Fingerling stocking does not attract the big opening-day crowds. Fingerling trout become virtually wild trout -- catching them is a challenge, and they tend to grow larger than standard put-and-take trout. There are sections of the Clarion River where 20-inch brown trout are reasonably common.

There are three Special Regulations sections in the Clarion River and its major branches in Elk County. All three of these sections are renowned for their outstanding trout fishing. The section on the main stem of the Clarion River is particularly good for big brown trout.

For 8.5 miles from the confluence of the East Branch Clarion River and the West Branch Clarion River, the Clarion River is managed under Catch-and-Release, All-Tackle regulations and is open to fishing year 'round. No trout may be killed or had in possession. Fishing may be done with artificial lures, flies or streamers, natural bait, baitfish, and fish bait. Spinning or fly-fishing gear may be used in these areas.

On the East Branch Clarion River, Delayed Harvest, Artificial Lures Only rules apply for a 1.15-mile section from 100 meters below the outflow of East Branch Clarion River Lake. Fishing is allowed year 'round.

Fishing hours are one hour before sunrise until one hour after sunset. From one hour before sunrise on June 15 to one hour after sunset on Labor Day, the minimum size for trout is 9 inches. The daily creel limit is three trout, combined species, from one hour before sunrise on June 15 to one hour after sunset on Labor Day.

From the day after Labor Day until one hour before sunrise on June 15, no trout may be kept. Fishing may be done only with artificial lures constructed of metal, plastic, rubber, or wood; or with flies and streamers constructed of natural or synthetic materials. All such lures may be used with spinning or fly-fishing gear.

The use or possession of any natural bait -- baitfish, fish bait, bait paste and similar substances, fish eggs (natural or molded) or any other edible substance -- is prohibited. Taking fish bait or baitfish is prohibited.

A 0.5-mile section of the West Branch Clarion River, from a wire across the stream to the intersection of state routes 219 and 4003, is under Catch-and-Release, Fly-Fishing-Only regulations. (See Slippery Rock Creek, above.)