Most trout stockings pass without any fanfare or much attention.

Next week’s trout stocking at Chapman State Park certainly doesn’t fall into that category.

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and Department of Conservation and Natural Resources are planning a joint news event at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 12.

“All of our trout stockings are open to the public,” Mike Parker, director of communications for the Fish and Boat Commission told the Times Observer, “and the fish are available to be caught immediately.”

PFBC Executive Director Tim Schaeffer, Chapman State Park Manager Tyson Martin, state legislators and others will be on hand to talk about the renewal of the lake, as well as winter fishing opportunities, ice safety, and the status of stocking the lake with other species besides trout, such as largemouth bass, bluegill and other sunfish, yellow perch, suckers and various minnows, including fathead, and golden shiner.

The event will be held in the mooring area parking lot. To get there, proceed past the park office and continue straight up the hill for about a mile.

In addition to the stocking, Parker said “agency representatives will provide important information for ice fishermen, as well as safety recommendations for anyone who may purchase or receive a kayak as a holiday gift. A general update will also be provided on the restoration of the 68-acre lake as a warm-water fishery for species including largemouth bass, sunfish and yellow perch.”