5/21 Fishing Report
The early spring fishing has been quite productive, but not without its challenges. Fish are beginning to move out of their wintering lies and feeding accordingly, protein packed meals are currently the name of the game. The main challenge this time of year is the rain, just as the streams and rivers level out to optimal flows a rain event raises them to unfishable levels. Early season rain also fluctuates stream temperatures, if you’re in fishy water and not finding fish CHECK THE TEMPERATURE!
Our local stocked trout streams have received their annual stockings, with many at this point receiving their second. It would seem that these numbers have remained intact likely due to the high water has many anglers off the water. Based on our current Bait on the Fly bait sales, many anglers have been out trying their luck despite all of the rain.
Our guide season is in full swing, and we’ve been on the water with clients every weekend and fishing or exploring every spare minute in between. Having two tailwater fisheries a short drive from home is a true blessing, offering a much more stable and predictable flows.
That being said this may be our most productive early season fishing season to date if we were to strictly base our success on the number of 20 inch class fish that have made it to net.
It’s hard to imagine but with the thick of our bug activity/dry fly season just around the corner, as well as more stable and consistent water flows- the fishing will continue to improve. Below is a list of must have flies if youre planning on coming to Western Pennsylvania to fish.
Elk Hair Caddis Dry - #12-18 a variety of both dark and light imitations. Holy Grail Nymph/ Caddis Emerger - #14-18 Olive and Tan. Adams Dry Fly - #12-18 Standard as well as Parachute. Walts Worm - #12-16 Pheasant Tail Nymph - # 12-18 Dark and Light imitations. Pats Rubber Legs - #6-10 Squirmy Worm - #12 Rainbow Warrior - #12-16
Hatch Run Fly Fishing has the flies, bait, and local knowledge to make your next visit to the areas in and around the Allegheny National Forest a success. Text or Call for up to date information 814-706-1958. If your in need of fresh lively bait stop by our Bait on the Fly bait cooler at Allegheny Outfitters
