The Kiski River might not be a designated trout water, but the Kiski Watershed Association is seeking donations to stock the river with the popular fish.

The association has raised almost enough money from local businesses for one stocking in about mid-May, according to John Linkes, a member of the association.

The group would like two stockings this season.

Although the state has designated the river as impaired because of historic pollution such as acid mine drainage, the Kiski has been cleaned up quite a bit over the years and is home to many species of fish including a healthy population of bass.

Why then bring in the trout?

Given the warm water and impaired status of the river, it has not been eligible for stocking by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.

When the watershed association starting stocking trout about 15 years ago, it did so to highlight the revival of the river, according to Linkes.

“When people drive through the area for the first time and they see people fishing, they might spur them to stop,” he said.

Although some anglers say the trout head downstream to the Allegheny River, a number find holes and cold water and stay, according to Linkes.

People who would like to contribute can send a check to made payable to KWA and designate “trout fund” in the memo section to KWA, P.O. Box 83, Leechburg, Pa. 15656.

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