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Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout are non-native but well-established fish in South Carolina's mountain streams, having inhabited the state for over a century.

Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus mykiss

Physical Characteristics:
  • These elongated fish display distinctive coloring with sides that fade from green below the dorsal fin to yellow to white, featuring a characteristic pink to red stripe running laterally along their sides.
  • Small, dark spots cover the head, body, and most fins, with black spots on the caudal fins appearing in rows.
  • In South Carolina, rainbow trout average 7-8 inches and 4-5 ounces, though the state record stands at 11 pounds 5 ounces.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Rainbow trout are found primarily in mountain streams of Oconee, Pickens, and Greenville counties, as well as Lake Jocassee and the tailraces of lakes Murray and Hartwell.
  • Wild self-sustaining populations occur in the mountain region, generally east of the Chattooga Ridge along the Blue Ridge Escarpment in streams with elevations from 1,300 to 3,000 feet.
  • Found in creeks, rivers, lakes and reservoirs.

Key Locations

  • Prime locations include the Chattooga River (designated Wild and Scenic River with wild populations in headwaters), Saluda River system, Chauga River, Eastatoee River, Whitewater River, Lake Jocassee (known for trophy trout), and tailwaters below Lake Murray and Lake Hartwell dams.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on faster-moving waters at pool heads in mountain streams, deeper holes, and areas with structure like undercut banks and fallen trees.
  • During warmer months when trout move deeper in lakes.

Rainbow Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Rainbow Trout in South Carolina?

1/8 to 1/16 ounce Rooster Tail spinners, small jigs like Trout Magnets, and inline spinners. In lakes like Jocassee, spoons, diving plugs work well for trolling.

What flies work for Rainbow Trout in South Carolina?

Dr.y flies like Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Blue Wing Olives, March Browns, and Parachute Adams during spring and fall. Nymph patterns such as Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear, Prince Nymphs, Copper Johns, and Zebra Midges work well year-round. Summer calls for terrestrial patterns like beetles, ants, and grasshoppers.

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

Spring (March-June) and fall (October-November) coincide with peak stocking seasons when catchable-size trout are regularly released. Spring and fall when water temperatures are ideal.

How do you catch Rainbow Trout in South Carolina?

In lakes like Jocassee, deep-water trolling with downriggers is productive, particularly during warmer months when trout move deeper. Monitor water release schedules for tailwater fishing, as flow changes affect conditions.

What do Rainbow Trout eat?

They are opportunistic feeders consuming aquatic and terrestrial insects, crayfish, and small fish, often feeding heavily on terrestrial insects like grasshoppers and ants that fall into streams with significant riparian vegetation.

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