Fishing Ridley Creek
Ridley Creek is stocked with trout and is the main fishing water in Ridley Creek State Park. From Sycamore Mills Dam to the mouth of Dismal Run, the creek is catch-and-release, fly-fishing only. Elsewhere, standard Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission rules apply. An ADA-accessible fishing platform sits on the paved Sycamore Mills Road Trail, and the short Fishermans Trail leads to the water from near Picnic Area 4. Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission rules, including licensing, apply.
Fishing at a Glance
Where to Fish
The fly-fishing-only stretch. The water from Sycamore Mills Dam to the mouth of Dismal Run is catch-and-release, fly fishing only. Every fish goes back.
Along the paved trail. DCNR describes the Sycamore Mills Road Trail as running right beside Ridley Creek with good fishing along the way. Park in lots 7, 11, 15 or 17 and walk to the water.
Fishermans Trail. A 0.34-mile path from near Picnic Area 4 that DCNR says leads to good fishing spots.
The ADA Fishing Platform
An accessible fishing platform is on the paved trail along Sycamore Mills Road. To drive to it, get a vehicle permit at the park office first (610-892-3900). Accessible picnic tables sit next to the platform; reach them through the Barren Road gate entrance.
Rules and Licenses
Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations apply on Ridley Creek: licenses, trout seasons, stocking and creel limits. DCNR does not publish Ridley Creek's stocking dates; PFBC posts its stocking schedule and the trout season dates. Keep in mind the park's own rules: no alcohol, and dogs on a leash.
Good For
- Fly anglers who want catch-and-release trout water close to Philadelphia (the park is 16 miles from Center City).
- Families: the platform and the paved trail make an easy outing.
Maybe Skip If
- You want to fish from a boat: DCNR lists no boating at Ridley Creek. DCNR's nearby-attractions page lists Marsh Creek State Park in Chester County, with its 535-acre lake.
- You want to keep fish on the fly-only stretch: it is catch and release.
Fishing Ridley Creek FAQ
Is Ridley Creek stocked with trout?
Yes. DCNR says Ridley Creek is stocked with trout. PFBC publishes the stocking schedule.
Where is the fly-fishing-only section of Ridley Creek?
From Sycamore Mills Dam to the mouth of Dismal Run. It is catch and release, fly fishing only.
Do I need a license to fish at Ridley Creek State Park?
Yes, a Pennsylvania fishing license under Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission rules. Check PFBC for any trout permit and season dates.
Is there accessible fishing at Ridley Creek?
Yes. An ADA fishing platform is on the paved Sycamore Mills Road Trail; get a vehicle permit at the park office to drive to it.