The state of Pennsylvania is just brimming with fabulous opportunities for outdoor adventure and recreation year-round, and fly fishing is no exception. Pennsylvania fly fishing for trout and steelhead is some of the best in the country.
You’re never far from a great lake, stream, or river, it seems, and all of them are easily accessible from towns and cities across the state.
The most common of the fish you’ll be catching are trout, which is available all across the state. If you’re looking for blue ribbon waters, Pennsylvania has several of them.
86,000 Miles of Trout Streams
Pennsylvania is blessed with over 86,000 miles of flowing water, and wild trout inhabit about 35,000 miles of rivers, streams, and creeks.
Pennsylvania Trout and Steelhead Fishing Map
PA is a relatively large state that takes about 5 hours to traverse from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh. Fishing all the rivers, streams, and creeks in between would take a lifetime. If you really want to find out where the best PA fly fishing spots are, you’ll need a good map.
Lucky for you, we created one. Below is a map of all the best trout and steelhead fishing spots in PA.
The map below includes Pennsylvania Special Regulation Trout Streams, Pennsylvania Class A Wild Trout Streams, and Pennsylvania steelhead fishing spots in the famed Steelhead Alley.
Click on map icons for information about each fishing location and to get directions.
Get Directions to the Fishing Access Points shown above with the DIY Fly Fishing Map
Some of the best trout fishing spots in PA are discussed below by region.
So Where is the Best Fly Fishing in Pennsylvania?
With so many quality trout streams in Pennsylvania, one could spark a serious debate about where the best trout fishing in Pennsylvania is. Let’s take a look at some of the leading candidates.
58 Best Places to Fly Fish in Pennsylvania
The state of Pennsylvania is known for offering exceptional fly fishing, especially when you’re after steelhead and trout. The state has great opportunities to experience outdoor recreation and adventure the entire year. No matter where you are, you’ll be close to rivers, streams, or lakes – even in the most urban areas.
Pennsylvania has six major regions, and each offers fantastic fishing. We’ll share information about the best fly fishing spots in the North-Central, South-Central, Southeast, Northeast, Southwest, and Northwest locations so you can head out and catch colossal fish whenever you want!
12 Best Trout Streams in North-Central Pennsylvania
Some of the top fly fishing waters in Pennsylvania are in the North Central area. Some of the most well-known waters include Spring Creek, Fishing Creek, Slate Run, and Penns Creeks.
This region also offers dozens of special regulation trout streams that are ripe for the picking.
Several of the fisheries are relatively rural, while others are close to major cities for easy access. Many rivers are quite long and offer various fishing places depending on whether you want solitude or a crowd to socialize with.
Read on to learn more about the best options in this part of Pennsylvania.
1. Sinnemahoning Creek
Sinnemahoning Creek in North-Central PA
This creek runs from Cameron to Clinton County and offers one of the most rural fishing locations in the north-central area. It is a place of solitude, with nothing more than state parks and forests to explore.
The main attraction is the many fly fishing streams, often teeming with wild brown trout. The creek has many branches, with some of the best at First Fork Sinnemahoning Creek and Driftwood Branch Sinnemahoning Creek.
The most significant hatches happen in the spring and summer. The upper areas are excellent up into the middle of June before the fish move downstream.
For more information, check out our DIY Guide to Fly Fishing Sinnemahoning Creek in Pennsylvania
2. Kettle Creek
Kettle Creek in Potter County, PA
A quick freestone stream, Kettle Creek deepens and widens over its 67 miles of water. It’s mainly Class-A rated for wild trout, and the fly hatches make fishing a breeze. Depending on location, you may catch a few large rainbows while fishing the creek.
The upper part of the river is best to fish in the morning and evening, while the lower river has fewer fish, but they’re often easier to catch.
The Kettle Creek Watershed Association and Trout Unlimited have planted trees to offer shade even in the day’s heat. A dozen Class-A tributaries off the creek, like Long Run and Indian Run, are worth exploring.
For more information, check out our DIY Guide to Fly Fishing Kettle Creek in Pennsylvania
3. Young Womans Creek
Young Womans Creek in Clinton County, PA
This creek is about 11 miles long and a tributary of the West Branch Susquehanna River. Young Womans Creek is ripe with fish all year round, but fly fishing in winter can be tricky since sections of the water might turn to ice.
