4/19/06 Fly Fishing Outing

[Manny]

I ventured south of 90 and fished a clear spring creek this AM into the noon hour with a client.  Because of the clearness, fish were very spooky, but luckily, Fred, was an excellent long range caster from NY state who spent time on the surf going after stripers, so keeping a low profile and throwing for distance was not an issue.  Most of the fish we hooked up were close to the heads of the runs and willingly took a #18 Shillinglaw emerger as a trail fly to a #14 ice dub scud.  There were a few baetis coming off, and a few caddis later, but the fish weren't on top keying on dries; they were content to take the emerger.

There are several stream that are off-colored due to last night's rain, but there are many stream that don't feel the brunt of agricultural run off that are in fantastic shape (almost too clear if that's possible).

More rain is on the way the next few days with diminished temps, which has diminished my hopes of gray caddis.

Regards,
D.A.

[Spinach]

Thanks for the report DA. I'm hoping to get out with Dan and possibly you someday and learning more about Fly Fishing.

Just what I need, another addiction.

[Mayfly]

Any pics to share??

[7Pines]

You said it, brother...a way of life. 8)

[7Pines]

GREAT pics Dave!
Perfect timing getting the fish breaking the surface too!
I'm hatching a plan to run down to Rushford soon.  I'll let you know.
What length and wt. is that cane rod?  What's your preference?  Do you nymph w/ it too, or strictly a dry fly stick?
I just put an order in for a 7' 9" 4wt. Pennington.
Dan

[7Pines]

Yes, I have trouble getting too far away from my ol' 9' 4wt. Sage LL.  Like you, I'd say St. Croix is my next 'go to' line.  I'm getting the cane as the lodge is now selling Pennington rods.  I thought that if I had one in my hand while guiding, it might spark some interest.  You're right, the hex wooden 'tube' is sorta neat.
Steve is going to go the extra 3" that I request and make the rod 7' 9".  I built a 7.5'er on a SCIV blank and it's a touch short for my liking.
Danno