Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on June 17, 2012, 16:15:23 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on June 17, 2012, 16:15:23 PM
I talked to a couple of people about just having a thread for the Smith. I decided I was going to post mine on just one anyway. So here goes. I went back yesterday on 5 hours sleep due to one of my twin daughters calling me at 1:30 in the morning to inform me they ran into a girl from my home town they went to high school with, in a bar in Atlanta. That's nice, but I do believe that news could have held on until 10 or 11 the next morning. I got up bleary eyed and headed North. On the way I called that knot headed daughter and woke her up! -0- I arrived at the spot I was going to fish around 2 or so. There was an elderly gentleman in the parking lot rigging up. He was a nice guy and we talked for awhile. I decided I was going to let him have that spot and head on upstream. I went to a place I haven't fished in 2 years. It took me a little while to get wired in, but once I found the fish I started catching some. I ended up with 7 fish out of that spot, 1 rainbow and 6 browns. Only 2 of the browns were under the slot. I would have stayed there and fished for awhile, but I saw a man coming from upstream headed my way, so I headed back to the car. I went back to where I started and the elderly gentleman had left. I walked upstream and hit the river. After a few minutes I remembered why I had not been back to that place in several years. I hate that water. I remembered where I had caught a decent fish the last time I had fished it several years ago, and eased down to where the spot was and cast under the limb and snatched one about 11 inches out. As soon as I got him in, I cut my losses and headed back to the car. I went on downstream and caught 2 more decent browns well into the slot. I have been fishing some new flies I have been messing with and they weed out the smaller fish. I have enjoyed the last few trips big time.
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith6-16-12008.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith6-16-12006.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith6-16-12005.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith6-16-12004.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith6-16-12002.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith6-16-12001.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith6-16-12009.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith6-16-12008.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith6-16-12006.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith6-16-12005.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith6-16-12004.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith6-16-12002.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith6-16-12001.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith6-16-12009.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 17, 2012, 16:49:24 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 17, 2012, 16:49:24 PM
Quote from: 5xTippett on June 17, 2012, 16:15:23 PM
... I got up bleary eyed and headed North. On the way I called that knot headed daughter and woke her up! -0- ...
And a happy Father's Day to ya! b';
I know the last of mine will chime in after I pass out on the sofa later. Jeesh.
Good going Ben! I am all for continuing this thread with all Smiff TR's.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on June 17, 2012, 21:11:46 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on June 17, 2012, 21:11:46 PM
Those Smith River brownies are no match for you man. Nice work! 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: bmeador on June 18, 2012, 10:35:14 AM
Post by: bmeador on June 18, 2012, 10:35:14 AM
I was able to fish Sat. morning. Water was gin-clear and 52 degrees at first light. I had a terrible time w/my hook set and was too slow on the strike! Was fishing a nymph. Finally got my act together and started connecting. Landed 4 browns 7 - 12 inches, nothing spectacular. Typical Smith brownies. I did land what I think is the smallest 'bow I've ever seen in the river. It might've been 6 inches!
[attach=1]
Had to quit at 11 and head back home (2 1/2 hrs.) but I had a good day on the stream. Gas was $2.989 out in Bassett Forks!
[attach=1]
Had to quit at 11 and head back home (2 1/2 hrs.) but I had a good day on the stream. Gas was $2.989 out in Bassett Forks!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on June 18, 2012, 20:46:20 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on June 18, 2012, 20:46:20 PM
Sandy, I've caught just a couple of little rainbows like that, but not many. Scott told me they shock a couple every year. Most of them come from upstream.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: tomato can on June 20, 2012, 07:02:21 AM
Post by: tomato can on June 20, 2012, 07:02:21 AM
Anybody going to the smith on Saturday? I am simultaneously trying to get permission from The One Who Must Be Obeyed and talk Big J into catching some Browns. Let me know if anybody wants to go a fishing.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on June 20, 2012, 08:31:23 AM
Post by: Big J on June 20, 2012, 08:31:23 AM
Quote from: tomato can on June 20, 2012, 07:02:21 AM
Anybody going to the smith on Saturday? I am simultaneously trying to get permission from The One Who Must Be Obeyed and talk Big J into catching some Browns. Let me know if anybody wants to go a fishing.
What can I say, I'm addicted to the small waters ;D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gamatt53 on June 20, 2012, 09:06:59 AM
Post by: gamatt53 on June 20, 2012, 09:06:59 AM
I may be floating somewhere saturday but if that falls though i'll be on the smiff.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 20, 2012, 09:35:24 AM
Post by: Dougfish on June 20, 2012, 09:35:24 AM
Quote from: tomato can on June 20, 2012, 07:02:21 AMWell crap, where were you last Sat.? Chores in WV this weekend. b'; Sorry.
Anybody going to the smith on Saturday? I am simultaneously trying to get permission from The One Who Must Be Obeyed and talk Big J into catching some Browns. Let me know if anybody wants to go a fishing.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on June 20, 2012, 11:32:37 AM
Post by: 5xTippett on June 20, 2012, 11:32:37 AM
Family reunion in Aiken, SC for me. Who ever goes wear 'em out!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on June 20, 2012, 11:45:30 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on June 20, 2012, 11:45:30 AM
Good luck gentlemen. I am off the Smith grid for a few weeks, organizing for annual trip to Wyoming.
Be sure to keep a few of those 8-9 inchers.
Be sure to keep a few of those 8-9 inchers.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on June 20, 2012, 12:15:31 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on June 20, 2012, 12:15:31 PM
Man I'd be down for Sunday afternoon
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on June 20, 2012, 16:08:14 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on June 20, 2012, 16:08:14 PM
"Be sure to keep a few of those 8-9 inchers." Stephen, that is from the library on upstream. From the library on down it is supposed to be in better balance. I am only keeping the little ones downstream of the library, if they are bleeding like stuck pigs.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: jwgnc on June 20, 2012, 20:41:18 PM
Post by: jwgnc on June 20, 2012, 20:41:18 PM
That water sure is clear - how'd yah fool em
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on June 20, 2012, 21:07:30 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on June 20, 2012, 21:07:30 PM
Jay, I use 12 ft leaders with 3 feet of fluorocarbon tippitt. I fish flat water. I walk through water most people fish and I fish water most people walk through. Other people use different lengths and sizes according to how they fish and what they fish with. I don't do false casts either. That river has taught me to never get cocky after a good day. It will come back and hurt your feelings. Man, it sure is pretty though.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on June 20, 2012, 21:24:48 PM
Post by: Big J on June 20, 2012, 21:24:48 PM
Quote from: 5xTippett on June 20, 2012, 21:07:30 PM
Jay, I use 12 ft leaders with 3 feet of fluorocarbon tippitt. I fish flat water. I walk through water most people fish and I fish water most people walk through. Other people use different lengths and sizes according to how they fish and what they fish with. I don't do false casts either. That river has taught me to never get cocky after a good day. It will come back and hurt your feelings. Man, it sure is pretty though.
