Diverse Types of Fishing in Pennsylvania: Fly Fishing, Ice Fishing, and Trout Fishing

Pennsylvania, with its abundant waterways and diverse fish species, offers a wide range of fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels and interests. Among the most popular types of fishing in the Keystone State are fly fishing, ice fishing, and trout fishing. Each of these methods presents unique challenges, rewards, and experiences, allowing anglers to connect with nature and enjoy the thrill of the catch.

Fly Fishing in Pennsylvania

Fly fishing is a beloved and time-honored method of fishing that involves using an artificial fly to catch fish. Pennsylvania, with its numerous streams, rivers, and lakes, is a premier destination for fly fishing enthusiasts.

Best Fly Fishing Locations in Pennsylvania

Penns Creek

Penns Creek is a renowned limestone stream located in central Pennsylvania, known for its excellent hatches and wild brown trout population. The stream offers over 30 miles of fly fishing opportunities, with a variety of water types ranging from gentle riffles to deep, slow-moving pools.

• Poe Paddy State Park (1087 Penns Creek Road, Coburn, PA 16832): This state park provides access to a scenic stretch of Penns Creek, with ample parking, restroom facilities, and camping options. The park is a popular starting point for float trips and wading excursions.
• Ingleby (3747 Ingleby Road, Spring Mills, PA 16875): The Ingleby access point is located in the heart of Penns Creek’s famous “Narrows” section, known for its challenging fishing conditions and trophy-sized wild brown trout. This area features fast-moving water, deep pools, and boulder-strewn runs.

Spring Creek

Spring Creek, situated in Centre County, is a world-renowned limestone stream that boasts an impressive population of wild brown trout. The stream’s crystal-clear waters, abundant insect life, and picturesque setting make it a favorite among fly anglers.

• Fisherman’s Paradise (1150 Spring Creek Road, Bellefonte, PA 16823): This popular access point features a 1.2-mile stretch of Spring Creek managed under special regulations, with catch-and-release and artificial lures only restrictions. The area includes a wheelchair-accessible fishing platform and ample parking.
• Benner Springs State Fish Hatchery (1735 Shiloh Road, State College, PA 16801): The Benner Springs State Fish Hatchery provides access to a productive section of Spring Creek, with a mix of riffles, runs, and pools. The hatchery grounds offer parking, restroom facilities, and a visitor center with educational exhibits.

Yellow Breeches Creek

Yellow Breeches Creek is a picturesque Cumberland Valley stream known for its excellent hatches and diverse fish species, including brown trout, rainbow trout, and smallmouth bass. The stream’s limestone-influenced waters and scenic setting make it a popular destination for fly anglers.

• Allenberry Resort (1559 Boiling Springs Road, Boiling Springs, PA 17007): The Allenberry Resort provides access to a prime section of Yellow Breeches Creek, with a mix of riffles, runs, and pools. The resort offers lodging, dining, and guide services, making it a convenient base for fly fishing excursions.
• Yellow Breeches Park (1 Breeches Drive, New Cumberland, PA 17070): This municipal park provides access to a scenic stretch of Yellow Breeches Creek, with ample parking, restroom facilities, and picnic areas. The park is a popular spot for wading and short float trips.

Fly Fishing Techniques and Tips

Match the Hatch

One of the keys to success in fly fishing is matching your fly pattern to the insects that are currently hatching on the water. By presenting a fly that closely mimics the size, shape, and color of the natural insects, you’ll increase your chances of fooling even the most discerning trout.

• Observe the water: Take time to watch the water’s surface for rising fish and inspect streamside vegetation for insects. Note the size, color, and behavior of the insects you see.
• Consult a hatch chart: Many fly shops and online resources provide hatch charts specific to Pennsylvania streams, which can help you predict which insects are likely to be active during different times of the year.
• Carry a variety of fly patterns: Stock your fly box with a diverse selection of patterns that imitate common aquatic insects, such as mayflies, caddisflies, and stoneflies, in various sizes and colors.

