Fall Trout Stocking Has Begun in NJ

Photo by Tom Pagliaroli

More than 20,000 trout are being released by the state Division of Fish and Wildlife to streams and ponds in 17 New Jersey counties this month, providing anglers with some good autumn fishing across the state, according to the Department of Environmental Protection.

Two-year old brook and rainbow trout, averaging 14-to-16 inches, are being stocked in 17 streams and 15 ponds and lakes statewide. Also, three-year old rainbow trout, averaging 18-24 inches, are being released in state waters. All of the fish being released were raised at the DEP’s Pequest Trout Hatchery in Warren County.

Waters being stocked include large streams and rivers in northern and coastal areas, such as the Big Flatbrook, Pequest River, South Branch Raritan River, Musconetcong River, and the Manasquan River and Toms River. Next week, ponds and lakes in the central and southern portions of the state will be stocked in some of the more popular fishing waters, including Farrington Lake, Oak Pond, Greenwich Lake, and Mary Elmer Lake.

All fall-stocked waters may be fished as soon as they are stocked.

The complete list of fall-stocked waters and the stocking schedule is available at www.njfishandwildlife.com/flstk.htm or through the Trout Stocking Hotline (609) 633-6765.

“Trout fishing in New Jersey is a truly remarkable tradition, one that connects families and friends as a rite of both the spring and fall,” said Commissioner Martin. “Governor Christie is committed to supporting the great outdoors in our state, from protecting and enhancing the high quality of water that is needed to support these prized fishing opportunities to maintaining and expanding our state parks, forests and wildlife management areas.”

For the second consecutive year, fall trout stocking has been pushed back to the second week of October, rather than the first week of the month. In recent years fall stocking often has been postponed due to weather conditions that resulted in high water temperatures and/or low stream flows. Moving the start of fall stocking to the second week of October takes advantage of cooler temperatures, which benefit trout and minimizes the potential for last minute stocking schedule changes that impact anglers.

Fishing for trout in New Jersey requires a fishing license and trout stamp for anglers between the ages of 16 and 70. Buying a fishing license and trout stamp can be done easily through the Division of Fish and Wildlife’s Automated Licensing System. Anglers can buy and print a fishing license and trout stamp online or can purchase a license and stamp at one of more than 200 license agent locations throughout the state.

All proceeds from freshwater fishing licenses are dedicated to improving fishing in New Jersey and protecting the quality of the state’s waters both for fish and people.

A wealth of information about trout fishing and all other freshwater fishing in New Jersey, including regulations, stocking schedules, fishing access points and fishing tips, can be found at
http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/fishing_fresh.htm

For stocking locations maps visit:
http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/images/fishing/trout_fallstock_map12.jpg
http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/pdf/2012/fall_stocking_map12.pdf