Illustration by Steven Schalla, FlyFishingtheSierra.com, used with permission

The Kern River Rainbow can be distinguished by irregularly shaped spots both above and below the lateral line. The spots decrease as they extend towards the belly. Coloration is similar to the Coastal Rainbow trout, however the Kern River Rainbow has a distinct red stripe with faint parr marks along the lateral line. The dorsal, pelvic, and anal fins have a white tip.  Many fish will also exhibit orange tints along the belly.