Pennsylvania Fly Fishing
Is Fly Fishing popular in Pennsylvania?
Yes, fly fishing is very popular in Pennsylvania, and the state is considered one of the top fly fishing destinations in the United States. Pennsylvania has over 85,000 miles of streams and rivers, including some of the most productive trout waters in the country, making it a prime location for fly fishing.
Pennsylvania is particularly well-known for its trout fishing, and the state has a number of designated trout streams that are managed specifically for fly fishing. These streams are stocked with a variety of trout species, including brown, rainbow, and brook trout, and they offer excellent opportunities for both novice and experienced fly fishermen.
In addition to its trout fishing, Pennsylvania also has a number of other species that are popular with fly fishermen, including smallmouth bass, musky, and panfish. The state also has a variety of lakes and reservoirs that offer fly fishing opportunities for both warmwater and coldwater species.
Pennsylvania has a strong tradition of fly fishing, and the state is home to a number of well-known fly fishing destinations, including Penns Creek, Spring Creek, the Delaware River, and the Yellow Breeches Creek. There are also a number of fly fishing clubs and organizations in Pennsylvania, as well as fly fishing shops, outfitters, and guides who can help visitors make the most of their fly fishing experience in the state.
What are the top targeted species for anglers in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania offers a wide variety of fly fishing opportunities, with many species available to target. Some of the top target species for fly fishing in Pennsylvania include:
Trout: Pennsylvania is known for its excellent trout fishing, with both wild and stocked populations of brown, rainbow, and brook trout found throughout the state. Many of the state's designated trout streams are managed specifically for fly fishing, making them ideal destinations for fly fishermen.
Smallmouth Bass: The Susquehanna River and other streams and rivers in Pennsylvania are home to populations of smallmouth bass, which are popular targets for fly fishermen. Smallmouth bass can be caught using a variety of fly fishing techniques, including streamers and topwater poppers.
Musky: Pennsylvania is also home to populations of musky, a large predatory fish that can be targeted using a variety of fly fishing techniques. Musky are often caught using large, brightly colored flies that imitate baitfish or other prey species.
Panfish: Bluegill, crappie, and other panfish are also popular targets for fly fishermen in Pennsylvania. These species can be found in many of the state's lakes and reservoirs, and they can be caught using a variety of small nymphs, wet flies, and other fly patterns.
Steelhead: While Pennsylvania is not typically thought of as a steelhead destination, the state does have populations of these anadromous fish in Lake Erie tributaries such as Elk Creek and Walnut Creek. Steelhead can be caught using a variety of nymphs and streamers, and they provide an exciting and challenging target for fly fishermen in Pennsylvania.
5 popular spots to fly fish in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is home to many excellent fly fishing destinations, with a wide variety of waters and species available to target. Here are just a few of the most popular fly fishing spots in Pennsylvania:
Penns Creek: Located in central Pennsylvania, Penns Creek is a designated trout stream that is known for its excellent dry fly fishing. The creek is home to wild brown and brook trout, as well as stocked rainbow trout, and it offers a variety of riffles, pools, and runs to fish.
Spring Creek: Spring Creek is another designated trout stream that is known for its excellent fly fishing. Located in central Pennsylvania near State College, the creek is home to wild brown and brook trout, as well as stocked rainbow trout, and it offers a variety of hatches throughout the year.
The Delaware River: The Delaware River is a large, scenic river that flows through Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey, and it is home to populations of smallmouth bass, musky, and other species that are popular with fly fishermen. The river can be fished from shore, by wading, or by floating in a drift boat or raft.
Yellow Breeches Creek: Yellow Breeches Creek is a popular fly fishing destination located in south-central Pennsylvania. The creek is home to wild brown and rainbow trout, as well as stocked trout, and it offers a variety of hatches throughout the year. The creek is also known for its scenic beauty and easy access.
Erie Tributaries: Pennsylvania is also home to a number of tributaries to Lake Erie, which offer opportunities to fish for steelhead and other species. Tributaries such as Elk Creek, Walnut Creek, and Twenty Mile Creek are popular destinations for fly fishermen, and they offer a variety of runs, pools, and riffles to fish.
These are just a few of the many excellent fly fishing spots in Pennsylvania, and the state offers a wide variety of waters and species to target, making it a great destination for fly fishermen of all skill levels.
