THE FLYS OF SUMMER July 15, 2004 - The dramatically abnormal summer climate has many trout zealots basking in the glory of an extended season. We're already in the middle of July and the Millers River from Orcutt Brook in West Orange to Farley Flats has held up remarkably well despite midseason water levels. On one recent visit, Princeton native Norm Brooks, tempted 4 spunky trout to net which in his words "showed no sign of summertime stress." The Deerfield continues to show signs of returning to its former glory. Bamboo rod craftsman, Joe Philaponis of nearby Greenfield, a tried and true proponent of the dry fly, has enjoyed many recent evenings tossing his creations to risers just after the water levels subside. Bob Shay of Sturbridge has taken a different approach to tackling the watershed. He favors dredging weighted nymphs, preferably black stoneflys, through deeper pools during daylight periods of optimum discharge. Dave Benoit, who keeps a camp on the river, has been known to jettison tiny emergers at sippers during the summer months. Recently this technique has served him well despite the fact that he hasn't quite got a definitive handle on the hatches. While the word has been exceptional on both of the above systems the Swift River in Belchertown has also been giving up its share of fish. As is always the norm, the river was recently restocked and fly anglers shouldn't have much trouble locating pods of cruisers throughout the entire system (The Y Pool to Cady Lane). Longrodders are reporting success with inchworm patterns, tiny emergers and bead head nymphs during morning and afternoon sessions then opting for a bigger bag of groceries once dusk settles in. You may have to contend with larger than normal crowds on weekends, however it's still worth the trip. FLYS FOR SUMMER Good fishing and safe
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