The season doesn't officially start until 8 a.m. but anglers will line up early along N.J. rivers and streams tomorrow ready to cast their lines and embrace a perennial rite of spring.

More than 100,000 fisherman are expected to be on the water trying their luck this weekend as trout season begins.

"New Jersey can take pride in offering some of the finest trout fishing found on the East Coast," Catherine McCabe, the acting commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, said in a statement. "Trout season offers anglers a chance to relax and spend quality time in the outdoors. We strongly encourage newcomers to try their hand at trout fishing and discover a rewarding way to enjoy the splendid scenery of early spring."

Temperatures around the state are expected to be in the 40s and 50s, and the light snow threatening to fall across the state will only add to the chill. But those who bundle up and head out will likely be greeted by water that is flush with trout.

This year the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife plans to stock waters around the state with about 570,000 trout. So far, 184,000 have already been stocked in preparation for the season's opening weekend. The rest of the fish will be dispersed across 173 lakes, rivers and streams around the state by the end of May.

"New Jersey has one of the best trout-stocking programs in the nation," said Martha Sapp, DEP's acting assistant commissioner for natural and historic resources. "With beautiful, high-quality fish being stocked in every county, great fishing opportunities can be found close to home."

The trout that are stocked by the state are all from the Pequest State Trout Hatchery in Warren County. Most of the stocked trout at about 10 inches long when they're released, but some of the trout will be larger breeder fish known as broodstock.

To fish for trout in New Jersey, anglers over the age of 16 will need a valid fishing license with a trout stamp. Children under 16 and New Jersey residents older than 70 may fish for free.

Are you out on the water for opening weekend? Share your catch!

Michael Sol Warren may be reached at mwarren@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MSolDub. Find NJ.com on Facebook.