Rainbow Trout
Rainbow trout are the most widely stocked sport fish in the country, raised in state hatcheries and planted in streams, rivers, and lakes from coast to coast.
Stocked waters fish hardest right after a plant; wild fish favor cold, spring-fed or high-elevation water in summer.
General U.S. mainland pattern. Exact timing shifts by state, latitude, and water body — always confirm seasons and closures with the local agency before you go.
Where to fish Rainbow Trout now
Public waters we tag for Rainbow Trout. Tap one to see its profile, then plan the trip.
- Kenai River — AK · Famous king and sockeye salmon.
- Lake Iliamna — AK · Rainbow trout fishery.
- Kenai Lake — AK
- White River — AR · Trophy rainbow trout below dams.
- Crowley Lake — CA · Eastern Sierra trout.
- South Platte River — CO · Freestone and tailwater trout.
- Chattahoochee River — GA · Trout below Buford Dam.
- Coeur d'Alene Lake — ID · Kamloops rainbow trout.
- Henry's Lake — ID · Wild trout.
- Lake Macbride — IA · Trout-stocked.
- Deep Creek Lake — MD · Trout and bass.
- Quabbin Reservoir — MA · Trout and salmon (permit).
Recommended tackle
| Rod power | Ultra-Light to Light |
| Rod action | Fast |
| Reel | 1000–2500 spinning |
| Line | 2–6 lb |
| Lure types | Inline spinners, Small spoons, Dough baits, PowerBait |
| Rigs | Float (bobber) rig, Bottom rig |
Use the lightest line you can; trout are line-shy in clear water.
Lures & techniques
| Lure / method | When & how |
|---|---|
| Inline spinners (e.g., Rooster Tail) | Simple, effective in moving water. |
| Dough baits (stocked fish) | Popular on planted waters where legal. |
| Fly: nymphs and Woolly Buggers | The standard for wild fish. |
| Small spoons and PowerBait | Lake fishing off the bottom. |
Best seasons
Spring and fall offer the best action; stocked urban waters fish hardest in the days right after a plant. Summer is for cold, spring-fed or high-elevation water.
Target waters
- Cold headwater streams
- Tailwaters below dams
- Stocked lakes and ponds
- High mountain lakes
Gear & regulations
Print the full gear spec, then confirm the license and limits for the state you’ll fish.