HARRISBURG, Pa. – As the fall season arrives across Pennsylvania, anglers should mark their calendars to take advantage of some fantastic stocked trout fishing opportunities on dozens of popular waterways!
Beginning October 1, 2024, and continuing through mid-December, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) will stock approximately 116,500 hatchery raised adult Rainbow, Brown, and Brook Trout in 118 stream sections and lakes. These stockings will immediately replenish some of the most popular fishing spots across the Commonwealth and provide ice fishing opportunities as conditions allow throughout the winter.
"When anglers of all ages spend time on the water during the fall season, they'll be surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery and comfortable temperatures of the year," said Brian Niewinski, Director of the PFBC Bureau of Hatcheries. "As you make plans to go fishing this time of year, be sure to check our stocking schedule so you know when and where we'll be stocking trout from our hatcheries. The addition of stocked trout complements the many other plentiful fishing opportunities for other species that are very active just as the leaves start changing colors."
In October alone, the PFBC will stock approximately 87,900 trout into 93 waters, including 53 lakes and 40 stream sections, including 16 Keystone Select Trout Waters, which are managed under Delayed Harvest Artificial Lures Only regulations. An additional 25 lakes will be stocked with approximately 28,600 trout during November and December. Anglers and stocking volunteers should note that stocking schedules are subject to change due to a variety of factors, including water temperature fluctuations and hatchery logistics. Check the schedule often for postponements and rescheduled stockings.
Extended Trout Season Regulations
Trout that are stocked during fall and winter can be fished for immediately. Anglers ages 16 and older must have a valid Pennsylvania fishing license and trout permit. During the extended trout season (September 3 – December 31, 2024, and January 1 - February 8, 2025), the daily creel limit is three trout of combined species with a minimum size of seven inches, unless a water is managed under special regulations. It should also be noted that extended trout season regulations apply only to designated Stocked Trout Waters, and harvest of trout in other waters during the extended trout season is prohibited.
2024 fishing licenses and permits can be purchased online at Fishandboat.com or by visiting one of nearly 700 retail license issuing agents. Extended trout season regulations apply only to designated Stocked Trout Waters.
How to Fish for Trout
Trout can be caught on a variety of tackle including live bait such as worms and minnows; lures such as spinners and crankbaits; and common household baits such as pieces of cheese and corn. Most beginning anglers choose a 5- or 6-foot lightweight rod with a spinning reel spooled with 4-6 lb. monofilament line. Fly fishing is also popular during fall, when opportunistic fish are known to aggressively feed during aquatic insect hatches.
Find Great Places to Fish
Along with the waters being stocked with trout this fall, anglers can check out the list of Pennsylvania's Best Fishing Waters on the PFBC website and FishBoatPA mobile app. This list is based on biologist surveys of fish populations on waters across the state and can lead you to prime fall and winter fishing spots for trout and many other popular fish including Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, panfish, and catfish. Fall and winter trout stockings during 2024 will include 31 waters located within Pennsylvania State Parks, with many parks featuring easy angler access from shore, boat ramps, and amenities such as bathrooms.
Boating this Fall? Wear It, PA!
Fishing from a boat in fall can be a great way to experience the changing fall foliage as it reflects off the water around you! However, boaters should keep in mind that as cooler air moves in, water temperatures can drop rapidly, presenting added dangers. All boaters are reminded to wear a life jacket.
During the cold weather months from November 1 through April 30, anyone on a boat less than 16 feet in length, including all canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards, is required to wear a life jacket. Children ages 12 and under must always wear a life jacket while paddling. For more safe boating tips, visit the Boating Safety page on the PFBC website.
A Launch permit or registration is required for operators of unpowered boats, including kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards who wish to use hundreds of PFBC boat access areas and DCNR boat ramps inside state parks. Launch permits and boat registration renewals are available for purchase on the PFBC website.