N.J. trout season begins this spring

With truckloads of trout already out in New Jersey's waters and tons more fish on the way, Department of Environmental Protection Acting Commissioner Mark N. Mauriello encourages residents and visitors to celebrate trout season.

Trout season officially opened in New JerseyApril 11.

"We're always eager to share our excitement about the quality of New Jersey's trout and the opportunities available year-round to try your luck in our beautiful streams, lakes and ponds," Mauriello said. "So forget your troubles, grab a rod and reel, and go trout fishing in New Jersey."

For opening day alone, the Division of Fish and Wildlife released upward of 180,000 brook trout, brown trout and rainbow trout throughout New Jersey. During April and May, nearly 600,000 trout are stocked in waters statewide for unforgettable fishing that will last through summer.

Most of the fish stocked during spring are 101/2 inches long and weigh one-half pound. All of them are raised at the Department of Environmental Protection's Pequest Trout Hatchery in Warren County.

Anglers also have the chance to catch bragging-sized trout during the spring season. The Division of Fish and Wildlife will release during April and May more than 6,000 big, breeder trout, weighing 2 pounds to 5 pounds, in all of New Jersey's trout-stocked waters. As a special bonus for opening day, select ponds and small lakes throughout the state received an extra share of these huge trout.

This Fall, New Jersey anglers can gear up to hook into some 26,000 super-sized trout, which measure 14 inches to 24 inches, and can be caught throughout autumn and winter.

Trout anglers ages 16 through 69 are reminded to buy a New Jersey fishing license and trout stamp. Both can be purchased online at www.njfishandwildlife.com and printed immediately at home, or from license agents throughout the state.

For more information on trout stocking, all the places to fish for trout and tips on how to catch them, visit www.njfishandwildlife.com or call the Trout Stocking Hotline at 609-633- 6765 for weekly stocking schedules.