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Great Lakes • rivers and runs
Rainbow Trout & Steelhead
Bright fish, spring and fall migrations, and powerful runs in clear water.
Ontario record: 29.12 lb
The Ontario water
Ontario record: 29.12 lb
When spring arrives, the migratory steelhead run is one of Ontario's great fishing events. Rainbow trout spend their lives in inland waters or the Great Lakes, while steelhead move into tributaries to spawn in spring and, in some systems, during fall.
Rainbow trout appeal to fly anglers and spin anglers alike. Their leaps and fast runs can test light tackle. On the Great Lakes, anglers often troll spoons during open water. In rivers, roe, beads, flies and small artificial baits are common.
Light line, small hooks and careful presentation help in clear tributaries. River levels, water temperature and fishing pressure can change the bite quickly, so quiet wading and a natural drift matter.
FIELD NOTE
Bring waders and watch the water
A good river setup includes safe wading boots, polarized glasses, a long-handled net and layers for cold conditions. Avoid spawning fish and redds, respect private property and check local seasons because tributary rules can change by location.
Watch Ontario fishing
Two videos. One next-trip idea.
Dave Mercer: Heavy-Cover Bass
Techniques for fishing weeds and thick largemouth cover.
Quick answers
Ontario fishing FAQ
What is the difference between rainbow trout and steelhead?
Steelhead are rainbow trout that spend part of their lives in large lakes before returning to tributaries.
What catches Ontario steelhead?
Natural-looking drifts with roe, beads, flies or small artificial baits are common choices in tributaries.
Keep planning
Related Ontario fishing pages
Ontario Brook TroutFish wild Ontario brook trout in cold streams, rivers and northern lakes with flies, spinners and light tackle.
Ontario Salmon FishingFish Ontario Chinook, coho, pink and Atlantic salmon in the Great Lakes and tributaries by trolling, casting and drifting.
Ontario Lake TroutCatch Ontario lake trout by deep trolling, vertical jigging, spring casting and winter ice fishing in cold, clear lakes.