Susquehanna River Smallmouth – October Stream Report
Location: Central Pennsylvania | Report by Precision Fly and Tackle
Get to Know the Susquehanna in October
October is a transition month on the Susquehanna. Cooling water slows the topwater bite, and smallmouth start moving toward slower water and deeper holes. Early in the month, shoreline grass and ledges can still produce surface takes. Later, fish streamers, crayfish and baitfish patterns, and slow your retrieve as the water cools.
Stream Level
- Flow: Levels change with rainfall. Check the USGS gauge for the Susquehanna River at Harrisburg before you go.
- Forecast: Check the 7-day forecast for Harrisburg before you head out.
Water Clarity
- Condition: Clear in stable weather, stained after storms
- Approach: Fish slow and close to banks and structure when it's stained
Fishing Overview
Streamers and crayfish patterns do the most work. Fish them slower as the water cools, around ledges, eddies and the edges of deeper water.
Specifics and Tips
- Best Times: The warmest part of the day as the water cools
- Presentation: Change up your retrieve speed until the fish tell you what they want, and hit the ledges that lead to flats
- Wading: Wade or float in moderate flows, and use caution on this large river
What They're Eating
- Baitfish
- Crayfish
Fly Patterns to Use
- Clouser Minnow, Tan/White – #2–6
- Clouser Minnow, White – #2–6
- Near Nuff Crayfish, Golden Brown – #2–8
- Kreelex Minnow, Silver/Gold – #4–8
- Shimmering Minnow, Olive/White – #2
- Mr. Wiggly, Blue – #2–4
- Woolly Bugger – #4–8
Know Before You Go
A Pennsylvania fishing license is required. The Susquehanna is big water, so wade with caution and wear a life jacket if you float.
Precision Insight
As the water cools, slow down. Work crayfish and baitfish patterns along ledges and eddies, and be ready to change your retrieve until you find what the fish want.
