Some like it COLD

This is cabin fever relief for me. Some people think that fishing and other outdoor activities stop in the winter especially ice fishing. In 1967 along with Bob Piorkowski and Joe Karwoski with our team leader Mr.Dimugno the PHS Sportsmen's Club were certified in weapons safety and we set out to get our hunting and fishing licenses. I have been ice fishing with my nephew who is fourteen for the past four years. We fish for trout and salmon at West Hill Pond in New Hartford. CT DEP assists in stocking that pond amply with 135 surplus brood stock which means when their hatchery time as a producer is up; they are liberated to a lake to spend the rest of their days free. This brown trout was 6 3/4 lbs and was 23". Although not the biggest trout stocked in length it was the heaviest that I have seen caught for its size. It fought for about five minutes and was iced with the help of my nephew who brought it through the ice hole with me. This trout places me in a local contest in second place in the state. My nephew finished third in last year's contest. Thanks CT DEP for stocking those beautiful trout and salmon in the CT ponds.--- Phil Bruzas Sr.