RIVER FISH · Cold, oxygenated water
Rainbow trout
Oncorhynchus mykiss
A spotted trout with a rosy gill plate. Resident rainbow trout and migratory steelhead belong to the same species but have different life histories.
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Meet the fish
- Habitat
- Cold, well-oxygenated streams with cover such as wood, undercut banks and shade.
- On the menu
- Aquatic invertebrates, crustaceans and other fish.
- Size context
- Resident and migratory fish grow differently. Virginia DWR notes rainbow trout can exceed 20 inches there; this is not a typical size for all streams.
- Range & local context
- Native to Pacific-draining waters of western North America and introduced widely elsewhere.
Living with the river
Water & habitat
Temperature and oxygen are central habitat considerations. A water-temperature reading from one station does not establish conditions throughout a stream or guarantee fish welfare.
Seasonal life
Females lay eggs in gravel nests called redds. Clean oxygenated water flowing through the gravel supports the eggs. Spawning timing varies with population.
Before you go
Stocked and native populations need different local context. This profile does not classify all rainbow trout populations as native or invasive.
Use the linked agencies and the relevant river guide for current regulations, closures and consumption advisories. A species profile is not a fishing license or a statement that harvest is allowed.
Editorial review: . Regional size examples are labeled; maximum lengths are not typical sizes.
More river fish
Keep exploring species connected to the same river-guide network.