Seasonal (Winter) Stocking of Rainbow Trout

Since the early 1990's, winter stocking of rainbow trout has become increasingly popular in the central and especially the southern states. When the water temperature cools into the mid to low 60's, rainbow trout can be stocked as a fun put-and-take sport fish into ponds, lakes and private streams. In the spring, invite your friends and neighbors over to catch as many rainbow trout as possible because as the water warms ("book lethal" temperature is 75 degrees) the rainbows will die. The good fishing falls off fast once the temperature reaches 70 degrees.

Crystal Lake Fisheries delivers live trout into most of the mid-western and southern states, even into southern Texas. For smaller orders, we work hard to combine several customers into a single delivery, thereby sharing the delivery charges.

Stocking rates vary depending on so many variables, but as a general guideline, stocking from 100 to 300 pounds per acre provides good fishing. In special circumstances, we have stocked more and even less than this suggestion. Smaller ponds will provide you with the opportunity to catch a larger percentage of the trout (fewer places to hide).

Usually, if other fish are living in the water, the trout will do fine. Remember, trout are used for water quality testing and are sensitive to poor water quality.

Feeding is not necessary, but it is a fun, recreational activity. If trout feed is not available from your local feed store, it is okay to use a high protein catfish feed. This won't totally balance their diet, but they will eat enough natural feed to do just fine. If you would like, Silver Cup Fish Feed can UPS single bags of trout feed to you. You can contact them at www.silvercup.com or 800-521-9092.

Normally, stocking in private waters have no limitations, but stocking in public waters, if permissible, usually requires a permit. Some states have import and certification requirements. Check with your state Fish and Game Department or call us and we will share what information we have for your area.