Article by Jerry Reitz
As an avid angler, I eagerly awaited the opening day of trout season in Pennsylvania in 2023. However, I was hesitant to venture out on the first day due to the usual crowds and potential conflicts over fishing spots. But this year, I decided to try something different – I opted to use a tenkara rod, and I couldn’t wait to share my experience.
Despite the rainy weather, my wife and I set out to fish Little Pine Creek, one of our favorite spots on the small stream. Equipped with a Tenkara Rod Co. Sawtooth and my wife’s new Tanuki Pocket Ninja 320, we were ready for a unique fishing adventure. We used a small indicator and a weighted San Juan worm as our fly, and it didn’t take long before we started catching some nice-sized rainbows.
What caught the attention of other anglers were our tenkara rods. Younger fishermen approached us with curiosity, and older ones observed us from a distance. It seemed that there was a lot of interest in tenkara, and many questions brought back memories of our own first time using this method. We were happy to share our knowledge and experiences with others, spreading the joy of tenkara fishing.
As the day went on, we continued to have success with our tenkara rods, catching several impressive stockers. Despite the initial rainy weather, the day turned out to be beautiful, with the water glistening and our lines taut with anticipation. The unique feel of using a tenkara rod added a whole new appreciation to the sport of fishing.
It’s important to note that tenkara is not necessarily better or worse than other fishing methods; it’s a matter of personal preference. My wife and I use different methods at different times, but using a tenkara rod brought a sense of adventure and excitement to our fishing experience. It was a reminder to always try new things and embrace the joy of discovery in the great outdoors.
As the day came to a close, we decided to call it a day after a successful fishing expedition. We packed up our tenkara rods, grateful for the memorable experience and the new connections we made with fellow anglers. Regardless of the method you choose, whether it’s tenkara or another approach, it’s important to always respect others and the trout we pursue.
As we left the stream, I couldn’t help but reflect on how using a tenkara rod had transformed my opening day of trout season in Pennsylvania in 2023. It had been a day filled with adventure, camaraderie, and the sheer joy of fishing. I hope that everyone has a fantastic trout season, and may we all continue to appreciate and respect the beauty of nature and the thrill of angling in our fishing endeavors. Tight lines!
Jerry Reitz, a native of Pennsylvania, developed a deep-rooted love for the outdoors at a young age. Growing up in the Nittany Valley, he spent his days exploring the limestone small mountain streams and honing his angling skills. In recent years, Jerry’s passion for fishing took an exciting turn when he discovered tenkara.
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Does the “season opener” just represent the start of the fish stocking season in PA? I know you can fish year round catch & release right? I never understood the need for opening day.
That’s correct. Stocked streams close for fishing about a month before opening day. But there are plenty of streams designated catch & release, or that are just wild trout water you can continue to fish year round.