Anglers can now take part in a beloved Texas winter tradition as the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) begins stocking rainbow trout in waterbodies across the state.
The TPWD winter trout stocking program, in its 40th year, will release approximately 342,373 rainbow trout into Texas waters between Nov. 26 and March 9. Carl Kittel, TPWD rainbow trout program director, said the initiative offers anglers a unique cold-weather fishing opportunity.
“Rainbow trout love cold water and can be caught on a variety of baits and lures,” Kittel said. “They’re great to take home and eat, making this program a favorite for anglers.”
Since rainbow trout cannot survive most Texas water temperatures after winter, anglers are encouraged to keep up to their daily bag limit of five fish. Exceptions exist in the Guadalupe River downstream of Canyon Lake, where cooler conditions often allow the trout to thrive year-round. This area is recognized as one of North America’s southernmost trout streams and is among the top 100 trout fishing destinations in the nation.
TPWD will stock rainbow trout at locations across Texas, including portions of the Guadalupe, Brazos, Frio, and South Llano rivers, as well as the Clear Fork of the Trinity River. The department also manages 18 Neighborhood Fishin’ lakes in urban centers such as Austin, Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas- Fort Worth, providing easy access for families and new anglers.
The statewide bag limit for rainbow trout is five fish with no minimum length requirement. Anglers fishing in a Community Fishing Lake or from a dock, pier, or jetty within a Texas State Park may use no more than two poles. Special regulations apply to sections of the Guadalupe River, and anglers are advised to check local rules before fishing.
Fishing without a license is allowed from a bank, dock, or pier within a Texas State Park. However, adults fishing outside of parks must have a valid license with a freshwater fishing endorsement. Youth under 17 are exempt.
To confirm stocking dates and review fishing regulations, anglers can consult the 2024-25 Trout Stocking Schedule online. Day passes for Texas State Parks are available in advance via the TPWD website or by calling (512) 389-8900.
Rainbow trout can be caught using simple light tackle or fly rods with hand-tied flies. Popular bait options include worms, corn, spinners, spoons, and commercially available pastes. TPWD encourages anglers to bring ice to keep their catch fresh and explore recipes to enjoy this flavorful fish at home.
For more information, visit the TPWD website.
.png)
