Rainbow trout stocked at community ponds statewide

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) stocked seven water bodies around the state yesterday, Jan. 21, with 2,300 pounds of adult-size rainbow trout.

This effort is part of the department’s Get Out and Fish! program, which makes it easy for families to be introduced to a successful fishing trip. These fish are easy to catch and the ponds are near neighborhoods, so the LDWF hopes this will be a great opportunity for families to get hooked on fishing.

Ponds were stocked at each of the following locations:

In addition to the 2,300 pounds of rainbow trout that were stocked yesterday, another 2,100 pounds of trout were stocked in other ponds throughout the state on Jan. 14, for a total of 4,400 pounds.

This is the only time of year the Get Out and Fish! sites are stocked with rainbow trout. Rainbow trout are native to rivers and lakes in western North America; yet, due to their popularity, these fish have been introduced throughout the United States through stocking efforts. When water temperatures are cool during winter months, our ponds and lakes can support the cold-water fish.

Anglers 16 and older must possess a Louisiana fishing license when fishing in any Louisiana public waters. Licenses are available for purchase online at https://la-web.s3licensing.com. By purchasing a fishing license, Louisiana receives matching funds from the Sport Fish Restoration Program for public fishing and boating access, fishing programs and education and fisheries management.

For additional information on the program, follow @ldwfgetoutandfish on Facebook or visit their program website.