I just got a trot line for the first time. Some of the places I want to use it do not have very many objects to tie it to, and TPWD website states metallic stakes are illegal. What are some good ideas to anchor it?

block of cement works for us in a pinch

If you can drive it,if the water is shallow enough just use a sappling and drive it with a rubber hammer.

I also recommend using concrete....like a drop line with a bigger weight ...connecting the main line somewhere close to the weight of the drop line with a float...then a middle weight. I also recommend this time of year to make the trot line parallel to the bank covering drainage to the main depth. I also would make the hooks six foot apart...bait up with live and cut bait(shad). The hooks would be circle hooks with a offset bend, which would have to be done by you. The real fun is getting two catfish one hook apart weighing 40 pounds each. You will get wet..real fun.
Have fun...trot lines ARE a lot of fun. The trot line can be anything you make and still fun to run. I just thought I would tell ya what I use..not trying to be a know it all just trying to help.

Thanks for the tips!

Workout weights have worked good for us.

Check out this Link

http://www.catfishin.net/trotlining.htm

Looks like a proper trotline takes a little site study/prep and engineering.

A big PINA to run/set them like above

cinder block

On my "Planter" trotlines, I use 3.5 gallon buckets filled with concrete for anchors. Depending upon where you stop the fill line, they will weigh between 60 to 72 pounds each. I use 1/4 braided nylon rope to (plant) them. Best to put in 20' or deeper water. And you must be careful when "planting" them, as they speed off to the bottom, make sure your legs or hands are nowhere near the rope, lest you be following it downward. I use fender floats. This is not a 2 or 3 night trotline you are setting. It is not worth the effort of setting out, just to pull it in a few days. But when you plant them, they become like suction cups to the bottom. Getting them loose & up are two other tricks, come time to pull them.

What is a cinder block ?

A cinder block is a lightweight block measuring 8" wide x 8" tall x 16" long. It has two hollows, so it is not solid. If looking thru the holes (hollows, it would be akin to a squared "8". They are lighter weight than a solid block. They also have "grab" technology incorporate, meaning if they are drug a certain way, they will grab the bottom. Not a certain science though (meaning it may not work 100% of the time like that).

Also known as Haydite blocks. You can buy them at Home Depot or Lowes.
https://www.google.com/search?q=haydite+...272&bih=668

Don't know what cinder blocks are? I could not have furnished my apartments without cinder blocks and milk crates!