clarion river Pennsylvania
The Clarion River, located in northwestern Pennsylvania, flows on the southern border of the Allegheny National Forest and offers a scenic and diverse fishery for fly anglers. Once heavily polluted, the river has undergone significant restoration and is now recognized for its clean waters, abundant wildlife, and excellent fishing opportunities.
Fly Fishing the Clarion River: The Clarion is home to wild and stocked trout, with productive waters from the confluence of the East and West Branches down to Cook Forest State Park and beyond. Anglers can find brown trout, rainbow trout, and some brook trout, with the best trout fishing in the colder upper sections where spring-fed tributaries provide ideal conditions.
Hatches & Flies: The river experiences diverse insect hatches, making it an exciting dry-fly destination in the right conditions. Key hatches include:
Blue-Winged Olives (BWO) – Spring and fall
Sulphurs – Late spring into early summer
Caddis (various species) – Spring through fall
March Browns & Hendricksons – Mid to late spring
Terrestrials (ants, beetles, hoppers) – Summer months
Tricos – Late summer mornings
Best Times & Tactics
Spring and fall are prime times for trout, with ideal water temperatures and active hatches.
Summer can be productive early and late in the day, especially near cooler tributaries.
Streamers work well for targeting larger brown trout, especially in lower light conditions.
Nymphing is effective year-round, particularly with Pheasant Tails, Hare’s Ears, and Caddis Pupae.
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clarion river cabin and drift boat package
Join us for an unforgettable adventure. Enjoy two days of guided fly fishing on the Clarion River Trophy Trout section in our float boat, complete with cabin.
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