BUSINESSES WELCOME ECONOMIC BOOST

While anglers rush around, making last-minute purchases preparing for today's (Saturday's) trout season opener, they will unknowlingly be contributing to what has become one of the area's busiest tourist weekends of the year.

Over the past several years, it has been trout season, not hunting season, that has lured in the most visitors.

"The first few weeks of trout season offer businesses the much-needed first boost of spring," said Potter County Visitor's Association Executive Director David Brooks. "After long and sometimes slow winters, many businesses are counting on a busy (spring) season."

That's certainly true at Potter County Outfitters in Coudersport, according to owner Ed Easton Jr.

"The beginning of fishing season is definitely our best and busiest time," he said. "So far, the local business has been very brisk."

Easton noted the Friday before opening day is traditionally a very good day for business.

"The gas prices worry me," Easton said. "But, the first weekend should still be real busy. I don't think the fishermen from out of the area make as many trips in a season as they used to, but the first day brings a lot of people into the area."

Sam Artman, owner of South Park Supply in Emporium, mirrored those statements.

"The beginning of fishing season is usually a busy time for us," he said. "With gas prices the way they are, I am a little concerned this year, but we'll just have to wait and see."

And we're not alone. Businesses across the state eagerly await the arrival of fishing season.

Nearly 2 million people, including about 600,000 children, fish in Pennsylvania each year.

Fishing has a tremendous impact on Pennsylvania's economy. Anglers spent nearly $650 million in trip and angling-related expenditures last year. More than 2.5 million people boat on Pennsylvania waters each year. Over 300,000 boats are registered in Pennsylvania.