DNR to add to local fishing spot
1,500 rainbow trout headed to Moorland Pond
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MOORLAND -- A delivery of about 1,500 rainbow trout to Moorland Pond on Tuesday will give Webster County anglers a chance to try trout fishing close to home, and could help newcomers discover the sport.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources plans to stock Moorland Pond as part of its annual fall community trout program.
"People are welcome to attend, but there is no set time for the stocking truck to arrive," said Matt Cosgrove, director of Webster County Conservation. "They typically try to be there around noon on the day of the stocking."
The local stocking project is part of a statewide effort to bring trout fishing to communities where anglers typically travel to go fishing. This fall, the DNR plans to release about 1,500 rainbow trout at each of 20 locations statewide. The seasonal program uses cooler weather to provide fishing opportunities in waters that cannot support trout during the summer.
According to Cosgrove, the benefits of the annual stocking extend beyond just adding fish to the pond.
"The trout stocking program has been a valuable partnership between the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and the Webster County Conservation Board that offers a fun and unique fishing experience," said Cosgrove.
Getting started does not require elaborate equipment. According to the DNR, anglers can use a small hook baited with a nightcrawler or corn beneath a small bobber. Small spinners are another option.
"Anglers of all ages and abilities are able to have success and the program really helps get new anglers interested in the sport," said Cosgrove.
Anglers must have a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout, according to the DNR. The daily limit is five trout, with a possession limit of 10.
Children 15 and younger may fish for trout with a properly licensed adult, sharing the adult's daily limit. A child may purchase a trout fee to keep a separate limit. Trout fee revenue supports the stocking program.