Rainbow Trout
Oncorhynchus mykiss
Rainbow Trout are common to much of the western United States and Spokane Washington is no different than the rest of the US.
Rainbow trout can be found in all of the lakes around Spokane as well as the rivers and streams in the area. Rainbow trout spawn in the Spring. Rainbow's often have black spots on the head, gill plates and back. The top of the back is often green and the bottom silver. The Rainbow Trout gets its name from the red streak running down the lateral line of the fish.
Natural Rainbow Trout, or long time resident fish from Spokane fishing waters will have a bright red streak, whereas the more common stocker Rainbows are more placid in color, being nearly all silver, with a very light red tint to the lateral line. The older and more mature Rainbow Trout may also have a hook jaw, where the lower jaw of the fish begins to hook up.
When fishing in Spokane if you catch a mostly silver fish with a large head disproportionate to the body then this is also a sign of a stock planted fish. The "stockers" also have slightly less fight in them than the naturals and are typically easier to catch.
Rainbow Trout around Spokane are fun to catch and common. They will bite on anything from flies to worms. The stockers seem to really appreciate a green float bait offered about 18-24 inches off the bottom.
Rainbows will take many different lures, we suggest using a lighter line 4lb test or so, with small size lures.
Dry and wet flies can also be used to catch Rainbow Trout in Spokane. Mayfly, Caddis, Nymphs, etc. all typically work but success does vary by location and season.
For more information about fishing in Spokane, check out www.SpokaneFishing.com.
