Have more fun finding the ice fishing words in this second word search activity.
Knotes on Knots
How to tie fishing knots such as blood knot, improved clinch knot and more.
Knot Sense
Learn how to tie 3 knots – Clinch knot; surgeon’s knot; surgeon’s end loop.
Make A Jig
Learn how to make your own jig.
Nice Ice Locations (word search)
There are plenty of places to go ice fishing in Pennsylvania. Find some here.
Panfish Wordsearch
See if you can find all of the names of the panfish.
Practice Makes Perfect
Learn how to make your own practice plugs for safe, outdoor casting.
R3 Activities
Four activities to reinforce your knowledge of recruitment, retention, and reactivation.
Smallmouth Bass Skills
Use the PLAY: Smallmouth Bass articles to find "BOLD Letter words" throughout the issue. Use those words to solve the puzzles in this activity!
The Search for Big Black Bass
Word search introducing you to PA's Black Bass.
Wacky Wader Safety Word Scramble
Activity that teaches anglers how to be safe on and near the water.
Wading Staff Project
Learn how to make your own wading staff for wading safety.
"How to Draw a (Fish)" video series:
How to Draw a... Brook Trout
Let’s learn How to Draw a Brook Trout with the help of one of PFBC’s Fishing Skills Instructors, Tiffany London.
How to Draw a… Channel Catfish
Next to the Flathead Catfish, the Channel Catfish is one of PA’s largest Catfish. They can weigh up to 15lbs and measure 30 inches long. They are found statewide, usually in clear, warm lakes, and large rivers, over clean sand, gravel, or rock bottoms. Usually anglers find them in deep pools/runs in the rivers. In the summer, they are lots of fun to catch at night!
How to Draw a… Crappie
At first glance, Crappie appear to be black and white; but look closer and you will see iridescent colors and sheens. Have fun adding colors to your drawing!
Another popular PA sportfish, Crappie, provide fun fishing opportunities throughout the year. Fall is yet another great time to target Crappie. They live in most lakes/ponds across PA.
How to Draw a... Largemouth Bass
Known as “Bucketmouth”, Largemouth Bass are a popular PA sportfish found in most ponds/lakes. They are PA’s largest Sunfish. Staying close to logs, stumps, and weedy areas of the lake, they like to ambush prey. They are lots of fun to catch throughout the summer!
How to Draw a… Musky
October’s “How to Draw a (Fish)” brings us the Muskellunge! I am PA’s largest & fastest-growing fish. I am missile-shaped and have a ducklike snout filled with sharp teeth. My color and markings vary in intensity. I am an apex predator and anglers love fishing for me.
How to Draw a... Pumpkinseed
Displaying colors as vibrant as some tropical fish, Pumpkinseeds have bright turquoise colors on their head and body. Their belly can be yellow or sometimes orange in color. Warm, sunny days in May are a great time to head to local lakes and learn how to fish! Pumpkinseeds are lots of fun to catch and easier to catch than most fish! They provide multiple opportunities for new anglers to learn how to hook, reel in and release fish for the first time.
How to Draw a... Smallmouth Bass
Known as “Bronzeback” by some anglers, Smallmouth Bass, are a popular sportfish across PA. The scales on their body cast a bronze colored sheen. They have a series of 8-15 olive colored, vertical lines on their sides. Their eyes can be orange to red in color.
How to Draw a… Steelhead
Known by some as "Silver Shadows" or "Chromers", Steelhead are lake run Rainbow Trout. Once they hatch, they travel down streams to Lake Erie. There, they grow for a few years and then return to the streams to spawn. Steelhead have a pink strip down their sides, like Rainbow Trout; however, they usually appear more silver in color. They grow to an average size of 6-8lbs and can live for up to 8 years. Steelhead are one of PA's popular fish with anglers. In PA, the best time to fish for Steelhead is from early November through early April.
Coloring Pages
PLAY Newsletters
Read Along with PFBC playlist
Listen and/or read along with PFBC staff as they share PLAY (Pennsylvania League of Angling Youth) newsletters in a video format.
“Fishing is Reel Fun” booklet
This 18-page activity booklet is full of fishing and boating information to help anglers and boaters of all ability levels enjoy safe, fun, and year-round outdoor adventures in Pennsylvania. Enjoy!
