Fishermen and women are preparing for one of the most popular rites of spring -- the start of trout fishing season.
The eight-month season starts Monday, bringing thousands of anglers to lakes at Bennett Spring State Park, Roaring River State Park and Montauk State Park.
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is estimating about 8,000 people will buy trout tags Monday.
Many state parks have made improvements or constructed new buildings in preparation for this season.