FOX43’s James Tully followed volunteers who were “chucking buckets” for trout stocking.
YORK, Pa. — Trout stocking is officially underway across south central Pennsylvania, filling streams and creeks with fish just weeks before the start of trout season.
Across the state, more than 3 million trout will be stocked in over 800 lakes and streams. Locally, that includes the East Branch of Codorus Creek, where volunteers joined state officials to release thousands of fish into the water.
Waterways Conservation Officer Rachael Thurner-Diaz, a mother of two young outdoor enthusiasts, said this part of her job is especially rewarding.
“Being able to educate new generations coming up is probably the best and most rewarding part of my job,” she said.
One of those new anglers, Braydon Baublitz from Spring Grove Middle School, took the day off to help out and shared what gets him excited about trout stocking.
“Seeing all the fish, and then coming back to catch them!” he said.
Rainbow and brown trout made up most of the morning’s stock, but a few golden rainbows — close relatives of the palomino trout — added a flash of color to the buckets. Volunteers said the cold spring conditions help the fish adjust quickly to their new surroundings.
For Braydon, it’s all part of the excitement leading up to the season.
“You get to be out in nature, nobody else around — it’s peaceful,” he said.
Trout season officially begins Saturday, April 4. Young anglers can get an early start on Mentored Youth Trout Day, happening March 28. Children under 15 can fish that day with a free permit when accompanied by a licensed adult.