"My Adventures" write-your-own story booklet
With this 12-page activity booklet you can write-your-own adventure about a trip on or near a PA waterway (e.g. stream, river, pond, lake). You can also share something you learn, share how you would teach someone else about what you learned, and share a memory that you will keep with you as you grow. Begin your story today!
PLAY: An Adventure for Anyone!
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Fishing-An Adventures for Anyone; A Day of Fishing – Make it an adventure/Fishing Trip tips; Where to fish; Summer is for Discoveries; New Beginnings; Prepare for a great year of fishing (word search).
PLAY: AngleR3 Education
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
The 3R’s of Being a SMART Angler, From 3R’s to R3-What’s New, Let’s talk Recruitment, Retention, Reactivation, Practice Your R3’s (activity page).
PLAY: Anglers Calendar
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Angler’s Calendar; Why do we have fishing regulations?; ‘Tis the season- All Year Long; Laws and Regulations; Your Fishing Calendar (check list and take me fishing coupon).
PLAY: Anytime is a Great Time to Take Your Family Fishing
Play issue containing the following articles-
Think SMART, Pick Your Spot, More on Life Jackets, A Little about Licenses, Gather Your Gear (activity page)
PLAY: Are You a SMART Angler
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Are you a SMART Angler?; Safety First!; Manners Are Important; Appreciate Clean Water; Release Some of Your Catch; Off the Hook!; Teach Others to Be SMART Anglers.
PLAY: Back To The Basics – Fishing Gear
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Back to the Basics – Fishing; Great Gear (word scramble); Casting Corner; Terminal Tackle (word search); Time To Accessorize; Know Those Knots; Don’t Pick UP Hitchhikers.
PLAY: Back To Basics – Fishing (Lures and More)
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Back To basics – Bait vs. Lure; Baits in your backyard (cross word); Habitat Adventures; Old Mother Hubbard went to the cupboard to fetch a poor angler some Bait; The Lures of PA Waters; Come and Get Em (matching game); Bait Rules.
PLAY: Bass Fishing Fun
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Bass Fishing Fun; Finding Bass Waters – Where to Start; Finding Bass Waters- The Hunt for Habitat; Bass Basics – Equipment; Bass Basics – Lures and Riggs; Bass Basics – Natural and Live Baits; The Search for Big Black Bass Word Search.
PLAY: Be OPEN to Something New
PLAY issue containing the following articles-
Open-faced Spinning Gear; Spincasting; Lures for Open-faced Spinning Gear; and A New Spin on Fill-in-the-Blanks (activity).
PLAY: Competitive Fishing
PLAY issue containing the following articles-
Competitive Fishing; Bass Tournaments; Bass Techniques and Equipment; Handling and Caring of Fish; Fly Fishing Competition; and a Bass Tournament board game activity.
PLAY: Fishing for Catfish – Nighttime Summer Fun
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Fishing for Catfish; Catfish: Taking a Closer Look; Sundown Safety; Catching Catfish; Recipes for Success; Where to fish for catfish; PA’s Catfish Field Cards (cut out the catfish and past them on their correct card).
PLAY: Fish For Dinner
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Fish for Dinner; Care of the Catch: Getting Fish Home; Care of the Catch: Dressing a Fish; Care of the Catch: Filleting; Fish Recipe: Bluegill Fillets; Fish Recipe: Whole Trout; Fish Dinner Word Search.
PLAY: Fishing & History
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Fishing & History; Fishing the North American Way; Enough Fish for Everyone; Fishing Rod History; Fishing High Tech; The Future of Fishing.
PLAY: Fishing From a Human-powered Boat
PLAY issue containing the following articles – Fishing from a Human-powered Boat; Types of Human-powered Boats; Boating Safety First; Let’s Go Fishing; Fishing from Kayaks; Do Your Homework; Write a Float Plan (activity).
PLAY: Fishing in the High-Tech World
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
PFBC website; PFBC social media; "Reel in the Memories"; There's an App for That; and Hi-Tech Angler Word Search.
PLAY: Ice Fishing- A Winter Adventure for Everyone!
PLAY issue containing the following articles-
Ice Fishing Vocabulary; Getting Started- Join the Community; Ice Fishing Equipment; Creature Comforts; Ice Fishing Safety; and Ice Fishing Word Search.
PLAY: It’s Nice, Fishing Through the Ice
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
It’s Nice, Fishing Through the Ice; Is the Ice Safe?; What’s at the End of Your Line?; Cutting Through the Ice; Tips and Tricks: A Safety Checklist; Ice Fishing Word Search.
