"The snow's melting and just being able to get outside and get out of the house again,” said Brian Wales, Marathon resident.

"We've constantly had all this rain and ice and things like that and I'm ready to be out there in the streams,” said Ed Westermann, Endicott resident.

But before hitting the streams, it's important to follow local and state guidelines.

"The most common violation we run into as environmental conservation officers is fishing without a license. People just neglect to go and purchase their license,” said Ric Warner, Broome County Environmental Conservation Officer.

Trout season starts Tuesday

The trout season opener in New York State is just days away. On April 1st, many avid anglers are looking forward to getting out of the house and into the streams. As our Allison Lazarz reports, there are a few things to consider before grabbing that tackle box.

"Depending upon what they're in, the body of water that they're fishing, there may be additional regulations that are required on the certain body of water,” said Warner.

While customers are stocking up on fishing gear, it's also important to check your old equipment.

"It's important for those guys out there to check your lines and leaders and knots and make sure everything's in good working order before you hit the water,” said Chuck Sherwood, Timber Creek Sportsman Shop owner.

Stepping into a good pair of waders is something you'll definitely want to consider before you go fishing.

"It's important to have a pair that's good, something possibly with felt soles, maybe some steel studs on the soles to make sure you don't slip,” said Sherwood.

Many lakes and streams throughout the state have been stocked with fish, or will be stocked soon.

For more information, check out http://www.dec.ny.gov/