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Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout are among Wyoming's most widely distributed and sought-after trout species, though they are not native to the state.

Originally from Pacific coastal waters, rainbows have been successfully introduced throughout Wyoming's river systems and now thrive in waters ranging from the Snake and North Platte rivers to high-altitude alpine lakes.

Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus mykiss

Physical Characteristics:
  • These fish typically measure 10-15 inches in Wyoming waters, but anglers regularly catch specimens exceeding 20 inches, particularly in premier fisheries like the North Platte's Grey Reef section, which holds over 5,200 trout per mile.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They prefer cool, clear water with gravel bottoms, minimal sediment, riffles and pools, seeking refuge behind logs, boulders, and under riparian vegetation.

Key Locations

  • Jackson Lake, Jenny Lake, the Snake River, Green River, Wind River, Bighorn River, and the North Platte system including Grey Reef and the Miracle Mile.
  • The Grey Reef section of the North Platte (best fished from drift boats due to limited wade access), the Miracle Mile between Kortes Dam and Pathfinder Reservoir, Jackson Lake, the upper Green River near Pinedale, and the Snake River in Grand Teton National Park.

Specific Spots

  • Along seams and drop-offs, deeper pools during winter, concentrated fish areas in tailwaters.

Rainbow Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Rainbow Trout in Wyoming?

Elk Hair Caddis for summer caddis hatches, Purple Haze in sizes 10-18 as an effective attractor pattern, various hopper patterns (particularly Morrish Hopper and Fat Albert with foam construction) for late summer terrestrial fishing, Green Dr.ake Parachute patterns during June-July mayfly hatches.

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

Pre-spawn periods (March-early April), post-spawn through summer (June-August). Winter fishing can be excellent on tailwaters. Avoid active spawning periods (April-May).

How do you catch Rainbow Trout in Wyoming?

Dead-drifting nymphs under indicators along seams and drop-offs, dry fly fishing during morning trico hatches and evening caddis activity, streamer fishing during spring and fall, trolling and deep-water techniques for lakes, winter fishing with small nymphs and midges in deeper pools.

What do Rainbow Trout eat?

Rainbow trout are opportunistic feeders with a diverse diet including mayflies, stoneflies, caddisflies, worms, crayfish, plankton, snails, leeches, grasshoppers, ants, and beetles.

Where do Rainbow Trout live in Wyoming?

They prefer cool, clear water with gravel bottoms, minimal sediment, riffles and pools, seeking refuge behind logs, boulders, and under riparian vegetation.

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