This month marks the 162nd anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg. Many history lovers will be flocking to Gettysburg and the surrounding area to experience the many historical sites. One of the favorite attractions is the Gettysburg Trail, which follows the Confederate routes as they spread out to other local communities. While driving the Trail and seeing where the armies ventured is a fine way to experience history, why not combine two interests- history and fishing?

The Gettysburg Campaign was about more than invading the North. Although during the campaign, Lee’s armies would penetrate further north than ever before, and this could have been a big boost for the Southern Cause, they were also in desperate need of provisions. Like any army, Lee faced serious supply line issues and resorted to foraging for supplies as they advanced.

One of the primary targets of Lee’s armies was the many farms that called the Susquehanna Valley home. These local family farms provided fresh produce, meat, eggs, and livestock that were desperately needed. But one of the other sources of food that many people fail to recognize is the abundant fish and wildlife in the area. Following the path of the Confederate armies as they spread out from Gettysburg will bring you to some of today’s favorite fishing destinations. Although these waters have changed over the last 162 years, most notably with the introduction of trout into what were traditionally warm-water fisheries, they would nonetheless have been essential sources for hungry soldiers.

Gettysburg

As you travel around Gettysburg and the immediate area, you encounter many streams that would have undoubtedly attracted the attention of foraging soldiers. Marsh Creek, Little Marsh Creek, and Latimore Run would have been among the first bodies of water encountered. While they were probably seen first as essential sources of water for both horses and men, their abundant fish populations would have surely caught the attention of more than one country boy.

Chambersburg

As troops continued their search for supplies and the Union Army’s location, they fanned out toward other nearby communities, including Chambersburg to the west. On the way, they would have crossed Carbaugh Run, a cool mountain stream teeming with fish and a vital water source for local wildlife. Closer to town, they would have come upon Falling Spring, a favorite among trout anglers today, as well as both the Conodoguinet and Conocoheague Creeks. This area of the Susquehanna Valley is also covered with small limestone springs that would have offered excellent fishing opportunities near almost any temporary encampment.

Shippensburg

Although Gettysburg was the center of the largest of the campaign’s battles, nearby Shippensburg saw its fair share of action. In the weeks before the July battles in Gettysburg, Confederate and Union troops were on the move through the area, meeting in late June at Shippensburg. A cavalry battle on King Street and occupation by more than 15000 enemy soldiers meant that both sides would have had an opportunity to take advantage of local waterways for both fresh water and fish. Most notable would have been Middle Creek and its tributaries, such as Branch Creek, Burd Run & Mains Run.

Carlisle

Carlisle was the northernmost point of the Confederate penetration into Northern territory, but it was also an essential target for Confederate troops. Not only was it home to the US Army cavalry training school, but it was also an important Union supply center. As General Ewell and General J.E.B. Stuart entered the town, their troops would have been provided with ample opportunities to take advantage of the local waterways. Letort Spring Run and Conodoguinet Creek are both immediately adjacent to the barracks, with a small section of Letort running through the property. Nearby, there are miles of cold spring waters such as Yellow Breeches, Spring Run, and Big Spring – all among today’s most famous area fisheries.

While it is impossible to know to what extent Confederate soldiers may have depended on local streams for subsistence or even a short escape from the toils of war, it is hard to imagine at least a few young lads did not see an opportunity too inviting to pass up. Now, you, too, can give into temptation as you follow the Gettysburg Trail.

Tom Burrell

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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.

Tom Burrell

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