Clarion River Report 5-13-2007

[JUICE]

Aaron and I made the trip out to Ridgway PA to try the FAMED BIG TROUT RIVER, the Clarion. Met Kurt Thomas of Clarion River Adventrues, the area big fish expert, and hit the water. Let me tell you about fishing the Clarion River, it is a Humbling experience. Aaron had a decent day, landing 7 trout with the biggest measuring 18" and I only landed one, but it was hands down the hardest fighting 18" trout of my life, and also the most beautiful. I highly recommend a trip with Kurt, he is the man on that river and not only did he put us on fish but he is a master instructor. If you need casting work, Kurt is your man.

There were a variety of Caddis hatching, and in a THICK cloud. We saw some Hendrickson spinners, and blue quills as well. The river was absolutely beautiful and if you want a chance at a GIANT fish and want to fish a truly technical big stream, the Clarion River is for you!

If you ever want to book a Trip with Kurt and try the Clarion... Find him here:

www.clarionriveradventures.com

[Troutfishing4life]

justin
nice going on the trout

Mike

[Flyfisher]

The Clarion is my home water and yes it is a very tricky stream but wien the conditions are rigth it can be very rewarding. It is an awesome place to fish the Sulpher Hatch. i have caught many fish in the 20+ range and i have missed or had on 30 inch range trout. Its worth a trip espically if you hit it right.

[Nymphmeister]

My first (and so far only) trip there was in March a few years ago, and while we didn't catch a lot with water temps in the 30's, they were big, up to 23". We were shown pictures of much bigger fish, and the guide we went out with one day, Kurt Thomas, said that 20"+ trout were commonplace. In fact he said he didn't bother telling his wife about big trout unless they were in the 25"+ category. He took us to a spot where his neighbor caught two 30" browns in one day (on bait). I was definitely impressed with the quality of the trout and would love to go back. The only downside for me is the 7 hour drive to get there.

[mcarl]

i haven't fished the main body but have been on the East Branch and like it. It's not fair that P.A. has so many good trout streams. In another life I would relocate to P.A.

[Flyfisher]

Kurt yeah he is a great fisherman. I have know him for a few years. I learned how to nymph fish and wet fly fish thru a mutual friend.

The east branch is a nice stream its the only stream that is always cold and the Delayed Harvest always has a lot of holdover Rainbows and some nice hard fighting fish.

The Main Clarion is a wonderfull fishery if only there was not the issues with stream access in the catch and release area. March can be a humbeling time on the water but rewarding. Twenty is a nice fish on a good day a couple of 18 to 22" trout is average. Somedays i feel spoiled when things work out right!

[AaronJasper]

I have off for a week in the middle of April and will be headed up that way to fish with Kurt. HE tore his rotator cuff and is going to have surgery. I hope for a speedy recovery. I know he must be going nuts not being able to fish. Just to show you how hardcore Kurt is... he fished for a week in Cape Cod WIth the tear!

[Flyfisher]

Aaron let me know when you will be up this way maybe we can meet up if you hit it right the fly areas are great fishing this time of the year. I am assuming that you are off around easter? That is a great time to catch a lot of trout in the Catch and Release and Delayed Harvest Areas around here.

[Kaz]

Just curious, how does the Clarion (main branch) fish in the winter. I have fished it for trout in spring and fall and smallies in the summer. Most of my winter fishing is in Central PA, but have been thinking about looking up the Clarion. Wasn't sure if it freezes or so though...Thanks.

[Flyfisher]

Kaz,

You are in luck the Main stream is open year round due to the East Branch Dam being a Tailwater Stream. Stick to the area from Johnsonburgh and Ridgway. Also the Paper Mill lets out water that is usually warm that seems to turn trout on! There are usualy midges hatching and large streamers are usually good bets to catch the lunker trout. Just be carefull it is a very tricky stream to wade to bring a change of clothes and dress warm. If the Clarion main stream seems to be experiencing lock jaw trout a trip up the the East Branch is a good way to save the day there are a lot of nice rainbows that hold over in teh Delayed Harvest Area. Feel free to shoot me a PM if you need more info.