Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Tulpehocken Creek - Blue Marsh - 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 Noon-Dusk 20-24 Zebra Midge, Cream Midge, Olive Midge
Blue-winged Olives Dusk 24-26 Blue Dun, Blue Wing Olive, CDC Blue Wing Olive
February Midges Noon-Dusk 20-24 Zebra Midge, Cream Midge, Olive Midge
Blue-winged Olives Dusk 24-26 Blue Dun, Blue Wing Olive, CDC Blue Wing Olive
March Blue-quills Afternoon 16-18 Blue Quill Dun, Blue Quill Emerger
April Caddis Afternoon to Dusk 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis, Goddard Caddis
Blue-quills Afternoon 16-18 Blue Quill Dun, Blue Quill Emerger
Hendricksons Afternoon 12-14 Hendrickson Emerger, CDC Hendrickson Dun
May Sulfurs Late Afternoon - Dusk 14-16 Sulphur Dun, Sulphur Emerger, CDC Sulphur
Green Drakes Dusk 8-10 Green Drake Dun, Green Drake Emerger
Caddis Afternoon to Dusk 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis, Goddard Caddis
June Tricos Morning 22-24 Trico Spinner, Trico Dun
Sulphurs Late Afternoon - Dusk 14-16 Sulphur Dun, Sulphur Emerger, CDC Sulphur
July Tricos Morning 22-24 Trico Spinner, Trico Dun
August Tricos Morning 22-24 Trico Spinner, Trico Dun
Terrestrials Afternoon 8-16 Black Ant, Foam Beetle, Dave's Hopper
September Terrestrials Afternoon 8-16 Black Ant, Foam Beetle, Dave's Hopper
October Blue-winged Olives Dusk 24-26 Blue Dun, Blue Wing Olive, CDC Blue Wing Olive
Caddis Afternoon to Dusk 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis, Goddard Caddis
November Blue-winged Olives Afternoon - Dusk 20-22 Blue Dun, Blue Wing Olive, CDC Blue Wing Olive
Midges All Day 20-24 Zebra Midge, Cream Midge, Olive Midge
December Midges Noon-Dusk 20-24 Zebra Midge, Cream Midge, Olive Midge
Blue-winged Olives Dusk 24-26 Blue Dun, Blue Wing Olive, CDC Blue Wing Olive

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

Known for its scenic beauty and abundant trout population, Tulpehocken Creek – Blue Marsh is a paradise for fly fishers. Here are some of the best fishing spots:

  • Reber Bridge: This site offers ample parking, waters teeming with large wild brown and rainbow trout.
  • Reading Area Community College (RACC) Parking lot: This hidden gem offers a great waters flow and excellent fly hatches.
  • Blue Marsh Lake: Home to various fish species, it’s a perfect spot for fly fishing. It is vast, provides boat ramps, picnic areas, and beaches.
  • Tulpehocken Creek Valley Park: This park’s peaceful waters provide a serene setting, attracting a good number of quality trout.
  • Berks County Heritage Center: With its easy access and diversity of fish, this spot is a favorite amongst many anglers.

Best Access Points

The Tulpehocken Creek – Blue Marsh region is a paradise for flying fish enthusiasts. Here are some of the top points to access top-notch fishing spots:
  • Rebers Bridge and Red Bridge Area: This location is easily accessed from Route 183 and offers ample shoreline for fly fishing. The area is accessible all year round.
  • State Hill Boat Launch: Located just off State Hill Road, this is a popular spot offering good water depths and a variety of fish species. It has an easy launch point for small boats too.
  • Sheidy Boat Launch: This spot lies near the Blue Marsh Lake dam, offering a deeper water experience for fly fishing.
  • Tulpehocken Creek Outflow: This spot provides a unique fishing experience as it is the water outlet of Blue Marsh Lake. Fish coming from the lake pass through and gather in the outflow, making it an ideal spot for fly fishing.
  • Gring’s Mill Recreation Area: This location offers shallow, slow-moving water perfect for beginners in fly fishing. It is also an excellent place for catch-and-release fishing.
Remember to carry your fishing licenses and follow the local regulations in all these locations. Make sure to maintain and respect the natural beauty and cleanliness of these recreational spots.

Local Fish

  • Brook Trout: Known for their distinctive marbled pattern across their back, dorsals and caudal fins, they are a popular choice among fishers.
  • Rainbow Trout: Their multicolored iridescent body and distinctive pink stripe along their lateral line make them easy to recognize.
  • Brown Trout: Known for their golden-brown body and large, black spots, they are highly sought after in fly fishing.
  • Smallmouth Bass: These aggressive feeders are known for their bronze hue and the elongated black horizontal stripe along their sides.
  • Largemouth Bass: Noted for their large mouths and olive-green to greenish-gray bodies, these are prize catches for fly fishers.
    1. Carp: This robust fish of largish size is commonly found in the creek and provides a challenging catch for anglers.
    2. Northern Pike: Recognized by their elongated bodies, flat heads, and sharp teeth, they are famous for their aggressive strikes.
    3. Bluegill: Small yet feisty, these fish are known for their deep, flat bodies and the dark spot at the base of their dorsal fin.

About The River

Unveiling mysteries of Tulpehocken Creek & Blue Marsh, hidden treasured regions situated in Berks County, Pennsylvania, we step into a world of fascinating history and mesmerizing natural beauty.

The word ‘Tulpehocken’ originated from the Lenni Lenape language, alluding to ‘land of turtles’. Its fast-flowing waters powered mills in the 18th & 19th centuries, serving as significant highway of colonial times.

  • In 1970s, Blue Marsh Dam was constructed on Tulpehocken Creek. Concern about flooding in Schuylkill River Valley prompted the blueprint for this 1,150-acre reservoir project by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
  • It’s more than just a Flood Control Project; Blue Marsh is a haven for recreational activities. It attracts hikers, bikers, picnickers, swimmers, bird-watchers, and fishermen equally.
  • Despite initial local opposition, Blue Marsh is now cherished by residents, protecting downstream communities while offering a plethora of outdoor attractions.

Every bend of the Tulpehocken whispers tales of history, while the serene Blue Marsh nurtures wildlife and breeds joy for outdoor enthusiasts.

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