Rainbow Trout
Rainbow Trout are the most common and popular trout species in Washington, found in lakes and streams in every county.
Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus mykiss
- They're identified by their bluish-green back, silver sides and belly, black spots on body and fins, and characteristic reddish stripe along the sides.
- Size averages 11-18 inches but can exceed 20 inches in quality populations.
Fishing in Washington
Yakima River
Cedar River
Puyallup River
Snoqualmie River
East Passage
Cowlitz River
Naches River
Commencement Bay
Cle Elum River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Found in lakes and streams in every county.
- Washington has three subspecies: the native coastal rainbow trout (O. mykiss irideus) in western Washington and lower Columbia River, the Columbia Basin redband trout (O. mykiss gairdneri) in the Columbia River drainage from Klickitat River upstream, and the unique Beardslee rainbow trout found only in Crescent Lake.
Key Locations
- Rocky Ford spring creeks.
- Washington offers thousands of fishing locations from high mountain lakes requiring hiking access to easily accessible lowland lakes and rivers throughout the state.
Specific Spots
- Target areas with structure like undercut banks, drop-offs, weed lines, and current breaks.
- They utilize complex habitat including riffles, pools, undercut banks, woody debris, and aquatic vegetation for protection and feeding.
Rainbow Trout FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Rainbow Trout in Washington?
Popular lures include Roostertail spinners (1/16-1/8 ounce), Kastmaster spoons (1/8-1/4 ounce), Mepps Aglia spinners (Size 1-2), and various spoons like Dick Nite and Needlefish.
What flies work for Rainbow Trout in Washington?
Dr.y flies (Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Parachute Adams), nymphs (Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear, Prince Nymph), streamers (Woolly Bugger, Muddler Minnow), and scud patterns (size 12-18) especially effective on spring creeks like Rocky Ford.
When is the best time to fish for Rainbow Trout in Washington?
Rainbow trout fishing is excellent from spring through fall, with peak seasons during April-October when water temperatures are optimal. Spawning occurs in spring (typically April-June) when water temperatures reach 40-50°F - this is when anglers should avoid targeting them.
How do you catch Rainbow Trout in Washington?
In Washington's lakes, use slip-bobber rigs or slip-sinker rigs with 2-3 foot leaders, combining worms with marshmallows for buoyancy to keep bait off bottom where trout can see it. For trolling, effective techniques include using various lures. Fly fishing is productive.
What do Rainbow Trout eat?
Rainbow trout are opportunistic feeders consuming aquatic invertebrates (mayflies, stoneflies, caddisflies), terrestrial insects (grasshoppers, beetles, ants), small fish, fish e.g.gs, crayfish, and various invertebrates.
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