The spring inland stream stocking program and wild trout fisheries in southwest New York State are nothing short of impressive. DEC’s all-encompassing spring stocking includes a staggering 1,873,980 catchable-size brook, brown, and rainbow trout stocked in ponds and streams across the state from mid-March through early June. This extensive program promises a season full of thrilling angling opportunities.

A wide diversity of fishing opportunities is available to anglers across New York State, especially here in Chautauqua County. The streams on the stocking list will provide season-long opportunities for angler success. Ten percent of the many stream stockings include larger stocked trout (12 inches or greater), adding an element of surprise and challenge to your fishing experience. The trout stocking locations across Western New York can be found on the DEC website at this link: https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/freshwater-fishing/stocking/spring-trout-stocking. The inland trout stream regulations have not changed much but can be found for review in the New York State freshwater fishing regulations guide. The guide is available in digital form online at https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/freshwater-fishing/regulations, and hard copies are available at license sale outlets and local clerk offices.

If inland trout fishing – or fishing the Asheville Bay canals for crappie is new to you – plan to get out there this year and begin a new learning adventure. There is a host of resources for those interested in getting started fishing for the first time. The amazing “I FISH NY Beginners’ Guide to Freshwater Fishing” is an 88-page printed booklet that provides information on rigging up your fishing gear, what to buy and why, identifying fish species, and understanding fishing regulations. It’s free, and it’s online at this link: extapps.dec.ny.gov/docs/fish_marine_pdf/gsfishing.pdf.

For beginners, it’s important to remember to use light tackle and to fish in areas with cover and structure, as trout like hiding in these areas. To help make fishing more affordable and help inspire the next generation of anglers, the DEC partners with many libraries to provide a free fishing rod lending program. In addition to borrowing a book, library patrons can sign out a fishing rod. Imagine that! This affordable opportunity for people to try fishing before purchasing their own gear supports the New York program entitled “Get Offline, Get Outside.” This initiative promotes physical and mental health by helping kids and families take a break from social media to enjoy recreation and outdoor social gatherings. Local participating libraries include Dunkirk Public Library, Falconer Public Library, James Prendergast Library Association, Lakewood Memorial Library, Mary E. Seymour Memorial Library, Mayville Library, and the Myers Memorial Library in Frewsburg.

When trout stream waters turn clear, fishing for kids and catching fish is easier. When the water is murky with runoff, it’s better to wait a day or two. Forrest Fisher photo

Local streams in Chautauqua County that have been stocked include Goose Creek at Harmony and North Harmony, Clay Pond in Poland, Canadaway Creek in Arkwright, Cassadaga Creek in Stockton, and Mill Creek in Gerry. A total of 3,720 trout have been stocked in these locations.

Gotta love the outdoors.

Outdoor Calendar:

Apr. 1: Opening Day for NYS Inland Trout Season, ENJOY!

Apr. 2-3: NYS Hunter Education, Westfield Fish/Game Club, 5:30PM – 9:30PM, 5831 Ogden Road, Westfield, register online- at https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/hunting/hunter-education.

Apr. 5: NYS Hunter Education, Wolcott Guns, 3052 Walden, Depew, 8:30AM-4:30PM, register online at https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/hunting/hunter-education.

Apr. 5: King of Spring Perch Tournament, Cayuga Lake, heaviest perch, $100 team registration, Info: Drake at Doc’s Tackle, 585-229-2277, email: docdavid@229bass.com. Apr. 6: NYS Hunter Education, Evans Rod/Gun, Angola, 8AM-5PM, register online at https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/hunting/hunter-education.

NOTE: Send Calendar info or related outdoor news to forrestfisher35@yahoo.com.