Wednesday was a transition day for our weather. It was a very humid morning which turned even more so as the day progressed, but thankfully that was pushed out and a more refreshing day followed. But this post is about the nasty day before and one of my finest days of fishing to date. It seems that this year I have had several of those days and just when I think that was my best another one comes along. I can't explain it but perhaps it had something to do with that awful winter we went through.
I arrived at the parking area and the first sight I see is this beautiful field of wild flowers, what a beginning. Geared up I started upstream. There is a small foot bridge where I usually toss my first fly and today was no exception. The fly hit the water and was soon taken.
Someone once said "never pass up a pool under a bridge", I'll never argue with such wisdom.
My first brook trout of the day. These fish are so spunky, and beautiful.
You can see the humidity. The cool waters gave a look of Halloween at times. I fished this stream for quite some time. I was fortunate to take a few brookies along the way.
All outings come to a close, and I don't complain for I know I'll have many more chances to to cast a fly on such intimate waters. This was my last run I was to fish. I started the fly drifting when a trout rose and missed the offering. I retrieved the fly and waited a few moments and sent it off again. This time as the fly completed its drift and hung there the trout rose again, and again he missed. While retrieving again I saw the trout swim up from behind and pounce on the fly. Hook set and the glass 3wt bent. A brief battle ensued, the fish running to every location in the area. Eventually the 3wt won.
As the trout laid at my feet I could not describe my feeling. I have caught many brook trout in my life but when I come upon one like this I still get shaky, and that's the truth. He was incredibly beautiful, the photo does not show it's true magnificence. A fast photo, really two and off he went.
This day started bright and colorful, and ended even more so.
Alan
ReplyDeleteAbsolute gorgeous stream and yes that is one of your most colorful brookie to date. I assume everything was on the dry. Thanks for sharing
Bill Trussell
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Yes Bill all dry flies. A black ant and a Bomber.
your field of wildflowers reminds me of texas in may. :)
ReplyDeleteTexWisGirl
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Theresa I've seen those fields on your blog. The brown eyed Susans are awesome.
Duty must be tough, Alan. One incredible day after another in such beautiful scenery and visiting such beautiful waters and their fish. Thanks for sharing another dream for me.
ReplyDeleteGramps (Mel)
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Mel it's a hard job, but I'm glad to do it buddy.
That is one gorgeous area and stream although casting does look tight with that brush...were you mostly drifting downstream to limit casting? The oranges on the brook trout you have been catching lately have been absolutely magnificent! That hooked jaw on the large male (at least I think he's a male) was pretty cool as are his gorgeous colors. It's unfortunate that he looks a little slim. Hopefully he beefs up a little before the spawn.
ReplyDeleteRI brook trout
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Some of the fish look to be in full spawn mode, maybe last winters brutal cold did something to them. He was on the thin side again like he just went through the spawn. I think he will add some weight.
The contrast between the humid air (plus foliage) and the colors of the trout is striking!
ReplyDeleteRivertoprambles.wordpress.com
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Walt I love photos like those. The brook trout are amazing for so early.
We have a lot to look forward to.
I love the way those brookies always glimmer. Must be magic. Thanks Alan.
ReplyDeleteHoward Levett
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Sometimes the light and the water seem to highlight their natural colors.