THE YELLOW FLIES

June 22, 2006 - Seems as though sulphurs are beginning to pop on many of New England's major watersheds. How do we know? Consider that the last dozen or so major fly sales have contained some form of sulphur adult pattern, either comparadun, parachute or spinner. This insect always signals the onset of the summer fly-fishing season. We would recommend that you combined these imitations with a few terrestrial patterns, black ants (14-16), beetles (14-16), maybe a BWO (20) and a darker caddis adult pattern (14-16) and you should be good to go.

Many of the region's rivers and streams are in excellent shape considering the amount of rain we have received throughout the month of June.
While the Swift River remains at slightly high levels, it is certainly wadeable in most areas. If history is a teacher look for a major trout stocking to occur prior to the 4th of July hoilday. It is our opinion that this watershed comes into it's own from July through late fall. It should be no problem locating fish either north or south of the Rt.9 bridge in Belchertown. Combine dropping water levels (under normal conditions) with the fact that the southern sector from Rt. 9 to Cady Lane reverts back to catch-and-release, artificial only status only enhances the fishery. This area will remain C&R until January 1st.

The Millers River has dropped to fishable levels and is providing excellent sport along it's entire route. Todd Alving reports that the Bear's Den area is not only fishable but is providing sensational angling. While there has been a proliferation of dark stoneflys in evidence, Alving has achieved most of his success with a pattern he affectionately calls a "Bloody Hornberg."

While residing on the banks of the Ware River for many years, I have always considered the Millers to be my home river, and certainly one of the state's premier cold water fisheries. Mid to late June offers exceptional dry fly fishing and would not consider venturing about without darker adult caddis patterns in the 14-16 range. If subsurface is your game (or to pass the time between hatches), darker wooly buggers (8-10), black stones (8) and diving caddis (16) patterns should provide enough action to keep you busy.

If you are planning a visit make sure to explore the area from Orcutt Brook west to Wendall Depot and beyond. This venue provides a riffle-pool-riffle scenario with the opportunity to canvass some pretty productive trout water.

Good fishing and safe wading,
JB