Today marks the beginning of a Texas winter tradition as we begin stocking thousands of easy-to-catch, tasty rainbow trout in ponds, lakes and rivers across the state.

Any age or skill level can enjoy the thrill of fishing for rainbows. To increase your chances of success, our biologist created a video with 6 tips for catching rainbow trout. 

TPWD plans to stock 343,331 rainbow trout in Texas from Nov. 22 through March 1. Because rainbow trout are unable to survive in most areas of Texas after winter, due to the warm water temperatures, anglers are encouraged to keep up to their daily bag limit of 5 trout. Exceptions exist within special trout management zones on the Guadalupe River downstream of Canyon Lake, which often remains cool enough for rainbow trout to survive year-round. So get out there with your friends and family, spend time outdoors, enjoy the crisp air, and catch some feisty, colorful trout!

If you’re new to trout fishing, watch these rainbow trout cleaning and cooking videos for tips on what to do with your catch.

Neighborhood Fishin’ lakes offer families and other new anglers in and around big cities some of the best opportunities to catch rainbow trout. These lakes are frequently stocked during the  season and offer plenty of amenities so anglers of all ages can enjoy a fun and relaxing day fishing and connecting in nature.

Trout will also be stocked at several Texas state parks throughout Texas. Many state parks offer excellent fishing amenities such as fishing piers and shoreline access, cleaning stations, and equipment rentals for tackle and kayaks or canoes. As a bonus, anglers don't need a fishing license to fish within a Texas state park. 

Reserving a day pass in advance of your visit to a Texas state park is highly recommended since parks are operating at limited capacity and many will reach their capacity limit. Day passes can be reserved online or by calling (512) 389-8900.

We will be stocking rainbow trout below several dams and spillways, which often have very cool water and provide excellent conditions for trout fishing.

This year, rainbow trout will be stocked into the Canyon Tailrace on the Guadalupe River below Canyon Lake, the Brazos River downstream of Possum Kingdom Lake, portions of the Frio and South Llano rivers, and in the Clear Fork of the Trinity River.