Local Interest topic, Fly-Fishing
Just beyond the hustle and bustle of downtown State College, the valleys surrounding Penn State are teeming…teeming with native trout. Opening day of trout season is less then a week away, so if you’re new to the area or to the sport you are just in time. Here are the streams you need to know about.
Penns Creek: Was voted in the “America’s Top 100 Trout Streams” in 2013 by Trout Unlimited and is among the very highest ranking fly fishing streams in Pennsylvania. Trophy sized trout are pulled from the 35 miles of trout water. The Green Drake is the most popular hatch occurring in May on into June.With a limited number of cottages on the stream, the surrounding beauty is unsurpassed. You will likely see more buggies than cars, and possibly even spot a bald eagle.
Penns Creek, early Spring
Spring Creek: This limestone stream is closest in proximity to State College. According to the book “Trout Streams in Pennsylvania” by Dwight Lewis, Spring Creek is shown to have the densest population of trout. The popular spots are Fisherman’s paradise and Benner Springs. Lots of great hiking can be found around “The Canyon” too.
Spruce Creek: Though mostly privately owned stream banks, park near the Penn State building to cast your lines on the stream where dignitaries from all over the world come to fish. If it’s a little crowded, just drive over to the Little Juniata.
Little Juniata: Ample parking at the church in Spruce creek. Park and walk the banks of the Little J. just before the confluence at Spruce Creek. This is very popular fly fishing river with impressive hatches.
Fly-fishing on the Little Juniata River
Lake Fishing: If lake fishing is more your thing, then head over to the stocked waters of Whipple Dam just over the mountain from Pine Grove Mills. This 22 acre lake is stocked in the both Spring and Winter Months. Poe Valley State Park is another great lake for fishing. Stocked several times a year with trout, it is not far Penns Creek and surrounded by Bald Eagle State forest for miles of excellent hiking. A little farther out of town is Raystown lake. A 45 mile drive but, well worth it since it was voted the second-ranked lake for fishing in the entire state! It’s filled a massive amount of trophy fish including trout, catfish, carp, bass, perch and even some Atlantic salmon.
Ready to cast you line? These links will help you navigate through the different hatches, stream water levels, and steer you in the right direction if you need a few lessons.
http://thefeatheredhook.com/central-pa-hatches.php
http://www.flyfishingconnection.com/penns.html
http://www.flyfishersparadise.com/stream-reports/spring-creek