PLAY: Keeping It Cool
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Keeping It Cool; Panfish Profile; Safety First; Ice Safety Thickness; Hitting the Ice; Dance the Little Jig; Nice Ice Locations Word Search.
PLAY: Lake Erie
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Lake Erie; Lake Erie Smallmouth Bass; Lake Erie Walleye; Lake Erie Yellow Perch; Lake Erie Steelhead; Fishing on Lake Erie by Boat; Fishing Lake Erie by Shoreline.
PLAY: Shad Fishing
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Jump Into Shad Fishing; Shad Profile; Hazards on the Water; The Right Tools For the Job; Cruising for Shad; Get In a Pinch; Get Out there.
PLAY: Shore Is Nice Here
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Shore Is Nice Here; Going to the Bank; Fashionable Fishing; Wading for a Bite; Making a Wading Staff; Wacky Wader Safety (word scramble).
PLAY: Summertime Fishing
PLAY issue containing the following articles-
Summertime Fishing: Location; Fishing Gear; Rules; Proper Clothing; Fun Fishing Word Search.
PLAY: Tackle-Crafting
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Tackle-crafting, Beginning Fly Tying, Knot Sense, Making Jigs, Recipe for a Rod Tube, Fixing Old Lures, It's the Law.
PLAY: Take A Friend Fishing
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Take a Friend Fishing; Be a SMART Angler; Getting Started with Sunfish; Know Those Knots; Casting with a Friend; Catch a Panfish with a Friend; Panfish (Word Search).
PLAY: Take Your Family Fishing
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Take Your Family Fishing; Fishing from a Rented Boat; The Ideal Fishing Spot; Checklist of Equipment, Bait and Other Gear; The Basics: Casting and Knots; Panfish Identification.
PLAY: The Lure of Being a Mentor
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
The Lure of Being a Mentor; Who can be a Mentor? YOU Can!; Mentors of ALL ages; Mentor Notes; Mentor Pathways – Where do you start?;Take action; Mentor Circle – First Steps Begin with You! (maze & take me fishing coupon).
PLAY: The Lure of PA’s Silver Shadows
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Silver Shadows; Profiling Erie’s “Silver Bullet”; Stream Manners; Equipment used to target Steelhead; Catching Lake Erie Steelhead; Fighting and Releasing Steelhead; Steelhead Alley (word search).
PLAY: Trout Training
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Trout Training; Finding Trout waters; Know Your Tr-“outfit”; Casting Practice; Trout Training-Rig It Right (cut and match game); Trout Tactics – On the Fly; Trout Tactics – Without a Spin.
PLAY: Urban Fishing
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Urban Fishing; Urban Fishing (word search); Harrisburg; Philadelphia; Wilkes-Barre; Pittsburgh; Erie.
PLAY: Where Do They Go In Winter?
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Where Do They Go In Winter; Finding Fish Under the Frozen Water; A Warm Place for Winter; Living in Cold Water; Frozen Alive; and A-Mazing Winter Survival (maze game).
PLAY: Why Do We Fish?
PLAY issue containing the following articles –
Why Do we fish?; Physical Benefits of Fishing; Fishing and Wellbeing; Fish is Good Food; Fishing is Big Business.
Videos
PLAYLISTS
The following two links are playlists that will take you through all of PFBC’s videos related to fishing in PA OR you can go through them individually by clicking links below.
VIDEOS
PFBC Virtual Family Fishing Program
If you have always wanted to attend a PFBC Family Fishing Program (FFP) but have not yet had the opportunity to do so, the agency's Education staff have developed a Virtual FFP (VFFP) just for you!
Whether new to fishing, returning to fishing, or introducing someone to the sport of fishing, these videos- and the (in-person) Family Fishing Program, itself- will get you started in the right direction. Our virtual FFP videos provide a variety of educational "stations" that introduce you to the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, the FFP program, Casting, Knot-Tying, All About Fish, How to be a SMART Angler, How to Rig and Bait a Rod for Fishing, and the Rules and Regulations you need to know before you go fishing. Each virtual "station" is also broken into short video clips and provided to you in a series-format on our YouTube channel and our Facebook page, so that you can watch only the videos that you wish, and in the order that you wish.
