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Fallfish

Fallfish

Fallfish are Pennsylvania's largest native minnow species, native in some regions but considered invasive in others due to bait bucket introductions. Before non-native introductions, fallfish were major apex predators in Pennsylvania's eastern-flowing streams.

Scientific Name: Semotilus corporalis

Physical Characteristics:
  • Reaching average lengths of 7 inches with exceptional specimens exceeding 19 inches and weighing up to 4 pounds.
  • They're distinguished from the smaller creek chub by their more pointed head and compressed body, displaying olive to golden brown coloration with darkly outlined dorsal scales and gray to brown fins.
  • Juvenile fallfish have a distinctive dark stripe running down their body center.
  • Spawning males develop striking purple cheeks, bronze shoulders, and white nuptial tubercles.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found throughout northeastern Pennsylvania and distributed across the state's watersheds.
  • Found in Pennsylvania's major watersheds including the Delaware, Susquehanna, and Ohio River basins.
  • They inhabit clear streams, lakes, and ponds, thriving in both coldwater trout streams and warmwater systems.

Key Locations

  • Pine Creek, the Delaware River system, central Pennsylvania streams, and numerous smaller creeks and rivers throughout the state.
  • During winter ice fishing: lakes Parker, Justus, and Cloe.

Specific Spots

  • Target swift current areas, deep pools, eddies, river bends, creek mouths, and at waterfall bases.
  • During winter, they hold in deeper pools.

Fallfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Fallfish in Pennsylvania?

Small spinners, jigs, plugs, and worms. The 1/64 oz Trout Magnet jig head with bread bait produces consistent results. Fallfish attack jointed Rapalas and will strike lures nearly as large as themselves.

What flies work for Fallfish in Pennsylvania?

Wooly buggers are exceptionally effective since crayfish are a primary food source. They respond well to streamers, wet flies, nymphs, and terrestrial patterns. During sulphur hatches, they take dry flies eagerly.

When is the best time to fish for Fallfish in Pennsylvania?

Spring and fall are peak seasons, with March being prime time. Fall fishing as water temperatures drop brings excellent action as they feed heavily before winter. During winter, they hold in deeper pools and can be caught through ice on lakes.

How do you catch Fallfish in Pennsylvania?

Target swift current areas, deep pools, eddies, river bends, and creek mouths. During sulphur hatches, fallfish rise eagerly to dry flies, often leaping 2-3 times when hooked.

What do Fallfish eat?

Their diet transitions dramatically with age - juveniles consume chironomids and zooplankton, while adults over 100mm feed on small fish (including their own young), fish e.g.gs, terrestrial insects, and crayfish.

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