Small Freestoner in the Fall

To start off this blog, I will be writing about some of the streams I have fished in the past. I will also be blogging in real time as well. 

Autumn 2014

I got a free afternoon during my hectic weekday schedule of classes and work, and decided to head out to explore a Class A trout stream I had located. I packed up my gear and hopped in my jeep. Half of the fun of fishing is the excitement of exploring a new place, and all the surprises that come along with that. From the drive to the stream head to the hike in and along the stream, everything is fresh, new, and beautiful. 

Before I knew it, I was at my destination, and began the walk in. I scouted a few sections of the stream out and tried a few holes. I didn't have much action until I made my way further upstream, where this small freestoner really came to life. 

Large rock structures and small water flow formed the many pools along the path of the stream. Wary Brook trout occupied these waters, and would spook at the slightest movement or shadow. I had to approach the stream sections with caution, slowing my movements far below the norm. A quick flick of my fly rod placed a small wet fly into the pool, and before I knew it, an aggressive brookie was tearing off with my fly. I set the hook, and as often times happens, the fly flew back towards me. I repeat this process, as the same fish will often take the fly over and over again, as long as it is not spooked. This time I hook him. I bring the trout in, and wet my hands before handling and releasing the trout. The vibrant colors of the brook trout are astounding, and no one fish looks like same. Much like a human finger print, the pattern of a brook trout is so similar yet so different between each fish. This stream proves to be healthy and teaming with a solid population of native brook trout. I will return to this stream later in the year and catch 17 trout in an afternoon on my most productive day.