Rainbow Trout Season

December 1 through March 31 each year.

See Fishing Regulations for additional restrictions including trout permit requirements.

Rainbow Trout Stocking Program

KDWP stocks rainbow trout in select waters during the winter months when water temperatures can support them. The program is designed entirely for recreational fishing, offering residents and visitors a unique seasonal fishing experience.

Although rainbow trout aren’t native to Kansas, they don’t pose ecological concerns because they can’t survive once water temperatures rise in spring. As conditions warm, the stocked trout naturally die off, preventing long‑term impacts on native fish communities.