Two of the most popular trout species in the world are the brook trout and the rainbow trout. The two fish are really very different, especially when it comes to color and size. The only thing they both have in common is the fact that they are both trout, and popular trout.
Rainbow trout – These beautiful fish have been stocked in most streams by state hatcheries and have become the backbone of our United States trout fishery. Rainbows have bright rows of black spots on their backs, sides, and tails. A pinkish-red band can be found on both sides of the fish, hence the name “rainbow”. This fish is noted for its spectacular jumps and hard fighting when hooked. Rainbow trout thrive in cool, clear streams and rivers, but have also been known to survive in warm streams with silt bottoms. Rainbow trout are larger than brook trout and generally dominate areas shared by the two species. Given the right conditions, a rainbow trout can weigh over 25 pounds, although this is the exception rather than the rule. In normal situations, an average rainbow trout is between 17 and 20 inches or about ½ to 3 pounds.
brook trout – The brook trout is distinguished from the rainbow trout by the lack of black spots on its body. Brook trout have dark green, worm-like marbling on the back and dorsal fin and bluish halos around some of the reddish spots on the sides. They are arguably the most beautiful of the four main trout species. Brook Trout has been called the white rat of aquatic science because more experimental work has been done on this species than on any other. Brook trout naturally live in cold water conditions that are clear and pure. This means that they like clean, clear mountain streams. Brook trout are much smaller on average than rainbow trout, and in most of North America a twelve-inch brook trout would be considered a true trophy. Although part of the Labrador, Brook Trout can weigh over 10 pounds.
With this description, you should have a better understanding of the difference between rainbow trout and brook trout. Fishing for them is similar in many ways, though with the normal size difference; small “brookies” may require quite a small tackle to catch effectively. Both species feed on similar prey, such as aquatic insects, small fish, flying insects, and of course American worms. Both species are very attractive to look at, and a brook trout in the fall (when they spawn) is as beautiful as any fish you have ever seen.
