Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Driftwood Branch - Sterling Run - Pennsylvania

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Warmest part of day #20-26 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
Winter Stoneflies Midday #16-20 Black Stonefly Nymph, Adult patterns
February Midges Warmest part of day #20-26 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
Winter Stoneflies Midday #16-20 Black Stonefly Nymph, Adult patterns
March Blue-Winged Olives Afternoon #18-22 BWO Emerger, BWO Dry
Little Black Caddis Late afternoon #18-20 Elk Hair Caddis, Pupa patterns
April Blue-Winged Olives Afternoon #16-20 BWO Emerger, BWO Dry
Hendricksons Late afternoon #12-14 Hendrickson Dry, Emerger
Grannom Caddis Afternoon #14-16 Grannom Pupa, Elk Hair Caddis
Quill Gordons Late afternoon #12-14 Quill Gordon Dry
May March Browns Late afternoon #10-12 March Brown Dry, Emerger
Green Drakes Late afternoon to dusk #8-10 Green Drake Dun, Cripple
Sulphurs Evening #14-18 Sulphur Dun, Emerger
Gray Fox Afternoon #12-14 Gray Fox Dry
Tan Caddis Afternoon to evening #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, Pupa patterns
June Sulphurs Evening #14-18 Sulphur Dun, Emerger
Light Cahills Late afternoon #12-14 Light Cahill Dry, Emerger
Golden Stones Afternoon #8-12 Golden Stonefly Nymph, Adult patterns
July Tricos Morning #20-24 Trico Spinner, Dun
Terrestrials All day #10-16 Ants, Beetles, Hoppers
Little Yellow Stoneflies Late afternoon #14-16 Yellow Sally Dry, Nymph
August Terrestrials All day #10-16 Ants, Beetles, Hoppers
Tricos Morning #20-24 Trico Spinner, Dun
September Terrestrials All day #10-16 Ants, Beetles, Hoppers
White Flies Evening #12-14 White Fly Spinner, Dun
October Blue-Winged Olives Afternoon #18-22 BWO Emerger, BWO Dry
Terrestrials All day #10-16 Ants, Beetles, Hoppers
November Blue-Winged Olives Cloudy days, afternoon #18-22 BWO Emerger, BWO Dry
December Midges Warmest part of day #20-26 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
Winter Stoneflies Midday #16-20 Black Stonefly Nymph, Adult patterns

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

If you are a fly fishing enthusiast, the Driftwood Branch – Sterling Run offers a fantastic experience. Some of the top spots include:

  • Rich Valley: Known for its abundance of trout, it’s perfect for both beginners and experienced fly fishermen.
  • The Upper Stretch: Located near the town of Sterling Run, this deeper area is home to larger fish.
  • Devil’s Den: Despite its intimidating name, it’s an excellent spot for catching brook trout.
  • Sinnemahoning State Park: Providing an opportunity to fish near beaver ponds, increasing your chances of a great catch.
  • Cameron County: Offers ample public fishing areas with majestic sceneries, great for photographs.

Remember, local regulations may apply, so be sure to check before you set off. Happy fishing!

Best Access Points

The Driftwood Branch – Sterling Run in Pennsylvania has several suitable entry points for fly fishing enthusiasts. Depending on your personal preference and fishing strategies, you may find one of these ideal:

  • Benezzette: Accessible from Route 555, it has well-stocked trout populations. It’s a good starting point for beginners.
  • Driftwood: Further downstream, this spot offers a mix of stocked and wild trout. It’s recommended for intermediate anglers.
  • Sinnemahoning: For those pursuing bigger trophies, this place near the Sinnemahoning State Park hosts larger species.
  • Cameron: This spot located at the center of the county provides abundant catches throughout the year.
  • Emporium: As the deepest part of the river, it’s perfect for experienced anglers looking for a challenge.

Please ensure to have necessary licenses and adhere to local fishing regulations to preserve this precious natural resource for future generations.

Local Fish

  • Brook Trout: Most commonly found in the streams and are indigenous to the region.
  • Brown Trout: Originally introduced from Europe and now thrive in the waters.
  • Rainbow Trout: Renowned for their beautiful colors, making them a popular target.
  • Golden Trout: Also known as the “Mountain Trout”, they are a prized catch due to their rarity.
  • Palomino Trout: Known for their unique golden color and aggressive fights.
  • Native Cutthroat Trout: One of the most distinctive North American trout species, prized for their distinctive jaw markings.
  • Salmon: Only found during their spawning season, they provide a challenge to even the most experienced fly fishers.
  • Whitefish: Doing well in colder waters, whitefish are common year-round, but particularly in winter.

About The River

The Driftwood Branch – Sterling Run is a delightful spot, steeped in history. Nestled within the lush landscapes of Cameron County, Pennsylvania, it’s an often-overlooked gem which runs through the beautiful Sinnemahoning Creek. The Sterling Run bears witness to Pennsylvania’s rich lumber history. In the 1800s, the surrounding forests were home to several sawmills, which harnessed the creek’s power to turn timber into lumber.

Today, the Driftwood Branch – Sterling Run is a popular spot for outdoor activities.

  • Anglers enjoy casting their lines in its refreshing waters, known for brown and brook trout.
  • Hikers love exploring the surrounding trails, brimming with exquisite flora and fauna.

It’s not just a spot for nature lovers though. The Sterling Run also holds value for history buffs! Its lush greenery, picturesque setting, and enthralling history all contribute to making the Driftwood Branch – Sterling Run a fascinating destination.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

Recent Articles

Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons

Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons

Hip Waders or Chest Waders? Choosing the right gear for fly fishing can make all the difference in…

Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions

Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions

Welcome to fly tying: How to tie a Pheasant Tail Nymph! If you’re new here or a seasoned…