CONNECTICUT
The Nutmeg State continues to manage its trout fisheries under its new trout management program, which includes new Trout Management Areas, Trout Parks, Trophy Trout Areas, Wild Trout Management Areas and Sea-Run Trout Streams.

These areas were specifically selected to enhance trout fishing in general and also to provide a variety of angling opportunities.

In all, the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection will stock between 700,000 and 800,000 browns, rainbows and brook trout, and a high percentage of these will be between 9 and 12 inches.

About 60,000 fish will go into Trout Management Areas, which feature specific angling regulations, such as fly-fishing only and catch-and-release. About 40,000 trout will go into ponds and streams managed as Trout Parks, areas that offer easy access and which will receive multiple stockings throughout the season, generally on a weekly basis. Another 30,000 trout will be stocked in ponds and streams designated as Trophy Trout areas, where the DEP releases larger trout and special regulations may be in effect.

The DEP will also release between 200,000 and 220,000 catchable-sized trout in more than 250 streams that offer public access.

In addition, the DEP will continue its stocking of sea-run brown trout. About 60,000 fish are scheduled for release in the Farm River in East Haven, Eightmile River in Lyme, the Hammonasset River in Guilford and the Manus River in Greenwich.

For more information on trout fishing in the Nutmeg State, contact the Connecticut DEP at (860) 424-3474, or visit the agency's Web site at www.dep.state.ct.us.

Be sure to ask for the Trout Management Program Guide, 2006 Angler's Guide and A Guide to Lakes and Ponds in Connecticut.

RHODE ISLAND
Our smallest state also has fewer freshwater areas than any state in New England, but Rhode Island offers some wonderful trout fishing.

Scattered about the state are some of the finest trout streams in New England, including the Flat River, Falls River, Breakheart Brook and Woods River in Exeter and neighboring towns, and the Big River in West Greenwich.

Certain waters may be governed by special tackle restrictions, so check the fishing regulations. At Deep Pond in Exeter and A.L. Mowry Pond in Smithfield, for example, only artificial lures and flies may be used. Other waters carry special regulations.

Rhode Island fishermen should also note that there will be two free fishing days this season, June 3 and 4, when residents and non-residents are not required to have a freshwater fishing license.

For more information, contact the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management at (401) 789-0821 or visit the agency's Web site at www.dem.ri.gov.