Practice Your Cast

Fly fishing requires a specific casting technique that differs from conventional spinning or baitcasting methods. Mastering the fly casting stroke takes time and practice, but it’s essential for presenting your fly accurately and delicately to the fish.

• Take a casting lesson: Consider taking a fly casting lesson from a certified instructor or experienced angler. Many fly shops, guide services, and fishing clubs offer classes for beginners.
• Practice in an open area: Find an open area, such as a park or backyard, to practice your casting technique. Use a target, such as a hula hoop or paper plate, to improve your accuracy.
• Focus on timing and rhythm: Fly casting is all about timing and rhythm. Practice making smooth, fluid motions with your rod, focusing on a consistent back cast and forward cast.

Read the Water

To locate fish and present your fly effectively, you must learn to read the water and identify prime fishing spots. By understanding how trout behave and where they are likely to hold in a stream, you can focus your efforts on the most productive areas.

• Look for riffles, runs, and pools: Trout often hold in specific stream features, such as riffles (shallow, fast-moving water), runs (deeper, moderate-speed water), and pools (deep, slow-moving water). Each of these areas provides different feeding opportunities and cover for the fish.
• Identify current seams: Trout frequently hold in current seams, which are the boundaries between fast and slow-moving water. These areas provide the fish with easy access to food while allowing them to conserve energy.
• Pay attention to structure: Trout also seek out structure, such as boulders, logs, and undercut banks, which provide cover and break up the current. Cast your fly upstream of these structures and allow it to drift naturally with the current.

Use a Stealthy Approach

Trout, particularly in heavily fished streams, can be easily spooked by the presence of anglers. To avoid alerting the fish to your presence, it’s essential to use a stealthy approach when fly fishing.

• Keep a low profile: When moving along the stream, keep a low profile to avoid being silhouetted against the sky. Crouch or kneel when approaching promising fishing spots.
• Avoid sudden movements: Move slowly and deliberately when wading or casting to minimize disturbances in the water. Avoid making sudden, jerky movements that may startle the fish.
• Wear muted colors: Choose clothing and gear in muted colors, such as earth tones or camouflage patterns, to blend in with your surroundings. Avoid bright, flashy colors that may draw attention to your presence.

For more information on fly fishing in Pennsylvania, visit the Pennsylvania Fly Fishing Museum Association’s website: https://www.paflyfishing.org/

Ice Fishing in Pennsylvania

Ice fishing is a unique and exciting way to enjoy Pennsylvania’s winter landscapes while pursuing a variety of fish species. When the state’s lakes and ponds freeze over, anglers can venture out onto the ice to target panfish, trout, and other cold-water species.

Best Ice Fishing Locations in Pennsylvania

Presque Isle Bay

Presque Isle Bay, located in Erie, is a popular destination for ice fishing, offering opportunities to catch a variety of fish species, including perch, crappie, and steelhead.

• Presque Isle State Park (301 Peninsula Drive, Erie, PA 16505): This state park provides access to Presque Isle Bay, with several popular ice fishing spots along the peninsula. The park offers ample parking, restroom facilities, and a bait shop.
• Public Access Points: There are several public access points along the shoreline of Presque Isle Bay, including the Chestnut Street launch ramp and the foot of State Street. These areas provide easy access to the bay’s productive ice fishing grounds.

Raystown Lake

Raystown Lake, an 8,300-acre reservoir in Huntingdon County, is known for its excellent ice fishing for crappie, yellow perch, and striped bass. The lake’s numerous coves and points provide diverse structure and habitat for these species.

• Seven Points Marina (6993 Seven Points Road, Hesston, PA 16647): The Seven Points Marina provides access to the northern end of Raystown Lake, with ample parking and nearby amenities. This area is known for its excellent crappie and yellow perch fishing.
• Tatman Run Recreation Area (6537 Raystown Road, Saxton, PA 16678): Located on the southern end of Raystown Lake, the Tatman Run Recreation Area offers access to prime ice fishing spots for striped bass and other species. The area features parking, restroom facilities, and a boat launch.