And that TC is why I'll be fishing a blue line Saturday ;D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 22, 2012, 07:57:26 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 22, 2012, 07:57:26 AM
It appears weekend generation for the boaters has begun. 700 cfs 2-5pm Sat., and Sun. scheduled for the same. I would like a trip report if any lucky so-and-so fishes after the generation either day. I'll be there Monday AM if anyone wants to join me. /'/
(http://waterwatch.usgs.gov/wwapps/ww_chart.php?i=nwis&vt=uv&ot=q&site_no=02072000)
(http://waterwatch.usgs.gov/wwapps/ww_chart.php?i=nwis&vt=uv&ot=q&site_no=02072000)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on July 22, 2012, 21:02:08 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on July 22, 2012, 21:02:08 PM
They weren't supposed to do that this year, unless the boaters snuck it without telling anybody. I am hoping it is just a one day thing. The biologist says it hurts the minnow population, which hurts the size of the fish the next year. The boaters can use the river anytime they want to with my blessings, but I am not big on them using politics to get the generation messed with. They generate all week anyway if they need a bunch of water to boat with. They can leave the weekends for the fisherman.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: bmeador on July 23, 2012, 08:39:43 AM
Post by: bmeador on July 23, 2012, 08:39:43 AM
I agree 100% Ben. I feel it was related to all the rain they've been getting. Compared to Farmville, Bassett is a rain forest this year.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 23, 2012, 09:16:04 AM
Post by: Al on July 23, 2012, 09:16:04 AM
Not sure what has happened. Even the folks who should have "been in the know" were caught by surprise. So far no one is claiming responsibility or credit so it may have been just a fluke - we will see what happens next weekend.
I personally don't mind a weekend generation but if it is for recreational purposes they should time it from 9am to 1pm. That would put the slug of water along the river when most folks, including the fishermen could take advantage of it.
While I have your attention there was a letter to the editor in todays MV Bulletin by SRTU VP Lisa Hall about the litter problem and the our commitment to change that - http://www.martinsvillebulletin.com/article.cfm?ID=34004+ (http://www.martinsvillebulletin.com/article.cfm?ID=34004+) Need your help on Aug 4th with the clean up and beyond to make sure it does not revert back to being known as a "trashy river"
I personally don't mind a weekend generation but if it is for recreational purposes they should time it from 9am to 1pm. That would put the slug of water along the river when most folks, including the fishermen could take advantage of it.
While I have your attention there was a letter to the editor in todays MV Bulletin by SRTU VP Lisa Hall about the litter problem and the our commitment to change that - http://www.martinsvillebulletin.com/article.cfm?ID=34004+ (http://www.martinsvillebulletin.com/article.cfm?ID=34004+) Need your help on Aug 4th with the clean up and beyond to make sure it does not revert back to being known as a "trashy river"
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on July 23, 2012, 11:07:21 AM
Post by: 5xTippett on July 23, 2012, 11:07:21 AM
Four hours is too much. One to two hours early in the morning would accomplish what the boaters want without hurting the minnows. Over two hours hurts the minnows which affects the size of the fish and runs out of town fisherman off the river. The whole idea of the slot was to increase the size of the fish and increase angler hours.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 23, 2012, 11:52:35 AM
Post by: Al on July 23, 2012, 11:52:35 AM
Quote from: 5xTippett on July 23, 2012, 11:07:21 AM
Four hours is too much. One to two hours early in the morning would accomplish what the boaters want without hurting the minnows. Over two hours hurts the minnows which affects the size of the fish and runs out of town fisherman off the river. The whole idea of the slot was to increase the size of the fish and increase angler hours.
We'll have to agree to disagree on this one Ben.
I originally thought 2 hours would be plenty but have since learned the paddlers need at least 3 hours. It takes at least an hour for the water to get up so boats can safely pass over the majority of rocks. They also need sufficient water coming behind them that they don't run out of water before they get to the take out point because that would ground them and make for a lot of dragging. For example if you're canoing and fishing at the same time and stop to play a fish or pull over to fish a particularly good looking stretch of riffles you could find yourself running out of water. Same thing would happen if you're kyaking and stop to take pictures or dally at all.
Not sure about the minnow issues but don't see how shutting down generation for the weekend and starting it up for 5 consecutive days during the week would make much difference. I do know a slug of cold water on the weekend helps even out the water temp and helps the way-downstream fishery when water temps are pushing 70-80 degrees.
As far as "running the out of town fishermen off the river" - I don't see that. You can easily figure the flow rate and move up or downstream with the flow. I even see an advantage if they stop generation in the early afternoon - You'd have several hours of "fishing falling water" which is a prime time for fishing the Smith. On other hand, if like last Saturday, they start at 1pm and run until 5pm there is not enough time for anyone, even the paddlers, to take full advantage of it. (Much better to start in mid morning and stop early afternoon - so slug of water passes by where folks can take advantage of it) - We will just have to see what happens this weekend. Like I said, no one at this stage is sure if it was a fluke or something else is going on. If it is "something else" we need to weigh in on the timing of the release.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on July 23, 2012, 18:27:10 PM
Post by: troutrus on July 23, 2012, 18:27:10 PM
I'm not certain, but I believe that they direct generation toward peak demand periods. Even last year when they "agreed" to run at the request of the angling user group, the time agreed to was in the PM.
http://srtu.wordpress.com/2011/06/29/saturday-generation-starts-this-weekend-july-2nd/ (http://srtu.wordpress.com/2011/06/29/saturday-generation-starts-this-weekend-july-2nd/)
So now, that same group is claiming that the weekend generation is a detriment to the fishery? That's amazing.
