We’re about half way through the annual hexagenia hatch on Back Lake and it’s been a great one so far. It has been true to form for the most part – a smattering of hexes hatching early on in the evening, but the real hatch begins as the sun sinks behind the hills to the west. That bit of darkening sky seems to bring the hexagenia out in full force, and needless to say, it does the same thing with the trout and bass.
The hex hatch continues to march through its inevitable progression on Back Lake. We’ve had nights that I would classify as exceptional (Monday), a little bit of a let down (Tuesday), and surprisingly solid given the weather (Wednesday). It’s currently raining a bit out there now as the boats full of hopeful anglers head out on the lake this evening …
The weather sure has changed here in New Hampshire’s north country over the last two days. From temps in the mid-70’s last week to temps in the mid to high 40’s yesterday and today, with a healthy blow from the north. Yes, it feels more like May, or even October out there, as we have taken a brief break from summer.
WARNING: This post might hit close to home for some anglers and deals with sensitive topics and adult themes. Discretion is advised …
We’re close to our favorite time of the year, when the annual Hexagenia hatch begins on Back Lake, but we’re not quite there yet. According to one of my more credible sources, there were a couple of hex sightings yesterday evening on the lake, but that was the extent of the action, and with our upcoming weather pattern, the hatch might be a little delayed this year.
How does any self respecting grouse and woodcock guide get mixed up with a motley crew of fly fishing guides? Good question, and it’s one that I’ve been trying unsuccessfully to answer for decades now. However, while my devotion to fly fishing probably doesn’t match theirs, I find myself loving the river, fishing and fish for many of the same reasons that they do.