Welcome to the tranquil beauty of southwestern Pennsylvania's fly fishing scene, where pristine streams and rivers carve through the lush landscapes of the Laurel Highlands. Nestled near the town of Confluence, anglers find themselves immersed in a haven of trout-filled waters and breathtaking vistas. In this guide, we'll delve into the fly fishing opportunities in the area.
In this post we will cover some of the local streams and rivers, including:
The Youghiogheny River, often referred to as the "Yough," is a prominent waterway in southwestern Pennsylvania, known for its scenic beauty, diverse recreational opportunities, and excellent fishing. It originates in the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia, near the town of Davis, and begins as a small mountain stream before gradually growing as it flows northward into Maryland. After entering Pennsylvania, the Youghiogheny River flows through the heart of the Laurel Highlands region, passing through rugged terrain characterized by rocky gorges, forested hillsides, and picturesque valleys. The river's course is defined by numerous riffles, runs, and pools, providing diverse habitats for fish and other aquatic species.
The Youghiogheny River is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for trout. Brown, rainbow, and brook trout inhabit its waters, along with stocked trout in certain sections. The river also supports populations of smallmouth bass, walleye, and other warmwater species. You can enjoy fly fishing, spin fishing, and bait fishing along the river's banks and from watercraft.
The Yough offers excellent fishing year-round. In spring, trout are active during insect hatches, with nymphing and dry fly fishing being productive methods. Summer sees success with early mornings and late evenings, focusing on terrestrial insects and shaded areas. Fall is prime season for aggressive trout, especially for streamer fishing. Winter presents challenges due to cold temperatures, but fishing with small nymphs or midge patterns in slower pools can still yield results.
The Yough is easily accessible from various points along its course, with numerous public access areas, boat launches, and parking areas available for anglers, boaters, and other recreational users. Popular access points include:
The Outflow at Youghiogheny dam: This area is very accessible and has a handicap accessible ramp. For wade fishing, there is a mile stretch where the Yough merges with the Casselman river. You can fish from the riverbank or launch small watercraft from the boat ramp at the outflow campground.
Bridge Crossings (281 bridge): The 281 bridge crosses the Youghiogheny River near Confluence, providing convenient access points. Parking areas near the bridge allow you to access the river easily and fish from the banks.
Youghiogheny River Bike Trail: The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail runs alongside the Youghiogheny River near Confluence. You can access the river from various points along the bike trail and find spots to fish from the riverbank for 8 miles all the way to Ohiopyle.
Casselman River Confluence: The Casselman River meets the Youghiogheny River just outside of Confluence. You can explore the area around this confluence for fishing opportunities, as both rivers offer good trout habitat in the spring.
Overall, the Youghiogheny River in southwestern Pennsylvania offers a wealth of recreational opportunities and natural beauty, making it a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts and anglers alike. Whether you're seeking the thrill of whitewater rafting or the tranquility of fly fishing, the Youghiogheny River has something to offer for everyone who seeks adventure in the great outdoors.
The Casselman River is a scenic waterway that flows through southwestern Pennsylvania, offering anglers and outdoor enthusiasts a tranquil escape amidst the beauty of the Laurel Highlands. It originates in a town of Bittinger, Maryland, and flows northwestward through the Allegheny Mountains, meandering through picturesque valleys and forested hillsides before eventually joining the Youghiogheny River near the town of Confluence. The river's course is characterized by riffles, runs, and pools, providing diverse habitats for fish and other aquatic species.
The Casselman River offers excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for stocked trout in the spring. The river is stocked by the Pennsylvania and Maryland Fish and Boat Commission around Salisbury, Pennsylvania and Grantsville, Maryland. You can enjoy both fly fishing and spin fishing along the river, with access available from various points along its course.
The Casselman River fishing season is spring to early summer for trout and summer for smallmouth bass. Spring brings active trout feeding during insect hatches, nymphing and dry fly fishing are very productive until roughly early June. In summer, the trout fishing slows down but there is an ample amount of small mouth bass to be caught on the river. Try fishing streamers, crayfish patterns, or squirmy worms for the best results. At any time, you could be hooked up with smallmouth that are 10-16 inches.
The Casselman River is easily accessible from several points along its course, with numerous public access areas, parking lots, and pull-offs available for anglers and other recreational users. Popular access points include:
Casselman River Origination: you can find good access to trout fishing at the I-68 bridge in Grantsville, Maryland to the Pennsylvania state line 2 miles downstream. This area gets stocked regularly in the spring and is a designated artificially only catch and release zone until June 15th.
