Rainbow Trout
Name
Rainbow Trout
Identification
The body of the Rainbow Trout is streamlined with small scales and the pectoral fin is located in the middle of the body. When the mouth is closed it stretches to the back of the eye socket and the mouth has sharp teeth. In the males the bottom jaw is enlarged with a hooked point on the end. The main colour is silver to light gold with black spots all along the body and on the fins. Another distinguishing feature of the Rainbow Trout is the lilac purple line from the head to the tail down the centre of the bodyline. These fish can grow up to 70cm with a weight of up to 5.5kg although the average weight is around 1.5kg.
How to locate
As with the Brown Trout the Rainbow Trout is hard to spot due to it’s camouflage, so local knowledge is of great help. These fish can be spotted when they are rising and moving, especially if you are surveying the water from an elevated position. Found in Dullstroom, Graskop, Sabie and Lydenburg.
Baits to use
Mainly flies, both dry and wet flies. When these fish are rising one should use dry flies.
Tackle to use
Fly fishing tackle is recommended.
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