The best time to visit the creek is in the early spring when hatches are happening all over. Fall is also a good time since the brown trout are most aggressive before the spawning season.
The best way to access the stream is from Route 120 from North Bend. The location offers easy wading with pocket water, small pools, and many riffles.
For more information, check out our DIY Guide to Fly Fishing Young Womans Creek in Pennsylvania
4. Pine Creek
Pine Creek in North-Central PA
It might be called Pine Creek, but with a length of 90 miles, this location is just as impressive as many rivers. It comes with various insects, which creates an astounding brown and brook trout population along the stream bed.
You can reach the creek by foot or car, and there are plenty of road markers to keep you on track. For extra convenience, the Pine Creek Rail Trail can also reach it.
This creek is ideal for fishing in any season, but winter can be rougher than other times. The water will freeze in some areas, and it will get pretty cold.
For more information, check out our DIY Guide to Fly Fishing Pine Creek in Pennsylvania
5. Slate Run
Slate Run in North-Central PA
Not everyone knows about Slate Run, but those who return time after time. The river has a massive tree canopy with spring seeps and deep undercuts that make it ideal for fly fishing for brook and brown trout in a beautiful location.
Slate Run is about seven miles long, with the most significant brown trout in the lower section. The terrain can be rugged, making fishing more challenging than in some locations.
If you don’t mind a crowd, late spring is the best time to visit this location. But those who want more solitude can visit just before and after the busy season.
When fishing with small nymphs and dry flies, a 9-foot 4-wt rod with a floating line is recommended.
For more information, check out our DIY Guide to Fly Fishing Slate Run in Pennsylvania
6. Cedar Run
Cedar Run in North-Central PA
A gorgeous freestone fishery, Cedar Run offers exceptional shade underneath a canopy of trees. Here, you can pick a spot and feel like you are the only person on earth for a few hours.
It offers Trophy Trout fishing starting at Buck Run, which is about seven miles long and has pools connected through runs and riffles. It stays so cool that many Pine Creek fish come here to escape the heat. The typical caught fish will be under 12 inches, but you can also catch fish that hit 20 inches.
This water often freezes in the winter, so fishing is best from spring to the end of summer. However, getting to this gorgeous location can take some work. You’ll need to do some strenuous hiking to experience it for yourself.
For more information, check out our DIY Guide to Fly Fishing Cedar Run in Pennsylvania
7. Lycoming Creek
Lycoming Creek in North-Central PA
North-Central Pennsylvania is known for freestone trout streams, but Lycoming Creek offers something unique. It’s highly stocked and surrounded by gorgeous scenery that many want to experience time after time.
This creek is over 37 miles long and is filled with brown and brook trout, although you can also see a few rainbows at times. The smaller streams feed the creek and include Grays Run, Pleasant Stream, Trout Run, and more.
There aren’t dedicated state access points, but several crossing bridges are available. Expect the best catches to occur during regular trout season, but you can fish from spring through fall.
For more information, check out our DIY Guide to Fly Fishing Lycoming Creek in Pennsylvania
8. Clarion River
Clarion River in North-Central PA
Now part of the National Wild and Scenic River Program, Clarion River is best known for its beautiful backdrop and Green Drake hatches.
It’s a tributary of the Allegheny River that flows west and offers excellent fishing in both directions. Remember that at Tambine, the area is for catch-and-release fly fishing only, and wading is off-limits.
Visit the main stem and its eight miles of water for all Tackle Trophy Water, where you’ll find vast numbers of riffles and ponds.
This river is accessible from nearby state parks or the road and is highly fishable without a boat. It’s an excellent location for year-round fishing, but stick to the East Branch in summer and fall for the best results.
For more information, check out our DIY Guide to Fly Fishing the Clarion River
9. Allegheny River
Allegheny River in North-Central PA
The Allegheny River has a lot going for it. It’s beautiful, it offers trout that reach sizes of 30 inches, and it can be challenging for even experienced fly anglers.
This river is about 325 miles long and has two particular areas of interest to anglers. The upper Allegheny has a Delayed Harvest – Artificial Lures Only section that runs nearly three miles.
The tailwater area has special regulations and is nine miles long. It isn’t stocked with browns, but many tributaries are. You’ll also find stocked rainbows.
