The Fishing:

The Pine Creek Valley offers the fly-fisherman a great opportunity for fall fly-fishing. It’s hard to beat the accessibility of the location combined with the varied fishing experiences here. As most vacationers are packing up their trailers to go home for the winter, the streams still offer some of the finest fishing in the state. The states late stocking program occurs in the beginning of October and provides thousands of trout in Pine Creek. See the Pennsylvania Fish Commission site for stocking information.

There are plenty of public access points provided by the state between Jersey Mills and Blackwell. The water is still warm at this time of year so fish just below the riffles where trout will hold due to the lower temperatures and higher oxygen content. Also fish the deep channels where feeder streams enter the Pine. Fishing the Pine at this time of year is mostly terrestrial fishing; hoppers, beetles and ants. Also, try using Wooly Buggers in the holes and you’ll probably pick-up a few Smallmouths along the way. Even though the water level is low, Pine Creek still has pools that can be 4-6’ deep. Be careful wading, felt soles are a must.

Slate Run is a gem of a freestone mountain stream that flows through the Tiadaughton State Forest and into Pine Creek. The stream is fly-fishing catch and release only. The water is glass clear and requires special skill and patience to fish properly. Approach pools quietly from downstream. Before casting, sit and observe what’s happening in the pool. This is strictly a sight fishing game. Generally fish will be under rock ledges and dart into the channel to pick off food floating downstream. This type of fly-fishing could better be described as trout hunting. Terrestrials are standard at this time of the year, as well as Slate Drake (Isonichia) nymphs, emergers and dry’s. Another hot fly to try is the Green Weenie.

Gear:

For Pine Creek you’ll need waders. An 8-9’ rod in the 3-5 weight class will be fine. For fishing Slate and Cedar Run hip boots work well. I use an Orvis 7-11, 4 weight rod for these small streams.

Getting There:Pine Creek is located northwest of Williamsport. From the south take Route 80 to 180/220 to 44N to Route 414.Places to Stay:The Hotel Manor in Slate Run sits at the confluence of Slate Run and Pine Creek. The hotel was just rebuilt in 2004 and has modern clean rooms with a restaurant in the lower level. (570) 753-8414Cedar Run Inn located on Pine Creek in the Village of Cedar Run. (570) 353-6241Blackwell Hotel in Blackwell (570) 353-6820

Other Info:

Stop in and say hello to Tom at the Slate Run Tackle Shop. Tom knows where the fish are and what’s hatching. Tel: 570.753.8551