By Gary Ogle
gogle@wbcowqel.com
A little wind and chilly weather wasn’t going to stop local fisherman from wetting their lines out at the Crossroads Industrial Park pond Wednesday morning. In fact the only thing missing was Brad Paisley on the banks humming, “I’m Gonna Miss Her”.
The big draw that filled the pond’s parking lot to overflowing and had at least 30 anglers dotting on the shoreline was the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ annual release of rainbow trout from its Castalia Fish Hatchery.
“We’re releasing about 715 catchable rainbow trout about 11 inches long,” said Dan Kovalaske of the Ohio Department of Wildlife.
For some, the springtime fishing trip to Crossroads has become an annual event.
“For about the last three, four years I’ve come out. Usually the weather is nasty and you don’t know what you’re getting,” said Glenn Diebler. “The last time we were just here where they put them in and limited out.”
For others, this was their first try at catching the rainbow trout who are not native to Crawford County waters.
“Nope, this is the first time I’ve never tried for trout,” said Art Blizzard who was carrying his fishing pole and tackle to the banks as the ODNR truck pulled up. “Never even tasted one. Thought I would come out and watch the other guys, then copy the ones who are catching them.”
It certainly didn’t take long for the trout to start biting. Within minutes of the release, John Metz had the first one of the day on the end of his line.
“We’re having trout for dinner tonight,” Metz said.
Asked about his bait and fixing the tasty fish, Metz answered, “Power bait and grub worms. Just standard cleaning.”
Kovalaske said the state agency stocks about 33 ponds and lakes and that district managers suggest which bodies of water will get the trout. He added that no trout stamp is needed, just a current Ohio fishing license. The limit is five per fisherman.
PHOTO GALLERY: Trout Release at Crossroads Pond