April 16 Marks Opening Day of Trout Statewide

Harrisburg, PA – Anglers from across the state have been helping the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission ( PFBC) stock more than one million adult trout in preparation for the traditional opening day on April 16.PFBC Executive Director John Arway says opening day is a time-honored tradition that families and kids look forward to every year.

“Opening day is a huge event for so many families and their children,” Mr. Arway said. “In fact, the regional opening day and the traditional opening day are two of the biggest fishing days of the year. To get ready for them, our ‘great white fleet’ of stocking trucks has been busy since mid-February replenishing Pennsylvania’s waterways with a fresh supply of brook, brown, and rainbow trout.”

April 2 marked the regional opening day of trout in 18 southeastern counties.

Every year the PFBC stocks about 3.2 million trout in waterways across the state. About 50 percent are stocked before the opening days, 45 percent are stocked before the end of May and the remaining 5 percent are stocked in the winter.

“Opening day is special because it signals the end of winter and the beginning of spring,” Mr. Arway added. “It’s great if you catch trout, but the day is really about getting out of the house, enjoying the outdoors and spending quality time with family and friends.”

About 850,000 anglers buy a fishing license each year. A resident fishing license costs $22.70 and a trout-salmon permit is $9.70. A license is required for anyone 16 and older. Licenses can be purchased at sporting goods stores and online at www.fishandboat.com.

In a new twist this year, the PFBC has scheduled the two Fish-for-Free Days on Memorial Day, May 30, and on Labor Day, Sept. 5. No fishing license is needed on either of the days.

“This is a great way to introduce someone to the world of fishing,” Mr. Arway said. “In order to help first-time anglers, our Education and Outreach staff will hold special events and hands-on lessons at locations across the state.”

To see if your favorite trout stream is being stocked this year, visit the Fish and Boat Commission website at www.fishandboat.com/stocking.

The mission of the Fish and Boat Commission is to protect, conserve, and enhance the Commonwealth’s aquatic resources and provide fishing and boating opportunities. For more information about fishing and boating in Pennsylvania, please visit our website at www.fishandboat.com.