Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Penn's Creek - Penns Creek - 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 Afternoon #20-22 Zebra Midge, Flossie
Winter Stoneflies Morning #16-18 BH Rubberleg Stone
February Midges Afternoon #20-22 Al's Rat, Disco Midge
Winter Stoneflies Morning #16-18 Hot Wire Prince, Z Wing Caddis
March Blue Wing Olive Mid-Day #18-20 BWO Sparkle Dun
Little Black Stoneflies Afternoon #16-18 Black Gnat, Widow Black Caddis
April Blue Quil Afternoon #14-16 Quill Gordon
Hendrickson Mid-Day #12-14 Red Quill
May Sulphur Afternoon #16-18 Lazy Sulphur
Green Drake Evening #8-10 Green Drake Cripple
June Light Cahill Afternoon #14-16 Yellow May
Brown Drake Evening #10-12 Coffin Fly
July BWO Morning #20-22 BWO Cripple
Trico Evening #20-24 Black Gnat
August Trico Morning #20-24 Trico Spinner
Terrestrials All Day #10-16 Ants, Beetles, Hoppers
September BWO Evening #20-22 BWO Sparkle Dun
Terrestrials All Day #10-16 Ants, Beetles, Hoppers
October Olive Caddis Afternoon #14-18 Olive Elk Hair Caddis
October Caddis Evening #10-12 October Caddis Emerger
November BWO Afternoon #20-22 BWO Fuzzball
Midday Midge Morning #20-24 Disco Midge
December Midday Midge Morning #20-24 Black Beauty
Winter Stoneflies Afternoon #16-18 Little Black Stonefly

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

Penn’s Creek is a beautiful haven for fly fishers due to its crystal clear waters and a variety of fish species. Some of the best areas for fly fishing on Penn’s Creek include:

  • Upper Penn’s Creek: This area is often referred to as the “Spring Creek”. It’s an ideal spot due to its copious insect hatches and large populations of brown trout.
  • Cherry Run Area: Located below the Weikert area, Cherry Run is abundant in wild and stocked trout, making it a fruitful fly fishing spot.
  • Weikert Area: This region is excellent for catching larger fish due to the absence of angler pressure.
  • Poe Paddy Tunnel Area: This spot is great for catching both wild brown and bow trout. Plus, the area’s shaded surroundings make it perfect for staying cool during summertime fishing experiences.
  • The Catch-and-Release Area: The catch-and-release section of Penn’s Creek is yet another fantastic location for fly fishing, known for its substantial insects’ hatches.

Best Access Points

Renowned for its grand trout populations, Penn’s Creek offers several prime spots for fly fishing:

  • Cherry Run: A big pool formed by the joining of Cherry Run and Penns Creek, known for its high fish density.
  • Weikert: Located in the catch-and-release section, this area offers a wealth of large trout.
  • Poe Pattie State Park: Provides both easy access and a serene setting for fishing the Penns creek.
  • Spring Mills: A popular location where Penns and Sinking creek meet, which can be a hotspot during the hatch season.
  • Lower Penns Creek: Known for its wild brown trout, this section offers excellent fishing all year round.

Remember, a fishing license with a trout/salmon stamp is required for anyone aged 16 and older. Ensure to follow catch and release regulations for specific areas.

Local Fish

  • Brown Trout: The most abundant species in Penn’s Creek, targeted for its challenging nature and trophy size.
  • Brook Trout: While less common than brown trout, brook trout offer an exciting catch with their aggressive behavior.
  • Rainbow Trout: Though not as common, rainbow trout are pursued for their beautiful color and lively fight.
  • Smallmouth Bass: Penn’s Creek also offers good smallmouth bass fishing, especially in warmer water sections.
  • White Sucker: Although not typically targeted on a fly rod, white suckers provide an interesting challenge for those who dare.
  • American Shad: During their spring migration, American shad can be a thrill on a fly rod.
  • Carp: Often underestimated, carp on a fly can be a challenge and a lot of fun.
  • Panfish: Species such as bluegill, sunfish, and pumpkinseed are great targets for beginners and kids.

About The River

Set in the heart of central Pennsylvania, lies the magnificent Penn’s Creek, also known as Penns Creek. Known for its natural greenery, it is the longest limestone stream in the state. This creek is a gem for fishing enthusiasts, especially those fond of trout.

The history of Penn’s Creek is intertwined with the name of the Quaker leader, William Penn. Folklore says that natives of Susquehannock tribe named this creek and surrounding areas after Penn.

  • The Great Penn’s Creek Path, linked the colony’s capital, Philadelphia, with interior settlements of the province.
  • Penn’s Creek was a vital water source during the 18th and 19th centuries, with grain mills and sawmills based along its banks.
  • In 1755, Penn’s Creek was the site of a massacre, where hostile natives attacked and destroyed the colonial settlement.

Today, Penn’s Creek is a sanctuary for nature lovers, history buffs and sports fishing enthusiasts.

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