Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

Rainbow trout is a salmonid originally from North America, which is widely stocked in Finnish rivers, ponds, and lakes. It is one of the most popular recreational fishing targets due to its easy availability and fighting spirit.

Characteristics and Habits

Rainbow trout can be identified by the broad, reddish stripe running along its sides and the small black spots that cover the entire fish. It is an adaptable species that thrives in cool, well-oxygenated waters. As a stocked fish, it generally does not reproduce in the Finnish wilderness.

Fishing

Rainbow trout can be fished in many different ways and is active year-round.

• Casting: Small spinners, spoons, and wobblers are effective.
• Fly fishing: Various streamers and nymphs are popular flies.
• Bait fishing: Special bait pastes (powerbait) and worms are effective baits.
• Ice fishing: In winter, rainbow trout jigs and baited mormyshkas yield good catches.

As Food

Rainbow trout is an excellent and versatile food fish. Its meat is reddish and fatty, and it is perfect for smoking, grilling, baking, and curing. Commercially, it is one of the most important fish in Finland.