team7x

Pre-opening day trout report

As we approach Opening Day of the regular trout season, a reminder that several TMA's in eastern CT including the Willimantic and Moosup are open YEAR ROUND and have been recently stocked. The Yantic River yielded some very nice trout, mostly rainbows, on a recent warm day. Located just west of Norwich, mostly in the town of Lebanon, the Yantic features pocket water, runs and some very nice pools that will take some exploring.  Early little black stoneflies are present on warmer afternoons and the trout become active with their presence. There are 2 FLY FISHING ONLY sections, clearly marked.

The trout were on emergers and nymphs in the surface film and would take a fluttering natural on occasion and let many go on by; we've found the early stonefly hatch to be very unpredictable over the years, as the trout seem to be very selective in taking the naturals on top. A size 16 or 18 will do.

                                               

Of concern, the water level on the Yantic is currently at 105cfs.  For future reference the Natchaug is at 84.1cfs.  These are MID JUNE numbers and do not bode well for the early season.  Lack of snow, ground water and rain will have a major impact on our freestones this Spring.

For RI anglers and elsewhere, don't forget your CTDEEP license. A trout stamp is required in ALL TMA's as well. There are NO open trout waters in RI prior to April 13.

Check your fly lines, butt sections and leaders for nicks or weak spots.  Make sure your tippet isn't past its useful life...unbelievable the newer fly fishers we observe and work with who don't add tippet to their leader, or don't choose to add a stiff 2' or so mono butt section to the fly line.   USE THIS KNOT and get rid of loop-to-loop! No hinging, better turn-over.

https://www.animatedknots.com/nail-knot

We prefer hand-tied leaders as a matter of choice which are easy to rebuild and in our opinion straighten and turn over better.  If you don't tie your own leaders, see our new PRO STAFF partner:

                                                   christopherfaveflyfishing.com
    

 For the best in purchased flies be sure to visit our PRO STAFF partner at:

                                                             discountflies.com

If we can help with a day or evening on the water or with casting tune-ups for newer anglers, give us a shout! We'll see you on the water!
Drag Free!
Tom & Everett
TEAM7x.com