Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout are the best of the trout species to stock in a pond environment due to their relative tolerance of high water temperatures and a broad range of pH levels. They will survive in temperatures of up to 70 degrees F but beyond that they may begin to suffer as a result of oxygen deprivation. Rainbow Trout have also proven to be more easily caught in ponds than Brook or Brown Trout. Their lifespan is 5-6 years and weights of 3-5 pounds are common. Trout may reach 10 to 12 inches in their second year. Spawning occurs in the spring but is rare in a pond environment since it requires a gravel bottom and flowing water to be successful. To provide continuous sport fishing, yearly stocking is recommended. Without regular removal however, restocking may not be required for up to 4 years. Rainbow Trout will feed on insects, minnows and crayfish and can be fished at all times of the year. We sell the Kamloop strain of trout, which originated in British Columbia and is known for its faster growth rate and warmer water tolerance relative to native Rainbow Trout. Male trout are brightly colored, with a red gill plate and stripe along their side. Females have a silver coloring and are usually slightly larger than males.

NOTE ON SHIPPING FISH: If you would like us to ship your fish directly to you, you must be within the following states: Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, or West Virginia. Fish will only ship during the available season. Shipping is calculated at checkout and only offered via UPS overnight.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many rainbow trout should I stock per acre?

We recommend up to 300 rainbow trout per acre. Our 4-6 inch Kamloop-strain trout grow faster and tolerate warmer water than native rainbow trout, commonly reaching 3-5 pounds.

When should I stock rainbow trout?

Trout are available April, May, September, October, and November - they are a cool-water fish that does best when stocked in fall or early spring. They tolerate temperatures up to about 70 degrees F, so deeper, cooler ponds suit them best.

Do I need to restock trout every year?

For continuous sport fishing we recommend yearly stocking, since trout rarely spawn in ponds. Without regular harvest, restocking may not be needed for up to 4 years.

How do I get my fish from Mid-Atlantic Stocking?

Three ways: free pickup at a scheduled delivery-route stop (routes run roughly monthly, April-October), UPS Next Day Air shipping every Wednesday (order by Tuesday 5 PM) to CT, DE, MD, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, VA & WV, or direct-to-pond delivery by quote. Fish are packaged with water and pure oxygen.

What if some fish do not survive the trip?

All our fish are certified disease-free, and we replace any mortality over 5% - in transit, or within 48 hours of introduction when the acclimation directions are followed. Document losses with photos and file a Mortality Report on our website.