We are extremely blessed to live in North Central Pennsylvania. It provides us with a number of terrific fishing opportunities. My lovely bride would say that I am somewhat possessed. BUT IT IS FREEZING. Believe it or not, this is my favorite time of year to fish. Although the days are short and there’s a pause with high school hoops — I am on the stream every chance I get. I don’t mind the cold and I enjoy being on the crick without any distractions or calls.

I normally spend most of my time on Lycoming. It is where I do about 92% of my fishing. Why does one travel when you can routinely catch gorgeous fish so close to home. I usually head out alone or go with my son Jensen. Fishing is an individual thing, and it serves as my zen. But every once in a while, I will venture. These occasions are extremely rare, and I usually tag along. It is good to get out to experience other waterways.

I am still a fly-fishing novice and I have only been at this since the introduction of COVID. I used the time away from work and the extra funds from former President Trump to start my new obsession. I have been fishing for all my life and I am what they call a master chucker. I finally caved and gave the bug throwing a shot. I haven’t looked back ever since. I enjoy dry fly fishing and I am starting to get the hang of this nymphing. I know I have a long way to go, but I am slowly gaining some confidence.

Erik Francis and I have been chums for a very long time. I wouldn’t say we are super tight, but we have many connections. I have played several rounds of gold with his pops and know his younger brother Matt. Erik went to school with my younger sis and he is also obsessed. There is only one good thing about SOCIAL MEDIA kids. It allows us fishermen to keep in touch. Many of you won’t understand. I don’t think I have spent more than an hour with Erik, but I consider him as one of my good friends.

WHO ARE YOU FISHING WITH? I HAVEN’T HEARD THAT NAME SINCE HIGH SCHOOL.

Erik is a great fisherman. He is also the brain trust of a little side gig he calls BLACK RUN FLY CO. Francis is a master at tying. Many of his bugs are on display at several of the premier fly shops. I reach out to Erik quite often. He is quick with some advice and guidance. Our relationship has grown via FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM. Erik is a huge fan of the Lycoming Creek Chronicles. I asked my friend if he would put together a small winter nymphing package. He gave me a great deal and asked if I wanted to do some fishing. I jumped at the opportunity.

I met Erik at his house outside of Mifflinburg around 7:00. We jumped into his truck and headed south. We were going to fish Penns Creek on a bitter cold Sunday morning. Our conversation started immediately. Again. I am sure that this was our first interaction in person. Because of social media we knew everything. He asked about my family and I congratulated his boy on his monster buck. Erik and I then talked fishing. Young Francis is a nymphing phenom and I was looking forward to seeing him in action.

We got to Penns around 8:30. We both grabbed our gear and started wading. Erik gave me a quick crash course on what to look for. He kicked over a few rocks and he explained what was in the water. Erik suggested I start with a PEEPING CADDIS. He pointed at a pocket behind some rapids. I made a few casts and focused on my indicator. I felt a slight tug and set the hook. BANG. It was a gorgeous 14-inch wild Brown. Unbelievable colors. Hopefully there is enough room for a picture.

I ended up catching four, while Erik was on fire. He landed many more. What an experience.
I had a ball fishing with my pal. He was great in showing me the ropes. I have fished Penns on a few occasions. But never had any luck until that morning. I will be back sometime in the near future. Hopefully my buddy Erik won’t mind if tag along. Social media is only good for one thing. It connects us fishermen. Period. Merry Christmas friends. Special thanks to all of the Webb Weekly readers. Cheers.