The Department of Fish and Game (DFG) will stock rainbow trout and catfish in the San Francisco Bay Area this month. More than 37,000 pounds of rainbow trout — some as large as one pound each — and catfish up to two pounds each will be stocked in lakes during December. In addition to trout stocked from DFG hatcheries, DFG’s Fishing in the City program will contribute catchable fish purchased from private fish rearing facilities to Bay Area lakes.

“We want to create opportunities for families to spend quality time together enjoying each other and the time-honored tradition of fishing,” says Eric Larson, Biological Programs Manager for DFG’s Bay Delta Region. “Fishing, like most other outdoor pursuits, helps keep people connected to the natural environment. This is a simple, inexpensive way to enjoy time together.”

A fishing license is required of all anglers age 16 or older and all fishing regulations apply. Some lakes may require a daily fishing permit.

The enhanced stocking is coordinated through DFG’s Fishing in the City (FIC) program. Since 1993, FIC has worked to increase fishing opportunities near where people live and work. This is accomplished though enhanced stocking, habitat improvement and holding learn-to-fish clinics with community partners. FIC is funded by the National Sportfish Restoration Fund, through an excise tax on the sale of fishing tackle and motor boat fuel.

The following lakes will be stocked as a part of this special program (listings include county, lake and number of pounds planted):

Dec. 1-5
DFG Hatchery Trout (1/2 pound per fish)

Dec. 8-12
DFG Hatchery Trout (1/2 pound per fish)

Dec. 15-19
DFG Hatchery trout (1/2 pound per fish)

Dec. 15-19
1.5-2 Pound Catfish FIC

Dec 15-19
1 Pound Trout FIC

Dec. 22-26
DFG Hatchery Trout (1/2 pound per fish)

Dec. 27
1 pound Rainbow Trout FIC

For more information, visit the Fishing in the City Web site at www.fishinginthecity.org. For an up-to-date list of fish planting, visit www.dfg.ca.gov/fish/Hatcheries/FishPlanting/BayDelta.asp.