Guide To Finding Great Trout Fishing Locations In Texas

All about fishing for rainbow, brook and brown trout in area lakes and streams.

Texas provides unique opportunities for trout fishing, with several species and diverse fishing locations across the state. Rainbow trout and brown trout are the primary trout species found in Texas. Rainbow trout are often stocked in selected rivers and lakes, providing anglers with exciting angling experiences. These acrobatic fish are known for their dazzling colors and strong fights once hooked. Brown trout, on the other hand, are typically found in colder waters, such as tailwaters below dams. They offer a greater challenge for anglers due to their wariness and selective feeding habits.

Texas offers various lakes and rivers for trout fishing. The Guadalupe River, flowing through the Texas Hill Country, is one of the most popular destinations. It is stocked with rainbow trout during the winter months, providing anglers with an opportunity to catch these beautiful fish. Other rivers like the Frio River and the Llano River also offer trout fishing opportunities.

In addition to rivers, Texas has several lakes that support trout populations. Lake Texoma is renowned for its striped bass fishing but also offers a limited trout fishery. Lakes such as Lake Buchanan and Lake Somerville receive periodic trout stockings, attracting anglers seeking a change of pace from warm water fishing.

Texas boasts impressive state records for trout. The current state record for rainbow trout stands at over 8 pounds, caught in the Nueces River. For brown trout, the state record exceeds 7 pounds, caught in the Guadalupe River. These records showcase the potential for landing remarkable trout specimens in the Lone Star State.

Whether you prefer targeting rainbow trout in rivers or pursuing brown trout in cooler waters, Texas offers a range of opportunities for trout fishing. From the scenic rivers of the Texas Hill Country to the stocked lakes scattered throughout the state, anglers can enjoy the thrill of catching these prized fish. With the chance to break state records and the serene beauty of the fishing locations, Texas trout fishing is an enticing prospect for both avid anglers and those looking to explore a different angling experience.

Trout Waters

Major lakes with trout include Lake Corpus Christi, Lake Meredith and Lake Travis.

Other lakes, parks, ponds and rivers also contain stocked trout. Click here for a schedule of trout stocking in texas.

Watch trout fishing videos to see trout anglers in action.

Click the images and links above for species details.

Select the best trout lures and baits

Trout spinners, crankbaits and jerkbaits work well for shallow, reasonably active fish. Salmon eggs, worms and prepared baits will work at virtually all depths.

The state record rainbow trout was taken from the Nueces River.

The Guadalupe River produced the state record brook trout and the state record brown trout.

Additional trout information

The 5 primary trouts are the rainbow, brook, brown, cutthroat and lake trout. Browns are considered the most difficult to catch and brookies are the easiest. Pure cold water is key to survival of the trouts.

Trout Conservation
Trout Unlimited

Trout locations and info, by state.