A big weather front (rain/tornados) ran through Missouri on Wednesday (4/5) and a graduation was planned for Thursday. But that was not going to stop the trip, cause Kenny had to get two classes graduated before the summer. Al Hautly was on the boards to graduate from the fly-fishing class and as always there were about ten other FATC members that wanted to participate in the graduation. But on Wednesday night Kenny was in Springfield, MO delivering the rods and reels bought by the latest FATC members – the Springfield gang. As they picked up their new gear, one of the Springfield six, Ted Betzen, said he could get away on Thursday (the next day) to graduate. So be it – two were going to graduate. Jim Craig and Kenny were in for another day of teaching!
When we arrived at Montauk, we saw that the waters were higher, faster, and cloudy so Jim and Kenny knew it could be a tough day for the graduates. The graduates would have to work for every trout they caught (of course, including the other FATC members). We always say when the waters are high and cloudy, go big and gaudy. That is where the “Freak Show” comes in. Most fish caught were on big “pink” cerise worms, egg patterns, streamers and oh yeah, the Butt Monkey??? This fly that Dan Stag used was almost bigger than the trout he caught (see pictures)! The wacky flies were flying out of the fly boxes on this day. Kenny and Jim both saw, on two separate occasions, a small snake swimming on top of the water just to be devoured by a big trout. Does anyone know of a good snake pattern?
The fishing was tough. I think most guys never did find a pattern that was consistent. Ok, maybe except for the “cerise worm.” Overall, the guys that were successful had to get their flies right on the bottom. Of course, all of this will change the next time we go out. That is what makes it fun. Al and Ted both graduated in the afternoon with a few fish, but they found out just because you are in the park it is not easy as you think. But Al and Ted enjoyed the day. They did realize that they have a lot to learn but as all of us they will get it if they continue going. I think we will see both of them again!
We ended the day with a little Mexican food. Ted and Al toasted their graduation day with a margarita too. The days are getting warmer (at least that is what they tell me) so get out there and get back in the swing of things. Tight lines!
