Rainbow Trout are Being Released at a Lake Near You in 2024
Get ready to reel in some serious fun because the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife is about to make a splash! They’re unleashing a whopping 85,000 rainbow trout into waterways all across the state starting on Wednesday, March 13.
With 95 special stocking spots carefully selected, anglers from every corner of Ohio will have the chance to hook these spirited swimmers throughout March, April, and May. It’s a trout-tastic opportunity designed to make every angler’s heart race with excitement and every fisherman’s net overflow with success!
Want to know more?
Find a complete list of release dates and locations at ohiodnr.gov/troutstockings or you can call 1-800-WILDLIFE (1-800-945-3543).
Interested in upping your fishing game? The ODNR has a fantastic article on fishing techniques. You can find that at wildohio.gov.
Did you know Ohio released Rainbow Trout? Want to find out other reasons to fish in ohio? Read my post on Why you should be fishing in Ohio.
Youth Fishing Rainbow Trout Release
Are you ready for some reel excitement because at certain trout stocking spots, there’s more than just fishing – it’s a full-on party!
Picture this: special events happening right on the day of the trout release, complete with youth-only fishing extravaganzas! And hey, if you’re 16 or younger, you’ve got the golden ticket to fish like a boss at state park youth ponds for a whole week after the trout release. But don’t worry, folks of all ages can join in on the fun. Then, come May 1, it’s back to kid-powered fishing frenzy at those ponds for the rest of the year! It’s like a fishing fiesta that never ends!
Fishing at state park youth ponds is only available for youth 16 years of age and younger. Only for the first seven days once trout release is complete. After that week, these waters are open to anglers of all ages through the end of April. On May 1, these ponds return to providing youth-only fishing for the rest of the year.
Rainbow Trout
Where and When
Rainbow trout are stocked throughout Ohio. A few of the most popular fishing locations are:
- Central Ohio: Antrim Lake, Whetstone Park, Heritage Park Pond, Sunbury Upground Reservoir, and Delaware State Park Pond
- Northwest Ohio: East Harbor State Park Pond, Giertz Lake, Maumee Bay State Park Nature Center Pond, Olander Lake, Pearson Metropark Ponds, and Sleepy Hollow Park Pond
- Northeast Ohio: Beartown Lake, Brushwood Lake, Little Turtle Pond, Munroe Falls Lake, Rowland Nature Preserve Lake, and Westlake Nature Center Pond
- Southeast Ohio: Buckeye Park Lake, Forked Run, Penrod Lake, Rose Lake, St. Clairsville Reservoir, Turkey Creek Lake, and Yoctangee Park Lake
- Southwest Ohio: Adams Lake, Caesar Creek Youth Pond, Cowan Lake Youth Pond, Home of the Brave Park Pond, Rocky Fork State Park Beach Pond, Rush Run Lake, and Sycamore State Park Pond
The Division of Wildlife isn’t just stocking waterways. They’re stocking up on smiles and memories! With rainbow trout aplenty.
Anglers of all ages can dive into some top-notch spring fishing fun. All done in a setting that’s perfect for the whole family. And guess what? You’re allowed to catch up to five of these beauties each day – talk about a fishing jackpot!
These rainbow trout aren’t just any old fish. They’re raised with love at Ohio’s coldwater state fish hatcheries. Then released when they measure a cool 10-13 inches. Plus, they’re strategically dropped off near bustling city hubs. So you don’t have to venture far for your fishing fix.
But here’s the scoop: these trout prefer the chill, so the best time to nab ’em is within two weeks of their release. It’s like a treasure hunt, but with fins and fun!
Rules
Anglers ages 16 and older must have an Ohio fishing license to fish in Ohio public waters. An annual license is $25 and is valid for one year after purchase. A one-day fishing license costs $14. If you buy a one pass you may redeem it for credit toward the purchase of a one-year fishing license. Licenses and permits can be purchased online at wildohio.gov, through the HuntFish OH app, and at participating licensed sales agents.
Want a step by step guide to getting your fishing license? Check out my guide and make sure you’ve done at right.
How To Get Your Ohio Fishing License
Hold onto your hats, folks, because the magic behind those fin-tastic fishing moments is none other than the powerhouse combo of fishing licenses sales and the federal Sport Fish Restoration program! Together, they’re the dynamic duo fueling the operation of the Division of Wildlife’s fish hatcheries.
It’s a tag team effort between the federal and state governments, the fishing industry, and of course, us passionate anglers and boaters. It’s like a big, fishy family coming together to ensure we all have a splashin’ good time out on the water!
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks! With rainbow trout galore, special fishing events, and the support of fishing licenses and the Sport Fish Restoration program, the Division of Wildlife is making sure every angler has a whale of a time out on the water.
From reeling in rainbow trout to creating cherished family memories, it’s all about the thrill of the catch and the joy of the great outdoors. So grab your gear, gather your loved ones, and get ready for a fishing adventure like no other. The water’s calling, and the fish are waiting – let’s make some waves and reel in the fun!
Get out and Go Hunt Ohio!
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