Rainbow Trout

Oncorhynchus mykiss

Stocked in select Ohio lakes and streams for put-and-take fishing.

Size Limit
12 inches
Daily Bag
5
Season
Year-round
State Record
15 lbs 6 oz
Castalia Pond (2014)

Best Months to Fish

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

What to Use

Live Bait & Natural

nightcrawlersPowerBaitcornsalmon eggs

Lures & Artificials

spinnersspoonsnymphsdry flies

Overview

Rainbow trout are stocked by Ohio DNR at select lakes and streams for put-and-take fishing. The Castalia State Fish Hatchery in Erie County is the primary source. Clear Creek in Hocking Hills and Mad River near Springfield are popular trout streams.

Ohio Lakes with Rainbow Trout

6 lakes in our directory have rainbow trout — sorted by size.

Regulation Notes

Lake Erie tributaries: 2 trout/salmon combined

More Ohio Fish Species

View all fish species →

Plan Your Rainbow Trout Trip

Find lakes, guides, and bait shops for your next rainbow trout fishing trip in Ohio.

Explore Lakes   Find a Guide   Bait & Tackle

Regulations shown are statewide defaults. Some waters have special regulations — always check the current Ohio DNR regulations before fishing. An Ohio fishing license is required for ages 16+.