In the soft light of dawn, a lone figure stands by the water's edge, casting a line into the stillness. The morning mist hangs low, obscuring the surface as they patiently wait, listening to the quiet sounds of nature stirring awake.With a steady hand, they feel the tug of a Pennsylvania brook trout beneath the surface. Engaging in a brief but furious struggle, the angler emerges victorious.After having won the match, the fisherman releases the trout back into the cold waters. A simple yet satisfying start to the day.This episode is about the art – that’s right, I said art -- of fishing. Every year, hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians look forward to the opening of trout season – which takes place on the first Saturday of April.Believe it or not, Pennsylvania has the second largest number of waterways in the country –only behind Alaska. We have more than 86,000 miles of rivers and streams in the Commonwealth. As a result, Pennsylvania has a long and storied legacy of fishing that dates back before European settlers came here.But you might be thinking, listen here park boy, I don’t fish and I’m not interested in fishing. Don’t fret my sweet listener. We’re going to be talking plenty about waterway conservation, habitat restoration and much more that will keep you learning and interested.On this episode, we spoke with Mike Parker. Mike is the Communications Director of the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. Be sure to check out and support our sponsors for the 2024 season:Keystone Trails AssociationKTA is dedicated to providing, preserving, protecting and promoting recreational hiking trails and hiking opportunities in Pennsylvania. Use code "HELLBENDERS" to receive $5 off a yearly membership.Purple Lizard MapsPurveyors of incredibly detailed, highly curated, and waterproof trail maps of Pennsylvania's state forests. Find them at your local outfitters, bike shops, and bookstores or visit PurpleLizard.com.Pennsylvania Parks and Forests FoundationThe Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation began in 1999 as a statewide nonprofit organization to provide a voice for the Commonwealth’s 124 state parks and 2.2 million acres of forest land. They rally volunteers, raise funds, and advocate for these precious lands. Join the movement at PAParksandForests.org to preserve and enjoy our outdoor treasures. Support the showVisit our website to listen to the podcast, download free outdoor kids' activities, learn more about our public lands and to purchase merch. Follow us on Instagram and Meta to stay connected. You can support the podcast by clicking “Support this show” in the podcast description to provide a monthly donation. Hosting, production and editing: Christian AlexandersenMusic: Jon SauerGraphics: Matt Davis