Trout Fishing Now

Trout Fishing Now

By David Orlowski

Just spent the morning on a small trout stream catching and releasing some beautiful trout. With the temperature climbing into the forty degree range and the sun climbing high in the sky it was a day made for fishing. The water in the stream was crystal clear which called for a careful undetected approach so as to avoid spooking the fish. These conditions proved to be just right as the fish came to net on a steady basis to be photographed and released.

I know many haven't given fishing a thought yet or even bought a fishing license this year. You're probably thinking the PFBC is beginning their trout stockings and the opener will be here soon. But while most are just starting to think about it, a few have been fishing all winter long. Most forget about it after the regular season closes on Labor Day and wait for the traditional April opening day.

Since this winter has been so open and the weather so mild it has provided some excellent days to be stream side. The extended season for stream fishing runs through the end of February with a three trout limit. But trout fishing doesn't close yet as the Early Season Trout Stocked Waters Program comes into effect for the month of March. Review page 23 of the fishing regulations and you'll find a list of counties and stocked lakes in this program. Around the local area to name a few are Lyman Lake in Potter County, Stevenson Dam in Cameron County and Beechwood and Hamilton Lakes in Tioga County.

In just the last week or so these lakes have been recently stocked with trout. The limit is still three a day with a minimum size of seven inches. Yes those traditional baits such as worms and corn will catch fish in cooler waters. But take along some meal or wax worms just in case the fish are finicky biters. Some times you would be surprised at the size of fish taken on small baits. So instead of waiting for April get off the couch and enjoy the action that some of us are already enjoying.

Don't think just because fish haven't been stocked yet there aren't any in the streams. I've caught numerous trout this winter which include a few over eighteen inches and one twenty three inch rainbow. If that isn't enough incentive, I don't know what to tell you.