Glendale Lake

Glendale Lake, situated in Prince Gallitzin State Park, offers ice fishing opportunities for panfish, trout, and bass. The lake’s 1,600 acres provide ample room for anglers to spread out and explore various fishing spots.

• Prince Gallitzin State Park (966 Marina Road, Patton, PA 16668): The state park provides easy access to Glendale Lake, with several parking areas and amenities such as restrooms and warming areas. The park also hosts an annual ice fishing tournament in January.

Ice Fishing Techniques and Tips

Safety First

Ice fishing can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s essential to prioritize safety when venturing out onto the ice. Always take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

• Check ice thickness: Before heading out, check the ice thickness to ensure it’s safe to walk on. A minimum of 4 inches of clear, solid ice is generally recommended for foot traffic. Use an ice auger or spud bar to test the ice thickness in several spots.
• Wear appropriate clothing and gear: Dress in layers to stay warm and dry, and wear ice cleats or creepers to maintain traction on the ice. Bring safety gear such as ice picks, a throw rope, and a flotation device.
• Never fish alone: Always fish with a partner or let someone know your plans and expected return time. Bring a fully charged cell phone in case of emergencies.

Use the Right Equipment

Investing in quality ice fishing gear can greatly enhance your experience and increase your chances of success. Some essential items include:

• Ice auger: An ice auger is used to drill holes through the ice. Manual and powered options are available, with sizes ranging from 4 to 10 inches in diameter.
• Shelter: An ice fishing shelter provides protection from the wind and cold, allowing you to fish in comfort. Options range from simple pop-up tents to more elaborate heated shelters.
• Rods and reels: Ice fishing rods are typically shorter and more sensitive than conventional rods, allowing you to detect subtle bites. Pair them with a small spinning reel spooled with light line (2-6 pound test).
• Lures and bait: Use small jigs tipped with live bait, such as wax worms or minnows, to target panfish. For larger species like pike and bass, consider using tip-ups with live bait or larger jigging spoons.

Locate Fish

To increase your chances of success, it’s important to locate schools of fish beneath the ice. Several techniques can help you find productive fishing spots:

• Use a fish finder: A portable fish finder or flasher can help you locate fish and determine the depth at which they are holding. Look for areas with a mix of depths and structure, such as drop-offs, points, and weed beds.
• Drill multiple holes: Don’t be afraid to drill several holes in different areas to locate fish. Move around until you find active fish, then focus your efforts on those spots.
• Pay attention to other anglers: If you see other anglers catching fish in a particular area, it’s a good indication that there are active fish nearby. Be respectful and maintain a safe distance from other fishing parties.

Be Patient

Ice fishing often requires patience and persistence, as fish may be less active in the colder water temperatures. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get bites right away; try different techniques and locations until you find what works.

• Vary your depth: Fish may be holding at different depths throughout the day. Start by fishing near the bottom, then gradually work your way up the water column until you locate active fish.
• Experiment with lures and bait: If one type of lure or bait isn’t producing, don’t be afraid to switch things up. Try different colors, sizes, and styles of lures, or experiment with different types of live bait.
• Stay mobile: If you’re not getting bites in one spot, don’t hesitate to move to a new location. Covering more water increases your chances of finding active fish.

For more information on ice fishing in Pennsylvania, visit the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission’s ice fishing page: https://www.fishandboat.com/Fish/PennsylvaniaFishes/Pages/IceFishing.aspx

Trout Fishing in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is renowned for its excellent trout fishing, with thousands of miles of streams and rivers stocked annually with rainbow, brown, and brook trout. The state’s diverse waterways offer opportunities for both stocked and wild trout fishing, catering to anglers of all skill levels.

