Clarion River
PA
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River
About Clarion River
The Clarion River, a tributary of the Allegheny River in North-Central Pennsylvania, presents diverse fly fishing opportunities across its main stem, East Branch tailwater, and West Branch freestone sections. This National Wild and Scenic River is renowned for its Green Drake hatch, alongside Caddis, Cahills, March Browns, and Sulphurs. Anglers can target native brook trout in a mile-and-a-half Delayed Harvest Section below the East Branch Dam, and explore an eight-mile "All Tackle Trophy Water" stretch from Johnsonburg to Ridgway, offering abundant pools and riffles for wild brown trout and smallmouth bass. Accessible from Route 219 and state parks, much of the river is fishable from the bank, though wading is restricted in a specific catch-and-release section on the West Branch. A 9-foot 5-weight fly rod is suitable for dry fly and nymph fishing, while a 6-weight is recommended for larger streamers.
Access
Seasons
Terrain
Water
Fish Species
Brown Trout
Smallmouth Bass
Fishing Styles
undefined USGS Water Conditions
Water conditions for the last 7 days. You can gain insights to fishing activity based on these conditions, like water temperature and flow.
Methods
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Wade Friendly
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Float Friendly
Land Ownership
Public Forest Service
Trip Planning
Best fishing typically occurs during spring and summer. Check water conditions before heading out.
For more insight on the conditions, including hatches and water temperatures, check out the Hatch Forecast.