The best fish products can be ruined in the kitchen. Rainbow trout, like other foods can be rendered unpalatable when prepared incorrectly. Trout, like all other fish and seafood, is best prepared as fresh as possible. Freshness can be detected in the grocery store simply by utilizing your sense of smell.
Fresh trout have very little or no fishy smell.
If you detect a strong smell, then the product is not as fresh as you would prefer. The number one thing to remember in cooking trout is do not over-cook. Pay attention to cooking and heat recommendations. Marinating the trout in lemon juice, adding lemon juice, or using lemon pepper in the recipe helps eliminate the fishy flavor some people detest. Sprinkle fillets or whole trout inside and out with salt and pepper.