Best Trout Fishing Locations in Pennsylvania

Spruce Creek

Spruce Creek, located in central Pennsylvania, is known for its impressive population of wild brown trout and challenging fishing conditions. The stream’s limestone-influenced waters and diverse habitat create the perfect environment for trout to thrive.

• Spruce Creek Park (1794 Spruce Creek Road, Spruce Creek, PA 16683): This park provides access to a popular section of Spruce Creek, with ample parking and restroom facilities. The area features a mix of riffles, runs, and pools, offering excellent opportunities for both fly fishing and spin fishing.
• Public Access Points: There are several public access points along Spruce Creek, including the Colerain Bridge, Barree Road Bridge, and Tyrone Bridge. These areas provide access to various sections of the stream, each with its own unique characteristics and fishing opportunities.

Lehigh River

The Lehigh River, which flows through eastern Pennsylvania, offers excellent fishing for both stocked and wild trout. The river’s diverse habitat, including deep pools, fast riffles, and boulder-strewn runs, provides ample opportunities for anglers of all skill levels.

• Lehigh Gorge State Park (4843 PA-903, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229): This state park provides access to a scenic stretch of the Lehigh River, with several popular fishing spots along the gorge. The park offers parking, restroom facilities, and hiking trails that parallel the river.
• Bowmanstown Access (1285 Bowmanstown Road, Lehighton, PA 18235): The Bowmanstown Access is a popular put-in point for float fishing trips on the Lehigh River. The area features a large parking lot, restroom facilities, and easy access to the river.

Oil Creek

Oil Creek, situated in Venango County, is a scenic stream known for its wild brook and brown trout populations. The stream’s forested valley and pristine waters create a picturesque setting for trout fishing.

• Oil Creek State Park (305 State Park Road, Oil City, PA 16301): This state park provides access to several miles of Oil Creek, with numerous fishing spots along the stream. The park offers parking, restroom facilities, and hiking trails that follow the stream’s course.
• Public Access Points: There are several public access points along Oil Creek, including the Petroleum Centre Bridge, Rynd Farm Bridge, and Oil City Access. These areas provide access to various sections of the stream, each with its own unique features and fishing opportunities.

Trout Fishing Techniques and Tips

Know the Regulations

Before heading out to fish for trout in Pennsylvania, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the state’s trout fishing regulations. These regulations are in place to ensure the sustainability of trout populations and to provide a fair and enjoyable experience for all anglers.

• Seasons: Pennsylvania’s trout fishing seasons vary depending on the type of water (stocked or wild) and the specific regulations for each waterway. The general trout season typically begins on the first Saturday in April and continues through Labor Day. Extended season opportunities are available on some waters.
• Size and Creel Limits: Many Pennsylvania waterways have size and creel limits in place for trout. These limits vary depending on the specific regulations for each water. Be sure to check the Pennsylvania Fishing Summary or the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission’s website for the most up-to-date information.
• Licenses and Permits: All anglers aged 16 and older must possess a valid Pennsylvania fishing license to fish for trout. In addition, a trout permit is required to fish for trout in Pennsylvania waters. Licenses and permits can be purchased online, by phone, or at various issuing agents throughout the state.

Choose the Right Gear

Selecting the appropriate gear for trout fishing can greatly enhance your experience and increase your chances of success. The type of gear you choose will depend on your preferred fishing method and the specific conditions of the waterway.

• Spinning Gear: For spin fishing, use a light to medium-weight spinning rod and reel combo, paired with 4-8 pound test monofilament or fluorocarbon line. Select natural-looking lures, such as spinners, spoons, or minnow imitations, that mimic the trout’s prey.
• Fly Fishing Gear: For fly fishing, use a 4-6 weight fly rod and reel combo, paired with a weight-forward floating fly line. Choose leaders and tippets in the appropriate size and strength for the flies you plan to use. Select flies that imitate the natural insects and baitfish found in the waterway, such as mayflies, caddisflies, and streamers.
• Bait Fishing Gear: For bait fishing, use a light to medium-weight spinning or baitcasting rod and reel combo, paired with 4-8 pound test monofilament or fluorocarbon line. Use natural baits, such as worms, minnows, or salmon eggs, rigged on a hook or a bait rig.

