Think Like a Trout, Act Like a Bug.

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

Breaking the Ice

I managed to get out to some brown trout water this past weekend, and even managed to catch a few fish.

The day started out a little on the chilly side (-8C) but given the heavy snow-pack, that was probably a good thing. The frozen crust on top of the two to three foot deep drifts kept me afloat (most of the time). Regardless, when I wasn't stuck up to my waist, I was still sinking more than a few inches with each step – getting around proved to be quite the workout.

The creek was in good shape with about a foot or so of visibility, and with the air temperature edging up to just 6C by the afternoon visibility remained relatively constant. I expect that will change as the temperatures rise and the local runoff builds momentum.


Winter stonefly hatches seem to be a week or two behind schedule this year - Utacapnia trava would normally be winding down by now but they were still coming off quite heavy in the afternoon. Zapada cinctipes were also a part of the mix. I did not see any females returning to the water to lay eggs.



It’s always nice to get out and catch those first fish of the season.


Thursday, April 3, 2014

The Best Laid Plans

I went into the winter season with full intentions of re-designing my fly box system, and having all of my fly boxes fully stocked before the season starts. Well, once again I find myself on the doorstep of the open water trout season with a long way to go as far as fly tying goes. Yup, I can see myself now, frantically tying flies the night before each trip – business as usual I suppose.


If you’re like me you are likely anxious to get out on the water (or maybe you have already seen some action). The only fly fishing I managed to get in over the past few weeks was a trip to the Bahamas in search of bonefish. It was a successful DIY trip to the middle of nowhere.

Surveying the endless flats on Mayaguana

Jacks provide a fun diversion when the bonefish aren't cooperating
A typical Mayaguana bonefish