http://srtu.wordpress.com/2011/06/29/saturday-generation-starts-this-weekend-july-2nd/ (http://srtu.wordpress.com/2011/06/29/saturday-generation-starts-this-weekend-july-2nd/)
So now, that same group is claiming that the weekend generation is a detriment to the fishery? That's amazing.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on July 23, 2012, 19:06:59 PM
Post by: 22midge on July 23, 2012, 19:06:59 PM
I guess there has to be some middle ground but it seems no one is looking. ;D ;D ;D For those that fish the upper river it can be a problem.I think it is great to get some cooler water down stream and I believe it made a difference down stream last year.Its my understanding that the VDGIF thinks the 4 hour burp can cause some damage.We need to share with the boaters and they can be a great source and a voice when time to make changes and asking for help to make the river better.I personally liked the flows that were coming down river while they were working on the dam.I saw lots more bugs and fish on the feed.Keep it around 100---150cfs during non-generation and do the ramping and take away some of the surge and temp. spikes..... ;D ;D ;D mid-- river and down stream will become a better river.Just my opinion but I never saw enough boaters last year to wonder who was taking advantage of the flows.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 23, 2012, 19:40:04 PM
Post by: Al on July 23, 2012, 19:40:04 PM
PeeWee has it about right. There is black and white and somewhere in the middle there is gray. No one, including DGIF is certain what the ideal is. The only certainty is right now we have turbines which only go "full on or full off" and the intake is at the level where water coming out of the turbines is 44 degrees. Until the turbines are changed and they put in a mixing tower, the fishery will continue to struggle. They can tweak it with ramping and slot limits but even DGIF admits it is a holding action at best. We may be able to increase the growth an inch or two but that is only speculation. New turbines and a mixing tower would leave enough water behind the dam so the state could mandate a minimum flow of 100 cfs like PeeWee suggested instead of the present 20-30 cfs. The water temp could be adjusted to 55-60 degrees which biologist say would increase insect and forage fish proliferation. You've heard DGIF Biologist Scott Smith say this many times, "little fish don't get big eating midges".
We have studied this to death and know with scientific certainty what must be done. (yes, even that may not be correct but do you have a better solution) What we need now is the political will power and clout to move things forward. We need you to help by talking it up with folks who may have political influence - it will not happen otherwise.
We have studied this to death and know with scientific certainty what must be done. (yes, even that may not be correct but do you have a better solution) What we need now is the political will power and clout to move things forward. We need you to help by talking it up with folks who may have political influence - it will not happen otherwise.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on July 24, 2012, 19:07:24 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on July 24, 2012, 19:07:24 PM
I talked to Scott this afternoon and he said I could post our conversation on here. He said 1 to 2 hours generation on a Saturday morning would probably not hurt the minnows. Anything over 2 hours would probably hurt the minnow population which would hurt the size of the browns the following year. He has charts showing the correlation between low generation during the summer and the increase in the minnow population. Also, he is hoping for an increase in the average size of the browns of around 1/2 inch just for the slot limit being in effect. The effects of the ramping of the generators is not known, but if it increases the amount of insects we should see some more improvement in average size. If people will remove some of the browns under the slot we should see even more increases in the size of the browns. That pretty much wraps it up.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on July 24, 2012, 20:41:09 PM
Post by: 22midge on July 24, 2012, 20:41:09 PM
1. The River
2. The Fishermen
3. The Boaters
Ok to me the river is most important.The opinion of the VDGIF should not be ignored if it effects the river.
The fishermen can be mobile and move to fish the down water or the dropping water but if they are to be asked to ride the wave then why not ask the boaters?
I would say the boats are looking for motion and can ride the wave downstream.Why not ride the two hour burp to the next launch site and move to the next as we ask the fishermen to move down river or up to fish the falling water ?
I dont know the answers but if one does not join the other then there is no common goal by either and then the river will loose.The middle river and lower is a dangerous place if you have water rising because of the deep cuts and banks.I know of lots of water that you can get out only at a few locations and then there is no access to get back to your vehicle.I personally have no problem with the release because it helps the mid and lower river but it takes the river away from the fishermen that fish from mid river up to the dam.Damn all I see in this post is black and white b'; b'; b';
2. The Fishermen
3. The Boaters
Ok to me the river is most important.The opinion of the VDGIF should not be ignored if it effects the river.
The fishermen can be mobile and move to fish the down water or the dropping water but if they are to be asked to ride the wave then why not ask the boaters?
I would say the boats are looking for motion and can ride the wave downstream.Why not ride the two hour burp to the next launch site and move to the next as we ask the fishermen to move down river or up to fish the falling water ?
I dont know the answers but if one does not join the other then there is no common goal by either and then the river will loose.The middle river and lower is a dangerous place if you have water rising because of the deep cuts and banks.I know of lots of water that you can get out only at a few locations and then there is no access to get back to your vehicle.I personally have no problem with the release because it helps the mid and lower river but it takes the river away from the fishermen that fish from mid river up to the dam.Damn all I see in this post is black and white b'; b'; b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on July 29, 2012, 16:13:34 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on July 29, 2012, 16:13:34 PM
I went back Saturday and fished for about 4 hours, more or less. I stayed in Bassett rather than going way up or downstream. As I was rolling through town I saw a group of wild looking characters heading for the river, Al and crew! I had fun and caught about 10 or eleven, of which 2 were rainbows. I had 4 browns in the slot and the rest were dinks. I hooked one grown one which swam right at me and escaped. One of the rainbows was fairly small and had par marks.
The rainbow with par marks which I am reasonably certain is wild.
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith7-28-12004.jpg)
The decent browns
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith7-28-12005.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith7-28-12002.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith7-28-12001.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith7-28-12006.jpg)
After I quit fishing I stopped by Al's and ate kebabs and visited. One of the guys with Al who had never caught a brown trout before caught a 17 incher that afternoon. i saw the picture!
The rainbow with par marks which I am reasonably certain is wild.
