JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- The opening of Missouri's catch-and-keep trout season is coming up.
The Missouri Department of Conservation says Friday, March 1, marks the opening of the trout season at Bennett Spring State Park, Montauk Park, Roaring River State Park and Meramec Spring Park. The department operates hatcheries at all four trout parks.
The long-range weather forecast for March 1 points to highs in the 40s and a small chance of rain. But the four state parks will be stocked with more than 25,000 trout. About 8,600 anglers are expected to turn out.
Gov. Jay Nixon is scheduled to fire the opening pistol at Montauk Hatchery near Licking, where about 2,500 people are expected.