Top 30 Trout Fishing Streams in Pennsylvania

As a lifelong Pennsylvanian and devoted angler, I’ve spent countless hours wading through some of the finest trout streams our state has to offer. If you’re seeking advice or just some insider tips, you’re in the right place. From the renowned hatches of Penns Creek to the tranquil banks of Tobyhanna, each spot offers its own unique features and trout fishing opportunities.

This article is more than just a guide; it’s a personal reflection on the streams that have shaped my fishing journey and a look at the vibrant ecosystems that make Pennsylvania a top destination for trout enthusiasts. So, grab your gear and prepare to explore these exceptional waters with me—each cast here is not just about the catch but about connecting with nature and continuing a legacy of fishing in the Keystone State.

 

#30 – Tionesta Creek

Tionesta Creek is a hidden gem flowing through Forest and Warren Counties in northwestern Pennsylvania. This scenic stream offers excellent trout fishing in a remote, heavily forested setting within the Allegheny National Forest. Tionesta Creek supports both wild and stocked populations of brown and brook trout, with its cold, clean waters providing ideal habitat. The creek features a mix of riffles, pools, and runs that appeal to both fly fishers and spin casters. Access points along Route 666 make it easy to explore different stretches. Its secluded character and consistent fishing make Tionesta Creek a favorite among anglers seeking solitude.

#29 – Clarion River

Clarion River is a beautiful and popular trout stream located in western Pennsylvania. Flowing through the Allegheny National Forest, the Clarion River is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, especially for brown trout. The river offers both stocked and wild trout fishing, with sections that are ideal for fly fishing, spin casting, and even float fishing. Its clear waters, scenic surroundings, and accessible locations make it a favorite among anglers. The Clarion River’s mix of deep pools and fast-moving sections provides a variety of fishing challenges, making it a great destination for anglers of all levels.

 

#28 – West Branch of the Susquehanna River

West Branch of the Susquehanna River is a significant and historically rich waterway that offers a diverse array of recreational opportunities, including excellent trout fishing. Stretching through much of central and north-central Pennsylvania, this river is renowned for its scenic beauty and clean waters, especially after extensive environmental restoration efforts.

For trout anglers, the West Branch of the Susquehanna River is particularly appealing. It hosts a variety of trout species, including brown and rainbow trout, which thrive in its cooler, oxygen-rich sections. The river is accessible for both wading and boating, providing different fishing experiences. Its vast length and varying conditions offer anglers numerous spots to explore, from faster-moving riffles to deep pools.

#27 – Neshannock Creek

Neshannock Creek is a well-regarded trout stream, cherished by anglers for its consistent flow and excellent water quality, courtesy of its upstream limestone sources. Located in Lawrence County, this stream is regularly stocked with brown and rainbow trout, making it a hotspot during the trout season. Neshannock’s accessible stretches, particularly near Volant and the state hatchery, provide ideal conditions for both fly fishing and spin fishing. The surrounding environment offers a peaceful, pastoral backdrop, enhancing the fishing experience. With its reliable hatches and diverse aquatic life, Neshannock Creek is a favored destination for both novice and experienced anglers.

#26 – Kinzua Creek

Kinzua Creek is a premier wild trout stream tucked away in McKean County in northern Pennsylvania. Fed by cold, clear headwaters, this creek supports a healthy population of native brook trout and wild brown trout. Kinzua Creek flows through remote forestland, offering anglers a true backcountry fishing experience away from crowds. The stream features classic pocket water, plunge pools, and boulder-strewn runs that reward careful wading and accurate casting. Its pristine water quality and natural reproduction make it a standout destination for anglers who prefer wild fish over stocked streams. Kinzua Creek delivers an authentic Pennsylvania trout fishing adventure.

 

 

#25 – Fishing Creek

Fishing Creek is renowned for its vibrant population of wild brown trout, making it a premier destination for fly fishing. Located in Columbia County, this stream features varied water conditions from swift riffles to deep pools, ideal for challenging and rewarding angling experiences. The clear, cold waters foster a healthy trout habitat, ensuring robust fishing opportunities. Surrounded by lush scenery, Fishing Creek offers a serene yet accessible fishing environment, favored by both serious anglers and nature enthusiasts. It is a catch-and-release area in parts, emphasizing conservation and the sustainability of its trout populations.

