Yellow Breeches Stream Report - Precision Fly and Tackle

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Stream Report

Yellow Breeches Creek - Cumberland County, PA

Updated 9/18/2022

Overview

From its frosty headwaters high in Michaux State Forest to its terminus at the Susquehanna River, the Yellow Breeches Creek in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania cuts a meandering 40-some mile swath through verdant farmland, rolling hills, and low-gradient wooded valleys. In addition to brown, brook, and rainbow trout stocked by the PA Fish & Boat Commission, the stream benefits from supplementary stockings from private angling clubs, making the Yellow Breeches a rewarding fishing opportunity for beginners, youth, and experienced anglers alike. Perhaps the true treasure of the Yellow Breeches is its healthy population of wild brown trout that thrive in its cool, spring-fed waters. Several of its canonical hatches including the Grannom Caddis (Brachycentrus), Sulphur mayfly (Ephemerella invaria, Ephemerella dorothea), Hex mayfly (Hexagenia limbata), and White Fly (Ephoron leukon) have become the stuff of legend, attracting anglers from around the globe.

The character of the Yellow Breeches changes dramatically along its course, from tight and technical in the upper reaches to classic riffle-run-pool series throughout the middle and lower sections. The best way to prepare for a successful day's fishing is to anticipate utilizing a variety of fishing styles and presentations. Hip or pant style waders will suffice in many areas, although most anglers prefer full chest waders to enable access to the Breeches' deeper and broader stretches. There are ample access points along the stream, with two of the most popular being the CRALO ('Catch & Release, Artificial Lures Only') section in Boiling Springs, and Stuart Park at Barnitz Mill. Call or stop into one of our shop for maps and timely hatch information!

We are fortunate to be surrounded by some of the best water in the Commonwealth, and our industry-leading guides know this water well. Our staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and happy to answer any questions you may have about the Yellow Breeches Creek. Call us at 717-486-4646, opt 1.

What To Expect

Early morning risers may be rewarded with a trico hatch. Small tan caddis or olives may be present throughout the day. Midges can be effective at any time. Ants, beetles, and crickets (especially in windier conditions) can make for some excellent topwater terrestrial fishing. Watch for Cahills in the evening, giving way to hexes and white flies into the night. With the recent bump in CFS and cooler water temps, fishing a baitfish streamer, sculpin, or mouse could provoke a predatory strike!

Techniques & Tips

Utilizing a 'dry-dropper' rig can be an effective method of prospecting, especially in skinnier water conditions where an indicator may cause refusals or even put fish down. Try suspending a small nymph or emerger beneath a bouyant and visible dry fly, such as an Elk Hair Caddis, Hi-Viz Parachute Hopper, or Chubby Chernobyl Ant. You may find that longer leaders and finer tippet may be required when fishing a single dry fly to spooky fish. Finding cold water can often be the determinant factor in these dog days of summer. Trout must take in more calories than they burn while remaining safe, so focus on current seams and underwater structure, overhanging limbs and shaded areas, and just downstream or even within riffles, which provide much-needed oxygenation to the water. Where appropriate, tight-line/'Euro' nymphing methods can be highly productive due to the rapid descent of the flies and minimal water disturbance. Where an indicator is preferred, a system that touches down gently such as the New Zealand Wool kit is highly desirable. Drifting terrestrials along likely ambush points like banks and overhangs should bring fish to the net when there is no apparent hatch. When working streamers around structure, big can sometimes be better, but not always - give a classic Olive Woolly Bugger or one of Blane Chocklett's Bugger Changers a try!