Thames Valley TU Chapter 282 has been hard at work this preseason aiding the state DEEP with stocking popular rivers and streams of Eastern Connecticut. I was one of a number of dedicated members who have been either net stocking or float stocking the Eight Mile, Little River and Shetucket, to name a few.

Despite recent rains that have swollen our rivers and streams, we were able to get out and help stock countless numbers of brown, brook, and rainbow trout of catchable size.

Hopefully everyone will be able to enjoy Opening Day 2017 this year and catch a few that were distributed throughout the eastern portion of the state. Please be respectful of others and adhere to the state’s fishing regulations. Also, get someone out there with you and introduced them to the great sport of fishing whether it is fly-fishing or not.  Thames Valley TU- in particular- as well as any of the other Trout Unlimited chapters throughout this state are seeking new,  active members. Stocking trout is just one of many  great programs and a good way to learn a river or stream, meet other members, and interact with the hardworking employees of DEEP fisheries division.

Finally, when you see DEEP personnel and/or ENCON officers out in the field give them a special thanks for what they do- without them we would not have the quality of natural resources that we enjoy today !

See ya out there, good luck on Saturday, and tight lines !