WATER FLOWS AND HATCHES

May 4, 2005 - Over the previous few days anglers are experiencing some of the most prolific mayfly hatches of the young season. Virtually every watershed from central Connecticut through northern Massachusetts is enjoying the long awaited Hendrickson (12-14)/Red Quill (14-16). This hatch historically commences during the early afternoon hours and can last in intensity for an hour or more before termination. Two watersheds that feature this hatch in all its glory are the Farmington River and the Willimantic River in nearby Connecticut. This hatch becomes so intense on these rivers that it is often futile to pursue risers during peak hatch periods due to the shear numbers of insects your imitation will be competing with. With this in mind, you may want to schedule your visits to coincide with pre hatch and post hatch periods when the numbers of insects hatching is dramatically diminished.

Pepper in a few darker caddis dry fly patterns (14-16) and round out your fly box with olive or black wooly buggers (8-10), and maybe a caddis emerger and generic mayfly nymph pattern and you should be good to go.

While many of our smaller watersheds have, at times, rounded into peak form, recent rain events have hampered many of our larger systems. As of this writing the Millers, Ware, Westfield, Deerfield and even the Swift below the dam in Belchertown remain high. A week absent of significant precipitation should whip them into shape.

BE CAREFUL OUT THERE
Just in case you have yet to be informed, the Springfield Republican reported that on April 19th, Richard Jolivet, 63, of Borbeaux Street, Chicopee was declared dead after being pulled from the Deerfield River. Investigators believe Joivet was fishing when he called for help. Preliminary investigations suggest he may have suffered a medical problem at that moment. Charlemont police Sgt. Charles Bellows pulled Jolivet from the water.

TU YOUTH DAY
The Central MA Chapter if Trout Unlimited is sponsoring the Third Annual Youth Day. Participants can learn fly casting from TU instructors, fish for trout in the park pond, learn to tie a trout fly and enjoy other outside activities. All equipment will be provided. Children must be accompanied by an adult and a permission slip must be signed by the adult. The event will take place at Trout Brook Park, Holden, MA on Saturday, June 4th from 10AM to 3PM and there is no charge for admission.

Good fishing and safe wading,
JB