Dewey Park Rainbow Trout Pond at Camp Zama Base is inexpensive, clean and wonderful fun. This pond has been here for years and has been stocked with trout many times over. I believe one year it was even stocked with catfish. It’s possible there is a lunker lurking somewhere in its depths. If not, there are still many 10- to 12-inch delicious rainbow trout, which are a great sporting fish and put up a good fight. That’s what makes it so much fun.

Fishing gear Since rainbow trout grow to about 12 inches, you are safe even with ultralight tackle. A standard trout fishing rig would include a spinning reel, 4-8 pound test line and a light or ultralight action rod.

Baiting the hook: Obviously, live worms get bit by just about every fish and this is one of the most simple baits to use. Some downsized soft plastic worms are also great choices for trout. Bright colors that can be detected in water are a plus when fishing in ponds. Spinners and rooster tails are the bread and butter of trout anglers nationwide. Easily changed in and out on a swivel, they get bit anywhere in a pond, but their flapping blades are suited to add flash to your lure. My suggested bait that’s easy and inexpensive, is cheese. Just squeeze it into a small ball on your hook.

Pond regulations You must be a registered paid customer and have a valid Dewey pond fishing license to fish. Cost to fish is $5. Only one rod and reel may be used per person. Corn is strictly prohibited as bait, but no other bait restrictions apply. Catch limit is three fish per license angler. Catch and release is not permitted. You must keep all fish you catch. Harvesting fish by any other means than with a rod and reel is prohibited. Cleaning fish in and around the park Including the restroom area is strictly prohibited. Fishing is only permitted between 0800 and1900 daily. Any fish caught other than trout must be reported to outdoor rec staff.

Picnic time There is an excellent barbecue area at the pond where you can have a nice barbecue and picnic. You must put down a small deposit which will be returned upon cleaning the area after your barbecue. The barbecue area is located almost directly across the street from Commissary at Camp Zama. There’s plenty of space for children to play and run around.

For more information on fishing and BBQing at Dewey park, head to Building 267, or call 263-4671 or 0463 407 4671.