Located in the Allegheny Nation Forest is a trout stream called Salmon Creek. The creek begins at the outflow of the Beaver Meadows Lake and weaves in and out of the hills throughout Forest County. As the stream flows towards its junction with Tionesta Creek there are several tributaries coming into Salmon Creek. The tranquility and peaceful setting makes this a great setting for hiking and trout fishing.
The tributary of Tionesta Creek is well stocked by the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission several times per year. The stockings typically begins several miles below the outflow of the Beaver Meadows Lake and continues all the way to Tionesta Creek. Typically brook and brown trout will be stocked in the stream. However, the stockings vary from year to year.
Salmon Creek is not a large creek and doesn’t require the ability to make long casts. However, most of the creek is surrounded by heavy timber and low branches which will require short accurate casting. Spinning tackle is the most common style utilized, but skilled fly fishermen will have success as well. Most of your favorite lures or live bait will work. My favorite tactic is the threaded minnow rig. If I don’t take live bait then I opt for a Joe’s Flies inline spinner. When rigging the inline spinner I will put a small split shot about six inches above the knot.
There are several options for lodging during your trip to Salmon Creek. Kelletville Campground located on the shore of Tionesta Creek is a great option, but can be crowded during the opening weekend of trout and holiday weekends. You can also camp in the Allegheny National Forest as long as you follow the rules of the nation forest. If you are willing to make a small drive in the morning there are several options in the town of Tionesta. The Mid-Town Hotel and Eagle Rock Motel are just two options.
