Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) production has developed rapidly, particularly in the highlands of central Mexico. The objective of this study was to characterize rainbow trout production systems based on factor and cluster analysis. Data were collected for 21 variables from 71 trout production units (TPU) through semi-structured interviews. Four groups were obtained. Group 1: rural entrepreneurs, and Group 3: organized family TPU, are business-oriented operations developed with government support schemes with incorporated internal procedures enabling higher production and sales either to wholesalers or final consumers as fresh trout. These groups have the potential to scale up their operations. Group 2: small-scale family TPU, and Group 4: small-scale artisan TPU, are less organized, based on family labor, have lower yields, and sell their products at the farm gate or to small restaurants. These groups represent the role of aquaculture for social development in rural areas. Public policies, government support schemes, growth of markets, and high demand for trout have favored all four groups. Based on the results, development strategies and applied research must be directed differentially to each group of rainbow trout producers.