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The Hatch That Hooked Me for Life—Little Juniata River

Why this legendary spring-fed stream belongs on every fly fisher’s bucket list.

June 07, 2025

The first time I fished the Little Juniata River, I had no clue what a hatch was—or how it could change everything. What I stumbled into that May evening was the kind of fly fishing moment you remember forever: insects thick in the air, trout rising everywhere, and water so alive it felt electric. In this post, I break down why this Central PA gem is one of the best wild brown trout rivers in the Northeast, how to fish each of its three sections, and what to expect when the hatches turn on. Whether you’re a local or a traveler with a fly rod, the “Little J” deserves your cast.

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Feature

Fly Fishing the Little Juniata River in Central PA

The Little Juniata River is a 35 mile tributary of the Juniata River that begins near Altoona in Central PA. The 'Little J' is a remarkable trout river and one of the biggest reasons I fell in love with fly fishing. By chance I fished the 'Little J' for the first time on May 20 many years ago. Here’s how it went…

The Big Catch

Here they are—your catches, your stories, your proud moments on the water.
Submitted by you, shared by us. From record-setting lunkers to the ones that got away (but you got the photo!), every fish tells a tale. Big or small, it’s not just about the catch—it’s about the memory, the company, and the thrill of the fight. Thanks for letting us be part of your fishing story.

Tanner stacked slabs before musky season 🎣

Andrew with a true deepwater giant. One for the books 🎣

Fishmasters

Funny how the alarm sounds nicer on fishing days.

Fishmasters

Serving sunset and sass with a side of bass 🌅

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About Us

At Fishmasters, we live for the tug on the line, the splash of the catch, and the stories told around the campfire. Whether you're casting off a backcountry dock, chasing trophies offshore, or just getting your feet wet, we're your go-to source for fishing tips, gear guides, and destination deep-dives. We blend real-world know-how with a passion for the great outdoors—because fishing isn’t just a hobby, it’s a lifestyle. Let’s make every cast count.