Jensen and I have been working on a project. We have until Friday, and it is part of his new online learning. He was asked to write a short story on a recent adventure. Well done, WASD. Here’s a preview.

“The water was calm but cold. Thankfully, I was wearing my new waders to keep me warm. My father and I are out for Opening Day. I use a gold and black Rooster Tail. It gives off a flash and resembles a wounded minnow. I cast upstream and retrieve and repeat.

“I was reeling in, and all of a sudden, I felt a massive tug. BANG! I set the hook, and the battle was on. My heart was racing. After five minutes, I could barely feel my arms. This monster Brown Trout wasn’t tiring. She got in the current and took me downstream. I was just about out of line and knew I had to do something. The fish was winning.”

My son now has fishing on the brain, and I can’t begin to describe how great this is. The kid has asked to tag along on several recent outings. Little League Baseball is postponed, and the local authorities removed our favorite basketball court. I am extremely thankful for these opportunities to commune.

We are very loyal to Lycoming Creek. It is where we do 90% of our fishing. Some of our favorite spots are just a short drive or walk from the homestead. We live in the 17728, and Lycoming runs through it. There is no need to travel far when you can routinely catch fish at home.

Lycoming Creek is a very unique and healthy waterway. I lost count, but I have been very fortunate to catch all types of species: Rainbow, Golden Rainbow, Brook, Brown, and even a Tiger. Most are stocked but you would be surprised of the number of wild trout. I’ve successfully landed several a small panfish, both Large and Smallmouth Bass, even a few Walleye and a small Muskie. I consider myself quite lucky. So does Jensen.

Kudos to the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. The PFBC is taking some unwarranted flack for opening the trout season early. Many people are quick to point fingers. Everyone is an expert. The Commission has ramped up their stocking efforts without any volunteers and limited resources. This organization should be applauded. Period.

The PFBC has made some great improvements locally. They have recently doubled the area of the Delayed Harvest stretch near Powy’s. The new boundary now extends all the way to Daugherty’s Run. This includes all of the water off of McIntyre Way. I have fished this section of Lycoming Creek my entire adult life. It’s a great stretch. Special thanks to homeowners who live in that area. Continue to respect the no trespassing signs and wave to those who open their yards. Fishermen are asked to stay in the water at all times. Please remember to pick up any trash. Do your part.

There are many restrictions with any Delayed Harvest project. Anglers need to understand the rules and regulations fully. These types of waters are open to fishing year-round but must be done with artificial lures only. The use, or be in possession of, any natural bait, baitfish, fishbait, paste, and similar substances, fish eggs, or any other edible substance is STRICTLY prohibited. It is encouraged to practice catch and release, but you may keep three fish in the summer from June 15th to Labor Day.

The Delayed Harvest stretch on Lycoming is also listed as a Keystone Select Stocked Trout Water. This program provides anglers the opportunity to fish for larger trout. 9,500 Browns, Rainbows, and Golden Rainbows that measure between 14 to 20 inches are distributed throughout the Commonwealth each year. The size and quality of fish around Powy’s this early season have been insane.

Wash your hands, kids. Maintain your distance. Stay home if you can. Please stay safe. Stay calm and remember if you must — fish alone and away from crowds. Cheers.