Confluence Area: Near the town of Confluence, Pennsylvania, you can access the Casselman River from various points along its course, including road crossings and bridges. This area doesn't boast much for trout fishing but is very well known for its smallmouth bass population. Whether you fly fish or spin fish, the smallies are always good for a great fight!
Fort Hill Bridge: The Fort Hill Bridge, located near the town of Fort Hill, Pennsylvania, provides access to the Casselman River and is a popular spot for anglers and paddlers. You can park near the bridge and access the riverbank for fishing opportunities.
Local Points and Trails: In addition to designated access points, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts can access the Casselman River from various points and trails along its course. The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail, which follows the route of the former Western Maryland Railway, runs alongside the Casselman River in certain sections, providing access for hikers, bikers, and anglers.
Overall, the Casselman River in Pennsylvania provides a peaceful retreat for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the simple pleasures of a pristine mountain stream. Whether you're casting a line for trout or simply soaking in the beauty of the surroundings, the Casselman River offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Laurel Highlands.
Laurel Hill Creek is a picturesque waterway that flows through Somerset County, Pennsylvania. It's nestled within the Laurel Highlands region, known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The area around Laurel Hill Creek has historical significance, with remnants of old settlements and infrastructure from past industries, such as logging and mining, scattered throughout the region, along with some beautiful, covered bridges.
Laurel Hill Creek is known for its population of trout, particularly brown and rainbow trout. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regularly stocks the creek with trout to maintain healthy populations and provide recreational angling opportunities. Other fish species that can be found in the creek include smallmouth bass, rock bass, and panfish. Anglers employ a variety of fishing techniques when fishing in Laurel Hill Creek, including fly fishing, spin casting, and bait fishing. Fly fishing is particularly popular, especially at the several delayed harvest artificial only areas near Confluence and Laurel hill state park. Given the creek's clear waters and abundance of insect life that trout feed on, it makes for a great place to try out your dry fly skills.
Fishing is generally available from mid-April when trout season begins (in 2024 it is April 6th), extending through until early summer and fall months. Winter fishing is limited, with no ice fishing due to the creek's fast flow. It's a must fish in the spring and fall.
Laurel Hill Creek can be accessed from multiple points, including:
Laurel Hill State Park: Laurel Hill State Park, located in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, offers several access points to Laurel Hill Creek. The park features multiple parking areas, picnic areas, and trails that provide easy access to the creek. You can find designated fishing areas along the creek within the park, making it a popular starting point for fishing excursions.
Ursina Delayed harvest section: This 2-mile stretch of river that is artificial lures only is a dream to fish. Located along Humbert Road north of the small town of Ursina, this stretch of river is very secluded and offers beautiful scenery and wonderful fishing. If you are in the Confluence area and looking for a place to fly fish, it is a must go.
Parking Areas: Throughout Laurel Hill State Park and along nearby roads, there are designated parking areas where you can park their vehicles and access the creek. These parking areas are often located near trails or fishing spots, providing convenient access to the water.
Trail Access Points: Laurel Hill Creek is accessible via various hiking and biking trails that wind through Laurel Hill State Park and the surrounding area. These trails offer opportunities for anglers to explore different sections of the creek and discover secluded fishing spots. Trailheads typically have parking areas and signage indicating access points to the creek.
Roadside Access: Along certain stretches of Laurel Hill Creek, roadside parking areas and pull-offs provide direct access to the creek. You can park your vehicle nearby and access the water from designated entry points along the roadside. It's essential to park safely and be mindful of traffic when accessing the creek from roadside locations.
Boat Launches: While Laurel Hill Creek is not suitable for large boats, there are some areas where small watercraft such as kayaks, canoes, or inflatable rafts can be launched. Laurel Hill State Park has a designated boat launch area where you can launch and navigate the lake of the park.
Overall, fishing in Laurel Hill Creek offers anglers an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Pennsylvania while pursuing a variety of fish species in a tranquil and scenic setting.
Meadow Run is a notable stream located in Fayette County. It flows through the scenic Ohiopyle State Park, which is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, waterfalls, and outdoor recreational activities.
