BELLEFONTE – After reviewing numerous public comments and suggestions, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) has finalized its fisheries management plan for Pine Creek, an 87-mile long stream which originates in Potter County and flows through Tioga, Lycoming and Clinton counties.
“The plan describes the history of fisheries management on Pine Creek, identifies the factors affecting the biological health of the stream, and outlines future fisheries management plans,” said Jason Detar, Area 3 Fisheries Manager. “Part of the process of developing the plan involves soliciting public input. We appreciate anglers taking the time to review the plan and providing us with their comments.”
This 58-page plan is available online at the PFBC web site. The plan is designed to guide future actions by the PFBC and aid other stakeholders by providing information and information needs about these valuable resources.
Pine Creek supports a diverse fishery of cold and warm-water species. The upper stretch of Pine Creek above Genessee Forks supports an excellent wild trout population, while the middle reach from Genessee Forks to Waterville – including “the canyon” – provides for quality stocked trout angling, and the lower section from Waterville downstream offers good warm-water angling opportunities for smallmouth bass.
Pine Creek has two Delayed Harvest Artificial Lures Only sections where special regulations apply. The first section is in Tioga County and extends for 1 mile from Darling Run to 150 meters downstream of the confluence with Owassee Slide Hollow. The second Delayed Harvest Artificial Lures Only stretch is in Lycoming County and extends for 1.2 miles from the confluence of Slate Run to 150 meters upstream of the confluence with of Naval Run.
Pine Creek also offers paddling experiences for beginners to those more experienced. Pine Creek is best for canoeing or kayaking in the months of March, April, and May or during higher water flows. Most of Pine Creek is considered Class 1 with some challenging Class 2 and 3 rapids in some sections. The Pine Creek Water Trail is available online at:fishandboat.com/watertrails.