New Yorkers Get Ready For Trout Fishing Season Next Week

Sunday was the first day of spring. Most of the snow has melted in the Capital Region and the last remnants of ice on the ponds and lakes are slowly disappearing. All of these signs are good for trout fisherman and the best sign is the calendar. April is just around the corner.

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April 1st is Opening Day of trout season in New York State. Shorelines of creeks, rivers and lakes will be dotted with dedicated fisherman that endured another winter of waiting for their next cast. In case you are new to the area or fishing in general, there are a few things you'll need if you want to join the trout parade next Friday.

First you will need a New York State freshwater fishing license. Resident licenses for ages 16-69 are $25 annually or $5 for one day. If you are over 70 years-young, you get an annual license for $5. If you have friends in from out of town, they can get licenses as well. A one day non-resident fishing license is $10.

For more information on licenses, see the state Department of Environmental Conservation website. You can purchase your license on-line or you can pick one up at any Dick's Sporting Goods store, Walmart, as well as most town halls and libraries.

Now, where do you go? Well, there are plenty of places that New York State stocks trout. In fact, you can go to their website and click a stocking report for your county. It really doesn't get much easier than that. As far as a decent recommendation in the Capital Region, try the Kayaderosseras Creek in Saratoga County. The state stocks it in a lot of locations.

Remember to know all the size and species regulations. You can get banged for a hefty fine very easily. Trout are delicate fish. You want to get them back in the water as quickly as possible, so they get bigger for another day. Good luck out there and most of all have fun. Tight lines!