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith7-28-12004.jpg)
The decent browns
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith7-28-12005.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith7-28-12002.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith7-28-12001.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith7-28-12006.jpg)
After I quit fishing I stopped by Al's and ate kebabs and visited. One of the guys with Al who had never caught a brown trout before caught a 17 incher that afternoon. i saw the picture!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 29, 2012, 19:32:35 PM
Post by: Al on July 29, 2012, 19:32:35 PM
Good to see ya Ben. I'm home now and will get my photos and a little report ready as soon as I put out a few "fires" :o. Took 4 guys who had never fished the Smith before there for the weekend. Everyone caught fish. Not a whole lot but no one got skunked. As been said, one caught a real nice brown. They all promised to come back next weekend for the Smith River Clean Up - You folks should plan to join us - Aug 4th. See a post elsewhere for details.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on July 29, 2012, 20:06:40 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on July 29, 2012, 20:06:40 PM
Nice lookin' fish Ben.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 30, 2012, 09:11:24 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 30, 2012, 09:11:24 AM
Good stuff Ben. You're still wearing that Bassett stretch out! /'/
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 01, 2012, 14:53:38 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 01, 2012, 14:53:38 PM
http://youtu.be/KwG9iRFmY1I (http://youtu.be/KwG9iRFmY1I)
I have been trying to sneak down for a week and I finally talked myself into it this morning. The foggy morning added to the usual morning mist on the river.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-v7UWAbXCb-o/UBl6kTLvkII/AAAAAAAACkI/Cs3mV3pdZds/s640/002.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Q4_b1CIJ-Wk/UBl6yx9g5ZI/AAAAAAAACoI/JKg4CThGANw/s800/038.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-o_9CnkesItQ/UBl6mMKat7I/AAAAAAAACkw/6xbpmH5qpHo/s640/007.JPG?gl=US)
As I got about halfway down to my jump in, my frequent escorts showed up. High holed by the neighborhood dogs!
Did they learn from the master high holer, himself? b';
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-V8KoB0kgUB4/UBl7Bm2ctYI/AAAAAAAACos/uss6OPDPJ7U/s800/009-001.JPG?gl=US)
Got into fish pretty quickly, mostly on the dropper. Not very big fish today, but pretty as always.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-f8lGUJoRy3o/UBl6ljKdJXI/AAAAAAAACko/vC4u5Vh5bsE/s800/005.JPG?gl=US%5Bimg%5D)https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-VTWIiJ52djE/UBl6l-a9HRI/AAAAAAAAClE/PKY5fMJj_yY/s640/006.JPG?gl=US (https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-VTWIiJ52djE/UBl6l-a9HRI/AAAAAAAAClE/PKY5fMJj_yY/s640/006.JPG?gl=US)[/img]
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LSaNm8xCHv8/UBl6mrnrb8I/AAAAAAAACk0/6Y9X7vN0RGw/s800/008.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-9XRDM3Jwcu4/UBl6pW8z-0I/AAAAAAAAClk/LIroMOVGjkQ/s800/014.JPG?gl=US)
The hounds moved back downstream and I jumped over the disturbed hole and kept enjoying the cold water, the kingfishers call, and the late summer flora.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZJHIInp25qk/UBl6vuFvpCI/AAAAAAAACnQ/run9mtxMAX0/s800/030.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-pACtP5_yyik/UBl6wMQ8qoI/AAAAAAAACnY/dOYbfCwnCVM/s800/032.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-AbTXQbobEsw/UBl6xdYq0-I/AAAAAAAACnw/D7MKfbyFcLw/s800/035.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CL4uN8lhVTY/UBl6ySSsUXI/AAAAAAAACoA/mqHj5sebx68/s512/037.JPG?gl=US)
And the fish kept cooperating. I got great satisfaction of catching the nicest fish of the day in a long, slow, shallow section. Lying in the shade, under the tree branches, right where he was supposed to be. And I summoned up the perfect cast and presentation. ;D
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-NltMw6X6Zvg/UBl6tOQWF3I/AAAAAAAACmo/-m99zSBv4Hs/s800/022.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-9XRDM3Jwcu4/UBl6pW8z-0I/AAAAAAAAClk/LIroMOVGjkQ/s800/014.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9F0-ttzDhxI/UBl6rOXzEUI/AAAAAAAACmI/vBG4aZUdAaI/s640/018.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xSd47crjTic/UBl6p0gauNI/AAAAAAAAClw/46i_lWEjZNI/s640/015.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3NRX7t5o3lE/UBl6n8TUR-I/AAAAAAAAClM/K7yTz5iFBbk/s800/011.JPG?gl=US)
The golden dog came back and was better behaved. The black bitch probably went home because I didn't have any treats.
That reminded me, time to get some grub. I eased out of the river before the generation and started scheming on my next trip.
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/--Bj5fa5IW9M/UBl6txpr7rI/AAAAAAAACm4/To1HmM7O4DU/s640/024.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MRG31Q8m4Xg/UBl6zIbsQsI/AAAAAAAACoQ/aZiHW4yUIqI/s800/040.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-K44UTsHTgyg/UBl6x3r3OgI/AAAAAAAACn4/UxmVtCP6AZc/s800/036.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-5lQYEZXQUJY/UBl6zg84IuI/AAAAAAAACoY/TKVFbq9IxiE/s512/041.JPG?gl=US)
I have been trying to sneak down for a week and I finally talked myself into it this morning. The foggy morning added to the usual morning mist on the river.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-v7UWAbXCb-o/UBl6kTLvkII/AAAAAAAACkI/Cs3mV3pdZds/s640/002.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Q4_b1CIJ-Wk/UBl6yx9g5ZI/AAAAAAAACoI/JKg4CThGANw/s800/038.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-o_9CnkesItQ/UBl6mMKat7I/AAAAAAAACkw/6xbpmH5qpHo/s640/007.JPG?gl=US)
As I got about halfway down to my jump in, my frequent escorts showed up. High holed by the neighborhood dogs!
