Spring Fishing for Migrating Trout

Lately, we have been fishing for migratory fish.  This time of year, many fish are on the move.  Some are responding to increased water flows and temperatures.  Some are spawning, and some are following spawning fish to consume their eggs.  By fishing tributaries of lakes and large rivers that have more diverse fish populations, you can catch a better grade of fish that may only be in those waters temporarily.  An example of this would be trout following suckers upstream to eat their eggs.  If you fish these waters before the spring stocking occurs, then you will truly be fishing for that better grade of fish, i.e. larger carry over trout or wild trout.

Tuesday found us on a tributary of one of the many lakes in the area.  We noticed some suckers in this trib.  We caught three rainbow trout between 18” and 22” as well as several trout in the 12” to 14” range.  The larger fish were caught on egg flies, and the others were caught on nymphs.  All were exceptionally healthy and strong. 

Wednesday found us exploring a trib that flows into the Connecticut River.  The water looked ideal, the temps were perfect.  There were mayflies, caddis, and stoneflies in the air.  We fished hard for several hours and got skunked.  Well, that’s fishing.  You never know unless you give it a try.

We spent two afternoons on the water and had one trophy day.  You can bet we will hit the productive water again the same time next year.  Find a few more places like that, and you will be into big fish more regularly.

So, pull out a map, take a little risk, break your old habits and try some new water.  Springtime is the time to do it.  Hit it before the stocking trucks do.  You might be pleasantly surprised with your catch.

4-16-2010