If you’re an angler looking for a unique catch, then the Palomino Trout might be just what you’re after. This strikingly beautiful fish is also known as the “swimming banana,” thanks to its bright golden-yellow coloration that can sometimes resemble the shape of a banana.
The above picture is not a real Palomino Trout! So what is a Palomino Trout and what do they look like?
- A Palomino trout is a hybrid fish that is created by crossing a female Rainbow Trout with a male Golden Trout. The resulting offspring have a golden-yellow body with pinkish to orange hues, and are often bred for their distinctive coloration. The Palomino trout is not a naturally occurring species, but rather a product of fish hatcheries and breeding programs. These fish can be found in some lakes and rivers, but are not as widespread as their parent species, the Rainbow Trout and Golden Trout.
The behavior of Palomino trout is generally similar to that of other trout species. Like other trout, they are known to be predatory fish that feed on insects, small fish, and other aquatic organisms. They tend to be more active and feed more aggressively during periods of low light or overcast conditions, and may be more cautious and less likely to bite during bright, sunny conditions.
The behavior of any individual fish can also be influenced by a variety of factors, such as water temperature, water flow, and the availability of food. So, while Palomino trout may not be inherently more aggressive than other trout, individual fish may exhibit more or less aggressive behavior depending on these factors and their individual temperament.
Yes I have caught one! Check out the above video of me catching a “Swimming Banana”
Story of the above video:
- Deep in the heart of Pennsylvania’s hallowed fly fishing waters. I was fishing near the rivers of Little Juniata, Penns Creek, and Spruce Creek, which are the same Pennsylvania fly fishing waters that legendary angler Joe Humphreys frequents, when I caught an absolutely stunning Palomino trout. Its golden-yellow body with pinkish to orange hues was a sight to behold, and I feel so lucky to have caught such a unique fish. I released it back into the water quickly, but it was a moment I’ll never forget. The rivers around here are truly special and offer some of the best trout fishing in the country. If you love fly fishing, this is definitely a place you need to check out!
Here is a terrible joke about why Palomino Trout get killed by their beautiful colors:
“Why did the Palomino trout get caught by the bald eagle? Because it stood out like a sore fin!”