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​​TROUT

Brook Trout Brown Trout Rainbow Trout

Pennsylvania is home to some of the best trout fishing in the world! Wild and stocked Brook (native, state fish), Brown and Rainbow (including steelhead and golden rainbow) Trout are found in PA waters. In addition, Lake Trout are found in Lake Erie, Raystown Lake and the East Branch Clarion River Dam. You can pursue trout in tiny mountain brooks, famous limestone streams, large rivers like the Upper and West Branch of the Delaware and the Youghiogheny River and the tributaries and ocean-like waters of Lake Erie. With nearly 16,000 miles (and counting) of wild trout streams, nearly 5,000 miles of stocked trout streams and over 125 stocked trout lakes, PA has something to offer every trout angler.


TROUT WATER CLASSIFICATIONS

Learn the definitions and listings of trout water classifications and how they are regulated.

WHEN TO FISH FOR TROUT

Saturday, April 1, 2023 
TIME: 8 a.m.
MINIMUM SIZE: Seven (7) inches
FISHING HOURS: 24 hours a day, after the 8 a.m. opener

CREEL LIMITS APPLY to the majority of trout fishing waters.
TROUT FISHING REGULATIONS

Anglers should consult the Summary of PA Fishing Laws and Regulations for more details.


HOW TO FISH FOR TROUT

WHERE
Habitat -- Cold clear lakes and streams, and some rivers

Best Fishing Waters for Stocked Trout and Wild Trout

HOW
Bait -- Minnows, worms, salmon eggs, corn, cheese, prepared baits fished on light wire hook drifted on the bottom
Lures -- Spinners and small crankbaits
Line -- 2-8 lb. test
Hook Size -- 6-14
Lure Size -- 1/32 to 1/8 oz.

WHEN
Spring -- Mid-day
Summer -- Early morning, Early evening

TROUT STOCKING

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission stocks millions of adult trout in 697 streams and 126 lakes in PA every year. Learn more about the trout species and waterways we stock.