Rainbow Trout

Common Name

Rainbow Trout

Other Names

Bows

Scientific Name:

Oncorhynchus mykiss

Origin

Introduced

Adult Size

Anglers normally catch fish in the 8- to 16-inch range, but occasionally fish up to 7 or 8 pounds are caught.

Identification:

Coloration is highly variable depending upon size, sexual condition, and habitat. Dorsal surface ranges from a greenish yellow to a blue-gray color with silvery colored sides; and the belly area is white to pale yellow in color. Large numbers of relatively small black spots occur over the whole body, but spotting is generally heavier along dorsal areas. Rainbow trout are often recognized by a vague pink to prominent red colored band, which extends from the cheek to the base of the caudal fin.

Find more information on the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife website.