Big Spring Creek – August Stream Report

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

Get to know Big Spring Creek in August

Historically fly fishing Big Spring Creek in August offers clear, cool water and consistent flows ideal for targeting selective wild trout. Expect technical fishing with light tippet, small flies, and stealthy approaches, especially in the upper catch-and-release section. Morning hatches of midges and BWOs give way to afternoon action on terrestrials like ants and beetles. Nymphing cress bugs and swinging small streamers through spring-fed channels can produce results throughout the day.

Stream Level

• Flow: Stable spring creek flow around 20–25 cfs
• Watch: Algae and aquatic vegetation growth increase—target open lanes for presentations

Water Temperature

• Range: 52–58°F
• Time: Fish remain active throughout the day thanks to spring-fed temps
• Tip: Early morning still sees less pressure and better surface activity

Water Clarity

• Condition: Crystal clear, with heavy aquatic plant coverage in many sections
• Approach: Light tippets (6X–7X), long leaders, and slow movements are key to success.

Fishing Overview

August offers a strong terrestrial bite and early-morning trico action. Big Spring’s wild brookies and wary rainbows require finesse and precision. Sight-fishing opportunities are excellent—watch for subtle feeders along the edges and under shadows.

Specifics and Tips

• Best Times: 7–11 AM and after 6 PM
• Approach: Use a soft approach and minimal false casting—Big Spring trout are easily spooked
• Presentation: Stay low, cast from a distance, and aim for pinpoint accuracy
• Wading: Not necessary—bank stalking is the preferred method

What's Hatching

• Tricos (early morning spinner falls)
• Midges (sporadic throughout the day)
• 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
• Beetles – #16–18
• Parachute Ant – #18–20
• Foam Cricket – #14
• Elk Hair Caddis – #16
• Blue-Winged Olive – #18–20
• Griffith’s Gnat – #22

Nymphs / Subsurface:

• Zebra Midge – #20–22
• Green Weenie – #14–16 (classic Big Spring staple)
• Cressbugs – #12–16
• WD-40 – #22
• Flashback Pheasant Tail – #18–20
• Scud – #16
• Cress Bug – #12-18
• Sculpin patterns (early morning and dusk)

Precision Insight

Big Spring’s fish demand careful stalking, but the rewards are worth it. Focus on the transition zones—edges of vegetation, spring outlets, and undercut banks. The Green Weenie continues to be a Big Spring favorite, especially when fished upstream with no indicator.