5/20/07

Sunday was my first half hearted attempt to get out this season. I know we are well into the 2nd month in NY (which is the 5th month in NJ) but i could not get out until now. I planned to drive to the river and sit watching the flow for a while. In general i seem to be watching more than fishing lately but fishing more effectively when i do get out.

I choose i spot where i have never had any luck, although i know there are fish in this section of the river. I parked the car and just as i hit the trail down to the river i noticed a spotted fawn lying 5 feet from the trail and 10 feet from the road. He was fine, just taking a nap and so i did not take a picture or disturb him. I walked down to the river and strung up the 3 wt. The river was high & cold for this time of year, but i quickly found a rhythm, flipping a Micky Finn into the current and letting it drift down to the first fish a nice 14" brookie. The temperature made him a bit more lethargic then a mid May trout is usually, but it was fine fish, firm and silky.

At some point in the afternoon a large snake crossed the current, i guess it was about 6' long. No idea what kind of snake it was, but it was 15 feet from me and that felt comfortable (as he was down river and the current was on my side). After he passed into the brush on the far side i focused on 2 good current threads and i alternated between them for a few hours with a cigar to break the time up. The faster inside current held a few rainbows - 15 maybe 16" with a bit more life than the brookies.

The longer you go with out getting out the long you will continue to go with out getting out... so just go, now, it does not matter for how long or far or what or if you catch anything but standing in a river clears your mind and allows you to digest loss and melt concern away.

Plus it should make it that much easier to get away on the next trip out..