Streams have been stocked, and anglers anxiously await the trout season’s first day on Saturday. Many local anglers will head over the hill to Cumberland County to try their hand on renowned waters like Yellow Breeches or Green Spring. But there are equally impressive waters right here in Adams County.
Adams County is home to over 1300 miles of flowing water, many of which are stocked by the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission in anticipation of trout season. No matter where you live in the county, you are bound to be within a few minutes of stocked trout water, but some waters are more productive than others. Here are my favorites.
Carbaugh Run
Carbaugh Run near MIchaux State Forest has always been a favorite stream with many twists and turns, small pools, and plenty of shade to keep temperatures down. I can not count the days spent hopping from spot to spot as I caught and released some beautiful trout. Although most fishing activity is due to stocking by the Fish & Boat Commission, there is potential for limited wild trout. The Commission has acknowledged the growing presence of wild brook trout by adding the upper section of Carbaugh Run, from the headwaters to Carbaugh Reservoir Pool, to the Class A Wild Trout Waters list.
Latimore Creek
Anyone who chases trout in Adams County is familiar with Latimore Creek. Although most of the stream runs through private property, generous landowners open their property for stocking and fishing, making it a favorite destination for those looking to wet a line. Its proximity to York Springs, Bermudian, and Franklintown also adds to its popularity. One of the more popular spots is the Latimore Fairgrounds Special Regulation Area, open to children and special populations and home to the annual Kid’s Derby sponsored by Adams County Trout Unlimited.
Conewago Creek
The 1.1-mile section of Conewago Creek stretching from Russel Tavern Rd (T-340) downstream to Rt. 34 offers some of the area’s best rainbow fishing and is rumored to hold a few wild browns. This section, managed under the Catch & Release Fly Fishing Only Program, allows anglers to experience year-round opportunities to get out on the water and catch impressive fish. The PA Fish & Boat Commission and the Adams County Chapter of Trout Unlimited conduct stocking. These stockings, combined with the catch & release regulations, ensure plenty of chances for an exciting day of catching rather than just fishing. But don’t be fooled; these fish have seen a lot of flies and can sometimes be just as wary as old-school wild trout.
For more information on trout fishing in Adams County, including stocking schedules and public access points, please visit the Pa Fish & Boat Commission website. The Commission’s mobile app, Fish Boat PA, is an excellent resource when in the field. Not only can you access stocking information but also stocking boundaries, public access areas, and directions, all at your fingertips via any smartphone.
Tom Burrell grew up hunting, fishing and exploring the wilds of Northeast Pennsylvania. After serving in the Marine Corps and Coast Guard he returned to PA as a Waterways Conservation Officer and settled in Cumberland County. Now he spends his time once again exploring the woods and waters of the Keystone State.