Ever wonder how lakes are stocked? These NJ kids show you how

Trout season has arrived in New Jersey. A day fishermen and women look forward to at the start of every spring season.

Leading up to opening day, which falls on April 9 this year, New Jersey stocks its waterways with fish of all sizes. Now that trout season has arrived, get ready to see people cast their lines all over the state.

Aside from those eager to catch the big one, many contests will be held throughout the state. Contests for all age groups with numerous prizes to be won.

One such place is Spring Lake, where they host a fishing contest for children beginning at 8 a.m, the very minute trout season kicks off for 2022.

But Spring Lake takes it a step further with its approach to stocking the lake. A week prior to opening day, they host an event for kids to help stock the lake.

Mike Brant - Townsquare Media

This year, the trout were provided by Musky Trout Hatchery from Asbury. They bring the trout on-site in a truck specifically set up for this purpose and include the kids that are interested in assisting.

This trout-stocking event took place on April 2 and had quite a large turnout of children willing to help. It was also a great way for kids to learn a little more about the trout and get them interested in fishing.

Check out the gallery below to see just how the lake was stocked using the assistance of New Jersey's youngest residents.

Ever wonder how lakes are stocked? These NJ kids show you how at Spring Lake

Such a great event for kids to get involved with ahead of New Jersey's trout fishing season.

Inside one of NJ's few remaining 'five and dimes'

Binkley's is a staple for people who live in Medford and Medford Lakes.

These are the best hiking spots in New Jersey

A trip to New Jersey doesn't have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.

From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it's a great workout.

Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners' suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.

If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.

Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.

You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.

Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.

If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.

Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it's probably best to save your hike for another day.

I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions:

Filed Under: NJ fishing