IT'S OFFICIAL!
Connecticut DEEP announced the opening of all waters to trout fishing as of March 23, 2020. A totally responsible and welcome announcement to prevent the traditional opening day madhouse. As of today, Rhode Island has made NO announcement. The DEM Director's email response to mine is "they are considering options." While "social distancing" is built in to our fly fishing DNA, the spectacle of the mob scene on traditional opening day is downright scary.
Most rivers and streams in CT have been stocked or will be by next week. On a recent nice day, the Natchaug was empty of anglers EXCEPT for the Trout Park. What appeared to be a very nice fall holdover rainbow liked a soft hackle hare's ear floated in the film in one of our usual areas. Trout were showing to stonefly nymphs and small caddis. Flow and level was perfect.
Best advice...STAY OUT of the Trout Park, frequented by spin and bait anglers in close proximity to each other, and find isolated water. Not hard to do on the Natchaug OR the Shetucket, which was stocked in the last few days. The Still River which feeds the Natchaug is another option; not many folks bother with this lovely stream. See the link to CT Trout Stocking Maps. (left)
If you haven't tried a hand-tied leader, Chris Fave's many choices are superb for durability, stealth and turnover. Add 2 or 3 feet of tippet; it's all about the DRAG FREE drift!
Another sure sign of SPRING!
The first ospreys are here!
PLEASE everyone, stay safe during this difficult time. Find open water, avoid the easy access areas and look for rising fish...the quills and hendricksons should be showing any time now!
Best of health to everyone!
TEAM7x