We all want to be on the river when rainbow trout fishing is at its best, however knowing when that will be depends on many factors. The run time for each river will be different, and the best way to get information on a particular section of the river is to check with a local sports store. The owners of these sporting goods stores make a living selling rainbow trout angler gear, and they know that by providing accurate and up-to-date information, they will build trust with anglers, and this trust can lead to a sale. Also, many of these shop owners are rainbow trout anglers and know how important good information is to someone planning a fishing trip, they will also give you great ideas on what type of bait and tactics are working.
Once you have a general idea of when the rainbow trout will be in the section of the river you would like to fish, it is important to keep an eye on the weather reports. Weather is one of the most important aspects when it comes to rainbow trout fishing, or any type of fishing. Not only do you want to be prepared for the weather, but fish activity is greatly influenced by the weather. Knowing how rainbow trout or fish react to weather changes will definitely let you know in advance what your chances are of hooking a rainbow trout.
Here are some general rules regarding weather and fishing that will help you choose the best times to fish for rainbow trout.
High Pressure – Usually gives you those bright sunny days and while this is great fishing weather, it is generally not the best fishing weather, especially if you are fishing for rainbow trout. Fishing in general tends to slow down during high pressure. Steelhead is easily spooked and this is truer than ever now, with the sun out and shadows cast, it’s hard to present your presentation in front of them without scaring them. Deep pools and shaded areas will offer you the best chance of success in these conditions. Try slowing down whatever presentation type you’re using and use pale colors for best results.
Low Pressure – Usually means you’ll be facing rainy or snowy conditions, so make sure you’re wearing the right clothing. You’ll find that the fish are generally much less active during these times, although a good rain usually signals the rainbow trout to start moving again, they usually don’t hit well with a torrential downpour. If it’s a big storm, river conditions can suddenly change from crystal clear to chocolate milkshake. Under these conditions, fishing will now be more difficult. If you are fishing in some of the smaller rivers and steamers, try fishing close to the banks as it offers the rainbow trout some protection from floating debris and is also where the current is not as strong. If you are fishing larger rivers, try to find some deeper holes as well. Darker colored lures work better now.
Pressure Rising When the pressure begins to build, usually after a storm moves on, the fishing will begin to improve as the fish become active again. At this time, rainbow trout will typically continue to be found in the slower moving deeper pools or near the banks outside of the main currents of the river. While you won’t find them charging upriver just yet, they are more likely to be tempted to attack than during the storm. Bright colors caught along the edges of the main current should work well, as should fishing them in the deeper pools where the fish were held during the storm.
Constant pressure/normal pressure:
This is typically found on those days where there is hazy sunshine or cloudy weather, but no precipitation is forecast. Fishing should be fair to good these days. You will find rainbow trout throughout the river and they will be active enough to take an interest in what you have to offer. Most of the standard steelhead gear will work now, so give your favorites a try.
Drop pressure:
As a storm approaches and the pressure starts to drop, you’ll want to be on the river. This is the best time to fish as the fish are now at their most active. Steelhead will get aggressive when the pressure drops and they seem to hit just about anything that passes by them. If you can time your rainbow trout fishing trip so that it reaches the river the day before a storm moves in, your chances of success will improve greatly.
While it is true that you can catch rainbow trout in almost any weather, if you want to make a trip that gives you the best chance of success, then it is important to consider what the weather will be like. Planning a trip where the weather works for you instead of against you is always something you should do before you set off after that often picky rainbow trout. Being in the water at the right time will improve your fishing success.
Trevor Kugler has written a short ebook called How the Weather and the Moon Really Impact Fishing. I believe this e-book is still available for free if you sign up for timely fishing information twice a month.
