Women and Diversity at Yellow Creek – report by Brittany Pack

One of the rarest sights in all of PA could be seen on Yellow Creek on Saturday, June 24. Nine women anglers, led by Nora Cline, took to the water hoping to score browns and bows. We had several returning faces and a couple of new ones, and everyone weathered the caravan through the signal-barren Amish country in good spirits. The weather was severe clear with temps in the 90s, but the water was still plenty cold for a great day of fishing. We set out with simple goals: humans in the shade, fish in the net.

After finding our way to spread out enough in the water, it wasn’t long before good news rolled in. Most of us were able to net a few, including several large bows and some beautiful wild browns. Some of us wondered if our waders had developed leaks, but by lunchtime we had accepted that it was just the sheer volume of sweat seeping down our legs from our upper bodies.

Nora and I euronyphed, while most others used 5 weights. A few tried dries, some dry droppers, and a lot of nymphs. We tried a variety of flies, and it seemed that the copper headed nymphs, caddis, and…ahem…mop flies were the hot menu items for trout appetites. Our indomitable leader Nora probably caught the most fish on the day, but she’ll never admit to it.

This outing was part of the Women and Diversity of PWWTU. Nora Cline and Jodie Minor lead monthly activities and outings for a range of skill levels, and I personally began fishing with them as a very green beginner last March. Fishing with these women is one of my favorite activities to look forward to every month. The environment is always encouraging, positive, and fun, and I always learn a lot from these incredible fly fishers, not to mention hearing great stories from all of the amazing women on the water.