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Rainbow Trout Introduced

πŸ”¬ Oncorhynchus mykiss

Stocked heavily by MDNR in many Michigan streams and lakes.

0.5-2 lbs, 10-18 inches
Typical size
26 lbs 10 oz
Michigan record
Spring, Fall
Best season
243
Listed lakes

πŸ›‘ Conservation Status

Introduced Native to Pacific drainages. Introduced to Michigan in the 1800s and now a cornerstone of MDNR's stocking program. Not harmful in managed trout streams and lakes.

🌿 Habitat & Behavior

Cold, well-oxygenated streams and lakes. MDNR stocks heavily in rivers, inland lakes, and Great Lakes tributaries.

🎣 Best Techniques

Spinners, egg sacs, worms β€” drift fishing in streams

🌊 Where to Catch in Michigan

Lake County Population Notes
Big Twin Lake
210 acres
Wexford Excellent MDNR stocked regularly
Black Lake
10,130 acres
Cheboygan Excellent MDNR stocks heavily. Clear water makes fly fishing productive.
Lake Ann
176 acres
Benzie Excellent Small, cold, clear ÔÇâ MDNR stocked
Walled Lake
640 acres
Oakland Excellent Rainbow trout stocked annually by MDNR.
Ackerman Lake Alger Good β€”
Albany Creek Chippewa Good β€”
Ankadosh Creek Chippewa Good β€”
Anna River Alger Good β€”
Arbutus Lake
510 acres
Grand Traverse Good MDNR stocked
Au Sable River Crawford Good β€”
Au Sable River Iosco Good β€”
Au Sable River Oscoda Good β€”
Au Train River Alger Good β€”
AuGres Arenac Good β€”
Banana Lake Schoolcraft Good β€”
Barber Creek Allegan Good β€”
Bark River Delta Good β€”
Bass Lake (West) Marquette Good β€”
Bear Creek Manistee Good β€”
Bear Den Lake Presque Isle Good β€”

πŸ“¦ DNR Stocking History

Total stocked: 93,080,205
Stocking events: 9,083
Peak year: 1988 (3,338,290)

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πŸ“‹ Quick Facts