NEWS FROM THE DELAWARE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL 

April 2, 2008
Vol. 38, No. 127 

For more information, contact Roy Miller or Craig Shirey, Fisheries, Division of Fish and Wildlife, 302-739-9914, or Joanna Wilson, Public Affairs, 302-739-9902.

Trout Stocked in Six Upstate Streams for Season Opening April 5

            Trout stocking began last week in six upstate streams for the season opening this Saturday, April 5, the Division of Fish and Wildlife announced today.

On 10 separate dates this spring, more than 31,000 trout will be stocked in six designated trout streams in northern New Castle County: White Clay Creek, Christina Creek, Pike Creek, Beaver Run, Wilson Run and Mill Creek. Trout stocking will continue on a regular weekly basis through Thursday, May 1. 

All of the streams will receive a heavy stocking just prior to the April 5 season opener, including approximately 500 trophy-size trout, in addition to the 10 to 12-inch fish that comprise the bulk of the stockings.

In addition, two downstate ponds, Tidbury Pond near Dover and Blockhouse Pond in Lewes behind Beebe Medical Center, were each stocked in March with approximately 550 rainbow trout, including some trophy-sized fish weighing 2 pounds and measuring over 14 inches. Because these waters warm up too much for trout to survive in them, there will be no further stocking of these ponds the remainder of this year.

Anglers wishing to try their luck are reminded that in addition to the normal fishing license requirements, they also must purchase a trout stamp, which costs $4.20 for ages 16 and older but not over 65, or a youth stamp, which costs $2.10 for boys and girls ages 12 to 15.  

An annual fishing license, which now covers fresh and tidal waters as well as crabbing and clamming, costs $8.50 for Delaware residents ages 16 to 65; persons under the age of 16 and residents over the age of 65 are not required to purchase licenses. Higher stamp and license prices apply to non-resident anglers.

All proceeds from trout stamps are used to purchase next year’s fish. To purchase a fishing license or stamps or for more information about the trout stocking schedule, visit www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw/Fisheries/Pages/Fisheries.aspx, consult the new 2008 Fishing Guide, or call the Fisheries section at 302-739-9914. Trout stocking schedules also are available at fishing license dealer locations.