PFBC’s in-person Family Fishing Programs are for families with little or no fishing experience. Participants learn basic fishing skills and practice those skills while fishing during the program. The program is open to all ages, including children ages 5 and older. The program is free, and all equipment and bait is provided. NOTE: the fishing license requirement is waived during the program for participants age 16 and older.
We look forward to helping you begin this exciting new journey and hope to see you on the water soon!
“All About Fish” Station - VFFP 2020
Welcome to “All About Fish”, brought to you by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. In this video we introduce you to SW Region Education Specialist, Mandy Smith, who provides the complete "All About Fish” station of PFBC’s Virtual Family Fishing Program. You will learn "What Makes a Fish a Fish", "Identifying Characteristics of a Fish", and about "Fish Habitats and Local Fishing Opportunities in PA". The more you learn about the fish that you are trying to catch, the better angler you’ll become! Shorter, individual clips are available on both platforms for those who do not have time to watch the full-length version.
Casting Station - VFFP 2020
Welcome to the Introduction to Casting "Station" video brought to you by the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission. In this video, we will introduce you to Cody Whipple, the NC Regional Education Specialist, who will provide information on two common rod and reel combinations that can be used to have an enjoyable experience out on the water. He will explain the components of each setup, proper hand placement, two methods for casting, troubleshooting casting errors, and a fun way to practice casting at home. This station is just one of a series of stations that can be found when you attend a Family Fishing Program (FFP).
Catching Catfish is Fun!
Anna from Gibsonia reels in her first catfish. Share her excitment with this video!
First Steelhead Excitement
Fourteen second video clip that captures the pure excitement of catching a Steelhead for the first time!
Fishing Opportunities – PA Fish and Boat Commission
This video introduces viewers to the fishing opportunities available in PA.
Ice Fishing in PA (2016)
When life gives you snow and ice, go ice fishing! Winter is a great time to be in the outdoors- make sure to get out and enjoy the fantastic ice fishing found in Pennsylvania. Not only is it fun, but it is inexpensive as well. Remember though, safety first.
Intro to Bass Fishing
In this video, PFBC Fishing Skills Instructors, Don & Renee Kelly, introduce you to some basics on where to fish for Bass, essential fishing equipment, how to setup your rod and reel, and some great tackle and techniques to use for Bass.
Intro to Crappie Fishing
Late May through early June can be a very productive time to catch Crappies! They are fun to catch and can be found within casting distance of the shoreline this time of year. Check out this Intro to Crappie Fishing video, created by PFBC Fishing Skills Instructors, Don and Renee Kelly (owners of Wellsboro Tackle Shack)!
Intro to Ice Fishing Series
In this playlist you will learn about ice safety and the safety equipment you should bring with you prior to heading out onto the ice. The playlist also includes an introduction to basic and advanced ice fishing equipment, how to set-up an ice hub, fishing techniques, how to find fish, rules and regulations, and finally the additional amenities you can bring along to ensure you have a memorable experience while ice fishing.
Intro to Panfish Fishing
Late May & throughout summer is a great time to get out and fish for Panfish! They are fun to catch and quick to take your bait on warm days. Check out this Intro to Panfish Fishing video, created by PFBC Fishing Skills Instructor, Kelly Williams!
Knots “Station”- VFFP 2020
Welcome to the Knots “Station”, brought to you by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission! In this video, Northeast Region Outreach and Education Coordinator, Walt Dietz, provides the knot-tying station of our Virtual Family Fishing Program. This video provides an introduction to knots, parts of a hook, and how to tie an improved clinch knot.
Musky Stocking at Marsh Creek State Park
On July 15, 2020, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission stocked 800 purebred muskellunge into the lake at Marsh Creek State Park. In 2020, the PFBC will stock, 34,625 purebred muskies and 5,850 tiger muskies. The fish are 13-14 months old and 12-14 inches long when they are stocked. PFBC surveys and angler reports indicate that many muskies stocked in 2018 now measure between 28-32 inches, providing a world-class sportfishing opportunity on dozens of large and medium-sized rivers, lakes and streams across Pennsylvania.
PA Steelhead Program
Learn about PFBC’s Steelhead program and much more in this video.
PFBC Kayak Fishing Program: Jeff Woleslagle Presentation
The PFBC hosted an inaugural kayak fishing program at Bald Eagle State Park on Saturday, July 18, 2015. This program is intended to provide an opportunity for anglers or kayak enthusiasts to learn about the basics of kayak fishing.
