The first day of spring arrived in what I would call nothing short of beautiful. I mean the sun was bright the air was fresh, the birds were singing in earnest. I even saw some skunk cabbage popping up through the leaf litter. As i walked along the stream I had that feeling that all was well with the world. Nature has a way of bringing out the best even in situations that could be quite bad. Brilliant sunshine also can lift ones inner spirits and it sure did for me on that day.
The stream was in wonderful condition. But some rain would be welcomed.
The brookies were very willing to play and although small they were a joy to catch.
I met one of the landowners where the stream passes. When I was approached I though for sure I was going to be asked to leave but that was not the case. The woman told me that she as a child fished the same stream. She told me of the countless "natives" that were in the pools. She said she would throw worms into the pools and watch the brookies just go crazy for them. We chatted for awhile and she told me that I could access the stream anytime I liked.
This was a real nice fish. His color was outstanding for the time of year as was his girth. I have caught hundreds of these "natives" and they still thrill the hell out of me.
Good morning Alan I'm glad the natives were friendly both the brookies and the human. Sadly here is Mass the land around so many great fishing streams is posted. Our law states that anglers can not trespass to reach the water. However if we can reach the water legally than we can fish it even if the adjacent property is posted. It's always nice to meet a welcoming property owner though.
ReplyDeleteDean
Dean F
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Dean I can understand some people posting their property. Some anglers can get pretty sloppy if you know what I mean. I have been run off several streams and it's not a good feeling. But then you find some nice ones who will give you the chance to prove you will do no harm.
Hi Alan,
ReplyDeleteHave you been following the Red Brook situation? The town of Wareham, MA, is deciding whether to allow a big development (casino, golf course, shopping malls) that will pollute the Red Brook aquafer.
I first learned about the Sea-Run Brook Trout Coalition from your blog, so I know this issue must be close to your heart. A bunch of conservation groups have come together to oppose the zoning change in Wareham, including TU, the Trustees of Reservations, the Sea-Run Brook Trout folks, the Native Fish Coalition, and the Wampanoag tribe. The Southeastern MA Pine Barrens Assn. has a good video about it on their website.
Thanks for your great photos and posts over the long winter. I haven't written back as much as I'd like, but I never miss your posts.
Take care,
John Strucker
John Strucker
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John I have been following that situation. As a non resident I have been doing what I can from my end. I've heard that there is strong opposition to this development. I'm Really concerned that the town even though the plan was OK. Such a pristine and historical area Red Brook is.
Beautiful natives, Alan. The stream is flowing in fine shape. I am glad you ran into a friendly land owner. Like you I don't blame them for looking after their property. I am sure after talking with you a bit she realized quickly you meant no harm to her property or stream.
ReplyDeleteThis Red Brook project must be stopped. I will do my part.
Best, Sam
Sam
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Sam there are some wonderful folks out there who are willing to share their land. I appreciate it very much.
As far as Red Brook goes even though you don't live in Wareham you can do something to try to stop this rape of land. I'm going to do a post on this crime about to take place at Red Brook.
Aren't they grand?
ReplyDeleteNatty and I took a glorious walks up the railroad already, we will be there again a few days this week; since it is definitely her speed.
Please contact me if you want her to teach you some tricks...
Nathan Camp
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Nate the wife and I walked that area last week. I might be in the area on Thursday. Tell Natty I'll bring my note pad.
We may have been ships in the night then, I'll let her know!
DeleteAlan
ReplyDeleteI told a guy I met in Home Depot the other day that I would know when it was time for me to take to the rocking chair. He said when will that be? I said when I stop getting excited about landing any species of fish using the fly rod.
If I stay fit that could be years in the future, and I am sure the same prediction applies to you as well. Seniors stay active it is your best defense against retiring to the rocking chair! Thanks for sharing
Bill Trussell
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Bill staying active is key to a long and healthy life. From what I know of you your doing just that. I have a rocker and enjoy it when I'm not out on the stream.
Hi Alan
ReplyDeleteThat is a good looking blue line you fished there and that last Brookie is a fine specimen (looks like he has been feeding well too!).
It was the opening day of the Trout season here in Yorkshire on Monday. I booked the day of work and headed to the little river Leven. The river was a good height but lightly coloured and cold, so despite the air temps of 12 deg C (53.6 F) I started on bottom dredgers managing to get out 3 OOS Grayling to 10" and 5 Brownies to 11" in a couple of hours before swapping to dry dropper after a quick lunch (delicious homemade pork pie from the local Farm Shop!) which reuslted in 1 trout to the dry (Last Chance Cripple) and 1 to the nymph (Blue & Gold Macaw Baetis pattern). All in all a cracking start to the season.
Take care and stay safe
Alistair
Anonymous
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Alistair that was some opening day. I'm so excited it all came together for you. Weather, the right flies and the fish that made it memorable. Great report.