For many Pennsylvanians, Labor Day marks the end of summer, a return to school and many are looking forward to the upcoming hunting seasons. But for Keystone State anglers, Labor Day means something else: the start of a second trout season.

Most anglers are familiar with the regular trout season, which runs from opening day in April to Labor Day. However, a second season, also called the extended season, opens on Sept. 3 and allows anglers to continue to catch and harvest trout until waters close the following February.

The extended season, which includes all stocked waters and impoundments, allows anglers to harvest three trout at the same seven-inch minimum size as during the regular season. Anglers are still required to possess a valid fishing license and, if harvesting trout, a Trout Stamp.

Many anglers discount the extended season, believing that all the trout stocked during the spring have either been caught or died off due to high temperatures. Although this may be the case in southern waters, the North Central Region offers near-perfect conditions for continued angling and some of the best trout fishing of the year. When attempting to locate trout during the fall, you need to look at two different situations – waters that may hold trout throughout the summer and waters that will be restocked for the fall.

The area’s streams, especially those of limestone spring feed, are unique in providing almost constant temperatures year-round. This provides excellent conditions for trout not harvested during the spring to thrive and be available during the extended season. Likewise, waterways located at higher elevations can also provide shelter from the summer heat. Both are likely places to start when looking for trout during the extended season.

Although most trout stocking occurs during the springs, many streams are stocked during the fall. These late-year stockings specifically provide angling opportunities during this extended season. The local waters stocked during fall included:

• Little Pine Creek, Section 4 (Oct. 8)

• Little Pine Lake, Section 0 (Oct. 9)

• Pine Creek, Section 2 (Oct. 10)

• Lycoming Creek, Section 4 (Oct. 11)

You should not overlook the special regulation waters when looking for fall trout. Although these waters are not open to trout harvest, they still provide an excellent opportunity to catch quality fish. Lycoming County enjoys several special regulations waters, including catch-and-release artificial lure only; catch-and-release fly fishing only; catch-and-release all tackle; trophy trout artificial lures only; and delayed harvest artificial lures only.

If the areas above or below a special regulation are also open to fishing, they can provide excellent opportunities to target some big fish.

TIPS FOR LATE-SEASON TROUT

Fall trout fishing requires some changes to your tactics. Both the fish and the conditions are different, and these differences are usually to the fish’s advantage. First, the holdover fish are older, larger, and wiser. They have survived months of being chased by human and animal predators, making them wearier.

Second, the long summer and reduced rainfall likely mean streams are low and clear, making it more difficult to sneak up on and fool the already alert trout.

The answer to both these problems is going slow and long. Slower movement, scanning ahead, and stealthy approaches to likely pools will increase your chances of going undetected. You can increase your chances by making your casts from further away than you might in the springs. Again, this increases your chances of getting your bait or lure before a likely trout is detected.

Decreasing water temperatures will work in your favor during September and October, but they will change as you move into November and beyond. As temperatures drop, even trout become sluggish and less likely to chase a meal. This is when slowing your presentation will increase your chances.

Plus, you will want to focus on deeper pools and fish near the bottom, where resting trout are more likely to spend their time.

Whether you are an avid trout angler eager to get back on the stream, a hunter who has filled their tags, or just looking to mix up your outdoor activities, the fall trout season is your second chance to put fish.