Did they learn from the master high holer, himself? b';
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-V8KoB0kgUB4/UBl7Bm2ctYI/AAAAAAAACos/uss6OPDPJ7U/s800/009-001.JPG?gl=US)
Got into fish pretty quickly, mostly on the dropper. Not very big fish today, but pretty as always.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-f8lGUJoRy3o/UBl6ljKdJXI/AAAAAAAACko/vC4u5Vh5bsE/s800/005.JPG?gl=US%5Bimg%5D)https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-VTWIiJ52djE/UBl6l-a9HRI/AAAAAAAAClE/PKY5fMJj_yY/s640/006.JPG?gl=US (https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-VTWIiJ52djE/UBl6l-a9HRI/AAAAAAAAClE/PKY5fMJj_yY/s640/006.JPG?gl=US)[/img]
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LSaNm8xCHv8/UBl6mrnrb8I/AAAAAAAACk0/6Y9X7vN0RGw/s800/008.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-9XRDM3Jwcu4/UBl6pW8z-0I/AAAAAAAAClk/LIroMOVGjkQ/s800/014.JPG?gl=US)
The hounds moved back downstream and I jumped over the disturbed hole and kept enjoying the cold water, the kingfishers call, and the late summer flora.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZJHIInp25qk/UBl6vuFvpCI/AAAAAAAACnQ/run9mtxMAX0/s800/030.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-pACtP5_yyik/UBl6wMQ8qoI/AAAAAAAACnY/dOYbfCwnCVM/s800/032.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-AbTXQbobEsw/UBl6xdYq0-I/AAAAAAAACnw/D7MKfbyFcLw/s800/035.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CL4uN8lhVTY/UBl6ySSsUXI/AAAAAAAACoA/mqHj5sebx68/s512/037.JPG?gl=US)
And the fish kept cooperating. I got great satisfaction of catching the nicest fish of the day in a long, slow, shallow section. Lying in the shade, under the tree branches, right where he was supposed to be. And I summoned up the perfect cast and presentation. ;D
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-NltMw6X6Zvg/UBl6tOQWF3I/AAAAAAAACmo/-m99zSBv4Hs/s800/022.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-9XRDM3Jwcu4/UBl6pW8z-0I/AAAAAAAAClk/LIroMOVGjkQ/s800/014.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9F0-ttzDhxI/UBl6rOXzEUI/AAAAAAAACmI/vBG4aZUdAaI/s640/018.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xSd47crjTic/UBl6p0gauNI/AAAAAAAAClw/46i_lWEjZNI/s640/015.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3NRX7t5o3lE/UBl6n8TUR-I/AAAAAAAAClM/K7yTz5iFBbk/s800/011.JPG?gl=US)
The golden dog came back and was better behaved. The black bitch probably went home because I didn't have any treats.
That reminded me, time to get some grub. I eased out of the river before the generation and started scheming on my next trip.
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/--Bj5fa5IW9M/UBl6txpr7rI/AAAAAAAACm4/To1HmM7O4DU/s640/024.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MRG31Q8m4Xg/UBl6zIbsQsI/AAAAAAAACoQ/aZiHW4yUIqI/s800/040.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-K44UTsHTgyg/UBl6x3r3OgI/AAAAAAAACn4/UxmVtCP6AZc/s800/036.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-5lQYEZXQUJY/UBl6zg84IuI/AAAAAAAACoY/TKVFbq9IxiE/s512/041.JPG?gl=US)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on August 01, 2012, 22:28:37 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on August 01, 2012, 22:28:37 PM
You did all right, Doug! It has been awhile since I have fished that river in the morning. It must be nice to live close enough to do that.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on August 05, 2012, 21:13:02 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on August 05, 2012, 21:13:02 PM
After a long stay away, I made my way back to the Smith. I went down yesterday and helped out with the clean-up and it gave me the itch to get out and catch a few. I really didn't know what to expect with clear blue skies and 90 degrees, but I just had to go.
I pull into the designated parking area and found a couple of others with the same idea I had. I found a pair of sunglasses on the way in if anybody lost a pair out there?
Tied me on a 12 foot 6x leader with a couple more feet of 7x tippet. Size 16 EHC tied up with a peacock herl body immediately put a fish on the line.
[attach=1]
This stuff was thick on the river bottom and looked like a good hiding place for little critters.
[attach=2]
Man these fish loved some sz 16 adams and sz 16 sulphurs.
[attach=3]
All the fish were dinky as could be, but it was still great to get out. I need to get me a medium action 3wt to have a little more fun wrestling those little guys in.
The Hike out
[attach=4]
Until next time
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 06, 2012, 08:00:03 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 06, 2012, 08:00:03 AM
Glad you got out and had some success, Scott. Good stuff!
Yea, that hike out is a beotch. 0:0
Yea, that hike out is a beotch. 0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 06, 2012, 08:13:04 AM
Post by: Al on August 06, 2012, 08:13:04 AM
Quote from: 5xTippett on August 01, 2012, 22:28:37 PM
You did all right, Doug! It has been awhile since I have fished that river in the morning. It must be nice to live close enough to do that.
Admit it Ben - even if you lived right along side the river you won't hit it before noon because you're not an early riser. :P
Good to see a lot of familiar faces at the clean up - Thanks for helping out guys and gals.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 06, 2012, 14:16:54 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 06, 2012, 14:16:54 PM
good stuf guys! nice to see the Smith getting some lov'in
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on August 11, 2012, 21:59:08 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on August 11, 2012, 21:59:08 PM
http://www.youtu.be/9JFgC3Ub10E (http://www.youtu.be/9JFgC3Ub10E)
Woke up early this morning and jumped on the zero turn and mowed some wet jungle grass. With the amount of rain we have been getting, two weeks in between mows is tough on the mower. Finally about noon I made it down to the Smith River fest. From what I hear it was record turn out. Dougfish and I had planned to help out at the booth and then head to the river for an evening fish. About 3 p.m. we made like horse crap and hit the trail.
The river was up a bit and lightly stained. We both sort of guessed that it was about 6 inches higher than normal. Its amazing what just a little bit of extra water will do. Areas that are normally empty or what I would consider useless water proved to be the most productive areas.
It wasn't too long before we were both into fish.
[attach=1]
We had a group of paddlers make their way through.
[attach=2]
What is a TR without a flower photo?
[attach=3]
We both struggled pretty bad with losing fish. Plenty rising to our presentations and just not connecting or coming unbuttoned during the retrieve. But we still managed several a piece.
[attach=4]
[attach=6]
Dougfish throwing some tight loops
[attach=5]
One of Doug's
[attach=7]
Biggest brownie for me
[attach=8]
We fished until I couldn't see my hand in front of my face.
