The Lehigh River Trout Tournament will take place again this year, bigger and better than ever.

New for 2025 will be more trout stocked and more tags placed in more areas of the river, according to a release from the Lehigh River Stocking Association.

Because of the success last year’s event, which had over 300 participants, the tournament has increased the amount of money for stocking to $10,000 and expanded the fishing opportunities to more locations.

Stockings will include Jim Thorpe, Lehighton, Palmerton, Bowmanstown, Walnutport and Northampton.

Organizers felt that this would enable more participants to enjoy the tournament without overpressuring a smaller area of the river.

Also new this year is that the tournament dates have been moved up to May 3 through June 7. This was done to have the tournament take place when water temperatures are ideal for fishing and catch and release.

The entry donation can be paid online at www.lrsa.org or mailed in with entry ticket found in the March newsletter. Participants can also sign up the day of tournament at the East Penn Boat Ramp in Bowmanstown.

Anglers must be registered by May 3 to qualify for prizes.

Memberships and merchandise will be available, too.

Entrants can cut off and keep spaghetti tags for catch and release and to redeem for prizes.

One tag is allowed per entrant for one prize.

Prizes will be awarded by presenting tags at 10 a.m. June 7 at the East Penn Boat Launch.

Prize selection order will be from lowest number tag to the highest.

The prizes will include drift boat trips, rafting trips, fishing outfits, tackle, gift cards and LRSA merchandise.

See the LRSA website, www.lrsa.org, and Facebook page for updates.

Anyone with questions can text Tom at 610-730-9359.