Slate Run
Slate Run is a pristine mountain freestone stream flowing through the remote Pine Creek Gorge area of north-central Pennsylvania, renowned for exceptional wild brook trout fishing in a wilderness setting. This is Pennsylvania's premier native brook trout destination, offering backcountry fishing in one of the most beautiful and remote stream valleys in the state.
Overview
Slate Run flows approximately 12 miles through Tiadaghton State Forest in Lycoming County before joining Pine Creek near the village of Slate Run. This is one of Pennsylvania's most celebrated wild brook trout streams, protected as a Class A Wild Trout Water and largely accessible only by hiking or camping in the remote valley.
The stream flows through a steep, heavily forested valley with minimal development and no road access along much of its length. The character is classic Pennsylvania mountain brook trout water: small to medium-sized stream (10-25 feet wide), cascading pocket water, plunge pools, log jams, undercut banks, and dense forest canopy. The gradient is moderate to steep, creating fast, oxygenated water ideal for brook trout.
Slate Run supports an entirely wild brook trout population, with no stocking. The fish typically range from 6-10 inches with occasional specimens exceeding 12 inches, particularly in the deeper pools of the lower section. Natural reproduction is excellent, sustaining dense populations throughout the system. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission manages the entire stream as a catch-and-release, artificial lures only fishery, protecting this exceptional wild trout resource.
Access to Slate Run requires commitment. The lower section near the village has limited road access, but the best fishing is in the upper reaches accessible only by hiking the Slate Run Trail approximately 3-6 miles into the valley. Anglers typically camp at designated sites along the trail, making this a backcountry fly fishing adventure. The remoteness ensures light fishing pressure and a true wilderness experience.
Water Characteristics
Slate Run is a pristine Appalachian mountain freestone stream with cold, clean water flowing through undisturbed forest. Water clarity is excellent (4-6 feet visibility) during normal flows, coloring only briefly after heavy rains and clearing within hours due to the forested watershed. Water temperatures remain cold throughout the season (45-60 degrees F) due to elevation, forest shading, and spring seepage, ideal for brook trout.
The substrate is predominantly gravel, cobble, and boulders creating diverse pocket water and pool habitat. Log jams and woody debris provide cover and structure. The insect community includes mayflies (Blue Winged Olives, small mayflies), caddisflies, stoneflies, and terrestrials. While not as prolific as limestone streams, the insect populations are diverse and support healthy wild brook trout.
The brook trout population is entirely wild, self-sustaining through natural reproduction. The catch-and-release regulations and remote location allow fish to reach exceptional quality for a Pennsylvania mountain stream. The brilliant colors and eager feeding response of Slate Run brook trout make this a bucket-list destination for native trout anglers.
Wading & Float Guide
Slate Run offers challenging but rewarding wading for anglers comfortable in mountain streams. The stream bottom is composed of gravel, cobble, and boulders with brisk to fast current and moderate gradient. During normal summer flows (20-60 cfs), most of the stream can be waded carefully with depths ranging from ankle-deep riffles to waist-deep pools.
The gradient creates fast pocket water and slippery rocks. Felt-soled or studded boots are essential for secure footing. The stream can rise quickly after heavy rains and summer thunderstorms; flash flooding is possible in this steep valley. Always be aware of weather conditions upstream. Spring runoff occurs in March and early April, making the stream high and challenging.
The tight quarters and overhanging vegetation mean wading is often the only practical way to fish. Wade carefully to avoid disturbing sediment and spooking trout in the clear water. Chest waders are recommended for warmth and protection. Slate Run demands respect and care; this is advanced mountain stream wading in a remote setting where help is far away.
Not a float fishery
Slate Run is too small and steep for floating. This is strictly wade-fishing water accessed by hiking the Slate Run Trail into the backcountry.
Rod & Tackle Guide
Backcountry Fishing
- Rod
- 7'6"-8'6" 3-weight or 4-weight
- Line
- Weight-forward floating
- Leader & Tippet
- 7.5-9' tapered to 5X
Shorter, lighter rod ideal for tight quarters and overhanging vegetation. Pack light for the hike in; one rod, minimal gear. Bring a small fly box with terrestrials, small dries, and nymphs.
Seasonal Fishing Guide
Spring
Spring brings excellent wild brook trout fishing after runoff subsides in late April and May. The fish are eager and aggressive after winter, feeding actively on early insect hatches. Small Blue Winged Olives, caddis, and stoneflies emerge on warmer afternoons. Nymphing with small Pheasant Tails, Hare's Ears, and stonefly nymphs is productive. The forest canopy is still open in spring, making casting easier in the tight quarters. Plan for cold nights if camping; temperatures can drop below freezing even in May.
