November 25, 2002

NOTE: The January 3, 2003 stocking of trout in South Jersey lakes was postponed due to weather conditions. The stocking was rescheduled for Monday, January 6. Check the Division Website at www.njfishandwildlife.com/wintrtr02sched.htm for updated information.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's Division of Fish and Wildlife will release more than 12,000 rainbow trout into selected lakes throughout the State as part of its annual Winter Trout Stocking Program. This is the third year of this extremely successful program that offers anglers increased fishing opportunities during the winter months.

A total of 24 lakes geographically distributed throughout the State will be stocked with 12,940 rainbow trout raised at the Pequest Trout Hatchery averaging 11 inches in length. Targeted lakes range in size from five to 100 acres and have shoreline access and/or boat launching sites. Waters to be stocked are approved trout stocked lakes and exclude lakes that were stocked in the fall.

In North Jersey, 14 lakes will be stocked November 25-27. Stocking of Verona Park Pond will be postponed until January 2 due to the second phase of a lake dredging project. (12/30/02 UPDATE: Due to the current dredging and shoreline restoration project at Verona Park Lake, winter trout stocking for January 2 has been cancelled. Efforts should be completed by March 15 in time for spring stocking.) In South Jersey, nine lakes will be stocked January 2 and 3. Haddon Lake (Camden Co.) has been substituted for Laurel Pond (Burlington Co.), because anglers did not have fishing access to Laurel Pond last winter.

2002-03 Winter Trout Stocking Schedule