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

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.

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usgs stream gages

Spring Creek near Axemann

Spring Creek at Milesburg

spring creek fisherman’s bungalow

Want to enjoy what Spring Creek has to offer for more than one day, and also be within a short drive to other great Central PA streams?

Join us at the Fisherman’s Bungalow on Spring Creek. Enjoy the comforts of home in this 2 Full size beds, fully equipped kitchen, full bath, washer and dryer with smart tv and WIFI. Also, 300’ of private stream bank.

(Minimum 2 night stay)

For more information about guided fly fishing bungalow packages, drop me a line here.

Small kitchen with wooden cabinets, white appliances, and a view into a cozy bedroom with a blue bedspread.
Single-story house with beige siding, green shutters, and a white front door featuring a wreath. A small overhang shades the entrance. A gravel path and grassy area are visible.
Bedroom with two beds, one with a blue comforter and the other with a red comforter, a nightstand with a lamp in between, red curtains, and wall art.
Kitchen pantry with a microwave, coffee maker, and cleaning supplies.
Spring Creek flowing through a forested area with bare trees
Compact bathroom with a black and white shower curtain, toilet, small sink, shelves with folded towels, and black floor mats.
Cozy living room interior with a gray couch, striped rug, wooden coffee table, and a side table with a lamp. A small dining table with stools is in the corner. The room features red curtains and framed art on the walls.