2026 Ohio Rainbow Trout Stocking: Dates, Locations and Regulations

Spring fishing season is officially underway in Ohio. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is currently stocking approximately 80,000 rainbow trout across 93 public lakes and ponds statewide. These releases, which began in March and continue through May 2026, provide an excellent opportunity for families to get outdoors and introduce young anglers to the sport.

Stocking Schedule and Key Locations

The 2026 rainbow trout releases are strategically timed to offer anglers opportunities to fish throughout the spring, provided that locations remain ice-free and accessible. The first releases began on March 11 in southeast Ohio, and the final stocking is scheduled for May 16 in Cuyahoga County, which will include a special angler event.

Early Stocking Dates

Several locations received trout in mid-March, including:

• March 11: Barnesville Reservoir (Belmont County) and St. Clairsville Reservoir (Belmont County)
• March 12: Rio Grande Reservoir (Gallia County) and Englewood North Park Pond (Montgomery County)
• March 13: Foundation Park (Knox County), Heritage Park – Palm Pond (Franklin County), Quarry Park (Marion County), Caldwell Lake (Ross County), and Adams Lake (Adams County)
• March 18: Blue Limestone Park (Delaware County)

New for 2026

To expand access, the ODNR has added several new release locations this year, including:

• Boettler Park Pond (Summit County) — the first northeast Ohio release occurred here on March 26
• Meadow Ridge Metro Park’s Mirror Pond (Butler County)
• Restoration Park Pond (Clark County)
• East Palestine Park Pond (Columbiana County)
• Turtle Pond at Countryside Park (Montgomery County)
• Al Lease Park Pond (Portage County)

Fishing Regulations and Licensing

To ensure sustainable fishing and legal compliance, anglers must adhere to state guidelines. According to the ODNR, the daily harvest limit for inland lakes is five trout per angler.

Regarding licensing, all anglers aged 16 and older are required to possess a valid fishing license to seize fish, turtles, or frogs from both public and private property in Ohio. Licensing requirements and specific exemptions are available on the official ODNR website.

Youth Fishing Opportunities

The ODNR emphasizes the importance of introducing young people to the outdoors through specialized stocking events. Some locations feature youth-only fishing days on the date of release.

For State Parks Youth Only Fishing Ponds, the following rules apply:

• First Seven Days: Fishing is restricted to those 15 years traditional and younger.
• Post-Week Period: Ponds open to anglers of all ages from seven days after stocking through April 30, 2026.
• After April 30: These locations return to youth-only fishing until further notice.

About the Rainbow Trout

The trout released by the ODNR are raised at state fish hatcheries. At the time of release, these fish typically measure between 10 and 13 inches. While they start at a catchable size, rainbow trout have significant growth potential; they typically grow to 20 to 23 inches and weigh between 2 and 8 pounds, with some reaching up to 19 pounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if the weather is bad?

Some stocking events may change due to weather conditions. Anglers are encouraged to check for the latest information online or by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE (1-800-945-3543).

Are there restrictions during special events?

Yes, fishing for the general public may be temporarily restricted during special angler events on release dates.