THE GOOD, BAD AND UGLY

May 25, 2006 - Let's begin with the bad news. The recent rain events have contributed to some very challenging water conditions for local fly anglers. Many of the state's larger watersheds have been down right unfishable. As of this writing conditions are dramatically improving and the small to medium sized rivers and stream are actually in pretty good shape.

The obvious good news is that there will be plenty of water around as we usher in the month of June. I chatted with LFO customer, Scot (I'm sorry I didn't catch his last name) recently and he reported that the east branch of the Swift River off Nichewaug Road in Petersham has been yielding some impressive rainbow (he took 12 this past weekend) action. Scot also reports that the water level, while slightly elevated, was in great shape and totally wadeable.

It would be wise to concentrate on "east branch sized rivers" as we continue to wait for major systems to recede. I know it's beating a dead horse but another alternative is to consider fishing one of the state's impoundments. Trout zealot, Bob Thunberg coaxed 20 rainbows to net while float-tubing Schoolhouse Pond in Chatham over this past weekend. Add a portly smallmouth to the mix and it's not a bad day afield. We should caution you that water levels in many of the state's ponds remain at elevated levels requiring some sort of alternative method (boat, canoe, kayak or float tube) to reach the fish, wading is simply not an option.

Why not grab a 9-wight and head for that big 'ole lake to our east, the saltwater fishing has been nothing short of fantastic.

THE HATCHES
Caddis drys (14-18), due to their abundance and vulnerability, are always a great choice for mid-spring angling. As evening ensues look for Light Chills (14-16) and March Browns (12-14) to make up the bulk of a trout's diet. The usual cast of characters, bead head buggers, bead head prince nymph, bead head hare's ear and bead head zug bugs should keep you occupied during non-hatch periods. As you will notice we are suggesting that you consider bead head patterns, particularly during high water conditions.

TU YOUTH DAY
Please join us for our 4Th Annual Youth Day. 10AM-3PM at Holden's Trout Brook Park Manning Street, Holden. This event is FREE. Come when you can and stay as long as you want.

If you have children, neighbors' children or grandchildren please bring them and spend time watching them have fun and get introduced to fly-fishing. An adult must accompany children. If you have spinning or bait casting rods for the kids please feel free to bring them and some bait for fishing the pond since we want the kids to catch fish. Fly rods provided by the Sage Rod Company will be available for also.

There will hot dogs, soft drinks and soda for sale at a nominal price and there will be free oatmeal cookies for everyone.

This is a great opportunity to introduce children to the fun and wonder of fishing that they will carry with them throughout their life. It's also a great way to spend time and share your interests with your kids.

We hope to see you there. If there are any questions contact:
Paul Bakstran at 978 838-7345 or email Bakstran@charter.net

Good fishing and safe wading,
JB