Autumn in Pennsylvania isn’t all
about trees – though that brilliant foliage does provide a beautiful
backdrop for fantastic fall trout fishing, including along 154 waters
being stocked by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC)
September 28 through the end of October.
During that time, the PFBC will stock 94 streams (totaling 276 miles)
with 56,800 adult trout. In addition, 60 lakes will be stocked with
69,200 adult trout.
The fall stockings include two different components. Anglers who wish
to harvest trout may take advantage of the stream sections and lakes
regulated by the
Extended Trout Season Rules. The Extended Trout Season, which began
September 5, permits anglers to creel up to three trout of seven inches
or greater daily.
The second component of the program is the stocking of 70 stream
sections managed under special trout fishing regulations. A total of 48
stream sections being stocked are part of the
Delayed Harvest, Artificial Lures Only program. Delayed Harvest
regulations allow for year-round fishing. However, no trout may be
creeled the day after Labor Day until the following June 15.
Another 22 stream sections being stocked are regulated for
Catch & Release Fly Fishing Only. As the special regulation name
implies, fishing in these areas is limited to fly fishing gear and all
trout must be released back into the water.
Anglers should consult the 2006
Summary of Fishing Regulations and Laws issued with each license for
a complete list of rules applicable to specially regulated trout fishing
waters.
“There’s rarely a bad time to go trout fishing, and there are some
truly great times. Fall in Pennsylvania is one of the best times,” said
PFBC Executive Director Doug Austen. “Autumn brings with it cooler water
temperatures and increased feeding activity. It’s also a time for true
trophy trout fishing with the annual run of large steelhead trout into
Lake Erie’s tributary streams.”
To learn more about fall trout fishing opportunities in Pennsylvania
visit the PFBC’s web site at www.fishandboat.com. Click the fall trout
fishing graphic for articles such as “Steelhead Techniques for Lake Erie
Tributaries, more details on the fall adult trout stocking schedule, and
to get a great deal on Pennsylvania Angler & Boater magazine.