Each June, the waters of Saint Regis Run in Paul Smiths transform into a lively stage for anglers of all skill levels eager to engage with the Adirondacks’ spirited brook trout. The Saint Regis Run Fishing Derby invites both casual fishermen and seasoned anglers to challenge the currents as they navigate a stretch of about 3 miles from the dam downstream toward Lower Saint Regis Lake. This section of the run is a finely balanced blend of calm pools and riffles, offering ideal fishing spots shaded by thick birch and maple canopies that watch keenly as you cast your line.

The derby is more than a contest; it’s an encounter with a wilderness that insists on respect and understanding. The river, coursing with determined vitality, dares you to learn its rhythm. To maximize success and safety, come prepared for variable terrain: the banks can be slippery with muddy patches and exposed roots, while sections of the run require careful footing along rocky shorelines.

Anglers should anticipate an elevation change of roughly 50 feet over the derby route, enough to keep the water moving briskly but manageable for most participants. This dynamic sets the stage for trout to thrive, feeding actively around submerged logs and undercut banks that offer both shelter and challenge.

Timing your fishing to the derby’s early morning hours, ideally between 6 and 10 AM, puts you ahead of the warm afternoon sun and maximizes catch potential when the brook trout are most active. Given the often unpredictable Adirondack weather, layering your attire and carrying hydration are essential — the river encourages respect for both sun and sudden showers.

Footwear with solid treads and waterproof features ensures stable balance as you traverse the soft earth and wet stone. The derby offers an engaging loop of interaction - the river pushes forward relentlessly, while anglers respond with patience and precision, balancing eagerness with a careful eye on the environment’s subtle cues.

Beyond the competition itself, the Saint Regis Run Fishing Derby is a doorway into the region’s outdoor culture. Engaging with local guides or volunteering at the event provides perspectives that deepen the experience, revealing stories of conservation efforts and the history of angling in the Adirondacks. The derby is not only a test of skill but an invitation to learn how to tread lightly and fish thoughtfully in waters fiercely themselves.

Whether you're casting your first line or chasing a personal best, the derby blends the thrill of the catch with grounded preparation, putting anglers in direct conversation with one of New York’s most treasured trout streams.