The Hover
Acrylic on Metal 

Groups of rainbow trout are called a hover. The rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) is a species of trout native to cold-water tributaries of the Pacific Ocean in North America and Asia. They are so called Rainbow because of their very distinct red or pink lateral line.  They live an average of 4 to 6 years in the wild.
 
Rainbow trout are arguably one of the most recognizable and popular trout species. Because of their ability to thrive and adapt to many environments, they are one of the most widely distributed stocked sport fish species. They have now been introduced to every continent except Antarctica and are the most widespread trout species on the planet. 
 
Rainbow trout and cutthroat trout are closely related and often look very similar. Cutthroat trout have a red, orange or pink line that runs along their lower jaw. Rainbows and cutthroats share very similar habitat requirements and they spawn at around the same time, so interbreeding is common. Because rainbow trout have been introduced so widely and are so successful, they are endangering unique strains of cutthroat trout in their native rivers of the western USA and Canada. 
 
The Hover
Acrylic on Metal
These Rainbow Trout are drawn on cold pressed steel using acrylic paint pens using with my version of stippling. Acrylic paints were also used for enhancement. The background metal is rusted and painted. Allowing the paint to mix with the rust creates a unique, weathered color and expression. The edges are wrapped in patinaed copper. The back is finished and has D- Rings for hanging. Overall size is Approximately 14” X 38”