Summer
Summer is the most popular season for backpacking into Slate Run. The weather is warm, the trail is dry, and camping is pleasant. Fishing focuses on terrestrial patterns (ants, beetles, small inchworms) fished along wooded banks and small dry flies (sizes 14-18) matching native insects. Evening rises to caddis can be excellent. The dense forest canopy keeps water temperatures cool even during summer heat. Target early mornings and evenings for the most active feeding. Bring insect repellent; mosquitoes and black flies can be intense in the backcountry.
Fall
Fall is many experienced anglers' favorite time on Slate Run. The brook trout develop brilliant spawning colors (males with vivid orange bellies and white-edged fins) and feed aggressively preparing for spawning in late October and November. Respect spawning fish and avoid redds. Blue Winged Olive hatches occur on overcast fall days. The forest is spectacular with autumn foliage, and fishing pressure is minimal. Nights are cold; bring warm sleeping gear. October combines beautiful conditions with eager fish and solitude.
Fishing Pressure & Local Tips
Slate Run receives light fishing pressure due to the remote location and hiking access requirement. Most anglers who fish Slate Run are dedicated backcountry fly fishers willing to hike 3-6 miles with camping gear. Summer weekends see the most pressure, but even then the 12 miles of water distribute anglers effectively. Weekdays and fall offer exceptional solitude.
The brook trout in Slate Run are wild and less educated than fish in accessible, heavily fished waters. They respond willingly to well-presented flies and natural drifts. This is not technical spring creek fishing; it is classic Appalachian brook trout fishing in a wilderness setting. The challenge is access and remote conditions, not selective fish.
Local Knowledge
Slate Run is a backcountry adventure requiring planning and preparation. The Slate Run Trail is well-maintained but remote; bring maps, compass or GPS, first aid kit, and be prepared for changing weather. Camping is allowed at designated sites along the trail (check current regulations and permits). Bear-proof food storage is essential.
For fishing, work upstream from your camp, targeting pocket water behind boulders, plunge pools, log jams, and undercut banks. Short, accurate casts are more important than long casts in the tight quarters. Dry flies (sizes 12-16) work well for searching water and during rises. Small nymphs (sizes 14-18) dead-drifted through pools and pockets are consistently productive. The brook trout are eager but spook easily in the clear water; approach carefully from downstream and behind.
This is a Leave No Trace fishery. Pack out all trash, use established campsites, and minimize impact. The reward for the effort is some of the finest wild brook trout fishing in Pennsylvania in a pristine mountain setting. This is Pennsylvania fly fishing at its most primitive and rewarding.
Species Present
Brook Trout
The brook trout is widely considered the most beautiful freshwater fish in North America, and catching one in a pristine Montana mountain stream is an experience that captures the essence of backcountry fly fishing. Despite their common name, brook trout are not true trout at all; they are a species of char (genus Salvelinus), more closely related to lake trout and Arctic char than to rainbows or browns. Native to eastern North America from Georgia to Hudson Bay, brook trout were among the first salmonids introduced to Montana's waters in the late 1800s and have since established self-sustaining populations in cold, high-elevation streams and lakes throughout the state. In Montana, brook trout thrive best in small, cold headwater streams and high mountain lakes where competition from larger trout species is minimal. In these environments, they are often the dominant, or only, salmonid present. The trade-off is size: Montana stream-dwelling brook trout typically range from 6 to 10 inches, with fish over 12 inches considered noteworthy in most waters. What they lack in size, however, they more than make up for in beauty and willingness to eat a fly. Brookies are aggressive feeders that will strike attractor dry flies, nymphs, and small streamers with enthusiasm, making them an ideal species for beginning fly anglers and a delightful quarry for anyone who appreciates small-stream fishing. Brook trout do present a conservation paradox in Montana. While they are a beloved and beautiful gamefish, they are non-native and can negatively impact native species, particularly Yellowstone and westslope cutthroat trout. In headwater streams, brook trout often outcompete cutthroats for food and spawning habitat due to their higher reproductive rate and earlier maturation. As a result, Montana FWP has implemented brook trout removal projects on some streams to restore native cutthroat populations. In many waters, liberal harvest limits for brook trout are encouraged to reduce their numbers and benefit native fish. Anglers can enjoy excellent brook trout fishing while actively helping conservation by keeping a few for the pan.
