Spring Creek
Spring Creek is one of Pennsylvania’s top wild trout streams, known for its high trout density, year-round fishing, and prolific hatches. Flowing through Centre County, this limestone spring creek offers cold, nutrient-rich waters that sustain a thriving population of wild brown trout. Unlike many PA streams, Spring Creek is not stocked, making it a true wild trout fishery.
Fly Fishing Spring Creek: The most popular sections for fly fishing are near Bellefonte, Fisherman’s Paradise, and Benner Springs, where Catch-and-Release, Artificial Lures Only regulations protect the wild brown trout population. The creek is relatively small to medium in size, with a mix of riffles, pocket water, and deep pools, making for technical but rewarding fishing.
Hatches & Flies
Check Real-Time Hatch Forecast
Spring Creek has one of the most consistent hatch cycles in Pennsylvania, making it a prime dry-fly destination. Key hatches include:
Blue-Winged Olives (BWO) – Early spring and fall
Grannom Caddis – April
Sulphurs – May to early June (one of the best hatches)
Tan & Green Caddis – Spring through summer
Tricos – July through September (early morning spinner falls)
Terrestrials (Ants, Beetles, Hoppers) – Summer and early fall
Slate Drakes – Late summer into fall
Best Times & Tactics
Spring and early summer are the best times to fish, with strong Sulphur and Caddis hatches.
Fall BWOs and Slate Drakes provide great dry-fly action as temperatures cool.
Nymphing is highly effective year-round, with Walt’s Worms, Pheasant Tails, Scuds, and Zebra Midges being go-to patterns.
Terrestrials in the summer are essential, as trout key in on beetles and ants along grassy banks.
Winter fishing can be productive with midges and small BWO emergers.
With its crystal-clear water, abundant wild trout, and year-round fishing, Spring Creek is a must-fish limestone stream for fly anglers seeking technical but rewarding fishing in Pennsylvania.
Learn more about the history of Spring Creek.
If you have any questions, drop me a line here.