PFBC Musky Fishing Opportunities
This video features PA’s Musky, their stocking program and fishing. Check out the video caption to learn more.
Regulations Station- VFFP 2020
In this video, SE Region Outreach & Education Coordinator, Andrew Desko, provides the “Regulations” portion of our Virtual Family Fishing Program. This video provides a brief explanation of the types of regulations around fishing, and how and where to find the fishing regulations.
Rigging “Station”- VFFP 2020
Welcome to the Rigging “Station”, brought to you by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission! In this video, Northeast Region Education Specialist, Allan Schreffler, provides the rigging station of our Virtual Family Fishing Program. This video provides an introduction to terminal tackle and live bait and shows how to assemble a basic bait-fishing rig.
SMART Angling Station - VFFP 2020
Welcome to the Introduction to SMART Angling “Station” brought to you by the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission. In this 20-minute video, SC Regional Outreach and Education Coordinator, Dee Fisher, provides the "SMART Angling Station" of our Virtual Family Fishing Program. A SMART Angler knows to keep Safety First; Mind (their) Manners; Appreciate Clean Water; Release their catch in a Respectful and Responsible manner; and Teach Others how to be SMART Anglers, too. This station is just one of a series of stations that can be found when you attend a Family Fishing Program (FFP).
Steelhead Anglers are Giving Thanks!
Pennsylvania Anglers are Giving Thanks... because the Steelhead run has started!
Steelhead Program Testimonials
In this video, three participants share their thoughts on the PFBC's Women's Intro to Steelhead Fishing Program.
Talking PA Fishing with Roland Martin
On Monday, February 3, 2020, at the Great American Outdoor Show in Harrisburg, pro angler Roland Martin sat down for a quick conversation with Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Executive Director Tim Schaeffer about fishing in Pennsylvania, growing up in nearby Maryland, and getting more young people involved in the sport.
Virtual Field Trip to the Linesville State Fish Hatchery (2021)
In this playlist, PFBC staff members will introduce you to what our Linesville State Fish Hatchery is responsible for, the fish it raises, and its importance in our hatchery system. Staff members will also take you on a virtual tour of our Linesville State Fish Hatchery, showcasing our 2-story, 10,000-gallon viewing tank, and even take you down inside the viewing tank to see how many fish you can ID. You will also get to go "behind the scenes" on one of our Walleye trap netting excursions, as well as see how we spawn Walleye. We cap off this playlist with a fun activity for all to enjoy, fish print t-shirts!
Winter Safety, Trout Stocking at Chapman State Park
This video introduces viewers to the importance of staying safe when fishing in the winter, as well as, showcasing trout stocking.
Additional Resources
All About Fish
Fact sheet that explains the different parts of a fish.
Are You a Smart Angler?
Fact sheet detailing SMART concept, what letters in SMART stand for.
Care of the Catch
Techniques for releasing or keeping fish.
Care of the Catch - Trout
Techniques for releasing or keeping trout.
Finding Fish Under Frozen Water
How to find fish in the winter; techniques and more.
Fish Get Sick Too
Publication that shares facts about how fish can get sick, too.
Ice Fishing and Jigging: What's on the End of Your Line?
Fact sheet on the use of jigs, flash baits, and swimming lures when Ice fishing.
Ice Fishing in Pennsylvania
Ice fishing opportunities in Pennsylvania, tips, and safety.
Intro to Kayak Fishing Resource Guide
Intro to PA Steelhead Fishing- reference guide
Know Your Sunfish
Fact Sheet which provides basic information about PA's Sunfish.
Popular Sport-fishes of Pennsylvania
How, where and when to catch them.
Put 'em Back Alive
Details tips for catching and releasing trout.
Rigging for Carp
Fact sheet discussing tackle, basic rigs and bait to use when fishing for carp.
Setting the Hook
Fact sheet which provides information on how to set your hook and catch a fish.
Supermarket Baits
Fact sheet showing how common food items can be used for bait. Good for intro or basic fishing skills program.
This Fish Has A Scale To Tell
Publication that introduces readers to how biologists use age scales to learn more about individual fish, fish health, groups of fish and their habitat.
To Catch a Bass
How to use jigs to catch bass.
Topwater Lures
Learn about the various topwater lures you can use when fishing with this Smart Angler Notebook fact sheet.