The calendar noted the first day of spring on March 21. But for many, the first day of spring is the third Saturday in April. That's when thousands will line the banks of a waterway or body of water somewhere in the state looking for a prized catch, or at least a story about the one that got away.

So here are some nuggets about our natural world to enjoy while waiting for that bobber to sink or that line to tug.

Opening Numbers

Opening day for fishing is Saturday and the state Department of Environmental Protection has reported that more than 400,000 trout — about 200 truckloads — have been dumped into 101 lakes and ponds and 201 rivers and streams across the state.

For beginners or families out there, the best place to fish may be at designated trout parks. Some area parks include Chatfield Hollow State Park in Killingworth, Day Pond in Colchester, Valley Falls Pond in Vernon, Stratton Brook State Park in Simsbury, Wharton Brook State Park in Wallingford. Keney Pond in Hartford is also available for fishing.

The 2008 angler's guide is available at all town clerk's offices and at tackle stores that sell fishing licenses. For the first time, anglers can purchase fishing licenses online. Visit www.ct.gov/dep/fishing for more information.