According to a news release by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), 342,373 rainbow trout will be released into public waters across the state from Nov. 26 to March 9 as part of the department’s annual winter stocking program. The plan aims to provide seasonal fishing opportunities for anglers in Texas.
Stocking locations include the Guadalupe River downstream of Canyon Lake, the Brazos River downstream of Possum Kingdom Lake, the Frio and South Llano Rivers, and the Clear Fork of the Trinity River. In most areas of Texas, rainbow trout cannot survive past the winter due to warmer water temperatures. However, the Guadalupe River’s cooler conditions allow the fish to live year-round in certain sections.
This practice, which has been part of the department’s efforts for decades, is to promote recreational fishing during the winter months.
“TPWD stocks catchable-sized fish during winter months to create unique winter angling opportunities throughout Texas,” according to Carl Kittel, rainbow trout program director at the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. “Rainbow trout love cold water and can be caught on a variety of baits and lures (worms, commercially available pastes, corn, spinners, spoons, flies and more), and are great to take home and eat.”
He added that the program, in place for more than 40 years, remains a favorite among fishing enthusiasts.
Fishing for rainbow trout does not require specialized equipment, and they can be caught using light tackle, bait such as worms or corn, or artificial lures including spinners and flies. Anglers are encouraged to bring ice to preserve their catch.
The TPWD also stated that neighborhood fishing lakes in Amarillo, Austin, the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, Houston, San Angelo, San Antonio and Wichita Falls will also be stocked with rainbow trout during the winter.
Fishing without a license is permitted in Texas state parks if done from a bank, dock, or pier. To secure access, TPWD advises reserving a day pass in advance, particularly during busy periods like weekends and holidays. Reservations can be made through the TPWD website or by calling 512-389-8900.
Fishing licenses with a freshwater fishing endorsement are required for adults outside of state parks, while children under the age of 17 can fish without a license.
The program provides opportunities for both experienced anglers and those new to the activity. More information, including a full schedule of stocking locations, is available on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s website.
