Most people think of Spring as trout season. However, anglers in the know will be on New Jersey’s trout streams while everyone else is out leaf peeping. In general, trout start to become more active in late September / October as the local streams cool down from the summer heat. Since 2006, the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife have been stocking the major trout rivers with 2 year old trout from The Pequest Trout Hatchery. 2024 stocking starts on October 8th and continues through October 16th.
Grab your Ultralight spinning gear or 4/5 weight fly setup and hit the South Branch of the Raritan River in Califon or the Musconetcong River in Stephens State Park. Both areas offer great fishing access. Head to Stokes State Forest and enjoy some of New Jersey’s nicest countryside while fishing the Flat Brook. The Flat Brook runs from High Point State park through Stokes State forest and empties into the Delaware River in the Delaware River National recreation area.
For the spin angler, 4-6ln test mono is recommended. Garden worms and meal worms are recommended for bait. Both our shops stock these live baits. Small spinners, Trout Magnet or small minnow Rapala's in the artificial only areas are a good bet.
Fly anglers should use Hares Ear Nymphs, Prince Nymphs, and small midge patterns for subsurface, along with meaty streamers like the Wooly Bugger. Elk Hair Caddis, small Mayfly imitations like Blue Wing Olives and Griffin Gnats are good for your dry fly box. Both our stores have a massive fly selection for small streams, rivers, lakes and saltwater conditions.
For a complete list of stocking dates and location, visit New Jersey Fish and Wildlife.
Get out and enjoy crisp air, fall colors and big trout here in New Jersey!
