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 6th, 2025 (1750 fish) and one on January 21st, 2026 (1000-plus fish ). A total of 2750-plus fish are released each season. TPWD often donates surplus trout to WinterFisch, so the total number varies each year.
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 9th Annual Mason County WinterFisch 2025/2026 Season runs from December 6th, 2025 through March 1st, 2026.
WinterFisch 2025/2026 kicks off on December 6th, 2025 with the WinterFisch Celebration that includes the release of 1750 trout, guidance, instruction, loaner poles, a variety of fishing and outdoor demos, music, fish cooking, campfires, and live music. A second release of 1000-plus trout release will occur on January 21st, 2026,
When will the trout be released?
The first release is scheduled for December 6th, 2025. The second release is January 21st, 2026.
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 in 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. This location is only 8 miles from the town of Mason, TX.
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 participate in the fishing event, please contact event managers to see what accommodation can be made.
How much do the Rainbow Trout cost?
Trout are $2.00 each for the 2025/2026 season. 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 trout! 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 March 1st, 2026.
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 in Merlin’s Cabin at Riversounds on the Llano River near Castell, TX.
4. Galveston Day Sailing Adventure.
5. $250 Gift Certificate from Lowe’s Markets.
6. Custom Enameled Rainbow Trout Art Piece from Watermelon Dreams.
I caught a golden trout! What does that mean?
Some Rainbow trout have a color mutation that makes them the color of a goldfish. These trout are often called Palominos, or Lightnings. WinterFisch has a special prize category for golden trout. The first five golden trout submitted each season are eligible to receive a $100 gift certificate from one of our select sponsors.
How do I claim my prize for a tagged or golden trout?
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, Bonnie Hunter, Cody & Heather Schoenfeld, and Forrest West.
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.