Garrison Dam Tailrace offers exceptional trophy trout fishing year-round.
  • The Turtle River near Grand Forks provides unique stream trout fishing with regular stockings.
  • Lightning Lake offers catch-and-release only fishing.

Rainbow Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Rainbow Trout in North Dakota?

For flies, use streamers like Woolly Buggers in various colors, Clouser Minnows, black and olive Dungeons, and white Zonkers to imitate smelt and baitfish. Dr.y flies including Elk Hair Caddis, Stimulators, and Adams work well during surface activity. For nymphing, try Hare's Ear and Pheasant Tail patterns.

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

Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) provide the best rainbow trout fishing. Spring spawning occurs from April to May when water temperatures are suitable, and these periods should be avoided to prevent disturbing reproduction.

How do you catch Rainbow Trout in North Dakota?

For nymphing, try Hare's Ear and Pheasant Tail patterns. In summer, target deeper water with sinking lines and streamers.

What do Rainbow Trout eat?

They are opportunistic predators that feed on aquatic and terrestrial insects, small fish, crustaceans, worms, and in larger reservoirs like the Missouri River system, they heavily target rainbow smelt and other baitfish.

Where do Rainbow Trout live in North Dakota?

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department stocks approximately 125,000 catchable-sized trout annually into 45-55 lakes across the state, primarily using the Shasta strain along with brown trout.

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