What are Fly Fishing regulations for Pennsylvania?
Fly fishing regulations in Pennsylvania are established by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, and they are designed to protect the state's fish populations and ensure sustainable fishing opportunities. Some of the key regulations that apply to fly fishing in Pennsylvania include:
Fishing licenses: Anyone over the age of 16 who wishes to fish in Pennsylvania, including for fly fishing, must purchase a fishing license. Licenses can be purchased online, at sporting goods stores, or through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.
Catch limits: Pennsylvania has catch limits for many species of fish, including trout, bass, and panfish. These limits specify how many fish of a particular species and size may be caught and kept in a given day.
Seasonal closures: Some streams and rivers in Pennsylvania are subject to seasonal closures to protect fish populations during spawning or other vulnerable times of the year. Before fishing a particular waterway, it is important to check for any seasonal closures that may be in effect.
Gear restrictions: Some waters in Pennsylvania have gear restrictions, including limits on the number of hooks that may be used on a single fly or lure. It is important to check for any gear restrictions that may apply to a particular waterway before fishing.
Catch and release regulations: Pennsylvania has catch and release regulations for many streams and rivers, including some that are designated as wild trout streams. These regulations require that all fish be immediately released back into the water unharmed.
It is important for fly fishermen to familiarize themselves with the specific regulations that apply to the waters they plan to fish in Pennsylvania, as these regulations can vary by location and species. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website provides detailed information on regulations and licensing requirements.
Popular Fly Shops in Pennsylvania
Holsinger's Fly Shop: Holsinger's is located in State College, Pennsylvania, and has been serving fly fishermen since 1992. The shop offers a wide selection of fly fishing gear and supplies, as well as guided trips on local waters. Holsinger's also hosts fly tying and casting classes for anglers of all skill levels.
TCO Fly Shop: TCO has multiple locations throughout Pennsylvania, including in State College, Boiling Springs, and Reading. The shops offer a wide range of fly fishing gear and supplies, as well as guided trips and fly tying classes. TCO is known for its knowledgeable staff and excellent customer service.
A. A. Outfitters & Fly Fishing: A. A. Outfitters is located in Blakeslee, Pennsylvania, and offers a variety of fly fishing gear and supplies, as well as guided trips on local waters. The shop also offers fly tying and casting classes for anglers of all skill levels.
Evening Hatch Fly Shop: Evening Hatch is located in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, and offers a wide selection of fly fishing gear and supplies. The shop also offers guided trips on local waters and fly tying classes. Evening Hatch is known for its friendly staff and commitment to customer service.
Neshannock Creek Fly Shop Inc: Neshannock Creek Fly Shop is located in Volant, Pennsylvania, and offers a variety of fly fishing gear and supplies, as well as guided trips on local waters. The shop also offers fly tying and casting classes for anglers of all skill levels. Neshannock Creek Fly Shop is known for its selection of high-quality gear and its knowledgeable staff.
Each of these fly shops offers a unique selection of gear and services, and all are dedicated to serving the needs of fly fishermen in Pennsylvania. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, these shops can provide the gear, knowledge, and support you need to make the most of your time on the water.
What is the History of Fly Fishing in Pennsylvania?
Fly fishing has a long history in Pennsylvania, dating back to the 1700s when European settlers first began to explore the state's many streams and rivers. These early fly fishermen were primarily interested in catching trout, which were abundant in the state's cool, clear waters.
One of the earliest fly fishing pioneers in Pennsylvania was James Leisenring, who developed a unique style of wet fly fishing in the 1800s. Leisenring's technique involved using soft hackles and a long leader to drift the fly in the current, and it proved to be highly effective for catching trout in Pennsylvania's many freestone streams.
Another important figure in the history of fly fishing in Pennsylvania was George Harvey, who was known for his expertise in dry fly fishing. Harvey developed a number of innovative techniques for presenting flies to trout in difficult conditions, and he became famous for his ability to catch trout on small, delicate dry flies.
Over the years, Pennsylvania has become a popular destination for fly fishermen from around the world, thanks to its many excellent trout streams and the state's commitment to protecting and preserving its fish populations. Today, fly fishermen in Pennsylvania continue to use a variety of techniques and strategies to catch trout and other species, and the state remains a top destination for anglers of all skill levels.
