A special mentored youth trout fishing opportunity is on the horizon.
Photo: Fish and Boat Commission
If you’ve got kids who like to fish, especially for trout, here’s an opportunity to create a few memories.
Pennsylvania is hosting a mentored youth trout day in 49 counties on April 7.
This marks the fifth year the event has been held. It’s meant to let kids fish for stocked trout without the usual competition.
“Our goal is to get more kids involved in fishing and to keep them engaged,” said Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission executive director John Arway. “One of the best ways to do that is to make the experience as easy as possible for parents and mentors. The mentored youth trout days program does just that and has developed into the premiere spring event for kids, with more than 30,000 participating last year.”
So, if you’re thinking of taking a youngster out, here are the rules.
Who’s eligible
Children younger than 16 may fish, as can their adult mentors. Kids can keep two trout, which must measure at least seven inches. Adults have to release any trout they catch.
When to fish
The mentored youth trout day is a one-day affair, on April 7. Fishing hours are from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Where to fish
The program includes all commission trout-stocked trout waters across 49 counties. The full list of stocked waters can be found here. The list of counties is available here.
What it costs
Youngsters need either a $1 voluntary youth fishing license or a free mentored youth fishing permit. Both are available at www.GoneFishingPA.com or at any of the more than 900 licensing agents across the state.
Adult mentors must have a fishing license and trout stamp.
Why have kids buy the $1 license? For every one sold, the commission gets about $5 in federal grant money. It all goes to support youth fishing programs.
