The rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), also called the redband trout, is a species of salmonid native to tributaries of the Pacific Ocean in Asia and North America as well as much of the central, western, eastern, and especially the northern portions of the United States. The ocean going (anadromous) form (including those returning for spawning) are known as steelhead. The species has been introduced for food or sport to at least 45 countries, and every continent except Antarctica. In some of these locations, such as Australia and South America, they have had very serious negative impacts on upland native fish species, either by eating them, outcompeting them or transmitting contagious diseases. In some cases, they have been responsible for the extinction of native fish populations. The Wisconsin State Record Catch is 27 pounds, 2 ounces, 42.5 inches long, caught in Lake Michigan.

THIS MONTHS FEATURED FISH

RAINBOW TROUT

Aquatic Grasses

Learn the Different Grasses

Every angler should be familiar with the different types of aquatic grasses. By properly identifying each grass, you can begin to better understand the best fish habitat. Grasses attract fish, but sometimes on particular grass is more productive than another. Once you can identify the grass, you can look for more of that type of grass and begin to establish a fish catching pattern. You can DOWNLOAD your grass identification chart here. The chart outlines 6 common grasses.

Check out the DNRs cool KIDS site