Fishing

Saucon Creek

The Saucon Creek is a 17 mile long tributary of the Lehigh River. The name was originally SAKUNK, the Native American name meaning “where a stream empties into a larger stream.”

This mostly spring-fed cold-water creek flows right past HSA and through the entire Hellertown area. Trout fishing is excellent along the Saucon Creek, and many HSA members start their fishing right on club grounds. Bait fishermen and those who prefer artificials are usually rewarded with an enjoyable experience which may include catching some of the Saucon’s native brown trout. HSA hosts an annual fishing contest for persons under 13 years. Many large trout are stocked by HSA for this fishing contest.

Several easily accessible parking areas are close to the stream. Parking is available at the HSA lot for members. Other areas are at Walnut Street and Water Street, north (downstream) of the HSA club grounds.

Large overhanging trees which offer protection on hot summer days are plentiful along the Saucon Creek. An old grist mill is a short distance downstream from the Sportsmen’s Club grounds. Two ponds at the Gristmill also offer another fishing opportunity.

In the 70’s the Saucon Creek was in extremely poor condition due to a local mining operation which caused a grey silt coating on the stream bed. In the early 80’s the mining ceased and for a short time the Saucon Creek was virtually dried up. One could walk across many areas without getting wet. Fortunately, time healed the damage as the water table recovered and HSA volunteers built many stream deflectors which increased the oxygen content of the water. Today the Saucon Creek ranks as an excellent trout stream. The PA Fish and Boat Commission has on several occasions conducted stream shocking to study the fish population and distribution. The results have been applied to stream management to ensure that the Saucon Creek will be a viable fishery for years to come.

For the non fisherman, there is an extensive walking and bike path which passes several athletic fields located beside the stream. This path is very popular for individual and family outings. Geese, ducks, and an occasional deer may be seen in this very picturesque area.

Fishing

Saucon Creek

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