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Official Website

of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

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    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).

    Illustration of a Brook, Brown and Rainbow Trout

    All About Trout

    Trout are found in many Pennsylvania 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.

    Fishing Regulations

    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.

    Trout Opening Day

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

    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.

    Diagram of Pennsylvania highlighting which counties where Trout are stocked

    Trout Fishing Tips

    Where

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

    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

    Interactive Maps

    Best Fishing Waters for Stocked Trout and Wild Trout