Meet the Different Types of Trout: A Guide to Species

Trout fishing is more than a pastime; it’s a journey through diverse habitats, a test of patience, and a rewarding experience that brings you close to some of nature's most fascinating fish. From fast-flowing mountain streams to tranquil lakes, trout are found in a variety of settings, each species bringing its unique characteristics and challenges to anglers. In this guide, we’ll dive into some of the most popular types of trout, their habitats, and what makes each one special. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, this guide will help you better understand the unique world of trout species.

1. Rainbow Trout

Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus mykissHabitat: Freshwater rivers, lakes, and streams across North America, often found in cool, clear waters.What Makes Them Unique: Rainbow trout are renowned for their vivid coloration, with a pink stripe running along their sides and a silver body speckled with black dots. Known for their high-energy fight when hooked, these fish are a favorite among anglers.

Rainbow trout are among the most adaptable trout species, which has helped them thrive in varied environments. They can tolerate a range of water conditions and temperatures, making them one of the most widely distributed trout in North America. They’re known to be aggressive feeders and will often strike a wide range of lures, flies, and baits, making them a great choice for beginners.

2. Brown Trout

Scientific Name: Salmo truttaHabitat: Rivers, lakes, and streams, especially in Europe and North America. They prefer cooler, well-oxygenated water and are often found in areas with plenty of cover.What Makes Them Unique: Brown trout are known for their beautiful brown or olive-colored bodies dotted with red, black, and orange spots, giving them a distinct and striking appearance.

Brown trout are known for their elusive behavior, often requiring anglers to adopt a stealthy approach. This species is more selective in its feeding habits than others, and large specimens can be especially challenging to catch. Unlike other trout, they are more active during dusk and dawn, making these times ideal for fishing. Brown trout are popular for their challenging nature and their tendency to test an angler’s skills.

3. Brook Trout

Scientific Name: Salvelinus fontinalisHabitat: Cold, clear, and fast-moving streams and rivers, mostly in the eastern United States and Canada. They can also be found in mountain lakes at higher elevations.What Makes Them Unique: Brook trout have a distinct appearance with worm-like markings along their backs and a body often adorned with small red spots surrounded by blue halos. They’re actually part of the char family, which sets them apart from other trout species.

Brook trout thrive in pristine environments with low water temperatures, and they’re often considered an indicator of high water quality. Known for their preference for fast currents and well-oxygenated streams, these fish can be both a challenge and a delight to catch. They’re a smaller species on average, making them an ideal target for fly fishing enthusiasts who enjoy a more subtle approach.

4. Cutthroat Trout

Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus clarkiiHabitat: Western North America, particularly in rivers and lakes of mountainous regions. They’re often found in high-altitude streams and lakes.What Makes Them Unique: Named for the distinctive red or orange slash markings under their lower jaws, cutthroat trout have a reputation as one of the most visually unique trout species.

Cutthroat trout are incredibly adaptable and have numerous subspecies, each with slight differences based on their native habitat. They’re highly prized by anglers in the western United States for their beauty and the wild landscapes they inhabit. Cutthroat trout often migrate between rivers and lakes, and they can exhibit varied behaviors depending on their habitat. Whether you’re fishing in a small mountain stream or a larger lake, cutthroats provide a rewarding experience for those willing to trek into remote areas to find them.

5. Lake Trout

Scientific Name: Salvelinus namaycushHabitat: Large, deep, cold lakes in North America, often in the northern United States and Canada.What Makes Them Unique: Lake trout are one of the largest trout species, with a streamlined, torpedo-like shape that allows them to thrive in deeper waters. Their gray-green bodies are dotted with lighter-colored spots, making them easily identifiable.

Lake trout prefer colder, oxygen-rich waters and can often be found at depths of 60 to 200 feet during the summer. Due to their size and strength, they’re a prized catch for anglers and require specialized gear and techniques, like downriggers, to reach their deeper habitats. Lake trout are often slower-growing and longer-lived than other species, with some individuals reaching over 50 pounds and living up to 20 years.

6. Steelhead

Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus mykiss (anadromous form of the rainbow trout)Habitat: Originally freshwater rivers and streams, but as anadromous fish, they migrate to the ocean before returning to freshwater to spawn.What Makes Them Unique: Steelhead are the ocean-going version of rainbow trout, growing significantly larger due to the abundance of food in the ocean. When they return to freshwater, they have a silvery, metallic look, which gives them their name.

Steelhead are renowned for their strength and acrobatics, often leaping out of the water when hooked. Their migration patterns and life cycle add a fascinating layer to their behavior, making them a favorite among anglers who enjoy a challenge. Fishing for steelhead is an exciting endeavor, requiring an understanding of their seasonal migrations and behaviors.

A World of Trout Awaits

Each trout species has its own charm, from the feisty rainbow trout to the elusive brown trout and the towering lake trout. Whether you're casting in a clear mountain stream, hiking to a high-altitude lake, or braving the depths of a northern lake, trout fishing is an adventure that brings you close to nature’s wild beauty.

Next time you’re out on the water, take a moment to appreciate the unique traits and habitats of these amazing fish. And, if you’re looking for apparel that stands up to the demands of the outdoor lifestyle, check out our latest trout-inspired collections on troutgoods.com. Here’s to many more rewarding days on the water!