Pennsylvania Spring Steelhead Erie Tributaries

[JackSprat]

March provided weather surprises and April is doing the same. Fishing has been good despite the cold, wind and snow. Fish being caught are small in size but fresh and full of fight. Weekday fishing pressure is light and crowds develop Friday through the weekend.

 

Here is an example of CP&R hen that ranks as a larger than average spring catch – I guess 6#

 

 

Anglers are using jig/maggot rigs to take most fish with eggs sacs and minnows coming in second place. Catch and release is running about 50%.

 

The steelhead smolt stocking is in full swing and the juvenile fish are everywhere on upper Elk Creek and most of Walnut Creek too. Anglers usually avoid sections of streams loaded with smolts because you cannot get egg sacs or jigs past the smolts. Better to find another spot than waste your time feeding next year’s run.

 

If you are interested in seeing the recent stream conditions check out this blog:

 

Stream Conditions

 

A second day blog included some fishing action and photos:

 

Fishing Action

[zinghaha]

Nice fish, don't mind the cold if the fish are on the bite.