Rainbow Trout in Louisiana? Yes, you read that right! Beginning on January 10th and continuing throughout the month, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries will stock 17 sites across Louisiana with adult-size Rainbow Trout. Don’t have a boat? No problem! These sites are designed for bank fishing, so grab your gear and head out to a site with family and friends to catch a fish you don’t land every day in the Bayou State.
Now is the only time of year our Get Out & Fish! sites will be stocked with Rainbow Trout, so do not miss this unique opportunity to land one at a community fishing pond near you. While Rainbow Trout are native to rivers and lakes in western North America, their popularity as a sport fish has increased stocking efforts throughout the United States. LDWF stocks this cold-water species when water temperatures cool off during winter months. Anglers are encouraged to keep their catch, so the Rainbow Trout are harvested before temperatures rise.
Anglers 18 and older must possess a Louisiana fishing license when fishing in any Louisiana public waters. Licenses are available for purchase online at https://louisianaoutdoors.com/licenses-and-permits. By purchasing a fishing license, Louisiana receives matching funds from the Sport Fish Restoration Program for public fishing and boating access, fishing programs, education, and fisheries management.
For additional stocking information, including specific locations, the stocking schedule, and tips and tricks to catch Rainbow Trout, follow us on Facebook and Instagram (@ldwfgetoutandfish) or visit our program website at www.wlf.louisiana.gov/GOF.
The Get Out & Fish! Program is funded by the Sport Fish Restoration Fund, a USFWS grant program that provides grant funds to the states, the District of Columbia and insular areas fish and wildlife agencies for fishery projects, boating access and aquatic education.
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana’s abundant natural resources. Help us protect your hunting and fishing heritage while preserving habitat, wildlife, and aquatic resources by purchasing your license at www.wlf.la.gov. To receive email or text alerts signup here.
For more information on the Get Out & Fish! Program, visit www.wlf.louisiana.gov/GOF or email GOF@wlf.la.gov.