**Texas Kicks Off Annual Winter Rainbow Trout Stocking, Offering Statewide Fishing Opportunities**
AUSTIN, TX – The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has launched its annual winter rainbow trout stocking program, with approximately 300,000 trout being released into over a hundred locations across the state. The initiative, which began immediately after Thanksgiving with initial stockings on November 28, 29, and 30, aims to provide accessible fishing opportunities throughout the colder months, continuing through early March 2024.
Each rainbow trout released measures between 8 to 9 inches, providing a substantial catch for anglers. The program targets a wide range of sites, including popular Neighborhood Fishin' Program lakes in major metropolitan areas such as Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin, and El Paso, making it convenient for urban families to participate.
Numerous state parks are also receiving fresh trout, including Atlanta, Buescher, Cleburne, Copper Breaks, Fort Boggy, Galveston Island, Goliad, Huntsville, Inks Lake, Lake Mineral Wells, Meridian, Purtis Creek, South Llano River, and Tyler State Park. These stockings leverage the trout's preference for colder water, making them ideal for winter fishing.
Rainbow trout are known for being relatively easy to catch, making the program especially family-friendly and an excellent way to introduce new anglers to the sport. Anglers typically have success with simple gear, a small hook, and common baits like corn, marshmallows, salmon eggs, or red wigglers.
It's important to note that the Guadalupe River, specifically the section below Canyon Dam, operates as a unique year-round trout fishery with its own distinct regulations, separate from these seasonal stocking efforts.
For the most up-to-date information on stocking dates, locations, and fishing regulations, anglers are encouraged to visit the official TPWD website at tpwd.texas.gov. Grab your gear and enjoy some winter fishing!
