The fishing season is now open for business. Earlier than planned, New Jersey has announced that it is OK to fish during the coronavirus outbreak.

The trout season was originally scheduled for later in the month, but officials declared that fishing is fine as long as social distancing (6-feet – about the typical length of a fishing pole) guidelines are met. The early opening is for catch and release only. Streams and ponds are fully stocked.

It should be noted that some local parks have closed because of the outbreak, but state parks remain open. However, facilities at state parks — like restrooms, visitor centers, playgrounds, and campgrounds — are closed.