PERFECT WATER August 31, 2006 - Anglers familiar with Felix Stolulonis know him to be more of a "glass half empty" kind of guy. It was all I could do to get him to admit that the Swift River tailwater is now in perfect condition. River regulars have suffered through an extended period of high water, super high water, high warm water that has lingered through the better part of the year. Felix has been making regular campaigns to the watershed with fishing bud, Lenny Renauld of Sterling and both anglers have been experiencing stellar outings while employing dissimilar techniques. Stolulonis, ever the dry fly purest, has been toiling on the slow, pooled-up sections of the river, south of the Rt. 9 Bridge. His most recent effort yielded 6 hookups (5 landed) composed of 4 brown trout and 1 native brookie. The 84-year young veteran is remarkable in his ability to secure size 24 and 26 BWO dry flies to his gossamer tippets and present them with the dexterity of an angler many years his junior. Renauld is more apt to be found on the swifter sections of the watershed. When fish are located (and they are present in healthy numbers) short precise casts with size 14-16 nymphs (gigantic by Swift river standards) and strike indicators in tow is the key to his success. He will generally locate the strike aide to accommodate the depth of water. Three feet of water and the indicator is secured three feet from the business end of the leader, since there is some drag due to current velocities. Len's fly inventory includes a series of Copper Johns (14-16) in peacock, rust, black, red and olive along with a smattering of pheasant tails in similar sizes. Swift fish will show preference to color on occasion so be forewarned. SEASON
ENDER Good fishing
and safe wading, |