Fish Early or Late

Trout are most active during the cooler parts of the day, particularly early morning and evening. By planning your fishing trips around these times, you can increase your chances of success and avoid the warmest parts of the day when trout may be less active.

• Early Morning: Trout often feed actively in the early morning hours, particularly during the summer months when water temperatures are cooler. Arrive at your fishing spot before sunrise to take advantage of this prime feeding time.
• Evening: As the sun sets and water temperatures cool, trout may become more active and start feeding again. Fish the last few hours of daylight for the best chances of success.
• Overcast Days: Trout may also be more active on overcast or rainy days, when the cooler temperatures and diffused light create more comfortable conditions for the fish.

Explore Different Techniques

Trout can be caught using a variety of techniques, each with its own unique advantages and challenges. By exploring different techniques and adapting your approach to the specific conditions of the waterway, you can increase your chances of success and enjoy a more diverse and rewarding fishing experience.

• Drift Fishing: Drift fishing involves allowing your bait or lure to drift naturally with the current, mimicking the movement of the trout’s prey. This technique is effective in deeper pools and runs, where trout may be holding near the bottom.
• Fly Fishing: Fly fishing involves using an artificial fly to imitate the trout’s natural prey, such as insects or baitfish. This technique requires a specific set of skills and equipment, but can be highly effective in catching both stocked and wild trout.
• Spinning: Spinning involves using a spinning rod and reel to cast and retrieve lures, such as spinners or spoons, through the water. This technique is versatile and can be effective in a variety of conditions, from fast riffles to deep pools.
• Bait Fishing: Bait fishing involves using natural baits, such as worms or minnows, to attract and catch trout. This technique can be effective in slower-moving waters or when trout are less active.

For more information on trout fishing in Pennsylvania, visit the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission’s trout fishing page: https://www.fishandboat.com/Fish/PennsylvaniaFishes/Trout/Pages/default.aspx

Fishing Resources and Organizations in Pennsylvania

To further enhance your fishing experiences in Pennsylvania, consider utilizing the following resources and organizations:

1. Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission: The PFBC is the primary agency responsible for managing and regulating fishing in the state. Their website (https://www.fishandboat.com/) offers a wealth of information on fishing regulations, stocking schedules, and educational resources.
2. Trout Unlimited: Trout Unlimited is a national organization dedicated to conserving, protecting, and restoring North America’s coldwater fisheries. The Pennsylvania Council of Trout Unlimited (https://patrout.org/) provides information on local chapters, conservation projects, and educational events.
3. Pennsylvania Fly Fishing Museum Association: The PFFMA is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the history and heritage of fly fishing in Pennsylvania. Their website (https://www.paflyfishing.org/) offers information on events, exhibits, and educational resources.
4. Local Fishing Clubs and Guide Services: Joining a local fishing club or hiring a professional guide can be an excellent way to learn more about the specific waterways and techniques for fly fishing, ice fishing, and trout fishing in Pennsylvania. Search online or ask at your local tackle shop for recommendations.

In Short

Pennsylvania’s diverse waterways and abundant fish populations offer endless opportunities for fly fishing, ice fishing, and trout fishing enthusiasts. By exploring the best locations, honing your techniques, and utilizing the available resources and organizations, you can make the most of your fishing experiences in the Keystone State. Remember to always prioritize safety, follow regulations, and practice responsible fishing ethics to ensure that these incredible resources are preserved for generations to come. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, Pennsylvania’s fly fishing, ice fishing, and trout fishing opportunities are sure to provide unforgettable adventures and a deeper connection with the natural world.

So grab your gear, head out to the water, and immerse yourself in the rich fishing heritage of Pennsylvania!