Frightful Weather

GOOD FISHING WATER
HAS RETURNED

It's Not Cold - It's Bitter

not quite ice-out

.. The neighbors, bless 'em all, have squiggled themselves into the perfect fishing situation. No crowds, plenty of willing fish, strenuous access, shelter from the breeze, bears to watch, and beautiful scenery. What more could you ask.
.. The ice is beginning to recede from the tail end of Quake Lake. Although ice-out on the lakes is certainly 2-3 weeks or more away, there is a bit of open water near the outlet of Quake Lake.
.. Of course the 'worm guys' found it first; just about 24 hours in front of the 'gear guys.' Fly fishers were a bit slow on the uptake, but are finally there to join the fun. Worm bits and a small split shot will gather up 20" trout about a foot from the ice and in the top three feet of water. A 000 golden Mepps or Roster Tail with an intermittent retrieve will also work wonders.
.. The "fly guys" are using small streamers, ungreased, and on a long heavy sinking leader. Little Brown Trout flies are the first choice right now. The Hellifiknow is also taking good sized fish.
.. The trout are podded-up, (is that a word?) at the edge of the ice and eating all bits and pieces of crap exfoliated from the edge of the ice. It is still possible to reach the edge of the ice with a hearty roll cast, or a well placed reach cast.
.. Once the fly is on the ice, wait a minute or a bit more. It's hard to do because the monsters will come up to see what's the fuss. About the time the fish begin to settle and disappear from view, slowly drag your offering into the water and let it sink. If there are no takers immediately, slowly, (repeat, SLOWLY,) retrieve the offering keeping it's depth at the edge of your vision. Hook-ups are about one in three casts for the "fly guys" sometimes better for worms and gear.
.. The worse the weather, the better the fishing. At this time of year 20" Brown Trout and 22" Rainbow Trout are common. You will need some Alpaca Knickers to fully enjoy this form of brutality.