🏞️THE GUADALUPE IS CALLING

If you're a Texas angler, you probably know what happens when the temperatures finally start to drop.

The rods come out. The waders get dug out of the closet. You start checking the weather a little more than usual.

Trout season is coming.

Every winter, Texas Parks and Wildlife stocks rainbow trout across the state, giving anglers a chance to chase a fish that most people don't expect to find in Texas. And for us, one place stands out above the rest: the Guadalupe River.

The Guadalupe below Canyon Lake is one of the most unique trout fisheries in Texas. The cool water coming out of Canyon Lake allows rainbow trout to stick around much longer than they can in most Texas waters.

And when the winter stockings start, things get interesting.

The Guadalupe Is Worth the Drive

There's something different about standing in the Guadalupe in the middle of winter with a fly rod in your hand.

You're surrounded by Texas Hill Country, the water is cold, and somewhere in that current is a rainbow trout that wasn't there a few weeks earlier.

The Guadalupe isn't just about catching stocked trout and heading home. It's about figuring out the river.

Where are the fish holding?

What are they eating?

How is the water moving?

What worked yesterday that suddenly doesn't work today?

That's the fun part.

You Don't Need a Crazy Setup

One of the best things about Texas trout season is that you don't need a ridiculous amount of gear to get started.

A light fly rod, a few proven patterns, some leader and tippet, and a willingness to spend some time on the water can get you into fish.

And if fly fishing isn't your thing, that's fine too. Trout don't care what kind of rod you're holding.

The point is getting out there.

Know the Rules

Before you head to the Guadalupe, make sure you check the current TPWD regulations. The river has special trout regulations in certain sections, and those rules can differ depending on where you're fishing.

TPWD also recommends checking the current stocking schedule before making a trip because stocking dates and locations can change. The upcoming season's schedule is expected to be published later in the year.

Know the water you're fishing. Know the regulations. Then go have some fun.

We're Ready for It

Trout season is one of those things that gives you an excuse to get outside when it's easy to stay inside.

Grab your gear.

Find some cold water.

Throw a few flies.

Maybe catch a trout. Maybe get skunked.

Either way, you'll probably come home already thinking about the next trip.

That's what fishing is about.

New water. New fish. New memories.

We'll see you out there. 🎣