Fishing at Toledo Bend Reservoir, Texas
185,000-acre reservoir · Newton County · 172 ft elevation · 2 species stocked
Toledo Bend Reservoir sits at 172 feet — low-elevation, warmer-water in Newton County, Texas, covering 185,000 acres of reservoir water. The state stocked the lake most recently on October 11, 2025, with 1,759 channel catfish averaging 4.3 inches. It's been an active stocking water since at least 1985, and the recent records below tell you what's been planted and when.
Recent Stocking Reports
The most recent 5 stocking events on record for Toledo Bend Reservoir:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 11, 2025 | 🐟 Channel Catfish | 1,759 | 4.3″ |
| Aug 31, 2025 | 🐟 Channel Catfish | 3,499 | 10.7″ |
| May 26, 2025 | 🐟 Blue Catfish | 1,609 | 2.9″ |
| May 23, 2025 | 🐟 Blue Catfish | 1,633 | 10.3″ |
| Apr 3, 2024 | 🐟 Channel Catfish | 3,909 | 12.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
- 🐟 Channel Catfish — best in summer
- 🐟 Blue Catfish — best in summer, winter
Where to Catch Channel Catfish in Texas
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Toledo Bend Reservoir, the state-level guide ranks the top lakes by stocking volume — a good supplement to this page when planning a trip:
Best Time to Fish Toledo Bend Reservoir
For channel catfish, the best fishing on Toledo Bend Reservoir is typically in summer, when surface temperatures fall in the 70–85°F range. That window matches the active feeding period for the species and aligns with reservoir thermal turnover, putting fish in predictable depths and structure. Check the recent stocking dates above — fish are easiest to locate in the first two to four weeks after a planting.
Gear Recommendations
Curated picks for the species stocked in Toledo Bend Reservoir. Links go to Amazon — as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
- rod: Medium-heavy 7' catfish rod
- reel: Catfish baitcaster
- rod: Heavy 7'6" catfish rod
- reel: Heavy baitcasting reel
Nearby Lakes
Other stocked waters within ~75 miles of Toledo Bend Reservoir:
- Sam Rayburn Reservoir — 21.8 mi (114,500 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Texas fishing license is required at Toledo Bend Reservoir. Buy one online and check current regulations at the Texas Parks and Wildlife. Always confirm seasonal closures, size limits, and creel limits before fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fish are stocked in Toledo Bend Reservoir?
Toledo Bend Reservoir has been stocked with Channel Catfish, Blue Catfish.
When was Toledo Bend Reservoir last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Oct 11, 2025, when 1,759 channel catfish were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Toledo Bend Reservoir?
Yes — a valid Texas fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Texas Parks and Wildlife.