Pennsylvania fall and winter trout stocking starts with about 114,700 fish

Pennsylvania’s fall and winter trout trucks are rolling. The Fish and Boat Commission said stocking began Oct. 1, 2026, and runs through mid-December with about 114,700 hatchery-raised adult rainbow, brown, and brook trout slated for 117 stream sections and lakes. Stocked fish may be fished immediately.

October carries most of the load: about 86,100 adults into 92 waters, including 52 lakes and 40 stream sections. Sixteen of those waters are Keystone Select Trout Waters under Delayed Harvest Artificial Lures Only rules. Another roughly 28,600 trout are planned for 25 lakes in November and December. Schedules can shift with water temperature and hatchery logistics, so anglers should check the PFBC trout stocking schedule before a trip.

Extended trout season on designated stocked trout waters runs through Feb. 14, 2027, with a daily limit of three trout (combined species). The minimum size is 7 inches through Dec. 31 and rises to 9 inches on Jan. 1. A valid Pennsylvania fishing license and trout permit are required where applicable.

This is a The Gillnet news desk summary, not a reprint.

Source: Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission — Fall and winter trout stocking to begin October 1 (Sept. 29, 2026).