PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Spring is in the air in Pennsylvania. For those looking for ways to spend some time outdoors and fish, one of Pennsylvania's most popular seasons is about to get underway.
Trout season opens Saturday, April 2 and the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources wants people to take advantage of its 43 campgrounds throughout the state to reel in a big one.
"We encourage people to get their fishing license and hit the streams and rivers and go fishing this year," said the DCNR's Wesley Robinson. "Trout season is one of the most popular fishing seasons in the state."
The department wants anglers to consider using state park campsites and has added more places for visitors to stay overnight. But if that doesn't fit your schedule, Robinson said there's still plenty to do.
"If you want to go hike at one our parks or experience some of the nature around it, that gives you that opportunity as well," he said.
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There are 86,000 miles of lakes and ponds in Pennsylvania. 101 state parks and 20 state forests permit fishing with the proper fishing license.
During the pandemic, nearly 47 million people visited state parks, setting a record in Pennsylvania. "The numbers did decrease a little in 2021 but they were still higher than the normal average," Robinson said.
"People are turning to the outdoors for refuge. it helps you clear your mind helps you get physical activity."
Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
What other pandemic activities and behaviors will stick around?
