Hailey
Fishing lovers in Emporia are getting a fresh reason to visit the water this winter. Emporia’s King Lake will soon receive a big batch of rainbow trout, opening up an exciting chance for both new and experienced anglers.
If you enjoy calm mornings, fresh air, and the fun of catching colorful trout, this update is for you. Below is a clear and simple breakdown of what is happening at the lake, why it matters, and the rules every visitor must follow.
Rainbow Trout Arrive at King Lake
Emporia State University (ESU) has confirmed that 1,500 rainbow trout will be added to King Lake as part of a special winter fishing season. The first stocking will happen on December 1, giving anglers early access to the new fish.
King Lake is located right on the ESU campus and has been open for public fishing since April 2022. Since then, it has quickly become a favorite spot for students, families, and community members who enjoy peaceful outdoor activities.
ESU and Kansas Wildlife Department Team Up
To make this winter season more exciting, ESU is partnering with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks to bring trout to the community. This partnership ensures that the trout are healthy, well-managed, and available in good numbers throughout the season.
Three stockings in total will take place:
- December
- January
- February
By the end of the project, nearly 1,050 pounds of rainbow trout will be swimming in the lake.
Why This Trout Stocking Matters
More Fishing Opportunities for Local Anglers
Adding trout to King Lake is great news for anyone who loves fishing. Rainbow trout are colorful, active, and fun to catch. They also prefer cool water, which makes winter the perfect time to enjoy trout fishing in Kansas.
Good for Beginners and Families
Trout are known for being beginner-friendly. This makes King Lake a great place for:
- Students learning to fish
- Families looking for outdoor activities
- Local anglers who want easy access to stocked fish
- Anyone wanting to try a new hobby without traveling far
Important Rules for Trout Season
Before you grab your rod and head out, ESU reminds all visitors to follow the rules. These rules help protect the lake and ensure fair access for all anglers.
Key Trout Season Rules
Here is a simple table with all the important details:
| Rule | Detail |
|---|---|
| Trout Season Dates | December 1 – March 31 |
| Permit Requirement | A trout permit is required for all anglers |
| Daily Catch Limit | Maximum 5 trout per person per day |
Not following these rules can lead to penalties, so it’s important to plan ahead before fishing.
What Makes Rainbow Trout Special?
Colorful and Energetic
Rainbow trout are known for their bright colors and lively movement. This makes fishing more exciting, especially for younger anglers watching the fish jump and swim.
Great for Winter Fishing
Trout thrive in colder temperatures, which is why the stocking happens during the winter months.
A Popular Choice Across Kansas
With cooler weather arriving, several lakes across Kansas are entering their ideal fishing conditions. Trout is one of the most popular winter species for local anglers.
The plan to stock 1,500 rainbow trout in Emporia’s King Lake is exciting news for the whole community. Whether you are an experienced angler or just learning the basics, this seasonal event offers a safe, enjoyable, and easy way to spend time outdoors.
With three trout stockings scheduled from December through February, plenty of fish will be available for months. Just remember to follow the rules, get your trout permit, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of winter fishing.