Rainbow trout (*Oncorhynchus mykiss*) are one of the world's most popular fly fishing species. Originally native to the Pacific coast of North America, they have been introduced to many countries, including the UK, where they have become the backbone of stillwater fly fishing and are also stocked into some rivers and lakes.
Unlike brown trout, rainbow trout are not native to Britain. They were introduced because of their fast growth, willingness to take artificial flies and ability to provide excellent sport for anglers. Today they are found in reservoirs, small stillwaters, fisheries and selected river systems throughout the UK.
Although rainbow trout are not native to the UK, there are a handful of naturally reproducing populations. One of the best-known examples is found in the Peak District, where a small self-sustaining population spawns naturally, primarily within the River Wye. These wild-born rainbow trout are regularly encountered by anglers on the Wye itself, but they also migrate into the River Derwent and are often caught downstream of the confluence of the two rivers. They are a fascinating example of how rainbow trout can establish wild populations where suitable spawning habitat exists.
Rainbow trout are powerful fish that fight exceptionally hard for their size. Long runs, spectacular jumps and determined dives are all characteristic of the species, making them a favourite among both beginner and experienced fly anglers.
Although rainbow trout will feed confidently from the surface during insect hatches, much of their diet is taken below the surface. Aquatic insects, freshwater shrimp, bloodworm, buzzers, damsel nymphs, corixa, freshwater snails and small fish all form part of their natural diet. Stocked fish may also initially respond well to brighter attractor patterns before gradually becoming more selective as they adapt to natural food sources.
One of the greatest advantages of rainbow trout is that they can provide excellent sport throughout much of the year. Unlike many river fisheries that have close seasons, stocked stillwaters often remain open for extended periods, allowing anglers to enjoy fly fishing through much of the autumn and winter. During the colder months, small stillwaters can produce outstanding fishing on buzzers, bloodworm, Diawl Bachs and other slim nymphs, while mild winter days can produce excellent midge hatches.
Rainbow trout are highly adaptable and can be caught using a wide variety of fly fishing techniques. Dry fly fishing during buzzer, sedge and terrestrial hatches can be spectacular, while nymph fishing remains consistently effective throughout the season. Pulling lures is another popular technique, particularly on larger reservoirs where trout may be searching for fry or where recently stocked fish are actively hunting larger prey. During the colder months, slower retrieves combined with intermediate or sinking lines often produce the best results as fish hold deeper in the water.
At Peaks Fly Fishing, we recommend matching flies to the food sources available rather than relying solely on attractor patterns. Buzzers, bloodworm, Diawl Bachs, damsel nymphs, corixa and small fry imitations should form the foundation of most stillwater fly boxes. During brighter periods or immediately after stocking, patterns such as the Peaks Fly Fishing Lava Tail or FABS can also be highly effective, while the Peaks Fly Fishing Flash Damsels, Hairdresser Midge and Scruffy Popper all have their place under the right conditions.
Rainbow trout can be caught on a wide variety of tackle, from lightweight outfits on intimate small stillwaters to powerful rods designed for fishing large reservoirs with sinking lines. Selecting the correct rod weight, fly line density and leader for the conditions is often more important than simply changing flies. A balanced outfit makes casting easier, improves presentation and allows anglers to fish more effectively throughout the day.
Although stocked rainbow trout are the fish most anglers encounter, many fisheries also contain older, wiser fish that have survived for several seasons. These trout often feed much more like wild fish, demanding careful presentation, thoughtful fly selection and a good understanding of natural food sources.
Above all, rainbow trout reward versatility. Successful anglers are prepared to change depth, retrieve speed and fly choice as conditions change throughout the day. By understanding where fish are feeding and presenting the fly naturally, rainbow trout can provide some of the most exciting and consistent fly fishing available in the UK.
Whether you are fishing a small club water, a famous reservoir or a remote hill loch, rainbow trout remain one of the finest sporting fish available to the fly angler. Their willingness to take a well-presented fly, combined with their strength and determination, makes them an ideal species for beginners while continuing to challenge even the most experienced anglers.