VERMONT'S TROUT SEASON OPENS APRIL 9

WATERBURY, VT - Opening day of Vermonts trout fishing season -- April 9 this year -- is big on tradition. It marks the beginning of another year of memorable angling experiences, alone or with family or friends, at streamside or on quiet lakes and ponds.

It's a tradition handed down from one generation to the next. Opening day of trout season rarely results in huge catches of fish, but the stories and memories of "first day" often more than make up for a light creel.

Early trout fishing provides a great excuse to get outdoors, enjoy the spring sun and perhaps hear red-winged blackbirds. Most important, though, there's always the anticipation of catching colorful brook, brown or rainbow trout to be released or taken home for the table.

"This year's trout season signals the start of another year of enjoyable fishing on Vermont streams and lakes," said John Hall with the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. "Lake and pond fishing opportunities should be available at inlets and outlets."

"Stream fishing will be best where current is slower," he added. "Look for fish along the bottom in deep pools, on the inside of curves and behind large rocks. It takes more weight than normal to make a bait, lure or streamer fly bump along the bottom, but it's the most effective way to present your offering to early spring trout."

Anglers are urged to use the new non-toxic sinkers that are not made of lead.

Planning a Vermont spring trout fishing trip is easy. The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department has a Vermont Fishing Guide map showing lakes and streams as well as fishing access areas. It also lists the fish species found in each body of water, and it has a wealth of other information. Copies are available where fishing licenses are sold, or from the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, 103 South Main Street, Waterbury, VT 05671-0501. Tel. 802-241-3700. You also can request a copy by email when visiting their website (vtfishandwildlife.com).

Fishing license fees are $20.00 for adult residents, $8.00 for residents 15-17 years of age, $41.00 for adult nonresidents, and $15.00 for nonresidents 15-17 years old. One, three and seven day fishing licenses also are available for nonresidents. Children under age 15 do not need a fishing license in Vermont.
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Caption for attached photo (by Sue Nadeau): Sherb Lang from Lyndonville shows his granddaughter early trout fishing techniques on opening day of the 2004 trout season.


For Further Information please contact: John Hall at 802-241-3700 or email to john.hall@anr.state.vt.us