Trout fishing, star party planned
By Melinda L. Lucas
The public is invited to the Fort Griffin State Historical Site this Saturday to go fishing for rainbow trout in what is expected to be sunny weather, tour the fort, and then stay to view the night sky through the high powered telescopes of several astronomers.
“As part of an annual rainbow trout stocking program conducted by Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPWD), we will be stocking our fishing pond with rainbow trout again this winter,” said program specialist Eric Abercrombie. “In an effort to help the public take advantage of this great fishing opportunity, we will be hosting our first trout-fishing day of the winter on Saturday, Dec. 14.”
A Fort Griffin staff member will be available on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. to provide instruction and assistance for families who attend the trout-fishing day.
In addition to the unique opportunity to fish for rainbow trout, there will also be golf carts available for visitors who want to take a self-guided tour of the historic military fort, and there is camping available across the highway from the fort and fishing pond.
“For those interested in fishing for native species, the campground is bordered by the Clear Fork of the Brazos River, which offers year round fishing for our visitors,” said Abercrombie. “There are also native fish in our pond, so you could catch natives there as well.”
The recommended fishing bait for trout is canned corn placed on a very small hook, according to Abercrombie.
“We found that the best location for catching the trout has been in the deeper portions of the pond, which is mostly near the dam,” he added. “Bring some sinkers, small hooks, rod and reel, and a can of corn and you will be all set for fishing for rainbow trout at Fort Griffin this winter.”
Winter Star Party
The park is also hosting its annual Winter Star Party on Saturday evening, Dec. 14, at 6:30 p.m.
“Plan to stick around for some great night time viewing of the stars,” the program specialist said. “Local area astronomers will be out to share their knowledge of the night skies, telescopes, and other astronomy equipment with you. You will have the opportunity to see planets, nebulas, distant galaxies, our own galaxy, and much more!”
The star party will be held in the museum parking lot, and the museum will be open for visitors.
For more information visit www.visitfortgriffin.com or call 325-762-3592.
