Reply To: Rising fish

Dear Grasshopper,

Rising fish you say you saw? Emergers or dries rising fish could be eating but “which” is why you ask?

Hmmm, this Baptist camp I have been to before many moons ago. The so called trout can be fickle here. The difference between sips and splashes you seem to know. The first I ask is – are the adult aquatic insects ON the water? If no, is the answer then I go to emergers first – a dry I am not saying is wrong choice. A dry – dropper could be a good choice or swinging small emergers may be even better.

BUT the problem I think could have been the “size” of your flies. 16 -18 size even though small may be too large for what these finicky fish want. The size 20 barr’s emerger that your Sensei throws at times could be a good choice but again too large? I can’t see those tiny flies you say? Try a 16 dry caddis and add a size 20-22 dry as a trailer? Swinging tiny flies 20 or less, throw 45 degree downstream and keep your line “taut” then wait for the strike (by feel or by sight) but set the hook “slowly” – just a lift. Keeping line “taut” throughout the swing is important. Feeling the strike is important. Lifting the rod to set the hook is important.

So Grasshopper, next time smaller flies you must try! Be patient and how do you say “tight lines”!!