The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Fish and Wildlife will hold its annual Open House at the Pequest Trout Hatchery and Natural Resource Education Center on March 29 and 30 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Admission and parking are free.

Anyone who enjoys the outdoors will find something to do at the Open House. Children between the ages of 8 and 16 can try trout fishing in the Fishing Education Pond a week before the season begins. They will be given expert instruction by staff, Wildlife Conservation Corps volunteers and volunteers from Trout Unlimited. Kids under 8 can try catching trout in the "Kiddie Fishing Tank". All fishing equipment will be provided.

There also will be a kid’s activity tent set up at the Open House. Children will be able to make a kite, do fish printing (the ancient art known as Gyotaku), and learn how to make paper. A fish cleaning and cooking station will also be set up for the day where visitors will be able to learn how to prepare fish for the table.

Beginner archery and shotgun ranges will be set up in the fields near the hatchery for those wanting to try their hand at one of the shooting sports. Certified Hunter Education Instructors will be on hand to provide instruction and ensure a safe program. Equipment will be provided. For experts, a 15-target 3-D archery course will be set up in the woods, but you will need to bring your own archery equipment for this course. A Hunter Education field session will also be offered at 10:30.

A Fishermen’s Flea Market with a variety of equipment new and used is also available for the outdoor enthusiast. Food vendors will be available at the Open House, or you can bring your own lunch and enjoy one of the 3 picnic areas located within the 5,000 acre Pequest Wildlife Management Area.

The Pequest Trout Hatchery and Natural Resource Education Center is located 9 miles west of Hackettstown on Route 46 in scenic Warren County.