Letort Spring Run – August Stream Report

Location: Cumberland Valley, PA | Report by Precision Fly and Tackle

Get to know Letort Spring Run in August

Letort Spring Run remains a technical, world-renowned spring creek in August. With its lush banks, cold spring-fed water, and wary wild trout, it's a true test of skill. Expect rewarding dry fly and terrestrial action if you bring your A-game.

Letort trout are spooky and selective in August. Sight-fishing opportunities abound, especially for dry-fly purists targeting risers in the slow slicks and undercut banks. Hopper-dropper rigs work in the open stretches, while ant and beetle patterns shine near vegetation and overhangs. The Letort is about finesse, patience, and precision. Spend time watching before casting. You may only get one shot at a feeding fish, so make it count.

Stream Level

• Flow: Low and steady, typically around 20–30 cfs
• Watch: Flows may dip during dry spells—fish will be extra wary in shallows

Water Temperature

• Range: 55–64°F
• Time: Best conditions before 10 AM and after 6 PM
• Tip: Carry a thermometer—avoid fishing above 65°F to protect the wild browns

Water Clarity

• Condition: Ultra-clear with thick aquatic vegetation
• Approach: Long, fine leaders (12–15 ft, 6X–7X), stay out of the water when possible

Fishing Overview

August is all about terrestrials and precision casting. Fish are tucked under shade, tight to banks, and beneath overhanging vegetation. Trico hatches offer morning dry-fly opportunities, while ants, beetles, and hoppers pick up the slack all afternoon.

Specifics and Tips

• Best Times: Dawn to 10 AM and 6 PM to dark
• Approach: Focus on observation before presentation—watch for subtle rise forms
• Presentation: Slack-line casts and soft landings win the day
• Wading: Avoid if possible; stealth is critical this time of year

What's Hatching

• Tricos (early morning spinner falls)
• Caddis (light evening activity)
• Blue-Winged Olives (occasional)
• Terrestrials (steady throughout the day – beetles, ants, hoppers)

Fly Patterns to Use

Dries:

• CDC Trico Spinner – #24–26
• Letort Hopper – #12–14
• Letort Cricket – #14
• Foam Beetle – #16–18
• Parachute Ant – #16–18
• Blue-Winged Olive – #18–20
• X-Caddis – #16–18

Nymphs / Subsurface:

• Zebra Midge – #20–22
• Olive Scud – #14–16
• Cressbugs – #12–16
• WD-40 – #22
• Trico Nymph – #22–24
• Sculpin patterns (early morning and dusk)

Precision Insight

Letort trout have seen it all by August. Focus on accuracy, low profiles, and long drifts. Terrestrial patterns fished with a twitch near structure often provoke strikes when nothing else does.