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Summertime Fly Fishing on Big Spring Creek
Photo Credits: Gary Leone, Fly Fishing Guide
Summertime Fly Fishing on Big Spring Creek: Hatches, Tactics Top Flies
Author: Precision Fly Fishing Staff
If you’re a fly angler in Pennsylvania, Big Spring Creek in the Cumberland Valley is more than just a destination—it's a proving ground. As one of the state’s premier limestone spring creeks, Big Spring offers clear, cold water, tricky trout, and year-round fly fishing. But in the heat of summer, conditions shift, and fishing becomes a game of finesse, timing, and entomology.
Here’s how to fish it smarter when the weather turns hot.
Understand the Water
Big Spring maintains a relatively cool temperature year-round thanks to its spring-fed source, making it a viable option for ethical trout fishing even in July and August. But don’t take that for granted—always bring a thermometer and avoid fishing during the warmest parts of the day if temps rise above 68°F.
Precision Tip: Fish early in the morning or the last few hours before dark for the best action and trout safety.
What’s Hatching Right Now?
Summer hatches on Big Spring can be subtle and sparse, so paying attention to detail is everything. Here's what you can expect:
Tricos – Early morning spinner falls are legendary here. Think size 22–26.
Terrestrials – Ants, beetles, and hoppers become major players in July and August.
Caddisflies – Especially tan and black variations, often in sizes 16–18.
Midges – Always present, especially in low-light conditions.
Match the hatch by observing rises and looking for insects on the water or in the air. Patience and a keen eye go a long way.
Tactics & Techniques for Big Spring
Fishing Big Spring is not about blasting casts—it's about presentation and stealth. Here are some techniques to keep in mind:
1. Go Long and Light
Use long leaders (12–15 ft) with 6X or 7X tippet to avoid spooking fish in ultra-clear water. Trout here don’t forgive sloppy drifts.
2. Target Sighted Fish
Thanks to the clarity, you’ll often see fish before they see you. Move slowly, use the current to mask your approach, and don’t cast until you’re confident.
3. Focus on Spring Creek Behavior
Big Spring trout feed subtly. Watch for head pokes and gentle sips. Drag-free drifts and micro-mends are essential to success.
Best Summer Fly Patterns for Big Spring Creek
Here’s what we’re reaching for right now at Precision Fly and Tackle:
Dry Flies
CDC Trico Spinner – #24–26
Beetles – #16–18
Parachute Ant – #18–20
Foam Cricket – #14
Elk Hair Caddis – #16
Griffith’s Gnat – #22
Nymphs & Emergers
Zebra Midge – #20–22
Green Weenie – #14–16 (classic Big Spring staple)
WD-40 – #22
Flashback Pheasant Tail – #18–20
Scud – #16
Cress Bug – #12-18
Bonus: Streamers
On overcast days or when flows are up slightly:
Micro Sculpin or Woolly Bugger (size 10–12)
Sculpzilla Mini (size 8)
Final Thought
Big Spring Creek rewards anglers who slow down, observe, and make every cast count. It’s technical water—but that’s precisely what makes it special. See you out there.
Know Before You Go
- Location: Big Spring Creek, near Newville, PA
- Special Regulations: Catch-and-release fly-fishing only in the upper “no kill” stretch
- Access: Big Spring Road offers multiple pull-offs and parking areas for public access
- Gear Tip: A 3-wt or 4-wt rod is ideal, with floating line and long leaders
Visit Us Before You Hit the Water
Whether you need a fresh supply of Tricos, want help dialing in your leader setup, or just need local insight on Big Spring’s trout mood, stop by Precision Fly and Tackle. Our team knows these waters—and we’ll help you match the hatch and fine-tune your approach.
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