AN
EXTENDED SEASON
June 23, 2003
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As I hearken back to late
June of 2002, thoughts of low, warm water were signaling the demise of
yet another cold water season. This has certainly not been the case in
2003. Higher flows and cooler water temperatures bless virtually all of
the area's watersheds and there is nothing but positive news emanating
from the mouths of trout zealots. Barring an extreme reversal of
atmospheric conditions, we should experience good to excellent trout
fishing well into the month of July, particularly on our more sensitive
streams and rivers.
We are just beginning to
experience hatch activity common to the end of May or early June and the
prospects for an extended dry fly season appear bright. Some of the
area's more imposing watersheds (Millers, Westfield, Deerfield,
Farmington) are still a bit out of shape, but given the alternative,
this is a good thing.
THE QUINNIE
In the event you haven't heard, the state has employed some very
creative stalking techniques on their recent visit to this watershed. It
seems like the crew gained access to some of the more remote sections
via the newly created "rail trail" and the recently relocated
residents are being accessed only by those willing to make the effort.
Just ask Rich Ovian of the success he has been experiencing on some of
the more removed sections of water. This second year trouter has
bushwhacked away from the more inviting roadside access areas and found
surprisingly successful nymphing despite elevated water conditions. He
also contends that the competition from fellow anglers has been
virtually nonexistent during his most recent sessions.
THE WILLIE
The onset of June traditionally signals the beginning of the end of
trout angling on the Willimantic River in Connecticut. This is certainly
not the case in 2003. Over the previous few weeks the river has been in
peak form, and fly anglers, particularly dry fly aficionados are
experiencing some of the finest surface activity of the season. Anglers
that have the luxury of toiling mid-week will find competition for
territory down to a dull roar and often times nonexistent. The most
consistently producing flies have been elk hairs, henryvilles, and
caddis parachutes either fished dead drift or by imparting a skittering
motion, which will often times induce strikes.
TU BANQUET
The Massachusetts/Rhode Island Council of Trout Unlimited is scheduled
to hold its first Council-wide dinner on Sunday, November 2, 2003, at
the Marlborough Fish and Game Association, One Muddy Lane, Marlborough,
MA beginning at 3 p.m.
The evening's festivities
will include a silent auction, live auction and bucket raffle, along
with door prizes. A buffet style dinner consisting of baked salmon,
sirloin tips, lasagna, and baby back ribs with all the fixins' is
included in the ticket price. Tickets are $20 per person and may be
obtained from chapter presidents. Seating is limited to 140 attendees.
Good fishing and safe
wading,
JB
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