Smallmouth Bass Fly Fishing in Pennsylvania: A Hidden Gem Worth Exploring
By Mike Rosa
TCO Fly Shop and Relentless Fly Fishing Guide
When most anglers think of Pennsylvania, they often picture cool, clear streams full of wild and stocked trout. But for those willing to expand their horizons, Pennsylvania’s smallmouth bass fishery offers some of the most exciting, accessible, and rewarding fly fishing in the entire region.
Before we dive in, if you're looking to put your smallmouth skills to the test, check out the Bass Thumb Fly Fishing Tournament—a great way to challenge yourself and connect with other passionate anglers.
What Makes Pennsylvania a Smallmouth Bass Hotspot
While trout may grab most of the spotlight, Pennsylvania’s smallmouth bass fisheries are second to none. Once the water warms up in early spring through summer, smallmouth opportunities begin to shine—often picking up right as trout fishing slows down.
Thanks to a wide variety of rivers, streams, and lakes across the state, anglers of all skill levels can find accessible, productive waters teeming with smallmouth bass. Many rivers hold naturally reproducing populations, providing excellent catch rates and often trophy sized fish. Even better, these waters are often less pressured than trout streams, offering solitude and a fresh challenge.
Whether you're looking for a quick afternoon wade close to home or planning a multi-day float trip, Pennsylvania delivers consistent action from spring through early fall.
Where to Find Pennsylvania’s Smallmouth
Susquehanna River
Ask any seasoned smallmouth angler in the state where to start, and most will say the same thing: the Susquehanna. Flowing for over 400 miles, this mighty river offers miles of classic smallmouth habitat—rocky ledges, current seams, deep holes, countless submerged boulders and grass islands.
For first-timers, focus on sections with easy access near Harrisburg, Duncannon, or the West Branch near Williamsport. Wade anglers should study flow rates carefully, as water levels can fluctuate rapidly. Early mornings and evenings often bring explosive surface action, while midday success often requires going subsurface with streamers or crayfish patterns.
Juniata River
A major Susquehanna tributary, the Juniata offers a smaller, more manageable feel while still delivering exceptional smallmouth fishing. Wade anglers will find plenty of public access, while kayaks and rafts can cover longer stretches. The Juniata shines through spring into fall, especially during stable flows.
Delaware, Allegheny, and Beyond
The Delaware River, particularly above Easton, offers big, strong smallmouth and spectacular topwater opportunities. The Allegheny River’s upper reaches provide clear water, rugged scenery, and healthy fish populations. And across the state, smallmouth inhabit countless smaller streams, creeks, and lakes waiting to be explored.
How to Approach Smallmouth on the Fly
Smallmouth bass offer fly anglers the best of both worlds: enough predictability to reward skill, and enough unpredictability to keep you coming back. Unlike trout, which often demand tiny flies and delicate presentations, smallmouth reward the bold. Bigger flies, active retrieves, and visual takes are the norm.
Wade, Kayak, or Boat?
- Wading allows for intimate exploration of riffles, pools, and bank structure.
- Kayaks, rafts & drift boats offer mobility and stealth, perfect for mid-sized rivers.
- Boats (jet) open up vast sections of big water like the Susquehanna and Delaware, letting anglers cover miles of prime habitat.
Where to Find Smallmouth in the Water
Smallmouth relate strongly to structure:
- In early spring, seek out deep pools close to shallower water nearby. Fish close to where they meet. You will often find fish in those transition areas.
- During the summer, look for shaded banks and submerged wood. Focus on riffles, current breaks, rock gardens and grassy islands. In the summer heat, deep ledges and pools become prime real estate.
- When the transition to fall happens, focus on all structure adjacent to the current. Smallmouth will be feeding aggressively in preparation for winter.
Time Your Trip With the Right Conditions in Mind
Ideal water temperatures range from 65–75°F. Overcast days extend topwater action, while early mornings and evenings often produce the most aggressive strikes.
The Seasonal Playbook
Spring: Pre-spawn fish are hungry and aggressive. Streamers, crayfish patterns, and weighted flies produce well. Pay attention to water temperature. As temperatures approach 60°F bass will most likely be on beds. It is best to leave them alone and allow them to guard their nests.
Summer: The smallmouth's most dynamic season. Poppers, foam bugs, and large terrestrials reign supreme. Size down your baitfish patterns for lower flows and clear water conditions.
Fall: As temperatures cool, smallmouth feed heavily before winter sets in. Larger baitfish patterns shine. For example, a 5 inch double deceiver in a multitude of bright colors should be in every anglers fly box during the fall transition.
Gearing Up
- Fly Rod: 7 to 8 weight rods balance power for large flies with finesse for accurate presentations.
- Fly Reel: A light, large arbor reel with a good drag is key.
- Fly Line: Floating lines cover most situations; consider sink tips for fishing deeper pools.
- Leaders/Tippet: 10-20 pound fluorocarbon leaders that are 7-9 feet in length will handle most conditions.
A Season of Opportunity
For many anglers, smallmouth bass offer something that even trout can't always deliver: reliable action, aggressive takes, and exciting fights in warm, beautiful water. And best of all, Pennsylvania provides world-class smallmouth fly fishing that’s accessible, varied, and largely untapped by the wider fly fishing community.
So when the spring hatches wane and summer sun warms the rivers, don’t hang up your rod. Instead, grab your poppers and streamers, head for the rivers, and discover why Pennsylvania’s smallmouth bass fishery might just be the state’s best-kept secret.
Parting Advice: Get Out and Fish!
Pennsylvania’s smallmouth bass fishery is a true hidden gem, offering an exciting, challenging, and often overlooked alternative to traditional trout fishing. With a little preparation, a sense of adventure, and a few well-selected flies, you'll be ready to explore some of the finest smallmouth waters in the East.
Whether you're wading a small tributary, floating a major river, or casting to feeding fish from the bow of a boat, smallmouth bass fly fishing in Pennsylvania is hard to beat.
For anglers ready to fully immerse themselves in Pennsylvania’s smallmouth bass scene, TCO Fly Shop’s inaugural Bass Thumb Fly Fishing Tournament is the perfect opportunity. Taking place July 10-12, 2025 on the Susquehanna and Juniata Rivers, the tournament offers a fun and conservation-minded competition for anglers. Participants can expect great fishing, camaraderie, and a chance to connect with fellow fly fishers who share a passion for smallmouth. Whether you're honing your skills, exploring new waters, or simply enjoying the thrill of the chase, the Bass Thumb Tournament embodies the very best of Pennsylvania’s vibrant fly fishing community.
Spots are limited, so visit the official tournament sign-up page to register and join in the fun while helping support Susquehanna Greenway and Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing.
