GET OUT AND CATCH TROUT!!!

10-inch Rainbow Trout Stocked Across Nebraska The snow has melted, the weather is warming and even the birds seem to be signaling that spring is here to stay. If this isn't enough to get you outside after a long, snowy winter, here is an added incentive: Nebraska Game and Parks has been stocking catchable sized rainbow trout in many Nebraska locations this month and has some additional locations coming up. A special Saturday stocking bonanza is planned in the central and southeastern part of the state. Fishing for trout is an excellent family activity. Trout are relatively easy to catch and respond to a variety of baits, making them a popular option for beginning anglers. All you need is a basic rod and reel for tackle, and marshmallows, corn or nightcrawlers for bait. Prepared baits and small spinners can also be used. You can even break out your fly rod! The dates and locations for this year's spring trout stocking include:

March 1-2: Lake Ogallala Two Rivers State Recreation Area (Pond 5) March 11: Rock Creek Lake in Dundy County March 14: Bridgeport State Recreation Area (Northwest Lake) Terry's Pit in Terrytown Scottsbluff Zoo pond Morrill Sandpits (North and Middle ponds) March 16: Niobrara State Park Ponds

March 17: Qwest Lake at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park

Windmill State Recreation Area near Gibbon (Lake 1)

Holdrege City Park Lake (North Park)

Ord City Pond (Auble's Pond)

March 18: Auburn Rotary Club Lake Fremont State Recreation Area (Lake No. 2)

March 19: (times are plus or minus 30 minutes)

TaHaZouka Park Lake in Norfolk - 9:30 a.m.

Such's Lake in Grand Island - 10:15 a.m.

Barnett Park Pond in McCook - 11 a.m.

Pawnee Park West in Columbus - 11 a.m.

Lake Halleck in Papillion - 11 a.m.

Heartwell Park in Hastings - 11:15 a.m.

Holmes Lake in Lincoln - 11:15 a.m.

Lexington City Park Lake - 12:30 p.m.

Steinhart Park Pond in Nebraska City - 12:45 p.m.

Elm Creek near Red Cloud - 2 p.m. Late March: White River near Crawford Information on year-round fish stocking can be found in the fish stocking report on our website. Remember that anglers 16 years or older need a 2011 Nebraska Fishing permit; and if you are headed for a state park or recreation area, you'll need a 2011 Nebraska Park permit. Click here to buy your permits online.