Fishing
The Laurel Highlands region boasts an extensive network of lakeshores, rivers, and creeks, open to the public for an exhilarating fishing experience. Numerous lakes in the vicinity are meticulously stocked with a variety of prized fish species, including bass, trout, walleye, crappie, and bluegill. Our nearby streams, a blend of natural and stocked trout waters, offer ideal locales for both spinning rod and fly fishing enthusiasts. Please note that a valid Pennsylvania fishing license is mandatory for angling in any public lake, river, or stream.
Among the popular fishing destinations, you’ll find Acme Dam Lake, Laurel Hill Lake, and Kooser Lake, each teeming with opportunities to reel in a memorable catch. For trout enthusiasts, Roaring Run Creek and Indian Creek are the closest trout stream fishing spots, promising an immersive and rewarding angling experience. Should you seek recommendations or guidance, do not hesitate to reach out to our knowledgeable team.
Trout Season in the Laurel Highlands is a year-round affair for fly fishing in most streams. During the off-season, certain specially designated trout streams remain open for trout fishing year-round, provided you adhere to specific artificial tackle and trout possession regulations.
Pennsylvania’s western region boasts a rich diversity of trout species, with Brook Trout serving as the native stream trout. Over the years, Rainbow and Brown Trout have also established thriving populations in these waters. Several nursery streams and tributaries contribute to the abundance of large, colorful native trout.
As stewards of the environment, we encourage all anglers to adopt catch-and-release practices. The use of barb-less hooks and quick-release techniques plays a pivotal role in maintaining robust fish populations for generations to come.
To ensure compliance with fishing regulations and licensing requirements, a current fishing license with a Trout/Salmon endorsement is mandatory for all public waters in Pennsylvania. Non-residents have the convenience of purchasing tourist licenses (available for one, three, or seven days) at local Walmart stores or bait shops. You’ll find two Walmart locations nearby, one in Mount Pleasant and another in Somerset, providing easy access to the necessary licenses for your angling pursuits.
For more information, please visit the PA Fish and Boat Commission web site
TOP 10 LAUREL HIGHLANDS TROUT FISHING STREAMS
Mill Creek – N40.2493 W79.2345. Fish upstream from Ligonier Valley Trail Bridge. Open to public fishing. A tributary of Loyalhanna Creek, it’s fed by exceptional value headwater streams.
Loyalhanna Creek – N40.2466 W79.2463. One of PA’s eight Keystone Select Stocked Trout Waters within the Delayed Harvest Artificial Lures Only section. Public fishing between Route 711 bridge in Ligonier downstream to SR 2045 bridge.
Linn Run – N40.1690 W79.2336. Fish from Adams Falls picnic area upstream to Linn Run State Park Office. It has high alkalinity coldwater tributaries and is stocked.
Indian Creek – N40.0891 W79.3356. Fish the Delayed Harvest Artificial Lures Only section from Hunters Bridge off Route 381 downstream 1.6 miles to the Route 381 Bridge in Jones Mills.
Pike Run — N40.0783 W79.3203. Laurel Hill Trout Farm, on Pike Run, 3 miles east of Jones Mills on the south side of Route 31. Provides fee fishing and tours of their trout hatchery. No license is required. Rods may be borrowed; bait is available.
Laurel Hill Creek, upper section — N40.0083 W79.2325. A Delayed Harvest Artificial Lures Only section in Laurel Hill State Park begins at the bridge above Laurel Hill Lake.
Laurel Hill Creek, lower section — N39.8589 W79.3207. A Delayed Harvest Artificial Lures Only section is located just off Humbert Road north of Confluence PA on PA Route 281.
Youghiogheny River, Middle Section – N39.8266 W79.3786. The 10-mile section between Ohiopyle and Confluence has an all-tackle Trophy Trout section beginning at the Ramcat access area.
Youghiogheny Dam – N39.8051 W79.3661. Corps of Engineers campground includes public access to an outstanding year-round tailwater trout fishery.
Meadow Run – N39.8535 W79.4973. This Delayed Harvest Artificial Lures Only stretch begins where the stream crosses under Route 381 in Ohiopyle and extends upstream more than a mile. The lower area has waterfalls and slides. ADA accessible.