Photo by John Hall Vermont's trout fishing season begins April 11 this year. This son and dad team was fishing the Winooski River last year on opening day. April brings more than mud season to the area, especially in the minds of anglers.

April 11 is opening day for Vermont's trout fishing season, and experienced anglers know fishing just gets better after that.

Weather can affect fishing conditions, but Vermont anglers will have good fishing opportunities in lakes and streams according to the Fish & Wildlife Department.

"Recent warmer weather has melted ice on many lakes and reduced snow in the headwater regions, which sets the stage for better spring fishing than normal," said Eric Palmer, Vermont's director of fisheries.

Anglers are reminded to use sinkers that are not made of lead. It is unlawful to use a lead sinker weighing one-half ounce or less while fishing in Vermont. Weighted fly line, lead-core line, downrigger cannonballs, weighted flies, lure, spoons, or jig heads are not prohibited.

"There are plenty of wild trout and many that were stocked earlier in lakes and streams to support early fishing," said Palmer. "The Willoughby River steelhead, for example, are always a good bet in the town of Orleans, and some of the largest brown trout caught each year are taken in April."

As an added bonus, Vermont' catch-and-release bass fishing season in lakes starts with trout season on April 11 and continues through June 12.

Only lures and flies may be used, and bass must be immediately released.

Fishing license fees are $20.00 for adult residents, $8.00 for residents 15-17 years of age, $41.00 for adult nonresidents, and $15.00 for nonresidents 15- 17 years old. One, three and seven day fishing licenses also are available for nonresidents. Children under age 15 do not need a fishing license in Vermont. Licenses are available at agents statewide and from Fish & Wildlife's website.