Meadow Run is primarily known for its trout fishing opportunities. The creek is stocked with trout by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, which helps maintain a healthy population of fish for anglers to enjoy. The most common species of trout found here include rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout. Ohiopyle State Park encourages catch-and-release fishing practices to help preserve the trout population and ensure sustainable fishing opportunities for future generations. You are encouraged to handle fish with care and release them back into the creek unharmed whenever possible.
The best time for trout fishing in Meadow Run Creek typically coincides with the spring and early summer months when trout are most active. However, fishing can be enjoyed year-round, with different tactics and techniques being more effective during various seasons.
Meadow Run Creek is easily accessible from various points within Ohiopyle State Park. You can access the creek from designated fishing areas along the banks or by wading into the water. The park provides parking areas and trails leading to fishing spots for convenience.
Whites Creek, located near the town of Listonburg, is a small, beautiful stream known for its excellent fishing. It is a tributary of the Casselman River, winding its way through the scenic landscapes of the Laurel Highlands. The stream is characterized by clear, cold water, rocky substrate, and a diverse mix of riffles, runs, pools, and undercut banks, providing ideal habitat for trout.
Whites Creek supports a thriving population of trout, including native brook trout and stocked rainbow and brown trout. You can use a variety of fishing techniques on Whites Creek, including fly fishing, spin fishing, and bait fishing. Fly fishing is particularly popular, with anglers using a variety of dry flies, nymphs, and streamers to target trout in different parts of the stream. Due to its clear water and wary trout, stealthy approaches and accurate presentations are often necessary for success. You are encouraged to practice responsible fishing and adhere to local regulations to help preserve Whites Creek's trout population and natural beauty.
Fishing on Whites Creek can be productive year-round, with each season offering its own opportunities and challenges. In the spring, fresh stocked trout are usually easy to catch. If you are having trouble hooking up on the traditional patterns, and egg pattern, mop fly, or squirmy worm could be your ticket to success early in the season. In summer, the fish have adapted to eating the aquatic species in the river so switching to dries and nymphs will yield you better results. Early mornings and evenings are best. Fall offers excellent fishing for aggressive trout preparing for winter. Winter fishing can be challenging but rewarding for dedicated anglers willing to brave the cold.
Whites Creek is accessible from various points along its course, including route 523 just outside of Confluence all the way to Listonburg. In Listonburg you can access several miles of stream via Whites Creek Rd. You can park at designated parking areas and access the stream by foot, wading into the water to fish. Local maps and fishing guides can provide information on specific access points and regulations – feel free to ask us at the shop!
Overall, fishing Whites Creek offers anglers an opportunity to catch native and stocked trout year round while enjoying piece and quite in remote locations in the laurel highlands.
Dunbar Creek flows through Fayette County, Pennsylvania, near the town of Dunbar, before joining the Youghiogheny River. The stream is characterized by clear, cold water, rocky substrate, and a mix of riffles, runs, pools, and undercut banks, providing ideal habitat for trout, including native brook trout and stocked rainbow and brown trout. The stream's cold, well-oxygenated water and abundant insect life contribute to the health and abundance of its trout population.
You may enjoy fly fishing, spin fishing, and bait fishing. Like on Whites creek, stealthy approach and accurate presentations are often necessary for success since the water is clear and trout is easily spooked. Fishing on Dunbar Creek can be productive year-round, with each season offering its own opportunities and challenges. Spring and early summer bring insect hatches, making dry fly fishing particularly effective. In summer, early mornings and evenings are best, while fall offers excellent fishing for aggressive trout preparing for winter. Winter fishing can be challenging but rewarding for dedicated anglers willing to brave the cold.
Dunbar Creek is accessible from various points along its course, including road crossings, bridges, and public access areas. You can park at designated parking areas and access the stream by foot, wading into the water to fish. Special regulation area on Dunbar creek is well marked and easy to navigate to.
Overall, fishing Dunbar Creek offers anglers an opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of southwestern Pennsylvania while pursuing trout in a pristine mountain stream. Whether you're a seasoned fly fisher or a novice angler, Dunbar Creek provides a rewarding fishing experience amidst the serenity of Pennsylvania's wild landscapes.
When fly fishing in rivers and streams near Confluence, you should be mindful of fishing regulations and obtain the necessary fishing licenses and permits. Additionally, it's essential to practice catch-and-release fishing to conserve trout populations and ensure sustainable angling opportunities for future generations.
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