TROUT SEASON IN FULL SWING AS WARMER TEMPERATURES ARRIVE, IN-SEASON STOCKINGS CONTINUE

Stover Photography

 

HARRISBURG, Pa. (April 13) – With the spring season in full swing and a holiday weekend ahead for many people, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) reminds anglers that in-season trout stockings continue, providing immediate fishing opportunities in lakes and streams across the Commonwealth.

 

“Trout fishing conditions are about as good as they get right now, and it will continue to be prime time for anglers over the next several weeks,” said Tim Schaeffer, PFBC Executive Director.  “Spring showers have kept the waters cool and swift.  If you haven’t been able to fish yet or haven’t been back out since opening day, now is the time to revisit the trout stocking schedule, head back out to your favorite local spot, or explore somewhere new while visiting family or friends this weekend.”

Throughout the 2022 season, the PFBC will stock approximately 3.2 million adult trout in 696 streams and 128 lakes open to public angling.  Approximately 30% of trout stockings occur while the season is underway, providing sustained trout fishing opportunities on hundreds of waters throughout April, May, and beyond.   

 

Anglers are also encouraged to explore thousands of miles of wild trout streams, which contain naturally occurring populations of trout.

 

“Wild trout can offer a different challenge than stocked trout, and many of our wild trout streams are scenic and off the beaten path,” added Schaeffer.  “With warmer temperatures arriving and more insect activity, wild trout are itching to bite.  Fishing in these streams can be a great adventure without the crowds you might find at the most popular stocked trout waters.”

 

During the regular trout season (Opening Day through Labor Day), anglers may keep up to five trout (combined species) per day measuring at least seven inches long.  During an extended season from September 6, 2022, through February 20, 2023, the daily limit is three trout.  Other trout fishing regulations, which may limit or prohibit harvest or tackle on certain waters, can be found on the PFBC website.

 

To purchase a fishing license and trout permit, review trout stocking schedules, and find trout fishing tips, visit www.fishandboat.com, or use the FishBoatPA mobile app.  Anglers are no longer required to display a printed copy of their fishing license on the outside of their clothing and may simply store their license digitally on their phones.

 

Anglers of all ages who fish from a boat during trout season this spring are reminded that anyone aboard a boat less than 16 feet in length, including all canoes and kayaks, is required to wear a U.S Coast Guard approved life jacket from November 1 through April 30.