Trout Fishing - today

[DiPaoro]

Since the weather will be awesome today, what are the rules for trout fishing? I plan to catch and release. But, my understanding is no fishing for one more week until April 6th. I see others are fishing and catching. My plan is to hit Hacklebarney today. But, not worth a fine nor my equipment taken.

Thanks!

[thmyorke1]

If it's trout stocked in the spring, you cant fish it. But if it's a TCA or a Catch and release area (KLG) you can. https://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/digfsh.htm

[DiPaoro]

Perfect... thanks!

[dakota560]

If it's trout stocked in the spring, you cant fish it. But if it's a TCA or a Catch and release area (KLG) you can. https://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/digfsh.htm

I believe there's a few exception like Lake Hopatcong as well as a handful of other bodies of water which are stocked, aren't catch and release or TCA's. Might be wrong about that but believe it's spelled out in the regulations. Correct me if I'm wrong.

[thmyorke1]

I believe there's a few exception like Lake Hopatcong as well as a handful of other bodies of water which are stocked, aren't catch and release or TCA's. Might be wrong about that but believe it's spelled out in the regulations. Correct me if I'm wrong.

That's why I posted the link, i honestly dont know the right answer myself :p It gets pretty confusing this time of year :D

[NJSquatch]

https://www.njfishandwildlife.com/pdf/2019/trtregs19.pdf

During the three weeks prior to opening day, all
ponds, lakes or sections of streams are stocked
with trout, except Trophy Trout Lakes. These
waters are closed to fishing for all species from
March 18 to April 6 at 8 a.m. Exceptions: Lake
Hopatcong, Mountain Lake, Lake Shenandoah,
Lawrence Brook (section from Davidson's Mill Rd.
to Farrington Lake dam), Prospertown Lake and
Swartswood Lake are open year round to fishing.
However, all trout caught during this period (above)
must be released immediately. Seasonal and Yearround Trout Conservation Areas and designated
Holdover Trout Lakes (see pages 21–23) are
also open to fishing but are catch-and-release only
for trout. Fishing is not permitted on seasonal trout
conservation areas from 12:01 a.m. to 8 a.m. on
April 6, 2019. Round Valley and Merrill Creek
Reservoirs (Trophy Trout Lakes) are open to yearround fishing; trout may be harvested within the
regulations as shown on page 23.

Trout Stocked Waters
https://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/pdf/2019/trout_allocation19-nodates.pdf

https://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/accesscnty.htm

these rules don't apply if you belong to a Private Trout Club and are fishing club water....because you know these people are entitled to do whatever the h*ll they want

[DiPaoro]

I will be ready to go on 4/6. The weather looks ideal. Will be wearing an Orvis hat, waders and probably have a cigar going. Appreciate all of the comments and its best to play by the rules. Be safe and enjoy this great hobby.

[thmyorke1]

I will ready to go on 4/6. The weather looks ideal. Will be wearing an Orvis hat, waders and probably have a cigar going. Appreciate all of the comments and its best to play by the rules. Be safe and enjoy this great hobby.

Tight lines, man. Report back in after your outtings.