Hickory Run State Park offers excellent trout fishing opportunities with its diverse streams and stocked waters. The park features wild and stocked trout species, including brook and brown trout. Anglers can enjoy fishing in various streams like Hickory Run, Black Creek, Mud Run, and Hawk Run. The park provides accessible fishing areas, catch-and-release sections, and follows Pennsylvania’s standard trout fishing regulations.
What Trout Species Can You Find in Hickory Run State Park?
Hickory Run State Park boasts a variety of trout species, both wild and stocked:
- Wild Trout:
- Brook Trout (native)
-
Brown Trout
-
Stocked Trout:
- Brook Trout
- Brown Trout
The distribution of these species varies across the park’s streams:
- Hickory Run:
- Upper sections: Primarily wild brook trout
- Catch-and-release section: Wild brown and brook trout
-
Lower sections: Stocked brook and brown trout
-
Black Creek (Hayes Creek):
-
Good populations of trout, specific stocking details not available
-
Mud Run and Hawk Run:
- Trout populations present, stocking information not specified
Where Are the Best Spots for Trout Fishing in Hickory Run State Park?
- Hickory Run Stream:
- Catch-and-Release Section: 1.6-mile stretch from State Route #534 to the stream’s mouth
- Access: Trail following the stream from State Route #534 to the Lehigh River confluence
-
Best for: Wild trout fishing, especially brown and brook trout
-
Black Creek (Hayes Creek):
- Location: Within park boundaries
-
Best for: Varied trout fishing experiences
-
Mud Run:
- Location: Park area
-
Best for: Additional trout fishing opportunities
-
Hawk Run:
- Location: Within park limits
-
Best for: Diverse trout fishing experiences
-
CCC Pond:
- Feature: Fishing pier for people with disabilities
- Best for: Accessible fishing experience
What Are the Fishing Regulations at Hickory Run State Park?
Hickory Run State Park follows Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations:
- Season:
- Starts: First Saturday of April
-
Ends: Last day of February
-
Catch-and-Release Section:
- Location: 1.6-mile stretch on Hickory Run
-
Rule: Strictly catch-and-release only
-
Licenses:
- Required: Valid Pennsylvania fishing license
-
Non-resident licenses available through Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission
-
General Regulations:
- Follow standard Pennsylvania trout fishing rules
- Adhere to catch limits and size restrictions
How Accessible Is Trout Fishing in Hickory Run State Park?
Hickory Run State Park offers good accessibility for trout anglers:
- Park Access:
- From I-80: Take Exit 274
-
Drive east on PA 534 for 6 miles
-
Stream Access:
- Well-marked signs and parking areas throughout the park
-
Trails leading to various fishing spots
-
Amenities:
- Hiking trails
- Boulder field
- Hawk Falls
- Fishing pier at CCC Pond (for people with disabilities)
What Equipment Should You Bring for Trout Fishing at Hickory Run State Park?
To make the most of your trout fishing experience at Hickory Run State Park, consider bringing:
- Fishing Gear:
- Light to ultra-light spinning rod and reel
- 4-6 lb test line
- Assortment of small lures (spinners, jigs, flies)
-
Waders or waterproof boots
-
Fly Fishing Equipment (for catch-and-release section):
- 3-5 weight fly rod
- Floating line
-
Selection of dry flies, nymphs, and streamers
-
Accessories:
- Fishing vest or pack
- Polarized sunglasses
- Hat for sun protection
- Insect repellent
-
First aid kit
-
Documentation:
- Valid Pennsylvania fishing license
- Park map
What Are the Best Seasons for Trout Fishing in Hickory Run State Park?
Trout fishing at Hickory Run State Park can be enjoyable year-round, but certain seasons offer unique advantages:
- Spring (April-May):
- Opening of trout season
- Freshly stocked waters
-
Active feeding due to warmer temperatures
-
Summer (June-August):
- Early mornings and evenings best for fishing
- Focus on deeper pools and shaded areas
-
Challenging but rewarding for skilled anglers
-
Fall (September-November):
- Cooler temperatures increase trout activity
- Beautiful foliage enhances fishing experience
-
Less crowded than spring season
-
Winter (December-February):
- Limited fishing opportunities
- Ice fishing possible on some park waters (check regulations)
- Catch-and-release section remains open
How Can You Practice Responsible Trout Fishing at Hickory Run State Park?
To ensure the sustainability of trout populations and preserve the park’s ecosystem:
- Follow Regulations:
- Adhere to catch limits and size restrictions
-
Use only permitted fishing methods
-
Practice Catch-and-Release:
- Use barbless hooks for easier removal
- Wet hands before handling fish
- Minimize time out of water
-
Release fish gently, facing upstream
-
Respect the Environment:
- Pack out all trash
- Stay on designated trails
-
Avoid disturbing wildlife and vegetation
-
Be Courteous:
- Maintain appropriate distance from other anglers
- Share popular fishing spots
By following these guidelines, you’ll contribute to the preservation of Hickory Run State Park’s trout fishing resources for future generations.
References:
1. https://perfectflystore.com/your-streams/fly-fishing-hickory-run-pennsylvania/
2. https://diyflyfishing.com/hickory-run-pennsylvania/
3. https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/FindAPark/HickoryRunStatePark/Pages/Fishing.aspx