Fall trout fishing in Pennsylvania

HARRISBURG - Autumn in Pennsylvania isn’t all about trees - though that brilliant foliage does provide a beautiful backdrop for fantastic fall trout fishing along 154 waters being stocked by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission from Sept. 28 through the end of October. During that time, the commission 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 commission 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 commission’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.