From West Memphis, Arkansas to several cities in West Tennessee, now is a great time to catch trout. The state wildlife agencies in Arkansas and Tennessee have stocked trout in various lakes and will continue to do so over the next couple of months.
According to AGFC community fisheries biologist Clifton Jackson, specific locations as well as angling tips can be found by visiting www.agfc.com or by calling the convenient 24-hour stocking hotline at (866) 540-FISH. Jackson says. "Many of these locations will be stocked monthly or on a bi-weekly basis," he added.
"Trout do very well and are very active in the cold water temperatures," Jackson said. Trout will be stocked until March, but winter water temperatures will allow trout to persist at least until April or May. Studies being conducted at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff indicate that catch rates are above average and that about 96 percent of the fish are harvested, Jackson noted.
The seasonal trout opportunities have offered some convenient winter fishing opportunities where inner-city anglers can enjoy great angling opportunities within a 10 or 15-minute drive. "This is our fifth consecutive year of offering winter trout fishing opportunities. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission's Jim Hinkle Spring River Fish Hatchery will stock the trout. "These fish are fed high protein diets and make excellent, healthy table fare" Jackson stated.
You can also go to the TWRA website at www.tnwildlife.org for a list of area lakes and the trout stocking schedule in West Tennessee.
Please check with your state to make sure you have the correct license and permits to fish for trout in these states.