Ever wondered about fly-fishing opportunities in Dutchess County, NY? Then watch this interview with Mark Searle of Mid-Hudson TU. We cover the local rivers, fly tying classes, Project Healing Waters and other topics. A great show.
Enjoy!
FinFollower
One of the Last for 2014
With the fishable days of 2014 coming to an end, I decided to make a quick morning trip to the Farmington River on this last day of November.
The temperature was forecast to reach the 40’s, with mildly overcast skies, perfect for a late fall day on the water
The snow on the ground from the pre-Thanksgiving storm made a solid blanket, but wasn’t enough to hamper hiking. No other cars were in the parking lot, a good omen if I hoped to have the water to myself. I suited up, adding waterproof gloves, wool cap and toe warmers to the list of requisite equipment.
Walking in solitude down the canopied trail reminded me that the end of this year’s season is near. The only occasional sound was heavy melting snow crashing through the hemlocks and pines, often hitting the ground with a thud, or the water like the splash of a large fish.
When I arrived at the intended spot there were two men downstream casting dries. They continued for a few minutes, then moved to the bank for a cigar break. Afterwards they shuffled around the bend and out of sight. Other than their presence, the water was mine.
I started out with streamers, followed by a brace of nymphs. None of these caused the line to tighten. Then I saw a few rises across the stream, subtle and intermittent. I switched to a small BWO spinner, and within a few casts had this healthy brown in the net.
I probably should’ve stayed with the BWO, but I wanted to give some other rookie flies a try. Unfortunately they all struck out. Well, there’s always next season.
Hope you’re getting out for a few last casts in 2014. Enjoy!
Product Review: Eddie Bauer Harbor Rain Shell
Had chance to test the Eddie Bauer Harbor Rain Shell on two fishing trips and during the recent storm, Cato. I’m happy to sat that it is lightweight, breathable, yet does a great job of keeping you dry.
It really came in handy when my recent trips to both the Esopus and Farmington Rivers were cut short due to rain. The StormRepel finish and WeatherEdge stitching allowed me a few extra hours on the water with no leaks. Best of all, the design gave easy access to both my gear and personal accessories.
Then on Wednesday, we had our first true nor’easter, Cato, a nasty mix of alternating rain and snow. I was outside “battening down the hatches” and giving the snow-blower a workout. The Harbor Rain Shell kept me dry and prevented the blowing snow from reaching my clothes.
In summary, I found it to be lightweight, comfortable with enough pockets to stow gear. It was effective at keeping out both rain and snow.
If you’re looking for raingear that works on the water or off, the Eddie Bauer Harbor Rain Shell should be considered.
Interested in learning more? Here is a video from the Eddie Bauer.
Note: I received merchandise to test but no compensation for this review. The opinions expressed in this post are my own.
Enjoy!
On The Fly – Show #4: Interview with Croton Watershed Trout Unlimited
Lake Kenoshia Revisited
A few weeks ago we shot the second episode of On The Fly at Lake Kenoshia in Danbury CT. While we caught fish, it wasn’t exactly spectacular. On Sunday I had an opportunity to give it a second chance. It did not disappoint.
Almost from the first cast I was into fish.
The winds forced the kayak all over the lake, but that didn’t stop the bream from taking a frog popper.
I picked up quite a few that looked like this.
Hope you’re getting out for the last few days of August. Fall fishing will soon be here. Enjoy!