Mid July In Brook Trout Forest

I took some time yesterday to walk and fish a little stream in the hills of Connecticut. The stream flows through a large tract of state owned property, and solitude is a promise. What was to me a very special find was the fact that the stream was in such terrific shape. The flow was probably five times greater than it was last year at this time. I was excited to test my luck on some of the brook trout that swim these waters. The fly was to be a floater, one that would appeal to the natives as well as one that is highly visible. I'll let you name the fly.

Today the trout were found in several places, from the head to the tail of pools, to the plunges and riffles. There were no mistakes to be made when casting the fly, for a strike could come from anywhere.

Somewhere in the pool pictured above this wonderful wild jewel found the fly to much to resist.

The stream is a gentile walk, with exception to the very large rocks that need to be negotiated from time to time. When I take a fish I feel the water for coolness, but the exact temperature is the fact that determines weather I continue to fish or leave.

Today I'll stay....the streams waters were 58 to 60 degrees. I checked it in several locations. This is great seeing we are mid-July.

I spooked a couple of brookies in this pool as I tried to walk past. They shot upstream and I knew where they went. Waiting some minutes I then dropped the fly and a split second later a rise and a hook-up.

This gorgeous native was at hand, I admired it as the camera snapped...it was soon released. And as I sat momentarily I thought about how fortunate I was to have the pleasure of such an experience.

When I mentioned solitude earlier, I did have some company. This little guy stopped to check out the goings on, satisfied he move on.

With the proper amount of rain, all will remain well.