The Division of Fish and Wildlife's Bureau of Freshwater Fisheries is proposing potential changes to the state's trout stocking program. The changes would go into effect during 2005 and 2006. The overall emphasis of the proposed changes to the trout stocking program is threefold:

1) provide more fish earlier in the trout stocking season, while angler interest is still high;
2) increase the availability of fish in areas where anglers consistently get higher returns; and
3) add new waters to the program, to attract new anglers.

This information was first presented at the 2004 Fisheries Forum, held December 4 to give anglers and interested parties an early opportunity to provide input regarding potential changes. It will also be presented at the Division's upcoming Trout Meeting on February 12, 2005 at 10am at the Pequest Trout Hatchery. There are five potential changes to the Division's trout program. Only one change, stocking ponds and lakes earlier in the in-season period, is proposed for 2005.

Angler input has always played a critical role in the development of our successful freshwater fisheries programs. Therefore, anglers are urged to attend the meeting in February to provide comments on all aspects of the proposal. Comments may also be made via e-mail.

The proposals are available on line in PDF format. Please take the time to review the proposals and give them serious consideration.