CLASSIFIED INFORMATION

June 17, 2008 - As years pass the fishing intelligence we receive emanating from the shores of the Quinapoxet River becomes so predictable. While most anglers usually experience only marginal success during the latter stages of June due to lower water flows and an insidious put-and-take mentality, two local longrodders have discovered a rather covert piece of water. Both Larry Bush and Tom White (unacquainted with one another) recently rendered virtually identical descriptions of a pool containing "every fish in the river." The duo have been experiencing outstanding success with both nymphs and dry flies with the hope the water level holds throughout the bottom of the month.

THE MILLERS
T&G scribe, Mary Anne Magiera was joined by New England Fly Tyer member, Steve Noel for a day on the watershed. The sub station located near Wendall Depot (off Rt.2A) was the focus of their efforts. Both experience extraordinary results, Noel with dry flies and MAM with a collection of wooly buggers and darker stonefly patterns. Provided water levels hold, anglers can expect this watershed to provide good fishing well into July and even into the balance of summer.

NEFT
Bernie McMenamy reports that the New England Flytyers annual shindig along the banks of the Deerfield River went swimmingly. After many years of inclement weather and high water the group was treated to outstanding conditions and water levels conducive to trout fishing rather than rafting. While angling could only be described as marginal, a good time was had by all. In the event you are considering a trip to the watershed, the previous week experienced water in the 150 cfs range for the most part, with the possibility of brief water released during the early afternoon.

THE BEST IS YET TO COME
As we approach July, fly anglers are anticipating a major stocking of the Swift River watershed in Belchertown. If past history is a teacher, the river will receive an abundance of fish just prior to the schedule regulation change. As of July 1 the river reverts back to catch-and-release, artificials only, south of the Rt. 9 bridge on the Ware-Belchertown line. Without question July through the end of the year is the premier time to prospect this lovely river. Water levels have recently declined to a very manageable 152 cfs offering wade access too much of the system.

Good fishing and safe wading,
JB