Make sure you watch the water levels since wading may not always be possible. Fishing is possible all year round, but the best season is likely to fall when browns are aggressive as spawning seasons loom ahead.
For more information, check out our DIY Guide to Fly Fishing the Allegheny River in Pennsylvania
10. Spring Creek
Fisherman’s Paradise on Spring Creek near State College, PA
Spring Creek is a limestone stream that might be the best in the state for wild trout fishing. The most lauded fish you’ll find are the brown trout, which can reach up to 20 inches.
The best spots for fishing are below Benner Springs Hatchery, where the water is quick, and the habitat is ideal for local wild trout. The area is called Spring Creek Canyon and is also the most wooded and secluded part of the creek.
The best time for hatches is from the middle of April through the middle of July, but it’s fishable in any season. However, this location is prominent, so expect plenty of competition for fishing and parking during the summer months.
For more information, check out our DIY Guide to Fly Fishing Spring Creek in Pennsylvania
11. Penns Creek
Penns Creek in North-Central PA, photo by Jon Dawson
From its headwaters at the only water cavern in the state, Penns Creek flows downstream 35 miles away from Penn’s Cave. This fishery is regularly stocked with rainbows but is surprisingly better known for its abundance of wild browns.
Fishing conditions are excellent along the entire creek, but the coldest waters are right by the cave mouth. This is one of the top fly fishing streams in the state and makes an excellent location for any angler who wants to test their presentation skills and flies.
The main spawning area is in the headwaters, but the trout are larger as you move downstream. Like most northern streams, this one is best in June and July when hatches are at their peak.
For more information, check out our DIY Guide to Fly Fishing Penns Creek in Pennsylvania
12. “Big” Fishing Creek
Wild brown trout from Big Fishing Creek in Pennsylvania, photo by Michael Evanko
The name of this creek gives you a good idea of what to expect – outstanding fly fishing. While several excellent fisheries are near State College, Fishing Creek is known for huge numbers of wild brown trout available all year round.
If you enjoy wildlife, consider time in the “Narrows,” where you may see black bears, whitetail deer, coyotes, turkeys, and a rattlesnake or two. No matter when you head to the creek, you can expect fantastic fishing.
However, May and June are best for fly fishing due to the enormous mayfly hatches around that time. You’ll likely find the best fishing in the early morning or at night when big fish come out to eat.
For more information, check out our DIY Guide to Fly Fishing Big Fishing Creek in Pennsylvania
Special Regulation Trout Streams in North-Central PA
North-Central Pennsylvania contains some of the most fabled fly fishing waters in the Commonwealth, including Fishing Creek, Penns Creek, Slate Run, and Spring Creek. But that’s not all. There are also 36 other special regulation trout streams that provide excellent fly fishing opportunities in north-central Pennsylvania. Why not check one out?
North-Central Special Regulation Trout Streams
| Allegheny River (DHALO) | Loyalsock (DHALO) |
| Big Mill Creek (DHALO) | Lycoming Creek (DHALO) |
| Black Moshannon Creek (DHALO) | Marvin Creek (CRFFO) |
| Cedar Run (TT) | Meade Run (ARWOYR) |
| Cherry Run (CR) | Middle Creek (DHALO) |
| Clarion River (CRAT) | Muncy Creek (DHALO) |
| Clarion River, East Branch (DHALO) | Penns Creek (ATTT, CR) |
| Cross Fork (CR) | Pine Creek (DHALO) |
| Driftwood Branch Sinnemahoning Creek (CRFFO) | Rauchtown Creek (CR) |
| First Fork Sinnemahoning Creek (DHALO) | Red Bank Creek (CRFFO) |
| “Big” Fishing Creek (CR) | Sandy Lick Creek (DHALO) |
| Francis Branch Tributary (CRFFO) | Slate Run (CRFFO) |
| Gray’s Run (CR) | Spring Creek (CRFFO) |
| Hunts Run (CR) | Straight Creek (ATWOYR) |
| Kettle Creek (CRFFO) | Tunungwant Creek, East Branch (TT) |
| Kinzua Creek (DHALO) | West Branch Clarion River (CRFFO) |
| Laurel Run (ATWOYR) | West Branch Tunungwant Creek (DHALO) |
| Lick Run (TT) | West Creek (ATWOYR) |
| Little Clearfield Creek (DHALO) | White Deer Creek (CRFFO) |
| Little Pine Creek (DHALO) | Young Womans Creek (CR) |
9 Best Trout Streams in South-Central Pennsylvania
When it comes to outstanding fly fishing in Pennsylvania, the South Central region is a dream. The area is filled with fisheries, including famous rivers like the Yellow Breeches, the Letort, and the Little Juniata River.
