Licence Required

The rainbow trout was introduced from North America. It is common in rivers and lakes but not as widespread as brown trout.

The adult “rainbow” is distinguished by its silver colour and dark olive green back covered with many small black spots. As the name might suggest, there is a pink flush along the sides, beginning on the gill cover and fading as it nears the tail. Rainbow Trout are regarded as less wary than brown trout and therefore easier to catch.

Rainbow Hamish 0

They are well known for their aerobatic displays when hooked and are considered to provide the angler with a more exciting “fight” on a rod and line.

Rainbow trout are usually 1–2 kg in weight but in larger rivers and lakes, where food is abundant, they may reach 5 kg or more.