A lot of anglers ask us a very common question, “So, what’s been the hot fly?”. It’s a good question, and sometimes knowing what they’re taking is half the battle in fly fishing. Perhaps of more importance however is how and where successful anglers are fishing. If you’re not fishing the right water, or presenting your fly incorrectly, the “hot fly” probably won’t achieve the desired outcome.
It’s been a little while since our last report. A combination of obligations and getting the dogs ready for the rigors of the grouse hunting season (just a bit over two months away …) has meant less time on the river for me lately. Relying on the reports of others, the fishing has been good, and a recent change in the river flow may mean even better days lie ahead.
This is the time of year to finally get out on one of Pittsburg’s many outer ponds, if you haven’t already. Brook trout inhabit these places, some of which are of the native variety, and some of which are stocked by the N.H. Fish & Game Department. Each pond is unique, and at least one of them is sure to become your favorite.
That’s certainly the case right now in northern New Hampshire’s Connecticut Lakes Region. The fish may be there, and fishing season has technically started, but just because the calendar says that the trout and salmon should be biting, that is not always the case. Lots of casting with little reward, but then, that next cast might just be the one that pays off …
It’s my favorite. Changing foliage from summer greens to brilliant autumn colors, a certain crispness to the air reminding us that the cold winds of winter are never too far away, and absolutely brilliant trout and salmon.
Erin Marchica is all smiles as Tall Timber Fishing Guide Mickey Cunliffe releases her beauty of a brook trout on the The Trophy Stretch of the Connecticut River. The river has been producing, but we must add that the fish have been “educated” over the last two months, so they are by no means jumping in the net.