Falling Spring Branch Creek is perfect for those who want a challenge, while Spruce Creek is near Penn State University for easy fishing any afternoon or morning.
There are also more than 20 special regulation trout streams in this part of Pennsylvania so that you can enjoy fly fishing from spring through winter.
If you’re in the area and craving fly fishing, check out the streams below to decide which is your favorite.
1. Falling Springs Branch Creek
Pool on Falling Springs Branch Creek
When you want a challenge with your fly fishing, Falling Spring Branch Creek is the perfect solution. The fish are hard to lure out, especially in the upper areas of the fishery. These fish have a massive supply of food, so it’s harder to convince them to take a bite.
This creek is about 25 feet wide and comes from a large spring before meeting the Conococheague Creek. When you visit this stream, you can expect to see both stocked and wild rainbow and brown trout.
Because the stream is cool, you can fish any time you like, even in the cold of winter. But if you want the best catches, head down in autumn to enjoy fishing under stunning fall foliage.
For more information, check out our DIY Guide to Fly Fishing Falling Spring Branch Creek in Pennsylvania
2. Big Spring Creek
Rainbow trout caught on Big Spring Creek in Pennsylvania
Another spot that packs a challenge is Big Spring Creek, the fifth largest in the entire state. It’s a limestone spring creek with transparent waters fed by several smaller streams to keep the water cool in all seasons.
The upper reaches house many large brook trout and you can also coax out brown and rainbows if you’re patient enough. One of the perks of this creek is that you can access it right from U.S. Route 11.
If you head to the stream near Newville, it’s a fly-fishing-only zone, while the upper area has massive brook trout. The water is shallow, but the fish can see you, so be careful about how you move.
For more information, check out our DIY Guide to Fly Fishing Big Spring Creek in Pennsylvania
3. Letort Spring Run
Letort Spring Run brown trout
You may have noticed a theme in South-Central Pennsylvania. Lots of these waters are challenging and can give you an adrenaline rush when you hook up with a trout.
The same applies to the Letort Spring Run. It’s filled with wild browns, but even the most experienced anglers will have trouble bringing up fish. The water is clear enough that the fish can see you if you aren’t stealthy about your movements.
The easiest way to reach the run is from Letort Spring Park and the most leisurely fly fishing is in the lower reaches. But if you want the most exciting experience, you should visit Marinaro’s Meadow.
Since the water is cool, fishing is good year-round, but to have the best chances, stick to cloudy days. We recommend fishing in the late evening or early morning.
For more information, check out our DIY Guide to Fly Fishing Letort Spring Run in Pennsylvania
4. Codorus Creek
Brown Trout from Codorus Creek in York County, PA, photo by Michael Evanko
Years ago, Codorus Creek was often called “Inky Stinky,” but times have changed. Cleanups and settlements have removed any odor from the water, and the insects are teeming around the banks. Because of that, this creek is now chockful of rainbow and brown trout waiting to be caught.
The East Branch is stocked, but the West Branch features the largest browns you can find. It has tons of weed growth and runs about 20 feet wide to feel like a spring creek. Be careful when walking near the creek. It’s wadable but can get fairly cold even in warm months.
Standard trout season is the best time to visit, especially in spring when the hatches are happening.
For more information, check out our DIY Guide to Fly Fishing Codorus Creek in Pennsylvania
5. Yellow Creek
Rainbow trout from Yellow Creek in Bedford County, PA, photo by Michael Evanko
There are many spring creeks in Pennsylvania, but not all of them are as much fun to visit as Yellow Creek. This creek is filled with both stocked and wild brown trout to keep any fly fisher busy. It’s also filled with deep pools and large boulders, and some areas have pocket water and fast riffles where fish love to hide.
Whether you’re new to fly fishing or experienced at angling, you can expect a fantastic experience at the creek. The most accessible catches are found in the Catch and Release Flyfishing