 

#24 – Tunkhannock Creek

Tunkhannock Creek is a scenic waterway that offers excellent fishing opportunities in a serene natural setting. This creek, which flows through Wyoming County, is noted for its populations of trout, particularly brook and brown trout. It provides a range of fishing experiences from wading in its shallow sections to more challenging spots with deeper waters.

The creek’s environment is enhanced by its picturesque surroundings, featuring lush vegetation and diverse wildlife, making it a pleasant destination for a day of fishing. Tunkhannock Creek’s clean, cold waters and tranquil atmosphere make it a popular choice for anglers seeking both relaxation and sport. I’ve fished this one or twice with good results, definitely on my list to return.

 

#23 – Lackawaxen River

Lackawaxen River is one of northeastern Pennsylvania’s finest trout fisheries, flowing through Wayne and Pike Counties before joining the Delaware River. This scenic waterway offers excellent fishing for brown and rainbow trout, with some impressive holdover fish reaching trophy sizes. The river benefits from cold water releases and natural springs that keep temperatures ideal for trout throughout the season. Its diverse structure includes long riffles, deep pools, and undercut banks that provide plenty of holding water. The Lackawaxen winds through beautiful Pocono Mountain scenery, making it a top choice for anglers seeking quality fishing and stunning surroundings in eastern Pennsylvania.

#22 – Lackawanna River

Lackawanna River has transformed into one of northeastern Pennsylvania’s most impressive trout fisheries. Flowing through Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties, this river has made a remarkable comeback after decades of environmental restoration efforts. Today it supports a thriving population of brown trout, including some trophy-sized fish that attract anglers from across the region. The river offers varied water conditions with riffles, runs, and deep pools suitable for both fly fishing and spin casting. Its accessibility through the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail makes it easy to find productive stretches. The Lackawanna proves that conservation efforts can revive even heavily impacted waterways.

#21 – Brodhead Creek

Brodhead Creek is a premier trout fishing destination, located in Monroe County. Known for its pristine, clear waters, this creek is stocked with a variety of trout species, including rainbow, brown, and brook trout. Flowing through the picturesque Pocono Mountains, Brodhead Creek offers a mix of calm pools and faster riffles, providing diverse fishing opportunities. The creek is easily accessible and popular for both fly fishing and spin casting. Its scenic beauty, combined with a healthy fish population, makes it a favorite spot for anglers looking for a peaceful and productive fishing experience in the Poconos.

I’ve fished a few spots on this creek. My dad had a buddy with some private access which was amazing, but he sold it. Downstream near East Stroudsburg there is plenty of public access and areas to fish, although more pressure and people as it runs directly through the city. I like not seeing people, ha.

#20 – Valley Creek

Valley Creek is a popular trout stream located in Chester County, offering excellent fishing opportunities just outside of Philadelphia. Known for its crystal-clear waters, the creek is home to wild brown trout. Valley Creek is highly regarded by fly fishermen for its challenging conditions and diverse aquatic habitat, with riffles, deep pools, and slower runs. Its proximity to the Valley Forge National Historical Park adds to the creek’s appeal, providing anglers with beautiful surroundings. The creek’s reliable trout population, scenic beauty, and easy access make it a favorite for anglers of all levels.

This creek has a ton of pressure as it is located near Philadelphia. If you have the skill, you can catch fish here but they are tough. If fly fishing I recommend 7x tippet and tiny dry flies.

#19 – Bald Eagle Creek

Bald Eagle Creek is a popular trout stream known for its scenic beauty and excellent fishing opportunities. Flowing through Centre County, this creek is home to a mix of wild and stocked brown, rainbow, and brook trout. The creek features a variety of water conditions, including fast-moving riffles, deeper pools, and slower, calmer stretches, making it ideal for both fly fishing and spin casting. Bald Eagle Creek is accessible and provides a peaceful, natural setting, surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. Its reliable trout population and picturesque surroundings make it a favorite spot for anglers.

#18 – Allegheny River

Allegheny River offers exceptional trout fishing in the waters below Kinzua Dam in Warren County. The cold tailwater releases create ideal conditions for brown and rainbow trout, with some fish growing to impressive sizes. This stretch of the Allegheny has earned a reputation among serious anglers for producing big fish, particularly for those willing to explore its deeper pools and structure. The river provides plenty of room to spread out, with opportunities for wading, bank fishing, and float trips. Surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Allegheny National Forest, this fishery combines quality trout action with a true wilderness experience.

