What is Mason County WinterFisch (WinterFisch)?
WinterFisch is a free (sponsored) Rainbow Trout fishing opportunity in participation with the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD) statewide winter Rainbow trout fishing program.
https://tpwd.texas.gov/fishboat/fish/management/stocking/trout_stocking.phtml
WinterFisch involves two releases of Rainbow trout, one on December 7th, 2024 (1500 fish) and one on January 15th, 2025 (1000 fish). A total of 2500 fish are released each season.
Why WinterFisch?
WinterFisch provides a fishing opportunity during a time of the year when native fish are less active. The program is intended to engage families in the outdoors through the sport of fishing.
In addition to providing a fun and engaging outdoor activity for area residents it is intended that the event attract visitors to Mason County in support of local businesses.
When is WinterFisch?
The 8th Annual Mason County WinterFisch 2024/2025 Season runs from December 7th,2024 through February 28th, 2025.
WinterFisch 2024/2025 kicks off on December 7th, 2024 with the WinterFisch Celebration that includes the release of 1500 trout, guidance, instruction, loaner poles, a variety of fishing and outdoor demos, music, fish cooking, campfires, and live music. A second release of 1000 trout release will occur on January 15th, 2025,
When will the trout be released?
The first release is scheduled for December 7th, 2024. The second release is January 15th, 2025.
TPWD’s complete Rainbow Trout Release Schedule can be found at https://tpwd.texas.gov/fishboat/fish/management/stocking/trout_stocking.phtml?s=o.
Where does WinterFisch happen?
Mason County WinterFisch is held n Mason County, Texas along the banks of the island, downstream and upstream of the bridge over the Llano River at the James River Crossing on State Highway 2389. This crossing is often called Dos Rios as it is where the James River meets the Llano River. Fishing may also be done at Dos Rios RV Park and Campground and the James River Icehouse during open hours. Entry fees apply at Dos Rios RV Park and Campground.
Other Rainbow trout releases occur near Mason at various times during the season, including Llano, Castell, Junction, and the South Llano River State Park, and Brady.
https://dosriosrvpark.com
https://www.facebook.com/jamesrivericehouse
Is the event site ADA compliant?
The event site is not ADA compliant as it is on the natural riverbank, which is very rocky and uneven. If you have mobility restrictions and wish to partake in the fishing event, please contact event managers to see what accommodations can be made.
How much do the Rainbow Trout cost?
Trout are $1.75 each for the 2024/2025season. This price is subject to change each season. The price includes delivery.
Who pays for WinterFisch?
Our wonderful and generous SPONSORS! – WinterFisch is made possible by the very generous support of many Mason County, Gillespie County, and at-large sponsors. Please visit FishTheLlano.com for a complete list. Be sure to visit and thank our sponsors. We are always looking for additional sponsorship! Contact Tony Plutino at info@FishTheLlano.com or 512-496-2020 to learn how to become a sponsor.
I caught a tagged fish! What does that mean?
Some trout are tagged with red and yellow tags and fishers who reel these in are eligible for cash prizes. Red Tag – $40. Yellow Tag – $20.
Red and yellow tag submitters will be automatically entered into a Grand Prize Drawing. The drawing will be held in the week after WinterFisch ends on February 28th, 2024.
What are the Grand Prizes?
1. Fly Fishing Rod & Reel Combo donated by Living Waters Fly Fishing of Round Rock, Texas.
2. Two-night cabin stay at Dos Rios RV Park and Campground on the Llano River at Hwy. 2389.
3. Two-night cabin stay at The Fish Camp on the Llano River at Hwy 87.
4. Galveston Day Sailing Adventure
5. $250 Gift Certificate from Lowe’s Markets – Mason
How do I claim my prize for a tagged fish?
Take your picture with your tagged fish if possible. Keep the tag. Contact: Tony Plutino at info@FishTheLlano.com or 512-496-2020.
What do I catch the trout with?
Fly fishing – Your favorite fly. Match with conditions.
Spin & Crank – Kernel corn – Marshmallows – Power Bait – Small spoons & Rooster tails.
For more tips on catching Rainbow trout please click here: https://tpwd.texas.gov/publications/pwdpubs/media/pwd_rp_t3200_1692.pdf
I think I might have a record fish. Who do I contact about Fish Records?
Don Gray is the official TPWD record keeper for Mason County, Texas. Contact Don at donaldkgray@gmail.com or 512-496-3583.
For all State of Texas fishing records visit TPWD at https://tpwd.texas.gov/fishboat/fish/programs/fishrecords/recordsearch.phtml
Will these fish breed?
No. Rainbow trout will not survive in water above 70F and do not breed in Texas lakes or streams. The exception is a small area of perennially cold water released from Canyon Dam on the Guadalupe River.
Are these Rainbow trout harmful to native fish and other flora and fauna?
No. TPWD biologists have determined that there is no harmful interaction between stocked Rainbow Trout and native flora and fauna.
How much does it cost to fish for the stocked trout?
There is no charge for fishing for the stocked trout, but a valid Texas Fishing License is needed.
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes. All fishers 17 and older must have a valid Texas Fishing License.
Minors under 17 may fish for free.
Where can I buy a Texas Fishing License?
Texas Fishing Licenses can be purchased in Mason at:
Lowes Markets 325-347-5906 Event Sponsor
Mason Feed Store 325-347-6381 Event Sponsor
Visit TPWD online for additional locations or to purchase online.
https://tpwd.texas.gov/business/licenses/online_sales
I don’t have a rod and reel. What can I do?
Loaner poles for you and your group are available by contacting Tony Plutino at info@FishTheLlano.com or 512-496-3583.
Is there a daily bag limit or are there other regulations?
Yes. No minimum length. Daily bag = 5 trout.
Please click here for TPWD rules and regulations regarding stocked Rainbow trout fishing.
https://tpwd.texas.gov/fishboat/fish/management/stocking/trout_stocking.phtml
Does WinterFisch have a website and social media presence?
Yes, please visit and share to and from these sites.
FishTheLlano.com
https://www.facebook.com/WinterFisch
https://www.instagram.com/winterfisch_mason_county
Who produces WinterFisch?
Tony Plutino, owner of Llano River Region Adventures, created the event and is the primary organizer. The WinterFisch Team is Tony Plutino, Don Gray, Pete Munoz, Robert Rayburn, Terry “Buck” Pittsford, and Bonnie Hunter.
I have a question about Mason County WinterFisch.
I want to Volunteer.
I want to Sponsor.
I want to demo at the WinterFisch Celebration.
Who do I contact?
Contact Tony Plutino at info@FishTheLlano.com or 512-496-2020.