Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Schuylkill River - Reading - 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

The Schuylkill River in Reading offers a wealth of great fly fishing spots.

  • Kernsville Dam: This area is popular with experienced anglers, offering deep waters and a robust population of trout.
  • Leesport: Just downstream of Reading, the Leesport area is a hotspot for fly fishing, particularly for smallmouth bass and muskellunge, also known as Muskies.
  • Tulpehocken Creek: This tributary of the Schuylkill is renowned for its brown and rainbow trout fishing. It’s also stocked regularly, ensuring there’s rarely a poor day for catches.
  • Blue Marsh Lake: Although technically a reservoir, the outlet of Blue Marsh Lake feeds into the Schuylkill River and is a favored spot among local fly fishers.
  • Forks of the Schuylkill River: Where the east and west branches of the Schuylkill meet can be a great place for fly fishing, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.

Best Access Points

The Schuylkill River – Reading is a pristine location for fly fishing, loaded with diverse species of fishes. Here are some prime access points:

  • Berks County Heritage Center: Located near Wyomissing Creek, it’s a great spot to fish for trout with easy public access.
  • Blue Marsh Lake: This reservoir is located north of Reading and is a reservoir open for fishing. Species include catfish, panfish, and bass.
  • Peter’s Creek: This creek connects with the Schuylkill River, providing good fly fishing opportunities for trout.
  • Kaercher Creek Dam: This public fishing spot on the east side of Hamburg is another good access point.
  • Reading Area Community College: Near the Schuylkill River, the access point near the college is another superb spot for fly fishing.

These access points are all public, but remember, a fishing license from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is necessary.

Local Fish

The following are the top 8 targeted fish for fly fishing in the Schuylkill River – Reading:

  1. Smallmouth Bass: Known for their exciting fights, they can be most frequently found in rocky or sandy bottoms of the river.
  2. Walleye: This fish species is highly prized for the delicious taste and provides an adventurous run for your fly.
  3. Northern Pike: Northern pike likes to hang out in weedy areas, hence providing a intriguing challenge for fly fishers.
  4. Carp: Carp are large and challenging to catch, making them a favorite for many fly-fishers on the Schuylkill River.
  5. Channel Catfish: This is the most abundant species of catfish and can provide a heavy-weight challenge for anglers.
  6. Muskellunge: Muskies are the ultimate trophy for freshwater anglers due to their size and elusive nature.
  7. Crappie: Crappies are smaller but tricky to catch, offering lots of fun for both new and seasoned fly-fishers.
  8. Largemouth Bass: Largemouth bass are recognized for their acrobatic jumps and long runs when hooked, which makes them a popular target for fly fishermen.

About The River

The Schuylkill River – Reading is steeped with fascinating history. Originating from the Native American name which translates to ‘hidden river,’ it’s a crucial waterway in Pennsylvania. This awe-inspiring 135-mile-long river was once an important transport route during the 18th and 19th centuries.

  • It was used extensively for the transportation of coal from mines.
  • In the 1800s, the Pennsylvania legislature introduced the Schuylkill Canal, adding momentum to the Industrial Revolution.
  • Today, the river is known for the splendid Schuylkill River Trail, a recreational path stretching over 75 miles. Perfect for running, biking, and walking.

Over time, conservation efforts have drastically improved the river’s water quality, protecting native wildlife and making it a vibrant place rooted in history, industry, and natural beauty. The Schuylkill River – Reading offers a glimpse into the past while serving the community in the present.

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