Rainbow Trout

If you're looking for rainbow trout near Oakesdale, Washington, you'll need to explore the smaller streams and stocked lakes in the surrounding area. While Oakesdale itself doesn't have a major trout fishery, venturing a bit further opens up some decent opportunities. Spring and fall are generally the best times to target rainbows, as the water temperatures are more favorable. Look for the Department of Fish and Wildlife stocking reports to identify recently stocked lakes in Whitman County; these can provide fast action, especially with PowerBait or simple worm rigs. For a more challenging experience, try fly fishing the Palouse River, although access can be tricky in places. Be aware of private property boundaries and respect landowner rights. These rainbows are typically stocked, ranging from 10-14 inches, so pack accordingly. A Washington fishing license is required.