Fall Trout Stocking Schedule Adjusted for Low Water
October 2, 2007
The NJ DEP Division of Fish and Wildlife is alerting anglers to changes to the Division's popular fall trout stocking program. Low flow conditions currently prevail in streams throughout the state due to abnormally dry weather over the last month, and unfortunately no significant precipitation is forecasted for this week.
Over the last several days, Division biologists have inspected streams slated for stocking which begins today, Tuesday, October 2. Overall, most streams had sufficient water for trout stocking, however, anglers are advised that some traditional stocking locations may not receive trout, or very few, if the water is too shallow. This situation is more likely to occur in the uppermost sections of streams where flows are typically lower.
Listed below are the waters that will not be stocked with fall trout because of extremely low flows:
- Black River (Morris County) - Cancelled. The trout allocated for the Black River will be diverted to the Lamington River, from Route 523 downstream to its confluence with the North Branch of the Raritan River.
- S/Br. Raritan River (Morris County) - No stocking upstream of the Route 517 (Schooleys Mountain Rd.) bridge in Long Valley.
It is not expected that a one-time rain event will result in long-term improvement in stream flows. However, should significant rainfall occur prior to the date originally scheduled for stocking, and flows noticeably improve, stocking may be reinstated on these streams.
Anglers should note that the fall trout stocking of ponds and lakes will proceed as scheduled, during the week of October 9. These waters are still fishable although some may be lower than normal. As a precaution, Division biologists will check on them later this week to insure that conditions are suitable for stocking trout.
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