Brown Trout
The brown trout is the most cunning and elusive trout species swimming in Montana's rivers, and it rewards patient, skilled anglers with some of the state's most memorable catches. Originally native to Europe and western Asia, brown trout were first introduced to North American waters in 1883 and arrived in Montana shortly thereafter. They have since established robust, self-sustaining populations in virtually every major trout stream in the state, from the legendary spring creeks of the Paradise Valley to the sweeping runs of the lower Madison and the deep pools of the Bighorn. Brown trout grow larger than any other trout species in Montana, and fish exceeding 24 inches are caught with regularity on premium waters. The lower Madison River, the Missouri River below Holter Dam, and the Bighorn River are particularly renowned for producing trophy-class browns. Unlike rainbows, brown trout spawn in the fall (October through November), and their aggressive pre-spawn behavior creates an exciting window for streamer fishing as large males become territorial and attack anything that enters their domain. Browns are notably more nocturnal than other trout species, and many of the biggest fish are caught during low-light conditions. What sets brown trout apart from other species is their wariness and selectivity. Large browns are notoriously difficult to fool, often refusing flies that are even slightly off in size, color, or presentation. They tend to establish and defend prime feeding lies (undercut banks, logjams, deep pools, and boulder gardens), and an angler who learns to read water and identify these holding spots will consistently catch more and larger fish. This combination of difficulty, size potential, and intelligence makes the brown trout the most prized quarry for many serious Montana fly fishers.
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Suggested Fly | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Blue-Winged Olive (Baetis) afternoon | Parachute Adams | ||||||||||||
Blue-Winged Olive (Baetis) afternoon | BWO Emerger | ||||||||||||
Caddisflies (various) evening | Elk Hair Caddis | ||||||||||||
Small stoneflies all day | Pheasant Tail Nymph | ||||||||||||
Terrestrials (ants, beetles, inchworms) afternoon | Chubby Chernobyl | ||||||||||||
Small mayflies (various) afternoon | Parachute Adams |
Blue-Winged Olive (Baetis): Spring BWOs on overcast days. Size 16-20.
Blue-Winged Olive (Baetis): Fall BWOs. Size 18-20.
Caddisflies (various): Evening caddis hatches. Size 14-18.
Small stoneflies: Small stoneflies in spring. Size 14-18.
Terrestrials (ants, beetles, inchworms): Terrestrials from forest canopy. Size 12-16.
Small mayflies (various): Various small mayfly hatches. Size 14-18.
Recommended Flies
Parachute Adams
Top PickUniversal dry fly for brook trout
Best in spring
BWO Emerger
Top PickBWO emerger for fall
Best in fall
Pheasant Tail Nymph
Top PickAll-purpose nymph
Best in spring
Elk Hair Caddis
Top PickCaddis dry for evenings
Best in summer
Chubby Chernobyl
Top PickTerrestrial patterns (ants, beetles, inchworms)
Best in summer
Also Effective
Access Points & Boat Launches
Slate Run Village Access
Wade AccessEasy at village; Difficult for backcountry sectionsAccess at the village of Slate Run to the lower section of the stream. This is the starting point for the Slate Run Trail that leads into the backcountry. Limited fishing near the village; the best water is upstream accessed by hiking 3-6 miles on the trail. Parking available for trail access.
Slate Run Trail (Backcountry Access)
Wade AccessDifficult (backcountry hiking required)The Slate Run Trail provides hiking access to the upper sections of Slate Run, Pennsylvania's premier wild brook trout stream. Plan for 3-6 mile hikes into the backcountry with camping gear. Designated campsites along the trail. This is a true wilderness fly fishing adventure requiring preparation and fitness.
Regulations
Regulations
Slate Run: Catch-and-release, artificial lures only, year-round regulations. This is Class A Wild Trout Water. Pennsylvania fishing license required. Check current Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations at fishandboat.com. Camping permits may be required for backcountry camping along the trail.
Always verify current regulations with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks before fishing.
Some links may earn a commission. Learn more
Quick Facts
- Region
- North Central Pennsylvania / Lycoming County
- Water Type
- Freestone
- River Length
- 12 miles of wild brook trout water
- Difficulty
- Intermediate-Advanced
- Best Seasons
- spring, summer, fall
- Trout Per Mile
- 1,000-2,000 wild brook trout
- Record Trout
- Brook trout exceeding 12 inches caught in the deeper pools; most fish 6-10 inches
- Species
- Brook Trout, Brown Trout
Nearby Rivers
Penns Creek
Central Pennsylvania / Centre County
Spring Creek
Central Pennsylvania / Centre County
Little Juniata River
Central Pennsylvania / Blair County
Spruce Creek
Central Pennsylvania / Huntingdon County
Big Fishing Creek
North Central Pennsylvania / Columbia County
Yellow Breeches Creek
South Central Pennsylvania / Cumberland County
Big Spring Creek
South Central Pennsylvania / Cumberland County
Kettle Creek
North Central Pennsylvania / Clinton County
Tulpehocken Creek
Southeastern Pennsylvania / Berks County