HAMMONTON—Brisk weather and chilling winds could not stop local anglers from hooking their trout. But it seemed the fish had a few allies.
A week of rain had made the lake water cloudy in spots. That coupled with choppy waters from the heavy winds early Saturday, left the local anglers a daunting challenge. The lure of choice across the banks for opening day was PowerBait.
Spring trout season opened Saturday morning April 6 at 8 a.m. across the Garden State. Some headed to the creeks, streams and lakes as early as 6 a.m. to stake out their spots. As the hour passed and lines cast toward the water, anglers found a docile dose of trout.
By mid-morning at Hammonton Lake many of those at the lake’s edge and in boats had little luck. In the cove to the right of the park, a few fishermen had managed three decent size trout, while much of those fishing had a tougher go.
Regardless of the action at the end of the line, those young and old, man, woman or child that The Gazette caught up with Saturday morning didn’t focus on the biting winds or chill in the air. They were happy to be lake side with a pole in their hand.
New Jersey waterways will be stocked with more than 180,000 rainbow trout, as well as broodstock this season. Efforts by the state’s Pequest Trout Hatchery have improved this year’s season in terms of preparation of trout and quantities available for stocking.
In a release, state officials encouraged citizens to take advantage of the season.
“I can’t think of a better way to welcome spring than to enjoy the crisp morning air while fishing for trout with my family,” NJDEP Fish & Wildlife Freshwater Fisheries Bureau Chief Shawn Crouse said.
“The quality of New Jersey’s trout fishing is outstanding and there are opportunities for all anglers—whether beginner or expert—to enjoy some of the best fishing anywhere,” NJDEP Fish & Wildlife Assistant Commissioner Dave Golden said.
The NJDEP remains those planning to head to the waterways that anyone 16 or older must obtain a New Jersey fishing license and trout stamp to fish for trout. Individuals may purchase these on Fish & Wildlife’s website, www.DEP.NJ. Gov, or through a license agent.