Northwest Region
Get your fishing license ONLINE!
2019 PA Fishing Licenses went on sale December 1st.
The 2019 Trout Stocking Schedule is online. If you are interested in helping with trout stocking, search for your county from the drop-down list on the schedule. Pick your favorite stream to meet the stocking trout on the date and time of stocking.
Erie County
NW Region’s Family Fishing Festival at East Basin Pond
Join PFBC Staff from Education, Fisheries, and Hatcheries on Saturday June 22nd from 9am – 1pm at East Basin Pond on Presque Isle State Park. Learn basic fishing skills like knot tying, casting, baiting the hook, and taking a fish off the hook. You and your family will have the opportunity to fish – no fishing license required. All equipment provided. Adults must bring a child and children must bring an adult. You will be learning and fishing together. You can register here!
Lake Erie
The walleye fishing has been slow. It will pick up as Lake Erie’s water temperature rises. Anglers are catching Lake Trout off the mountain using plugs. Anglers are catching Smallmouth Bass off the Northeast Marina when the lake is calm enough to fish. Drop shot rigs are the way to go.
Lake Pleasant
Anglers are catching panfish and Largemouth Bass at Lake Pleasant by using worms with a bobber.
Butler County
Lake Arthur
Crappie fishing has improved in the shallows and close to shoreline structure. Anglers are using nightcrawlers on a jig, tube jigs, and minnows. Anglers are catching hybrid striped bass in deeper water, but they should be coming shallow as the Alewife begin to spawn. Late night fishing for HSB at most of the popular boat access areas should begin soon. Smallmouth and largemouth bass season begins Saturday June 15, 2019. Lake Arthur is a Big Bass regulation lake. The creel limit is 4 bass per day with a minimum size of 15 inches.
Northcentral Region
Tioga County
Most of the stocked trout streams across the County continue to fish well and there are plenty of trout left to catch. In the Wellsboro area, anglers continue to do well on Asaph Run, Stony Fork Creek, and Crooked Creek. Anglers are catching trout using, pink salmon eggs, chartreuse Blue Fox spinners, joe’s flies spinners, brown trout or silver Rapalas, butterworms, and baby nightcrawlers. Most of these streams have good clarity and water levels for ideal fishing experiences.
Lakes across the County are also fishing well. Hammond, Tioga, and Cowanesque are off color and dirty in the upper sections, but overall their clarity is good. Temperatures are ranging from 60-70F with the lower end of the lakes being the warmest. Crappie are done spawning, but they are still catchable. Anglers, fishing weeds and brush piles are catching Crappie using white, Chartruese, Red, and Pink were popular colors. Crappie Magnets and slider grubs will also catch fish. Anglers are also catching fish on small chartruese and pearl streamers near weed beds.
It’s spawning time for Bluegills and sunfish across the county. Anglers are catching them near shore using artificials, worms and flies
Anglers are catching and releasing across the County. Find weeds and you will find bass. Anglers using frog imitations on some of the smaller lakes are catching bass. Ned rigs, senkos, whopper ploppers, beavers, and various other plastics are also catching bass.
REMINDER – Bass fishing regulations, until opening day (June 15th), is catch and immediate release.
Hamilton Lake
Anglers are catching Crappie using Powerbait and Gulp! Anglers are also catching Crappie using Alive minnows and live minnows, towards the dam. The fish are holding near the banks and are catchable from shore.
Pine Creek
Pine is running a little high (just over 3 ft on the Cedar Run gauge). Anglers fishing between the Ansonia and Gaines are noticing water levels dropping every day. More rain is expected over the next few days, so water levels will rise again. The water temperature is holding around 60 degrees.
Anglers are catching trout using a variety of spinners, butterworms, wax worms, live minnows, and Kastmaster spoons.
There are several hatches occurring, but most of the fly fishing action continues to be subsurface. Anglers are finding rising fish in the evenings in slower water.
Lycoming County
West Branch Susquehanna River
The river is still running high and swift due to continuous rain events.
REMINDER
Boaters must have the required boating equipment prior to heading out on the water. Boaters also need to ensure they have a current boat registration and/or launch permits.
Rose Valley Lake
Anglers are catching lots of Bluegill, Yellow Perch and Chain Pickerel.
REMINDER
Boaters must ensure they have a current boat registration or launch permit if non-powered prior to heading out on the lake. If you are mooring your boat at the lake, a valid boat registration is required to partake in this. A launch permit does not meet the requirement.
Clinton and Western Lycoming County
Rain is a factor with fishing again this year. With high water levels, anglers targeting water edges and calm pools are catching trout. On the flip side, high waters should keep water cool and plentiful, providing good trout fishing well into the summer.
On lakes across the County, anglers are catching Crappie and other panfish. Anglers are also catching bass and walleye.
