As the days get warmer and longer, the Idaho Fish and Game encourages anglers to get out to their local pond, lake or river in search of hungry trout.

In May, Fish and Game hatchery employees will release more than 130,000 catchable-sized rainbow trout into 45 waters around the state. Ranging from rivers and streams to ponds and even rehabilitated gravel pits, the waters will be stocked with plenty of hatchery trout ready to take the bait.

“May and June are great times to be on the water,” said Bob Becker, Nampa Fish Hatchery Manager. Anglers are encouraged to review the current fishing rules brochure for the specific waters they intend to visit. Special rules may apply in some waters. Rule brochures are available at all Fish and Game offices and license vendors statewide. Fishing stocking information, including both current and historical stocking reports, are available online at https://fishandgame.idaho.gov/public/fish/stocking/.

Children 13 years of age and younger do not need a fishing license. Annual fishing licenses cost $25.75 for resident adults 18 to 64 years old. Youth ages 14 to 17 can buy a license for $13.75 and seniors 65 and older can buy an annual combination license for $11.75.

Daily fishing licenses are also available for $11.50, with each additional day costing $5.00.

Raising millions of trout each year is no small task. Idaho’s hatchery program is funded primarily by fishing license sales, with additional support from Sport Fish Restoration and other funds.