On a clear, temperate morning March 1, veteran Montauk angler Oran C. Naramore fired the pistol shot signifying the beginning of trout fishing at Montauk State Park. Fishermen across the park began casting, starting their day by enjoying nature and catching trout. Opening day has become a pilgrimage for many who come to the area each year for a chance at some of the thousands of trout released by the park’s fish hatchery.
According to park employee Melissa Wildhaber, this year the hatchery released 5,500 fish on opening day, with 800 released the next day. Wildhaber said that 1,594 adult tags and 144 child tags were sold on opening day. The first tag went to Naramore.
