Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - July/August 2020 - 40

Protecting

French
Creek
by Deborah Weisberg
photos by the author

French Creek in northwestern Pennsylvania is an ecological,
Muskellunge. "This is the most productive section," said
historical, and recreational gem.
Ensign, noting that where the stream begins to widen at Union
Named by a young George Washington who traveled it on
City, habitat develops into a series of riffles, runs, and pools.
a diplomatic mission on the eve of the French and Indian War,
This 76-mile stretch from Union City to Franklin is also
French Creek is better known for having the richest aquatic life the navigable portion of French Creek, and a paddler's
of any waterway in Pennsylvania, making it popular to float
and fish.
"It's the most biologically diverse stream in Pennsylvania,
and one of the most diverse in the United States," said Brian
Ensign, Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission (PFBC) Area
Fisheries Biologist. "The array of fish and mussel species and
the different habitats are what make French Creek unique. You
will find wetlands, pools, glides, riffles, and channels-and the
species that match up with, and thrive in, each of them."
From its headwaters in Chautauqua County, New York,
French Creek meanders for 117 miles through Erie, Crawford,
Venango, and Mercer counties in Pennsylvania before meeting
the Allegheny River in Franklin. It supports 80 species of
fish, including 10 different kinds of darters, and 26 species of
mussels, some of which are rare.
Ensign and his team manage the French Creek fishery
in sections. The uppermost reach, from the New York State
line to the confluence with the West Branch of French Creek,
is cold enough to be stocked with adult Rainbow Trout
and Brown Trout, while the rest of the stream, from Union
City to the mouth at Franklin, is a warm/coolwater fishery
that sustains Muskellunge, Northern Pike, Pumpkinseed,
Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, crappie, Bowfin, and other
French Creek is known for its rich aquatic life, making it popular
species. It is regularly planted with Walleye fry and yearling
to float and fish.

40

Pennsylvania Angler & Boater * July/August 2020

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Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - July/August 2020

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