The long awaited transition from winter to spring has finally arrived.

As temperatures start to rise and snow has melted, students are looking forward to spend some of their free time enjoying the outdoors.

Senior music major James Sonnentag is among the multiple campus goers who are optimistic about the approaching fishing season. He said was eager to hunt down the big muskies.

“I’m excited to hit the old spots again,” Sonnentag said. “It’ll be nice to get outside after a long winter.”

The Eau Claire area is home to a variety of fishing opportunities including the Chippewa River itself. Being close to campus provides easy access to fisherman and the river also has a diverse fish population. Muskellunge, northern pike and bass are all sought after game fish for many avid anglers.

Spring is a typically a good season to catch walleye on the Chippewa. Sturgeon are one of the largest freshwater species and can be found in local rivers, as well. The Chippewa Valley has numerous lakes, trout streams and rivers which serve as productive bodies of water.

The Environmental Adventure Center, located in the lower level of the Hilltop Center, allows for students to rent outdoor equipment such as fishing poles, canoes, kayaks and life vests.

Senior management major Sam Worple, an employee at the EAC, said he had already been out trout fishing a few times this year. He said the center had recently bought new rods and reels as upgrades to their rentals.

“I’ve been busy gearing up for the upcoming season,” he said.

Renewing licenses, spooling reels with fresh line and replacing old tackle are common ways to prepare before hitting the water. Opening day for the general inland fishing season is May 4. Annual licenses are $20 for residents and can be purchased through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website.

In the past month, senior Weston Thier has had success fly fishing for trout. Early season regulations require catch and release only for the species, but that doesn’t deter him.

“Three days ago, I had one of the best fishing days of my life,” Thier said.

On a section of the Rush River, he caught and released more than 30 trout. He said the late spring should prove to be beneficial for the fish population. The reason being the warmer weather will ideally lead to an increase in the amount of insects in creeks and streams. Their finished his forecast of the season with a hint of optimism.

“It’s gonna be a good year for fishing.”