BLACK AND BLUE

August 5, 2009 - First of all we apologize for the tardy report, but frankly, due to unfishable water conditions throughout the entire state, there hasn't been much to report about. If you take a peak at the statewide streamflow grid on the USGS website you will make note of the excessive number of black and blue icons adorning all of our premier cold water fisheries. This donates that virtually every watershed falls into the 90th percentile or higher.

It is our opinion that 7 to 10 days of no precipitation could remedy the situation and render water levels, particularly within our more substantial watersheds, to a more manageable situation. Obviously it will take less time for smaller rivers (Quinnie, E. Branch Swift, Burnshirt etc.) to round into form.

Should this occur, and the forecast for the immediate future looks promising, anglers should expect to enjoy some stellar fishing opportunities.

THE SWIFT
The Swift River in Belchertown is still hovering in the 500 cfs area greatly limiting wading throughout the entire watershed. Anglers are reporting numerous amounts of fish, mostly rainbows, scattered from Cady Land to Windsor Dam, so locating them won't be the issue. Achieving advantageous angles and suitable drag-free drifts will be. During high water conditions fish are more likely to make mistakes so fishing has not been the disaster being experienced by many of the state's freestones. Beetles, ants, crickets and even the occasional hopper pattern has been successful.

Due to the excessive water flow there is also a number of LL salmon and small and largemouth bass that have taken up residence in the Y-pool so be forewarned.

If you are planning a visit you will not be without company as anglers are reporting an extreme amount of pressure even during their mid-week sessions.

Good fishing and safe wading,
JB