News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 6, 2000

FISHING OPPORTUNITIES INCREASED THIS YEAR
AT CASTALIA TROUT HATCHERY

CASTALIA, OH -- The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife says it will again offer trout fishing in the half-mile section of Cold Creek located at the Castalia State Fish Hatchery to anglers selected in a pre-season drawing. Due to the popularity of last year's program, the wildlife agency will again hold the random selection drawing, however fishing opportunities in 2000 will be increased by nearly 50 percent.

The division held a lottery-style drawing for a limited number of fishing dates during the summer of 1999 on Cold Creek. Nearly 4,000 applications were received for 66 fishing slots between May and August last summer.

Anglers interested in this unique trout fishing opportunity must submit a postcard containing their name, address, and daytime phone number to Castalia Trout Fishing, c/o ODNR Division of Wildlife, 1840 Belcher Dr., Columbus, Ohio 43224-1329 no later than March 1. Only one entry per angler is allowed, duplicate entries will be discarded.

A limited number of anglers will be selected at random from the postcard entries for morning fishing sessions to be held Monday through Friday from April 3 to August 31. Successful applicants will be notified by mail of their fishing date as well as special rules for trout fishing in the stream. Each successful applicant will be allowed to bring up to two guests.

"Cold Creek is one of the most picturesque streams in the state with excellent habitat for trout. We are very happy to be able to provide Ohio anglers with a special opportunity to experience fishing on one of the state's most unique streams," said Michael J. Budzik, Division of Wildlife chief.

Special fishing rules will be in effect at the Castalia State Fish Hatchery to ensure that a quality fishing experience is maintained throughout the season. One of these special rules prohibits catch and release fishing, with the Division of Wildlife requiring that anglers keep all fish they catch. The daily bag limit will be five trout per angler.

The use of live bait or artificial lures will be permitted, however, no minnows or crayfish may be used or possessed. Anglers will be required to check in at the hatchery upon their arrival and check out at the end of their session. The fishing sessions will be open 7 a.m. to 12 noon.

Anglers 16 years of age and older will need a valid fishing license, which is now sold through a new electronic license sales system operational at approximately 1,400 locations around Ohio. The annual resident fishing license costs $15, while a one-day fishing license costs $7. Those who purchase a one-day fishing license may later return it to a vendor and receive credit toward the purchase of an annual fishing license.

For Further Information Contact:
Ray Petering, John Wisse, Division of Wildlife
(614) 265-6300