#17 – Lehigh River

This is a massive river that changes many times as it flows through the state. I personally fish the upper headwaters near Gloudsboro and in the State Gameland 127. The water is small like a creek and easily accessible. I’ve had days with 20+ trout multiple trips here in the spring. Late summer and fall the water gets really clear and shallow, tough fishing, so stick to Spring.

Downstream, the river gets really big once it connects with the Tobyhanna, then runs through gorge areas which are only accessible by boat. I recommend getting a guided float trip for the bigger waters

Lehigh River is a renowned trout fishing destination that runs through the scenic Lehigh Gorge, offering a variety of fishing conditions. Known for its populations of wild and stocked brown and rainbow trout, the river is ideal for both fly fishing and spin casting. The Lehigh’s clear, cold waters create an excellent environment for trout, with deep pools and riffles providing ample fishing opportunities. The surrounding area offers breathtaking views of the gorge and its lush landscape. Accessible to anglers of all skill levels, the Lehigh River remains a top choice for those seeking a rewarding fishing adventure.

#16 – Tobyhanna Creek

Tobyhanna Creek holds a special place in my heart, as it’s where my dad first introduced me to the joys of fishing. Nestled in the Pocono Mountains, this creek flows through a vast expanse of public gameland, offering unrestricted access without the boundaries of private land. This open access has made it our go-to spot for peaceful, rewarding fishing trips. The clear, cool waters teem with trout, providing a serene escape immersed in nature. Each cast here not only brings back memories of those early lessons with my dad but also a sense of freedom and connection to the wild surroundings.

I fish this stream in two different areas. The area off 115 called the Austin Blakeslee Natural Area has parking and public access down stream. There are tons of good spots to fish including a pool with a waterfall loaded with monster trout. Using a wooly bugger streamer I hooked one of the biggest non-stealhead trout in my life here. A few days with double digit catches.

The other area is upstream a number of miles and within state gamelands 127 there are a number of parking spots along this few mile stretch and some require a bit of hiking but well worth it. I’ve had days here with 30+ trout in the Spring.

#15 – Loyalsock Creek

Loyalsock Creek is a beloved trout stream winding through Sullivan and Lycoming Counties in north-central Pennsylvania. Known locally as “the Sock,” this freestone creek offers excellent fishing for both wild and stocked trout, including brown, brook, and rainbow. The creek flows through a steep, forested valley with dramatic rock formations and scenic waterfalls along its course. Loyalsock features classic freestone structure with pocket water, riffles, and deep pools that challenge and reward anglers. Public access is plentiful through state forest and gamelands. Its combination of natural beauty, consistent fishing, and wild character makes Loyalsock Creek a favorite among Pennsylvania trout anglers.

 

#14 – Little Lehigh Creek

Little Lehigh Creek is a renowned trout stream located in Lehigh County, offering anglers a diverse and rewarding fishing experience. Known for its clear, cold waters, the creek is home to wild brown and brook trout, as well as stocked rainbow trout. The stream features a mix of riffles, deep pools, and runs, providing ideal conditions for both fly fishing and spin casting. Little Lehigh Creek is highly regarded by fly fishermen, especially for its challenging hatches and scenic surroundings. Its accessibility, consistent trout population, and beautiful natural environment make it a favorite among local anglers.

#13 – Youghiogheny River

Youghiogheny River is a popular and diverse fishing destination, offering a range of trout fishing opportunities. Flowing through southwestern Pennsylvania, the river is home to brown and rainbow trout, along with a mix of other species. The Youghiogheny is particularly noted for its cold, clear waters, which provide ideal conditions for trout. It features a variety of fishing environments, from calm pools to fast-moving riffles, making it suitable for both fly fishing and spin casting. The river’s stunning scenery, including the surrounding Laurel Highlands, adds to its appeal. Accessible and challenging, the Youghiogheny is a favorite for anglers looking for an exciting and scenic fishing experience.

