CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. — The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is calling on local outdoor enthusiasts to help maintain a storied angling tradition as spring trout stocking continues across Franklin County.
With dozens of miles of waterways slated for replenishment through May, the PFBC relies on “bucket brigade” volunteers to help distribute hatchery-raised fish from delivery trucks into the streams. Officials noted that these efforts are essential for ensuring trout are spread evenly throughout the county’s diverse ecosystems, providing better opportunities for anglers when the season opens.
According to the current stocking schedule, several key waterways in Franklin County will receive thousands of brown, rainbow, and golden rainbow trout over the coming weeks.
On April 7, volunteers are invited to meet at the Waynesboro Reservoir at 10:30 a.m. to assist with the East Branch Antietam Creek. This effort will cover sections from the reservoir spillway down to the Route 16 bridge.
The schedule intensifies in May with the following events:
- May 1: Crews will meet at the Hardee’s on RT16 in Waynesboro at 10 a.m. to stock the West Branch Antietam Creek. This includes the Catch-and-Release Fly-Fishing Only section.
- May 2: The Falling Spring Branch is scheduled for brown trout stocking, with volunteers meeting at the Codorus State Park Office at 11:45 a.m.
- May 11: A double-header stocking for the West Branch Conococheague Creek begins at 10:30 a.m. at the Milky Way Restaurant in Fort Loudon. This effort will span from the Amberson Road Bridge down to the new US30 bridge.
- May 12: Little Cove Creek is slated for its final spring stocking.
All fish for these runs are provided by the Huntsdale State Fish Hatchery. While dates and times are currently set, the PFBC reminds volunteers that all stocking events are subject to change without notice due to weather or water conditions.
Participants are encouraged to wear sturdy boots or waders and bring a positive attitude to help preserve one of Pennsylvania’s most cherished outdoor activities.
