April 1 is the opening day of trout season. This is traditionally a busy day on Delaware County waterways and a welcome sign of spring and warmer weather.

This year Delaware County, along with the rest of the nation and world, is facing a bigger challenge. The onset of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) has changed the way we interact with our fellow residents. New York State has been encouraging everyone to stay home and when out limit any contact with others. This can be challenging when fishing on our busy streams and rivers at the height of trout season.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the New York State Department of Parks and Recreation have posted warnings for all of our safety. State parks have remained open and many have posted signs that read: “Governor Cuomo is urging all New Yorkers to stay at home as much as possible.

If you do plan on visiting, it should be for a healthy nature break.Please limit outdoor recreational activities to non-contact, and avoid activities where you may come in close contact with other people. If you arrive at a park and crowds are forming, choose a different park or trail or return another time/day to visit.”Fishing is a great “nature break”. We do not want to discourage anyone from fishing as it could be a great way to deal with anxiety. We do however, encourage you to follow the recent recommendations put out by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC):

Fish close to home

Keep a distance of 6 feet or more from others

Move quickly through parking lots and paths

If you come to your “spot” and others are there, consider returning another time or finding another place.

Delaware County recognizes the large number of visitors that generally come to our region for fishing season, especially trout season. We ask that all residents and visitors please practice these measures put out by the DEC and the State Parks Department. We want everyone to remain safe and we are hoping the measures of social distancing will flatten the curve. Good luck this season and try to share some pictures of your catch for all of us to enjoy

More From Big Cat - Country with Attitude