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Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout are one of the most common and abundant wild trout species in Tennessee, though they are not native - they were introduced from the western United States beginning in the early 1900s.

They are known for spectacular leaps and hard fighting when hooked. They are the most abundant wild trout in East Tennessee due to their ability to compete effectively with Brown Trout at low elevations and Brook Trout at higher elevations.

Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus mykiss

Physical Characteristics:
  • In Tennessee, Rainbow Trout are distinguished by their beautiful olive, iridescent pink-red lateral stripe, and yellow-white hues along their flanks, with black spots scattered across their back, sides, and tail.
  • Wild Rainbow Trout in Tennessee streams typically range from 7-15 inches.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Rainbow Trout are found throughout Tennessee's coldwater streams and tailwater rivers.
  • The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency stocks approximately 330,000 Rainbow Trout annually in 84 hatchery-supported streams and small lakes, with wild reproducing populations also established in many waters.

Key Locations

  • South Holston River, Little River in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Caney Fork River, Watauga Lake, Clinch River, Norris tailwater, Center Hill Dam downstream, Little River's east and middle forks.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on current seams, deep pools, rocky areas, and structure.

Rainbow Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Small colorful spinners, spoons, jigs, crankbaits, and jerkbaits are productive. Popular baits include nightcrawlers, corn, Powerbait, crickets, and crayfish.

What flies work for Rainbow Trout in Tennessee?

Effective patterns include midges, mayfly nymphs, stonefly nymphs like hellgrammites, and terrestrials such as hoppers, beetles, and ants during summer months. Dr.y flies work well with midge droppers, particularly during late afternoon midge or blackfly hatches.

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

The best times to catch Rainbow Trout in Tennessee are late March through June when water is warm and trout are most active, and again in fall from September through November. Avoid fishing during spawning season (March-June) to protect reproducing fish.

How do you catch Rainbow Trout in Tennessee?

In tailwater rivers, nymphing with midge patterns produces the best numbers, while sight fishing to rising trout provides exciting action. The Caney Fork River offers excellent wade and float fishing opportunities. Focus on current seams, deep pools, rocky areas, and structure.

What do Rainbow Trout eat?

They are predominantly insectivorous, feeding on aquatic insects like midges, mayflies, stoneflies, and chironomids, as well as terrestrial insects including hoppers, beetles, and ants.

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