The original plan was to throw streamers in the murky waters of the Farmington. But the river wasn’t high or dirty enough for my liking. Still, needs must fish. What better option than the outgoing tide on a small stream? None, as it turns out.
Conditions were perfect: 68 degree air temperature, water at a medium-high level after the rains and running clear and cool (58 degrees). Oh, the bugs! Yes, indeed. There were the usual suspects, like caddis and midges and mosquitoes. But how about size 16 sulphurs? Size 14-16 golden stones? Heck, let’s throw in some mongo golden stones (size 4-6?) into the mix — I’ve never seen those on this stream. And some egg-laden mahogany dun spinners, size 16.
The brook fished very well. I pricked dozens of fish, many of them in pools where I haven’t caught anything in years. Mostly brookies, but three wild browns in the mix. All on the upstream dry (elk hair caddis and Stimulators).
After the draconian winter of 2014-2015, how comforting it is to have nature reaffirm that she will always find a way.
Intriguing markings on this hen.
Another hen, this one of the Salmo trutta persuasion. Best hit of the day. She all but slaughtered the fly. You’ll have to bear with me on the substandard photography. I lost my good camera, and my backup had issues today. I hope to have the situation rectified in a few weeks.
Nice! I’ve noticed that after the small stream fishing seams to be better after a harsh winter. I think the fish probably put on the feed bag, a lot of the wild brookies and browns I caught this spring have been comically chubby.
Good to hear. In my experience, late spring after a good rain makes for terrific action on small streams.
Thx for the photo. I am not very good judging the size of fish. What’s your best guess regarding the photos?
David, I’d guesstimate the brown between 6 and 7 inches. The brookie’s in the same ballpark.