'It's Nice To See People Out Here:' Fishers Of All Ages Head To Peters Creek For First Day Of Trout Season

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - Not too long ago, Peters Creek would've been empty on the first day of trout season but after a cleanup, now fish and man can coexist in the waters.

"It doesn't matter if I catch zero or if I come and limit out, it's just one of those things where it's nice to see people out here catching fish," said Shane Rady, one of many celebrating the first day of trout season in Pennsylvania.

With clear skies, busy waters, and family by his side, Saturday was a perfect day for Rady as he celebrated the opening day.

"It's one of those things where you get into it and you just can't stop once you're into it," he said.

It's also a sign that the water at Peters Creek is cared for.

The creek used to be polluted with mine drainage and sewer runoff in the waters but then the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission stepped in.

Now fish are able to swim around and anglers can cast their lines without the worry of hooking trash.

"Some streams are consistently clear, cold, and others have issues of pollution and other things that have concurred that just don't make it conducive for stocking trout," said Mike Parker, a spokesperson from the Pa. Fish and Boat Commission. "So, we're thrilled when we see that a stream has bounced back. It reflects positively on how people think about the environment how people cherish clean fresh water in their communities. Trout season puts that in the forefront."

Since the pandemic began, fishing licenses have increased by 20% and thanks to the busy campgrounds, an opening date that is two weeks ahead of schedule, the commission expect the creek to be a hotspot of the area.

"Wish you guys all the best and tight lines," Parker said.