Trout in March

[albatross]

Approved (for stocking) trout waters and downstream sections are closed to (trout) fishing begining March 1st.

Certain special regulations areas are open to fishing for trout.

What about small wild trout streams not on the approved list? Obviously no harvest is alowed. Can I fish Catch and Release?

 

[JackM]

This issue has been discussed many times here, and if I may speak for the consensus, I would say that if no part of the creek is on the approved trout waters list, then it is not closed to fishing at any time; however, if a trout is caught out of season, it must be returned immediately unharmed.

 

[albatross]

Thanks Jack. I'm sure this comes up at least once a year, but a search of the current incarnation of the site didn't provide an answer.

Can I assume the same rule applies (catch and release OK) in the extended season from Sept through Feb for waters not on the approved list?

 

[Chaz]

There are no trout until PFBC stocks them. Wink wink! Seriously though you can fish any unstocked water, but strictly as C & R.