MENDOCINO COUNTY, Calif. – The Department of Fish and Game (DFG) will begin planting rainbow trout in Lake Mendocino for the first time this February.

Approximately 15,000 pounds of trout will be put into the lake throughout the winter and early spring, giving anglers an opportunity to enjoy one of the state’s most popular activities.

“There are very few trout fishing opportunities in Mendocino County,” said DFG Environmental Scientist Scott Harris. “We are pleased that we can add Lake Mendocino to the annual allotment list as a winter trout fishery.”

This is the first time that Lake Mendocino has been stocked by DFG. Historically, only the Mill Creek ponds east of Talmage have been stocked during winter and early winter months in Mendocino County.

The triploids will be put in the lake several times during the winter and early spring, the agency said.

To ensure there is a constant supply of fish in the upper East Branch Russian River area, fish will be planted in the East Branch Russian River in Potter Valley from late April to October.

The planted fish are between a half and three-quarter pounds each and are raised at the Darrah Springs Hatchery in Paynes Creek.

Other popular fish species inhabiting the lake include large and smallmouth bass, striped bass, channel catfish and black crappie.

DFG sells approximately 1 million fishing licenses a year. Anyone over the age of 16 must have a valid fishing license in their possession while fishing.

To buy a California fishing license, visit www.dfg.ca.gov/licensing/ols/.

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