With nice weather returning, boating season is well underway with many kayakers and canoers taking to the waters. If you are heading out to paddle or fish from a boat, be cautious of high water levels and changing weather conditions. With high water, debris and other obstructions will challenge even the most experienced paddlers, so be safe and cautious.
Fishing Creek
The stream is still high and off color. More rain is predicted over the next few days. Stay alert and be ready to change your approach according to fluctuating water levels. Water temperature is in the mid 50s.
Anglers are catching trout, using nymphs. Nymph patterns that are working include (Iron lotus #16-18; dirty bird hares ear #12-16; flashback pheasant tail #14-18; pats rubberlegs #8-12).
When trout are active on the water surface, anglers are catching them using Elk hair caddis tan #12-14; March Brown #10-12; and midges.
During or after rain events, fish olive or black streamer patterns (Headbanger sculpin #4-8) work well.
Centre County
Foster Joseph Sayers Lake
Anglers are catching and releasing bass using night crawlers under a bobber. Anglers are also catching Pumpkinseeds using the same technique.
Spring Creek
IMPORTANT TEMPORARY CLOSURE NOTICE – For the period of JUNE 10-June 21, 2019 the H.R. Stackhouse Facility (Fisherman’s Paradise) parking area and grounds between the entrance gate and the lower trail gate will be CLOSED for public safety while well drilling operations occur.
Spring Creek water levels are falling and the stream is still a bit off color. Levels are good for fishing. Water temperature is in the 50s. More rain is predicted over the next few days, keeping water levels up and off-color.
When trout are rising, anglers are catching trout using dry flies (Sulphur Dun #16-18; Sulphur emergers #14-16; Elk hair caddis- tan or black #14-16; Midges #22-26). A few anglers are catching trout using rusty spinners during early morning and late evening.
Anglers are also catching trout using nymphs (e.g. Sulphur and baetis nymphs are working best). Other nymph patterns that are working include iron lotus (#16-18); hot spot sow bug (#14-16); walt’s worm (#12-16); black zebra midge (#18-22).
During or after rain events, fish olive or black streamer patterns (slumpbusters #6-10).
Northeastern Region
Carbon County
Although the in-season trout stockings are complete, anglers are reporting seeing and catching a good number of trout on most stocked trout waters in the district. Live minnows, paste baits and spinners are working well. Fly anglers are reporting good success catching trout on the Mahoning Creek and the Pohopoco Creek. Although the Lehigh River is still flowing a little higher than normal, several anglers have reported good success catching trout using stick baits and spinners.
Boat anglers fishing Mauch Chunk Lake were observed catching nice size perch, bluegills and crappies. Jigs tipped with a minnow appear to be working well. Anglers have also reported catching a lot of bass (catch & release only). Anglers are reminded that the bass season begins on June 15th and Mauch Chunk Lake is governed by the Big Bass Program Special Regulations. Bass harvested from this water must be a minimum of 15 inches, and the daily creel limit is four.
Boat anglers have been reporting good success catching Striped Bass at Beltzville Lake. Most striped bass are being caught during the early morning hours or late in the evening. Live bait, stick baits and chicken liver have been very effective. Boating activity has been increasing at Beltzville Lake and Mauch Chunk Lake especially during the weekends.
Boaters are reminded to check all the required safety equipment on their boats before venturing out onto the water. In addition, please check to make sure your boat is properly registered. Motorboats and boats powered by an electric motor must display a proper motorboat registration. Unpowered boats such as canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, rowboats, etc. launching at Commission lakes or access areas including PA State Parks launch or access areas must display either a Commission launch use permit or a PA State Parks launch permit or mooring permit.
Remember, alcohol is not permitted at Beltzville Lake and Mauch Chunk Lake on both the water and shore areas. Laws pertaining to the possession and or use of alcoholic beverages are strictly enforced.
Northern Luzerne County
Susquehanna River
The Susquehanna River continues to run fast, muddy, and high. Catfishermen have been having the most luck with some smallmouth bass being taken here and there. Area lakes and ponds are heating up and as the crappie bite starts to wane, look forward to the sunfish turning on. Bullhead catches have been spotty but on good nights the time is well worth it.
Southern Luzerne & Columbia County
With the in-season trout stockings completed, anglers are having no problems at all enjoying the local trout streams. As these fish have acclimated to their new environments, anglers should be switching to more natural baits these fish are now feeding on. Best bets seem to be small minnows, worms, grubs, etc.
The local impoundments such as FEW Reservoir, The Ice Lakes and Lily Lake are giving up pickerel and panfish, with live bait seeming to be the best choice.
With the tremendous amounts of rainfall, the Susquehanna River fishing has been difficult at best. Hopefully, this weather system will clear, and the fishing will pick up.
Briar Creek Lake has been giving up some nice carp as well as trout recently.
Boaters are again reminded to check all safety equipment for compliance, as well as any specialized regulations for the bodies of water you are boating on. And of course, wear your PFD and don’t drink and boat.
