Trails to Trout’ Brings Fishing to Tyler’s Nature Center

TYLER – Celebrate the start of the new year by introducing a kid to the Texas winter tradition of rainbow trout fishing. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s (TPWD) “Trails to Trout” fishing days are scheduled for Jan. 4 and Jan. 10 at the Tyler Nature Center.

TPWD will stock 900 rainbow trout at the pond for kids and people of all ages to pursue from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Anglers only need to bring fishing equipment and bait. TPWD will be on hand to assist new anglers and provide limited fishing equipment for those who need it on a first-come, first-served basis. Trout bait will also be available for those who need it and ice will be provided for attendees that choose to harvest their catch.

After a morning of fishing at the pond, folks can explore the rest of the Tyler Nature Center by taking a stroll on one or more outdoor hiking trails to complete the great outdoors experience.

Recommended Equipment: Bring a light-action rod and reel combination with small fishing hooks, light line (6 lb. test or less), small bobbers (optional), and small split shot. For bait, bring salmon eggs, whole kernel corn, marshmallows, small worms or prepared trout bait. Small rooster-tail spinners also work well. If you intend to keep trout, make sure to pack a stringer or small cooler.

TPWD plans to stock 335,048 rainbow trout in Texas across the state through early March. Because rainbow trout are only available during the colder winter months in most areas of Texas, anglers are encouraged to keep up to their daily bag limit of five.

Dates and locations are subject to change due to inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Be sure to check the 2025-26 Trout Stocking Schedule online before going fishing to confirm the stocking date, check fishing regulations and find other winter trout stocking program angling tips.

For more information, contact Jake Norman, TPWD Inland Fisheries Biologist, at (903) 566-1615 x 213.