Science Name: | Oncorhynchus mykiss |
Other Names: | bow, redsides, red-band trout, silver trout, steelhead, kamloops |
Ideal Temp: | 55 to 70 |
World Record: | 42 lbs. 2 ounces, Alaska |
Environment: | lake, stream, coastal |
Techniques: | Light tackle, light tackle fly |
The native range of this species is the eastern Pacific Ocean and the fresh water mainly west of the Rocky Mountains. It has also been introduced into New Zealand, Australia, South America, Africa, Japan, southern Asia, Europe and Hawaii.
This species spawns from March to August in smaller streams. The female digs and spawns in several nests depositing 800-1000 eggs in each redd. These eggs usually hatch 4-7 weeks later. The life expectancy can be as low as 3-4 years but generally the steelhead lives 6-8 years. They first feed on plankton then insects and as they grow older, crustaceans and other fish.
Rainbows prefer cool, clear streams and lakes. They also live in warm water lakes only if clear, oxygenated water is available. Steelheads found in open waters (i.e large larkes and at sea) are reputed to roam very long distances
Rainbows eat insects, crustaceans, fish eggs, and plankton. They also eat some smaller fish, but not as commonly as other trout.
Their meat can vary in color from red to white depending on each fish's diet. Rainbow trout taste excellent either smoked or served fresh, and can often be found in fine restaurants.
Tips for Fishing