[attach=9]
Overall it was a good time on the river. The brownies were very cooperative.
Until next time...
Woke up early this morning and jumped on the zero turn and mowed some wet jungle grass. With the amount of rain we have been getting, two weeks in between mows is tough on the mower. Finally about noon I made it down to the Smith River fest. From what I hear it was record turn out. Dougfish and I had planned to help out at the booth and then head to the river for an evening fish. About 3 p.m. we made like horse crap and hit the trail.
The river was up a bit and lightly stained. We both sort of guessed that it was about 6 inches higher than normal. Its amazing what just a little bit of extra water will do. Areas that are normally empty or what I would consider useless water proved to be the most productive areas.
It wasn't too long before we were both into fish.
[attach=1]
We had a group of paddlers make their way through.
[attach=2]
What is a TR without a flower photo?
[attach=3]
We both struggled pretty bad with losing fish. Plenty rising to our presentations and just not connecting or coming unbuttoned during the retrieve. But we still managed several a piece.
[attach=4]
[attach=6]
Dougfish throwing some tight loops
[attach=5]
One of Doug's
[attach=7]
Biggest brownie for me
[attach=8]
We fished until I couldn't see my hand in front of my face.
[attach=9]
Overall it was a good time on the river. The brownies were very cooperative.
Until next time...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 12, 2012, 06:39:34 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 12, 2012, 06:39:34 AM
I met up with Al, Larry and Darrin for a little tying, socializing and talking to the public about TU and fly fishing at the Smith River Fest. By 3 I was d-o-n-e done and fireboy was chomping at the bit to get his feet wet. Tally ho!
The combination of mid 80's, high humidty and a 4 hour generation made for some awesome fog.
He's up stream in the stew.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-0odzZjO8XnY/UCeO-_A3atI/AAAAAAAACqU/Ni4vPa6X7tk/s720/004.JPG?gl=US)
He got into fish pretty quick, I got in a few misses and finally got enough separation between us to hit the nice water he had started in. :D
Then the rock grinding, water splashing yak family came along. Forkers. And I couldn't for the life of me handle a fish and take a picture today. Butterfingers with the butter fish.
Caught up with Scott and we started back into them.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-JO6-MFLQYi4/UCeO_pUMcII/AAAAAAAACqk/6GhaGgNTZR0/s640/006.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-zuy3gFJ9vBo/UCePBNdAF4I/AAAAAAAACq0/V6QWisz6dts/s720/008.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7mNoNdz7G9k/UCePBkFNEKI/AAAAAAAACq8/Q4mw_s7a34k/s640/009.JPG?gl=US)
As Scott said, Townes Creek had stained the water some, and from increased runoff, and/or increased flow from the dam we had 6 extra inches of water to work with. Definitively spread the fish out some.
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Jako6uKEF1k/UCePCkG-2dI/AAAAAAAACrM/9BfsRlMn-1M/s800/011.JPG?gl=US)
We fished until dark and hit a quick little hatch you couldn't even see for last minute action.
We both did well, but he spanked me today. Til next time.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PvxtQVxwv2g/UCeO9syhZmI/AAAAAAAACp8/Q9fFoCy1jc0/s640/001.JPG?gl=US)
The combination of mid 80's, high humidty and a 4 hour generation made for some awesome fog.
He's up stream in the stew.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-0odzZjO8XnY/UCeO-_A3atI/AAAAAAAACqU/Ni4vPa6X7tk/s720/004.JPG?gl=US)
He got into fish pretty quick, I got in a few misses and finally got enough separation between us to hit the nice water he had started in. :D
Then the rock grinding, water splashing yak family came along. Forkers. And I couldn't for the life of me handle a fish and take a picture today. Butterfingers with the butter fish.
Caught up with Scott and we started back into them.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-JO6-MFLQYi4/UCeO_pUMcII/AAAAAAAACqk/6GhaGgNTZR0/s640/006.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-zuy3gFJ9vBo/UCePBNdAF4I/AAAAAAAACq0/V6QWisz6dts/s720/008.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7mNoNdz7G9k/UCePBkFNEKI/AAAAAAAACq8/Q4mw_s7a34k/s640/009.JPG?gl=US)
As Scott said, Townes Creek had stained the water some, and from increased runoff, and/or increased flow from the dam we had 6 extra inches of water to work with. Definitively spread the fish out some.
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Jako6uKEF1k/UCePCkG-2dI/AAAAAAAACrM/9BfsRlMn-1M/s800/011.JPG?gl=US)
We fished until dark and hit a quick little hatch you couldn't even see for last minute action.
We both did well, but he spanked me today. Til next time.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PvxtQVxwv2g/UCeO9syhZmI/AAAAAAAACp8/Q9fFoCy1jc0/s640/001.JPG?gl=US)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on August 14, 2012, 12:15:15 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on August 14, 2012, 12:15:15 PM
It would be nice if people would bake in their own juices so they could let up on the generation on weekdays. Sure would like to get out after work.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 14, 2012, 13:51:17 PM
Post by: Al on August 14, 2012, 13:51:17 PM
Good reports Doug & Scott. Glad you guys got into them. Good working with you at the RiverFest. Thanks for showing support to SRTU.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: wesmsmith on August 19, 2012, 14:49:36 PM
Post by: wesmsmith on August 19, 2012, 14:49:36 PM
Great Report!!!
I`m new to Virginia and need to hit the water. If someone with no experience or knowledge about the Smith was going to fish it, what would you tell them? Where to fish it? What bugs? I appreciate the help.
I`m new to Virginia and need to hit the water. If someone with no experience or knowledge about the Smith was going to fish it, what would you tell them? Where to fish it? What bugs? I appreciate the help.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 19, 2012, 16:50:28 PM
Post by: Al on August 19, 2012, 16:50:28 PM
Quote from: wesmsmith on August 19, 2012, 14:49:36 PM
Great Report!!!
I`m new to Virginia and need to hit the water. If someone with no experience or knowledge about the Smith was going to fish it, what would you tell them? Where to fish it? What bugs? I appreciate the help.
