The Youghiogheny River (locally called the "Yough") flows through southwestern Pennsylvania, originating in West Virginia and Maryland before winding through the Laurel Highlands. Known for its cool, clear waters and excellent trout fishing, the Yough is a tailwater fishery below the Youghiogheny Dam, ensuring consistent flows and temperatures that support year-round fly fishing opportunities.

Fly Fishing the Youghiogheny River: The Delayed Harvest – Artificial Lures Only (DHALO) section near Ohiopyle State Park is a popular stretch for fly anglers, offering good numbers of stocked and holdover trout. The river also supports wild brown trout, particularly in its upper reaches and tributaries. Below the delayed harvest section, smallmouth bass become more prevalent as the river warms.

Hatches & Flies: The Yough features a diverse hatch schedule, making it a productive river for dry fly fishing at the right times. Key hatches include:

• Blue-Winged Olives (BWO) – Early spring and fall

• Hendricksons & March Browns – Spring

• Caddis (Grannoms, Tan & Green Caddis) – Spring through early summer

• Sulphurs – Late spring to early summer

• Terrestrials (Hoppers, Ants, Beetles) – Mid to late summer

• Tricos – Summer mornings

• Slate Drakes – Late summer into fall

Best Times & Tactics

• Spring and fall provide the best trout fishing, with active hatches and cool water temperatures.

• Summer mornings and evenings can be productive, especially with terrestrials and small nymphs.

• Streamer fishing is effective year-round, particularly for larger brown trout in deeper runs.

• Nymphing with Pheasant Tails, Hares Ears, and Caddis Pupae is a go-to method throughout the year.

• Smallmouth bass fishing picks up in the lower river sections during the summer months.

With its scenic beauty, year-round fishing, and variety of species, the Youghiogheny River is a must-fish destination for fly anglers.

To read more about the Youghiogheny, check out this article.

If you have any questions, drop me a line.

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