Here is a word from a local fly shop, Living Waters in Round Rock. Please take note of good practice on handling of any fish, and water temps. This really applies to the trout here, if you handle them too much, catch them in warm water, hold them out of the water, you are killing them. Never ever put your fingers into their gills, or hold them by their lips. Good practice and care year around will mean more fish all year. Pictures at the bottom.
Stop by Action Angler’s shop at the third crossing, or check their web site for update’s and to book a guide. The shop is open now, Wed thru the weekend, closed Monday and Tuesday till November. We have a wade access point for $10.00. Action Angler or call 830-708-3474. I really think this could be one of those banner years, so if you want a guided trip, I would go to the above link and use the book now button and get in before it fills up.
The GRTU Lease Access Program sold out in just six days and the weather is starting to cool off which can only mean one thing…. our unofficial Texas trout season is just around the corner!
(PLEASE READ BELOW!)
So, just to get you even more excited, check out these photos from the last week on the Guadalupe River.
All of the fish pictured were caught in water temps below 70 degrees, were played/released quickly, and never lifted from the water for photos.
We saw plenty of large holdover trout (browns and rainbows) and lots of small 4-6in. wild rainbows as well! As the weather cools off even more we won’t have to worry about this near as much, but PLEASE if you intend to target trout in the near future here are some recommendations to live by:
1. Do not target trout when the water temp is 70 degrees fahrenheit or above! Switch species and chase sunfish, bass, and striper if the water gets too warm.
2. Always carry a water thermometer and use it often! Check surface temps near the main current for accurate readings. If the water is too warm, simply head well upstream to cooler water or pursue other species.
3. When taking pictures of trout during our summer/fall air temps, please do not lift the fish out of the water. Grip and grins are for cooler temps. Keep your fish in the water at all times if possible.
4. Use a net. This helps the fish recover and keeps handling to a minimum. It makes picture taking a breeze as well.
5. Fight fish quickly. Everyone loves a good fish fight, but during higher water/air temps put the pressure on. The brown trout pictured was caught on Tenkara and was in the net in well under a minute. Play them fast and you will ensure a healthy release.
We are looking forward to a fantastic trout season and could not be more thrilled at the current condition of our Guadalupe trout. So, as the temps drop, go enjoy your local trout fishery but remember to check temps before/while you fish and treat your catch with the utmost respect! See you on the water!
