Cedar Run, a tributary to Pine Creek located in north-central Pennsylvania, is a renowned trout stream known for its prolific insect hatches and excellent fly fishing opportunities.
Below is a hatch chart and fly pattern recommendations tailored to Cedar Run.
The timing of hatches can vary slightly depending on weather and water conditions, but this chart provides a general guide.
Cedar Run Hatch Chart & Fly Recommendations
Early Spring (March – April)
- Blue-Winged Olives (Baetis)
- Hatch Time: Mid-morning to early afternoon, especially on overcast or drizzly days.
- Fly Patterns:
- Dry: #18-20 Parachute Adams, #18-20 BWO Sparkle Dun
- Nymph: #18-20 Pheasant Tail, #18-20 WD-40
- Quill Gordon
- Hatch Time: Late morning to early afternoon.
- Fly Patterns:
- Dry: #12-14 Quill Gordon Comparadun, #12-14 Quill Gordon Parachute
- Nymph: #12-14 Quill Gordon Nymph, #12-14 Pheasant Tail
- Early Stoneflies
- Hatch Time: Midday.
- Fly Patterns:
- Dry: #10-12 Stimulator, #10-12 Sofa Pillow
- Nymph: #10-12 Stonefly Nymph (black or brown), #10-12 Girdle Bug
Late Spring (May – June)
Hendrickson
- Hatch Time: Mid-afternoon to early evening.
- Fly Patterns:
- Dry: #12-14 Hendrickson Comparadun, #12-14 Red Quill
- Nymph: #12-14 Hendrickson Nymph, #12-14 Pheasant Tail
March Brown
- Hatch Time: Late morning to early afternoon.
- Fly Patterns:
- Dry: #10-12 March Brown Parachute, #10-12 March Brown Comparadun
- Nymph: #10-12 March Brown Nymph, #10-12 Hare’s Ear
Caddis (Various Species)
- Hatch Time: Late afternoon to evening.
- Fly Patterns:
- Dry: #14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, #14-16 X-Caddis
- Nymph: #14-16 Caddis Larva (green or tan), #14-16 Sparkle Pupa
Sulphurs
- Hatch Time: Late afternoon to dusk.
- Fly Patterns:
- Dry: #14-16 Sulphur Comparadun, #14-16 Parachute Sulphur
- Nymph: #14-16 Pheasant Tail, #14-16 Sulphur Nymph
Summer (July – August)
Tricos
- Hatch Time: Early morning.
- Fly Patterns:
- Dry: #20-22 Trico Spinner, #20-22 Trico Parachute
- Nymph: #20-22 Trico Nymph
Terrestrials (Ants, Beetles, Grasshoppers)
- Hatch Time: All day, especially on warm, sunny days.
- Fly Patterns:
- Dry: #14-16 Foam Ant, #10-12 Chernobyl Ant, #8-10 Dave’s Hopper
Midges
- Hatch Time: Midday to afternoon.
- Fly Patterns:
- Dry: #20-22 Griffith’s Gnat, #20-22 Parachute Midge
- Nymph: #20-22 Zebra Midge, #20-22 WD-40
Fall (September – October)
Blue-Winged Olives (Baetis)
- Hatch Time: Mid-morning to early afternoon, especially on overcast days.
- Fly Patterns:
- Dry: #18-20 Parachute Adams, #18-20 BWO Sparkle Dun
- Nymph: #18-20 Pheasant Tail, #18-20 WD-40
Isonychia (Slate Drake)
- Hatch Time: Late afternoon to evening.
- Fly Patterns:
- Dry: #10-12 Isonychia Comparadun, #10-12 Slate Drake Parachute
- Nymph: #10-12 Isonychia Nymph, #10-12 Pheasant Tail
Caddis (Various Species)
- Hatch Time: Late afternoon to evening.
- Fly Patterns:
- Dry: #14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, #14-16 X-Caddis
- Nymph: #14-16 Caddis Larva (green or tan), #14-16 Sparkle Pupa
General Tips for Fishing Cedar Run
- Match the Hatch: Pay close attention to the insects on the water and in the air. Trout in Cedar Run can be selective, especially during heavy hatches.
- Stealth Approach: The stream is relatively small and clear, so approach quietly and use light tippet (5X-7X).
- Dry-Dropper Rig: During sparse hatches, consider using a dry fly with a nymph dropper to increase your chances.
- Terrestrials in Summer: Don’t overlook terrestrial patterns, especially on warm, sunny days when ants and hoppers are active.
By following this hatch chart and using the recommended fly patterns, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy a successful day on Cedar Run. Tight lines!
Looking for more information on fishing Cedar Run? Check out this DIY Guide to Fly Fishing Cedar Run.