#12 – Elk Creek

Spanning 30.4 miles and flowing into Lake Erie, Elk Creek is a key feature of Erie County, Pennsylvania, and an integral part of the Lake Erie watershed. It covers a drainage basin of 99.4 square miles and is a popular spot among anglers due to the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission’s efforts to regularly stock it with brown trout and steelhead. The creek’s varied water flow creates ideal conditions for both novice and experienced fishermen, offering year-round fishing opportunities. Elk Creek’s accessibility and the quality of its fishing make it a favored destination for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors.

 

#11 – Slate Run

Slate Run is a revered destination for trout fishing, nestled in the remote and rugged landscapes of Tioga County. This stream is celebrated for its clear, cold waters that are home to a thriving population of wild brown and brook trout. Slate Run’s challenging terrain and natural beauty attract seasoned fly fishermen seeking a truly authentic experience. The stream features a mix of fast riffles and deep pools, providing ideal conditions for sophisticated fly fishing techniques. Surrounded by dense forest and steep valleys, Slate Run offers not just excellent fishing but also a serene escape into nature.

#10 – Oil Creek

Oil Creek State Park offers premier access to Oil Creek, a top destination for trout anglers. This park features three streams abundant with brook trout, making it a hotspot for enthusiasts. Most notably, the aquatic insect hatches in May draw numerous anglers looking to capitalize on the active feeding periods. Additionally, exploring the creek’s tributaries can be rewarding, as they are home to wild brook trout. Access to the water is facilitated by several small paths and trails branching off from the park roads, allowing for easy entry to these fruitful fishing grounds.

 

#9 – Pine Creek

Pine Creek is one of Pennsylvania’s premier trout fishing destinations, located in the stunning Tioga County. This scenic creek flows through the heart of the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania,” offering anglers picturesque views and excellent fishing opportunities. Known for its healthy population of wild brown and brook trout, Pine Creek provides a mix of challenging waters and accessible spots for anglers of all skill levels. The creek’s clear, cold waters make it a prime habitat for trout, with some trophy fish often caught in its deeper pools. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, Pine Creek promises an unforgettable experience.

#8 – Big Spring Creek

Big Spring Creek stands out in Pennsylvania’s angling community due to its vibrant underwater plant life and crystal-clear waters, attributes that are a hallmark of true limestone streams. Located in Cumberland County, this creek is particularly prized for its challenging fishing environment where large, intelligent trout—brook and rainbow—thrive among dense hatches. Anglers at Big Spring Creek relish the opportunity to engage in sight fishing, a method that demands precision and patience, against the backdrop of lush, green banks. The creek’s constant water flow ensures year-round accessibility, inviting both novice and expert fishermen to test their skills in its serene waters.

#7 – Kettle Creek

Kettle Creek is a highly regarded trout stream, known for its pristine waters and diverse fishing opportunities. Flowing through Clinton and Potter counties, Kettle Creek offers both stocked and wild trout, including brown and brook trout. The creek features a mix of fast riffles, deeper pools, and slower runs, providing ideal conditions for fly fishing and spin casting. Surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Allegheny Mountains and the Susquehannock State Forest, Kettle Creek offers anglers a peaceful, remote experience. Its clean, cold waters and healthy fish population make it a top choice for trout fishing in the region.

#6 – Spring Creek

Spring Creek, nestled in the heart of State College, Pennsylvania, is acclaimed for its exceptional trout fishing, particularly its abundant wild brown trout population. This stream maintains consistent water temperatures and superb water quality year-round, fostering a thriving aquatic ecosystem. Unique among local waterways, Spring Creek remains ice-free through winter, presenting continuous fishing opportunities. Its proximity to urban areas offers easy access while retaining pockets of serene, natural fishing environments along its banks. Anglers flock here for both the technical challenge and the fruitful rewards, making Spring Creek a cherished site for dedicated fly fishing enthusiasts.

#5 – Yellow Breeches Creek

Yellow Breeches Creek in Pennsylvania is a well-known and highly regarded trout stream located in Cumberland County. Famous for its scenic beauty and excellent fishing opportunities, the creek offers both stocked and wild trout, particularly brown and rainbow trout. Yellow Breeches features a variety of water conditions, including riffles, deep pools, and slower-moving runs, making it an ideal location for both fly fishing and spin casting. The creek is known for its challenging hatches, particularly for fly fishermen, and its clear, cold waters sustain a healthy trout population year-round. With its easy access and picturesque surroundings, Yellow Breeches Creek is a popular destination for anglers of all skill levels.