Check your PM box - sent you some info.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on August 19, 2012, 18:25:53 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on August 19, 2012, 18:25:53 PM
I went back to the Smith yesterday for the first time in several weeks. I started way upstream in one of my normal spots and caught 4 in just a few minutes. I heard some wood ducks squealing and a few minutes later a flock flew over my head. Shortly after that I heard laughing and a boat floats by with a man and his daughter. They were nice but it put the fish down. Close to 30 minutes later I started seeing fish again. I ended up with about a dozen out of that spot. I hopped back in the car and headed downstream to Wooly's and Mud's spot. I don't normally mess with that place as a general rule because of the crowds, but I am glad I stopped. There wasn't but one car in the parking lot. I fished for about 2 hours and caught around another dozen. I left around 8 and arrived home around midnight. Not a bad day.
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-18-12013.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-18-12012.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-18-12010.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-18-12009.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-18-12007.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-18-12014.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-18-12013.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-18-12012.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-18-12010.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-18-12009.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-18-12007.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-18-12014.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 19, 2012, 19:15:38 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 19, 2012, 19:15:38 PM
Good beatdown, Ben. 'c;
I won't be back for a few weeks or more myself. That damn job thing......
I won't be back for a few weeks or more myself. That damn job thing......
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on August 20, 2012, 18:59:00 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on August 20, 2012, 18:59:00 PM
Good stuff...I hope to get back out this weekend!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on August 25, 2012, 19:58:55 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on August 25, 2012, 19:58:55 PM
Woke up at 6 this morning, threw some clothes on, and headed to the river. Made it to the parking area around 6:45. I completely suited up and realized I left my beverages at home. I pondered for a little about just hiking in and not worrying about it. But, I knew if I didn't have something to drink I would wish that I did. So I got back in the truck, waders and all, and made the couple mile drive back to the nearest store.
Forgive me if this was one of your cousins, but I made a little remark to the lady at the register, "I know I look ridiculous in this body suit". But, then she smiled and let out a big laugh and the 1 tooth in her head made me not feel so bad. Anyway, good laugh and I raced back to the river.
Its about 7:30 at this time and I still had about a mile hike I was going to make down the tracks. I don't know what I was so worried about time since I had until about 3 p.m. before I needed to head home.
Finally got my feet wet, but after an hour I was ready to gouge my eyes out. I've tried several things at this point and nothing is working. At about 9:00 a.m. or a little after a good fish made an awesome rise to something and gave me a little hint that things might start picking up. It wasn't but a few minutes later and I started getting into some fish.
[attach=1]
[attach=2]
Stumpled upon this pile. It was either a fox or a coyote. Not sure what happened, but it was surprisingly in tact just to be mainly skull and bones.
[attach=3]
Weatherman, or at the least the source I use, was a little wrong this morning. It rained off and on on me all morning and I never saw the sun. But, I had the river to myself so I can't complain.
[attach=4]
[attach=5]
[attach=6]
[attach=7]
[attach=8]
[attach=9]
Overall the Smith treated me very well today. Leaves were starting to fall. Summer is leaving.
Until next time.
Forgive me if this was one of your cousins, but I made a little remark to the lady at the register, "I know I look ridiculous in this body suit". But, then she smiled and let out a big laugh and the 1 tooth in her head made me not feel so bad. Anyway, good laugh and I raced back to the river.
Its about 7:30 at this time and I still had about a mile hike I was going to make down the tracks. I don't know what I was so worried about time since I had until about 3 p.m. before I needed to head home.
Finally got my feet wet, but after an hour I was ready to gouge my eyes out. I've tried several things at this point and nothing is working. At about 9:00 a.m. or a little after a good fish made an awesome rise to something and gave me a little hint that things might start picking up. It wasn't but a few minutes later and I started getting into some fish.
[attach=1]
[attach=2]
Stumpled upon this pile. It was either a fox or a coyote. Not sure what happened, but it was surprisingly in tact just to be mainly skull and bones.
[attach=3]
Weatherman, or at the least the source I use, was a little wrong this morning. It rained off and on on me all morning and I never saw the sun. But, I had the river to myself so I can't complain.
[attach=4]
[attach=5]
[attach=6]
[attach=7]
[attach=8]
[attach=9]
Overall the Smith treated me very well today. Leaves were starting to fall. Summer is leaving.
Until next time.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on August 25, 2012, 20:10:43 PM
Post by: gonephishin' on August 25, 2012, 20:10:43 PM
Awesome job, beautiful browns! I hit the river after work today, didn't have much time so I stayed close to home and fished below Martinsville dam at the canoe launch. I managed about 10 fish but unfortunately they were all bait!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 25, 2012, 20:36:55 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 25, 2012, 20:36:55 PM
Nice fish! Glad you got out and got into fish and stayed hydrated, Scott. I wish I had the time to join you. b';
Got the new 9 wt. strung up between chores, though. ;D
Got the new 9 wt. strung up between chores, though. ;D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on August 26, 2012, 10:24:18 AM
Post by: 5xTippett on August 26, 2012, 10:24:18 AM
Consumed, you take a lot better pictures than me! I believe I need to take a photography course. Anyway, I fished yesterday afternoon and I didn't see a soul. I got to the parking lot a little after 3 and I was the only one there. I walked down the tracks a ways and fished back up. The first hour or so I caught a grand total of 4 fish, three of which were dinks. I made it to the next pool about 5 or so and I started catching fish immediately, some of them decent. After awhile I decided to get out and head toward Bassett to finish the afternoon off downstream. I stopped midtown and fished for another hour or so and picked up some more fish. I do enjoy that river, but I was whipped by the time I got home.
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-25-12011.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-25-12010.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-25-12008.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-25-12007.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-25-12006.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-25-12005.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-25-12004.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-25-12001.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-25-12012.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-25-12011.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-25-12010.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-25-12008.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-25-12007.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-25-12006.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-25-12005.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-25-12004.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-25-12001.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith8-25-12012.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: flatlander on August 26, 2012, 10:47:35 AM
Post by: flatlander on August 26, 2012, 10:47:35 AM
Nice work, cousin. Glad you got out. Sorry I missed your call yesterday. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 26, 2012, 11:11:29 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 26, 2012, 11:11:29 AM
Things were getting hectic around the house with the wifey and teenage
daughter having words. I took the dog and despite the late hour headed
up the road for some piece and quiet. Filled up the car and drove off,
not stopping for any refreshments, but changed my mind and stopped in
at the Citgo, who knew they stocked Fat Tire?
