Pocono's and NJ area report 3/22/2008
Most of the trout streams in the Pocono's are closed prior to the opening of trout season however you those that look you can find a couple streams open for fishing.
The early black stones have been coming off fairly regularly on the Mc Michaels Ck lately; I even witness one trout rising regularly the other day. Longer slender nymphs in size 12-16 in all black have been taking both freshly stocked rainbows, hold overs and a few streambred brown. In addition to early blacks, San Juans, glo bugs, steelhead caddis's and rushes stones have been producing when the water is higher then normal and slightly off color.
The Pequest in NJ has been suffering for high water as of late, however that has not hindered the trout hitting. Fishing condition have been tough but with some time on the stream you will learn the small back eddies and holds where fish measured in lbs not inches can be found. In the heavier flows large attractor flies followed by smaller droppers can produce good numbers of fish. On sunnier days midge hatches can trigger surface action and result in some early spring/ late winter dry fly action.
Opening day of the southern regions for PA will occur on March 29th. That will give anglers more choices on areas to fish, both special regulation areas and general regulation areas. Consult PA fish and boat for a complete list of approved waters subject to the southern opener. http://www.fish.state.pa.us
Shad are showing up at the Trenton Power Plant and the nets in Lambertville are schedule to begin the week of 3/24. This should give us and early indication of what is to come this spring. Shad numbers where at historical highs in 2007. All things point to a strong run of shad this season. For those who have never fished for shad, consider trying it because once you get into a couple "poor mans salmon" you will never look at trout the same way.