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of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

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    Trout Water Classifications

    Definitions and listings of trout water classifications and how they are regulated.

    A close-up of a Class A designated waterway in Pennsylvania

    Trout Streams (interactive map)

    Mapping and additional information for the following categories of trout streams: Keystone Select, Special Regulation, Class A, Stocked, Natural Reproduction.

    Wild Trout Waters (Natural Reproduction) (PDF listing)

    Stream sections supporting naturally reproducing populations of trout. A wild trout stream section is a biological designation. These streams may also be stocked with hatchery trout by the Commission.

    Class A Wild Trout Streams (PDF listing)

    Streams that support a population of wild (natural reproduction) trout of sufficient size and abundance to support a long-term and rewarding sport fishery. The Commission stocks a handful of these streams.

    Wilderness Trout Streams (PDF listing)

    Wilderness trout stream management is based upon the provision of a wild trout fishing experience in a remote, natural and unspoiled environment where man's disruptive activities are minimized. Established in 1969, this option was designed to protect and promote native (brook trout) fisheries, the ecological requirements necessary for natural reproduction of trout and wilderness aesthetics. The superior quality of these watersheds is considered an important part of the overall angling experience on wilderness trout streams. Therefore, all stream sections included in this program qualify for the Exceptional Value (EV) special protected water use classification, which represents the highest protection status provided by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

    Wild Trout Designation Streams - Being Considered (PDF Listing)

    These streams have been sampled by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and cooperating partners as part of an effort to collect baseline biological information from streams that were not previously surveyed. Preliminary results from these surveys indicate that these streams may be eligible for consideration for inclusion on The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission's list of Stream Sections Supporting Natural Reproduction of Trout (wild trout stream) and may support wild trout populations sufficient to designate a stream section as a Class A wild trout stream.

     


    Important Note to Anglers - Many waters in Pennsylvania are on private property, the listing or mapping of waters by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission does not guarantee public access. Always obtain permission to fish on private property.