Southeastern Region
Bucks County
There have already been multiple boating fatalities that could have been prevented by wearing United States Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices (PFDs). Please ensure your boat is fully equipped with serviceable PFDs for everyone on board. Check on weather and water conditions prior to embarking on your trip. A little bit of research could save your life.
Anglers have been doing quite well with the shad and striper runs all along the Delaware River from above the Poquessing Creek all the way up into New Hope and above.
Please visit our site for more boating information and checklists.
Boating Main Page: http://www.fishandboat.com/Boat/Pages/default.aspx
Regulations: http://www.fishandboat.com/Boat/BoatingRegulations/Pages/default.aspx
Safety FAQ: http://www.fishandboat.com/LearningCenter/FAQs/Pages/BoatingSafetyPWC.aspx
Chester County
The Next meeting of the White Clay Fly-Tying Club will be at 6PM on Thursday June 6 at the London Tract Meeting House in the White Clay Creek Preserve, located at the intersection of Sharpless & London Tract roads, Landenberg PA 19350, next to White Clay State Park Office. With the cold weather that has been hanging on, many of us are looking for a place to go or some activity to hold us over until we can wet a line again and this is the perfect thing. Fly tying materials are provided for those who do not yet have their own. Several flies are usually demonstrated, and club members are happy to show you how it’s done, as well as spin a few stories about the last huge one that got away. Club mailing address is P.O. Box 762, Landenberg, PA 19350 for more information. Parking for club is behind the White Clay State Park Office.
The L.L. Bean Store in King of Prussia at 160 North Gulph Road, King of Prussia, PA. 19406 will offer a Full Moon Kayak Tour on Friday, June 7 from 7 PM to 10 PM at Marsh Creek Reservoir. The event will give you the opportunity to experience the adventure of kayaking during a full moon. All needed equipment will be provided, you just need to bring your own personal items, flashlight warm clothes, snacks, etc. Take advantage of this opportunity to learn about kayaking at night on one of most popular lakes in Chester County. For more information or to register you can call the store at 888-552-3261 or visit the website at https://www.llbean.com/llb/event/121456?occurrenceId=120052&locationId=1315&feat=33-ods
The King of Prussia L.L. Bean Store will offer a “Stand-Up Paddleboarding Discovery Course” at Marsh Creek Reservoir on Friday, June 7 from 6 to 7:30 PM. You must be at least 8 to attend the class. You will learn how to stay safe and how to paddle a stand-up paddleboard. Expert staff will fit you with all the necessary safety gear and equipment that you will need which of course includes a paddleboard for you to use. Once you have mastered the basics you will get to tour Marsh Creek Lake and its scenic shorelines. For more information on the course you can go to the website at https://www.llbean.com/llb/ods/33?nav=bc&STORE_CITY_STATE=[25]&EVENT_TYPE=[0]&EVENT_LEVEL=[0]&PRICE_RANGE=[0]
The King of Prussia L.L. Bean Store will offer a free Kayaking Discovery Course at Marsh Creek Reservoir on Friday, June 7 at 2, 4 & 6PM. You must be at least 8 to attend the class. You will learn how to stay safe and how to paddle a kayak. Expert staff will fit you with all the necessary safety gear and equipment that you will need which of course includes a kayak for you to use. Once you have mastered the basics you will get to tour Marsh Creek Lake and its scenic shorelines. For more information on the course you can go to the website at https://www.llbean.com/llb/ods/33?nav=bc&STORE_CITY_STATE=[25]&EVENT_TYPE=[0]&EVENT_LEVEL=[0]&PRICE_RANGE=[0
S. Montgomery County/W Philadelphia County
With the warmer, nicer weather, more and more boaters and anglers have been showing up on district waterways. Plenty of trout are still in district trout streams and anglers have been reporting a lot of success catching a wide variety of species throughout the district. As of May 1, the cold weather mandatory PFD wear period has ended, but all boaters are still encouraged to wear a life vest whenever on the water. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially on the water, and in the event of the unthinkable…the vest will float and you won’t.
Lancaster County
Chiques Creek Watershed Expo
Chiques Creek Watershed Expo will occur on Wednesday evening, June 5, at the Manheim Farm Show grounds located at 502 East Adele Drive, Manheim from 5:30-8:00. This annual event has become one of the most-attend watershed events of the year. This year’s Expo promises to be bigger and better than ever with over 30 displays, giveaways, free ice cream, and neat learning experiences. This family friendly event is FREE and boasts seeing live stream critters, a model rain garden, making a fish-print T-shirt, hearing great music, learning about your local watersheds, and having a great all around time. For more information download the Expo Flyer: 2019 EXPO FLYER
PFBC District Officer Schmidt will staff an informational exhibit to underscore the “Resource First” motto, various PFBC publications will be available along with the Officer’s reptilian patrol partners; an Eastern Rat Snake and an Eastern Milk Snake.