Connecticut's Trout Season Kicks Off with Family-Friendly Stocking Events

Annual spring tradition brings anglers and families together to celebrate the start of trout fishing across the state.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 1:40am

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph of a person's hands carefully releasing a trout into a stream, with the surrounding environment blurred into soft, warm pools of color and light.The annual tradition of stocking Connecticut's waterways with thousands of trout brings families and anglers together to celebrate the start of the spring fishing season.Hartford Today

Connecticut's highly anticipated trout fishing season officially begins this Saturday, April 11, with the state's Department of Energy and Environmental Protection hosting hands-on trout stocking events at various lakes and streams across the state. Families and anglers of all ages are invited to participate, meet fishery staff, and help release thousands of trout into their new homes, creating lasting memories.

Why it matters

The start of trout season is a cherished annual tradition in Connecticut, bringing together outdoor enthusiasts, families, and local communities to celebrate the state's abundant natural resources and fishing opportunities. These family-friendly stocking events help introduce new anglers to the sport while also providing a fun way for experienced fishers to kick off the season.

The details

On Saturday, April 11, the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection is hosting trout stocking events at 12 different locations across the state, starting as early as 6 a.m. Participants will have the chance to meet fishery staff, learn about hatchery operations, and personally release trout into their new habitats. While trout fishing has been open year-round with catch-and-release rules, this weekend marks the official start of the "catch and keep" season, allowing anglers to retain their catches from most waterways.

  • The 2026 trout fishing season in Connecticut officially begins on Saturday, April 11.
  • Trout stocking events will take place across the state starting at 6 a.m. on April 11.
  • Between April and May, the state plans to stock more than 500,000 trout into 100 lakes, 135 rivers, and streams.

The players

Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection

The state agency responsible for managing Connecticut's natural resources, including the stocking and regulation of trout fishing.

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The takeaway

The start of trout season is a beloved tradition in Connecticut that brings families and outdoor enthusiasts together to celebrate the state's natural resources and fishing opportunities. These hands-on stocking events provide a unique way for both new and experienced anglers to kick off the season and create lasting memories.