Don't miss the "prime-time" opportunity to enjoy Vermont trout fishing during April and May. Vermont's traditionally good spring trout fishing is more exciting than ever thanks to changes in regulations and fish stocking procedures.
Anglers have seen an improvement in Vermont trout fishing in recent years due to improved fish stocking and changes in creel limits to spread the catch over time for more people.
"There is a dramatic increase in the number and size of trout being stocked these days due to increased efficiency at the state's hatcheries and production from the new hatchery at Grand Isle," says Tom Wiggins, chief of fish culture for the Fish & Wildlife Department. "We are stocking close to three-quarters of a million trout and salmon this year. And as an added bonus, these fish are larger than before. Yearling trout are now measuring 8-12 inches long."
Vermont's trout fishing season opens Saturday, April 11. Wiggins says most of the fish caught on opening weekend will be wild trout-rainbows, brookies and browns that have overwintered in lakes, ponds and streams-and that they are ready to feed after months of lethargy in cold water.
"Fishermen can capitalize on this feeding urge," says Wiggins, "by using nightcrawlers or minnows and fishing deep and slow, especially in big pools in our streams. Some of the biggest trout of the year are caught in April on bait, because these fish are hungry and they want meat."
Vermont Fish & Wildlife's John Hall says there are three reasons you should give Vermont trout fishing a try this spring.
"Vermont fishing licenses are a spectacular bargain when you think of the amount of recreation they offer," says Hall. "A person can go fishing somewhere in Vermont on any given day in the year. We spend vastly greater amounts of money on other forms of recreation without blinking an eye."
"Fishing is some of the greatest therapy you'll find to offset an intense work week, and just as importantly, fishing provides an opportunity to get away for some quiet time with family or friends-often creating memories that will last a lifetime."
Prime Time for Vermont Trout Fishing