Opening day of trout season brought a familiar scene to the Delaware & Raritan Canal on Saturday morning, as anglers lined the banks early, rods in hand, hoping to land the first catch of the season.
From seasoned fishermen to families with young children, there was no shortage of activity along the water, with clusters of anglers spaced out along the canal’s edge under clear skies and a crisp spring chill.
Among them was Wayne Topley, known locally as the “Fish Whisperer,” who had already landed four trout by 9 a.m.
“It’s a cold morning, but it’s all about family,” Topley said. “Our clan has been fishing in this spot for years and it has become a tradition.”
That tradition paid off early. Wayne’s son, Mike Topley, kicked off the season with a 23-inch rainbow trout — a strong start on a morning when many were still waiting for their first bite.
The canal, recently stocked as part of the state’s spring trout program, drew anglers from across the region, continuing a long-standing opening day ritual that mixes patience, community, and a bit of luck.
For many, the morning was less about the size of the catch and more about the experience — reconnecting with a familiar place, sharing time with family, and marking the unofficial start of spring in New Jersey.