I had a guide for my first trip to this river. We booked through TCO fly shop in Boiling Springs and it was an amazing day. We caught 40+ trout throughout the day. We stay at the Allenberry resort and fished the creek the next day which also runs through their property.

#4 – Spruce Creek

Spruce Creek is widely regarded as one of the finest limestone trout streams in Pennsylvania, if not the entire country. Located in Huntingdon County, this spring-fed creek produces exceptional wild brown trout that challenge even the most skilled anglers. The crystal-clear waters and abundant insect hatches create ideal dry fly fishing conditions that have attracted celebrities and dignitaries over the years, including former President Jimmy Carter and Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin. Spruce Creek’s consistent water temperatures and rich aquatic ecosystem support healthy trout year-round. While much of the creek flows through private land, public access is available in certain stretches, and several outfitters offer guided trips on private water. The creek features a mix of riffles, glassy pools, and undercut banks that hold impressive fish. For anglers seeking a world-class limestone fishing experience without leaving Pennsylvania, Spruce Creek delivers everything you could want.

#3 – Little Juniata River

Little Juniata River, flowing through the rolling landscapes of central Pennsylvania, is a haven for trout enthusiasts, renowned for its excellent fly fishing conditions. This river boasts a healthy population of wild brown trout that thrive in its clean, well-oxygenated waters. The Little Juniata, often referred to simply as “the J,” offers miles of public access through picturesque settings, providing both challenging and rewarding experiences for anglers. The river’s varied structure, featuring everything from riffles and runs to deep pools, caters to both novice and experienced fishermen. Its reputation as a top trout stream is bolstered by the river’s conservation efforts, ensuring its status as a premier destination for natural, sustainable angling.

#2 – Penns Creek

Penns Creek in central Pennsylvania stands as a legendary fly fishing destination, especially noted for its robust Green Drake hatch, which draws anglers from across the nation. This stream offers a diverse habitat teeming with large wild trout, primarily browns, that challenge even seasoned anglers. The creek winds through a secluded, forested valley providing stunning backdrops and untouched natural beauty that enhances the fishing experience. Penns Creek’s long stretches of catch-and-release waters are meticulously managed to maintain its high quality and sustainability. The complexity of its currents and abundance of aquatic life make it an essential destination for any serious trout fisherman seeking a memorable and rewarding challenge.

#1 – West Branch and Upper Delaware River

As an avid angler, I hold a special place in my heart for the West Branch and Upper Delaware River. This exceptional waterway is my go-to spot, not just for its breathtaking scenery, but for the unparalleled trout fishing it offers. The river maintains cold water temperatures all year round, thanks to controlled dam releases upstream. This creates an ideal environment for large wild brown and rainbow trout, which thrive in these conditions. The hatches here are prolific, providing some of the best dry fly fishing opportunities I’ve encountered. Each visit challenges my skills with its varying flows and depths, making it a true fisherman’s paradise where I always feel deeply connected to the sport and the natural world.

I recommend either getting a float trip booked through Cross Current Guide Service, there guided trips are worth it, or book a cabin on the river and fish it wading with private access. Although not technically PA (its in the NY section a few miles away) I stay at Uncle Lou’s cabin, its an amazing private spot with 6 acres on the water! You can also book cabins at West Branch Anglers with private fishing access and guided float trips.

Info About Trout Fishing in PA

If you are looking for a fishing experience that will leave you relaxed and refreshed, trout fishing in Pennsylvania is the best option. The state has hundreds of miles of streams and rivers that offer an ideal habitat for this fish. Whether you want to go on a family vacation or have some time off from work, Pennsylvania offers many options for catching trout.

FAQ

 
How many trout can I keep in PA?

Regular season you can keep 5 trout per day combined species. Extended season you can keep 3.

What is the opening day of trout season in PA?

Opening day is the first week of April

How long is PA trout season?

PA trout season runs from the first week in April through the first week in September each year. There is also an Extended Season: Stocked trout waters
Jan. 1 through Feb. 16 and Sept. 2 through Dec. 31. Typically March is no fishing allowed due to stocking.

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Do you need a license for trout in PA?

yes you need a fishing license, plus you will need a trout stamp if you want to keep the catch. Here is the license website.