Another Opening Day in the books for Bennett Spring

Saturday saw crowds of anglers and parkgoers descend on the waters of Bennett Spring State Park for the opening day of trout season. After honorary starter John Walther gave the signal to those waiting with fishing poles, the Bennett trout came fin to face with those who would catch them. Hatchery Manager Ben Havens reported 2393 total anglers were present at opening day, with 2,129 of them being adults and 264 being children. He said there were around 7,500 trout and 50 lunkers (a large fish) stocked in the park for opening day, and the largest catch he heard was a five-and-a-half-pound rainbow trout. "I was very pleased with the day, and it was great to see so many anglers enjoying the opening day of trout season! I appreciate the public's patience as we continue making progress on the hatchery renovations this year,” Havens said. Havens further noted future fishing events for the season: Veteran’s Free Fishing Day on April 12, Kid’s Free Fishing Day on May 3, and Ladies’ Free Fishing Day on September 27. While at the Bennett Spring State Park Store a little before 9 a.m. on Saturday, the Record heard from the tag and permit desk that daily tag numbers were already up from last year’s opening day. For more on this story, see Wednesday's LCR.