WikiCatch
Coastal rainbow trout
Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus
Overview
The rainbow trout is a species of trout native to cold-water tributaries of the Pacific Ocean in North America and Asia. The steelhead is an anadromous (sea-run) form of the coastal rainbow trout (O. m. irideus) or Columbia River redband trout (O. m. gairdneri) that usually returns to freshwater to spawn after living two to three years in the ocean.
Best Baits & Lures
Live Baits
- Nightcrawlers
Use on a hook or worm blower for flotation.
- Mealworms
Effective for smaller trout in calmer water.
- Waxworms
Similar to mealworms; good for finesse fishing.
- Salmon Eggs
A classic; use a single egg or cluster.
Artificial Lures
- Mepps Aglia #3SpinnerBuy
Silver or gold blade; good for moving water.
- Rapala Original Floater 07CrankbaitBuy
Trolled or cast in streams and lakes.
- Blue Fox VibraxSpinnerBuy
Vibrating action attracts attention.
- Panther Martin SpinnerSpinnerBuy
Weighted body allows for longer casts.
- Woolly BuggerFlyBuy
Versatile fly, can be stripped or dead-drifted.
Techniques
When fishing with bait, use a light wire hook to avoid spooking trout; consider a small split shot a foot or two above your hook to get the bait down in the water column.
As an Amazon Associate, WikiCatch earns from qualifying purchases.
Where to Find Coastal rainbow trout
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for Coastal rainbow trout?+
Popular baits for Coastal rainbow trout include Nightcrawlers, Mealworms, Waxworms, Salmon Eggs, Mepps Aglia #3. Tip: When fishing with bait, use a light wire hook to avoid spooking trout; consider a small split shot a foot or two above your hook to get the bait down in the water column.
Where can I catch Coastal rainbow trout?+
Coastal rainbow trout can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include California, United States; Oregon, United States; Washington, United States. WikiCatch lists 22 fishing spots where this species is found.
How big do Coastal rainbow trout get?+
Coastal rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus) can reach up to 120 cm in length and 25 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is NE.
Get WikiCatch on iPhone
360,000+ fishing spots, AI fish ID, weather & solunar — free.
Download on the App Store