The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
ODNR to release rainbow trout in ponds
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife will release 84,000 rainbow trout in 88 lakes and ponds, including two in Lorain County and one in Westlake, beginning March 16, according to a news release.
Locations have changed this year to bring more people an opportunity to catch these feisty fish in March, April, and May, the release said.
Trout releases are designed for high angler success and harvest.
In Lorain County, the Division of Wildlife will release rainbow trout April 6 at Rowland Nature Preserve Lake, 7621 Murray Ridge Road in Elyria Township; and April 13 at Walker Road Pond, 31621 Walker Road, which is located in Avon Lake on the border of Bay Village. This park is jointly owned by both cities.
The Division of Wildlife also will release the fish March 29 at Westlake Recreation Center Pond, 28955 Hilliard Blvd. in Westlake.
Some locations feature a special event on the day of the scheduled release, including youth-only fishing, according to the release.
Information about the trout releases, including a complete list of dates, stocking locations, event information, and any changes to the schedule because of weather is available at wildohio.gov or by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE (1-800945-3543), the release said.
By stocking these and other water areas across the state, the Division of Wildlife provides anglers the opportunity to enjoy quality spring rainbow trout fishing in a family-friendly environment.
The daily limit is five rainbow trout per angler, the release said.
Rainbow trout are raised at Ohio’s state fish hatcheries and measure between 10-13 inches when they are released by the Division of Wildlife.
Rainbow trout are cold water species and are stocked primarily near metropolitan areas and where they are likely to be caught within two weeks of release.
Trout are sensitive to warm temperatures and typically do not survive through late spring.
Ohio fishing licenses
Anglers ages 16 and older are required to have an Ohio fishing license to fish in state public waters.
An annual license is $25 and is valid for one year after purchase.
A one-day fishing license costs $14 and may be redeemed for credit toward the purchase of a one-year fishing license.
The mission of the Division of Wildlife is to conserve and improve fish and wildlife resources and their habitats for sustainable use and appreciation by all.
Visit wildohio.gov to find out more.