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Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout are not native to Texas, but have become a popular winter fishery through extensive stocking programs by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

These cold-water fish cannot survive Texas' hot summers in most areas, making them primarily a put-and-take fishery.

The notable exception is the Guadalupe River below Canyon Dam, which maintains a consistent 63°F temperature from cold dam releases, supporting the state's only year-round trout population and holdover fish that can reach impressive sizes.

Scientific Name: Oncorhynchus mykiss

Physical Characteristics:
  • In Texas waters, stocked trout typically measure 8-12 inches.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • TPWD stocks over 344,000 rainbow trout annually in approximately 100 locations across the state from December through March.

Key Locations

  • Target the Guadalupe River below Canyon Dam for the best year-round fishing and larger holdover trout.
  • Besides the Guadalupe River, popular stocking locations include the Trinity River, Possum Kingdom tailrace, Frio River, Llano River, Blanco State Park, various neighborhood ponds, and numerous city lakes throughout Texas.

Specific Spots

  • Fish deeper pools and tailrace areas where cold water is released.
  • In stocked ponds and lakes, look for areas with structure, shade, and good water flow.

Rainbow Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Rainbow Trout in Texas?

Effective baits include whole kernel corn, cheese balls, salmon e.g.gs, nightcrawlers, crickets, mealworms, and manufactured trout baits. Artificial lures should be small, with inline spinners (1/32 to 1/8 ounce), small spoons, curly tail jigs, bucktail jigs, and tiny crankbaits proving most effective.

What flies work for Rainbow Trout in Texas?

Productive patterns include Parachute Adams, Purple Haze, Griffith's Gnat (sizes 18-22 for midges), Sparkle Duns, and various emerger patterns.

When is the best time to fish for Rainbow Trout in Texas?

The prime season for rainbow trout fishing in Texas runs from December through March during the stocking period, when water temperatures remain below 70°F.

How do you catch Rainbow Trout in Texas?

Use split-shot or e.g.g sinker rigs with small hooks (#6-#10), avoiding heavy weights near the bait.

What do Rainbow Trout eat?

Rainbow trout in Texas are carnivorous but not exclusively piscivorous, feeding on insects, crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. Hatchery-raised fish initially prefer surface feeding due to their pellet diet. They are sight predators.

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