Stream MD-1B

This post is for stream MD-1B. I won’t name streams on my site (sorry, don’t ask) to prevent them from being “spot burned” or unwanted attention drawn to them.

Stream MD-1B is a freestone tributary to stream MD-1A and an outstanding stream in it’s own right. The stream is approximately 8 miles long and features some remote habitat with only 2 access points (confluence with MD-1A and on the upper end) with approximately 5 miles of remote, rugged terrain in between.

Several features of the stream make it an excellent brook trout stream. It has multiple deep pools between 4 to 8 feet deep, multiple log jams with deep pools and lots of cover, and the entire stream is heavily shaded. Multiple cold water seeps along it’s course, coupled with the shade ensures cold water temperatures year round. Finally, the stream is catch and release only for brook trout.

All of these features result in some sizeable, healthy and strong brook trout. This system currently has the best chance of producing a unicorn. The fish are able to move through tributaries and the mainstem unhindered, which allows them to find refuge throughout the year. I’m excited to explore this area in more detail over the coming years.

My most recent trip to the stream revealed slightly lower water levels than when I fished it in February. Even with lower flows, the elevation drop/gradient still produces several whitewater rapids (on a small stream scale anyway) and the fish seemed happy.

Philip Light

https://www.unicornbrookies.com/about/ Philip was born and raised in Bedford, Pennsylvania. After moving to the Pittsburgh region for school and work, he returned to Bedford, where he resides today. Philip is pursuing a bachelor of science in Environmental Policy and Management from Purdue University and currently works as a design consultant in the luxury fashion industry. As a young child, he spent countless hours fishing and exploring the small freestone streams near his home. Philip soon discovered fly fishing and has been an avid fly fisher for thirty years. His fascination with fish led to his involvement in water and fish conservation. Over the last several years, Philip has been involved in conservation projects, including at an international level, with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Conservation International. More recently, he served as national vice-chair of Native Fish Coalition, building relationships with state government agencies such as the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Department of Environmental Protection, Fish & Boat Commission, and conservation non-profits. His primary focus is informing and educating anglers, negotiating with stakeholders in the government and the private sector, and protecting and enhancing wild native brook trout habitats in Pennsylvania.

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