SWIFT GET'S RELOADED June 28, 2003 - If tradition holds true, the Swift River in Belchertown will receive a welcomed visit by the state's stalking crews prior to the July 4th holiday. You should be aware that the river south of the Rt. 9 bridge reverts back to catch-and-release, artificials only from July 1st through December 31st. The water level has been uncharacteristically low (dam controlled) despite the late spring rains that have hampered freestone watersheds statewide. It remains one of the few streams that can be confidently negotiated after our most recent influx of precipitation. We have received many conflicting reports from river regs regarding the availability of fish in this system. Some anglers are enjoying a fair-to-good season while others have all but given up on the river due to the lack of fish. When state authorities have been questioned about these concerns they have reassured anglers that the river has received its normal allotment of hatchery stock. There are many theories regarding this unusual absence of fish in many locations: A) A family of otters has taken up residence north of the Rt. 9 bridge and is decimating stocks, B) low, unoxygenated water causing many fish to perish, and C) severe poaching. Unfortunately I am inclined to believe that poaching has reached new levels due to the fact that the otters have coexisted with the trout on this, and other state watersheds for years, and the Swift's resident trout have often thrived under low water conditions. I realize that it's beating a dead horse but should you encounter unlawful behavior occurring on the river it is your obligation to report it to the authorities. On the positive side of the ledger, I just had the opportunity to chat with Alaska bound veteran angler, Erwin Markiewicz, concerning the fishery and he has been enjoying some decent success on the river just south of Cady Lane (off River Rd). Erwin has been encountering an afternoon sulfur (16-18) hatch that usually activates most of the residents. This seems to be the area that is holding the most trout as other anglers have experienced positive outings while toiling north and south of Cady Lane. With high water still plaguing many of the state's major watersheds it may not be a bad idea to peruse the East Branch of the Swift off Rt. 122 (Barre/Petersham Line). This little gem is notorious for holding fish (some native) throughout the summer months particularly when water is in good supply. Due to its diminutive size, it should run-off abruptly and be in fine form as we enter July. Good fishing
and safe wading, |
