The rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss, is one of the most respected and sought after of Alaska’s native game fishes. Serious anglers from the world over are drawn to Alaska to experience the thrill of challenging this hard fighting salmonid in the state’s wilderness waters.
Rainbow trout possess the well-known streamlined salmonid form, though body shape and coloration vary widely and reflect habitat, age, sex, and degree of maturity. The body shape may range from slender to thick. The back may shade from blue-green to olive. There is a reddish-pink band along each side about the midline that may range from faint to radiant. The lower sides are usually silver, fading to pure white beneath. Small black spots are present over the back above the lateral line, as well as on the upper fins and tail.
Rainbow trout are positively identified by the 8 to 12 rays in the anal fin, a mouth that does not extend past the back of the eye, and the lack of teeth at the base of the tongue.
During late winter or early spring, when water temperatures are on the rise, the maturing adult rainbows usually seek out the shallow gravel riffles or a suitable clearwater stream.
Fishing success is typically greatest in the spring and fall, that is, before and after the large salmon runs.
Rainbow trout are voracious feeders and strong swimmers willing to hit a wide variety of lures, baits, and flies. Weighted spinners are preferred by many anglers. The wobbling spoon is another fine rainbow getter.
Fly fishers find that streamers, muddlers, and egg patterns fished near the bottom can be depended on to do the trick; black and red, especially fluorescent red, seem to add something of value.