Sally chased rabbits, and I hit the water. I worked hard trying to get
one fish that was up against the bank under a downed limb, and another
fish that was rising from under a submerged log. Both involved impossible
cast, but occasionally I got the drift. They wanted the fly on the twitch,
and timing was critical. While I got them to rise, I failed to land them.
I fished until it was way way dark, that's one way past reason, but there
were some sulfurs coming off and #8 yellow drakes, too. The cloud filled
sky darkened the water and it appeared inky black. The crickets and
cicadas filled the air with their chirping and the water babbled softly
at 65 cfs. I managed to get a small ones to hand before it became impossible
to see the fly. As I waded back to the trail, I called for Sally. Soon her
silhouette strobed across the trees along the bank and I heard her paws
pounding the ground. Panting , she laid in the river, and waited for me.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/8/0825-12-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/8/0825-12-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/8/0825-12-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/8/0825-12-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/8/0825-12-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 26, 2012, 12:45:54 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 26, 2012, 12:45:54 PM
Well played 5X and Wolly. -0-
I need to get back down to the torture chamber.
I need to get back down to the torture chamber.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on August 26, 2012, 13:41:04 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on August 26, 2012, 13:41:04 PM
I packed up around 2 p.m. Looks like the Smith faired well for all of us. V:;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on August 26, 2012, 15:51:02 PM
Post by: gonephishin' on August 26, 2012, 15:51:02 PM
Congrats to all of you guys, much better than my bait fish but I just didn't have time! Beautiful fish!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 27, 2012, 09:47:10 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 27, 2012, 09:47:10 AM
Inspired by the cooler weather I ran off with Sally for another round
of abuse on the Smith River. I was able to leave by four which would give me
an acceptable amount of stream time. When we got to the river I realized that
I forgot my hat. Damn, I always fish with a hat. I checked the trunk and back
seat just to make sure there wasn't a spare lying around. Nope, I'll have to
deal with the afternoon glare, and I imagined that it would be difficult to
deal with. I popped open a Fat Tire and began the walk across the field.
Sally was on full alert, nose held high in the breeze, hoping to catch a scent.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/8/082612-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/8/082612-2.jpg)
First things, first! Lounge around in the cool water after chasing vermin in the field.
When we got to the water I parked my beer on a rock, half submerged in the
cool water, before rigging up my rod. I was in the shade for the moment,
and the sun was illuminating the run on the far side making it easy to see
below the surface. There were a number of midges and a few sulfurs and
grey drakes in the air. A few fish rose, and I turned my head at the sound,
hoping to see the remaining ring.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/8/082612-8.jpg)
The lack of a hat forced me to stand in the shade, which offered a new angle
to the run. I somehow managed a miraculous cast that hooked to the left and
had enough slack in it to allow a nice long drift under the overhanging shrubs.
Bam! Hot stuff! Fucker ran under the log, oh shit. Don't panic! Side pressure;
pull him out from under the obstruction, success! Maybe that deserves another
beer? Na, I'll wait a little longer.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/8/082612-3.jpg)
Although I spotted a number of risers, they weren't all that regular and
the river wasn't exactly on fire. Long drifts close to the bank under the
overhanging trees and rhododendrons passed undisturbed for the most part,
but occasionally a twitch brought on an aggressive strike. Sometimes the
fish missed the fly, and sometimes I landed another stunted Smith River brown.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/8/082612-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/8/082612-5.jpg)
Sally hung out on the river for a while, but then was off up in the field
chasing after small game, while I drank beer and chased after trouts.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/8/082612-6.jpg)
Around dusk I saw this large yellow drake, it was huge, and it fluttered
as it emerged, I grabbed the camera with the intent of videoing the fly
as it bounced along the current trying to gain flight. I mashed the wrong
button and only captured this blurred image just before the fly took off
and flew down the river about a foot above the surface. Twelve feet from
where it became airborne a brown came up off the bottom and leapt out
of the water, acrobatically spinning as if trying to jump a high bar in
a failed attempt to capture the drake in midair. How that fish tracked
the flying mayfly is beyond me, but it was the wow moment of the day.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/8/082612-9.jpg)
As dusk approached, Sally came back down to the river as I finished up the last Fat Tire.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/8/082612-7.jpg)
When it became too dark to fish, we hiked out. Sally's nose picked up
some scent and she ran off through the field.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/8/082612-10.jpg)
I stopped in at the best place in town before the drive home.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/8/082612-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/8/082612-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/8/082612-13.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on August 27, 2012, 11:05:06 AM
Post by: 5xTippett on August 27, 2012, 11:05:06 AM
Keith, I have seen yellow Drakes from time to time, but I hardly ever see fish eat them. Neat!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on August 27, 2012, 17:25:27 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on August 27, 2012, 17:25:27 PM
Nice report. I was telling someone today how I wish most of the fish weren't dinks. But, considering how weary those little guys are, I think there is still something to be said about bringing them to hand.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: croaker on August 27, 2012, 20:03:15 PM
Post by: croaker on August 27, 2012, 20:03:15 PM
Well done hatless TR 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on August 29, 2012, 11:52:37 AM
Post by: gonephishin' on August 29, 2012, 11:52:37 AM
Saw a bit of the sampling below Martinsville dam....I'm sure someone will have pics....looking! pretty damn good
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 29, 2012, 19:51:24 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 29, 2012, 19:51:24 PM
Stream Sampling on the Smith River VA on Vimeo (http://vimeo.com/48488898)
that was me... I tossed some streamers in the morning before they got to work. Didn't catch any and stopped to watch the shocking process.
that was me... I tossed some streamers in the morning before they got to work. Didn't catch any and stopped to watch the shocking process.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 02, 2012, 23:00:33 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 02, 2012, 23:00:33 PM
Got the lawn mowed and rewarded myself with a trip up to the river
with the dog. I thought that the thunderstorms would hold off, but
when we got out of the car at the mirror plant the air was thick and
I thought conditions were now ripe for a shower. I looked at my rain
jacket and decided to leave it behind. A cool rain might just feel good
on a day like today.
When we got to the river fish were rising up and down the pool. There
was a midge hatch in full swing, little grey fuckers. I hate midges. I tied
on a #22 Griffiths gnat and went to work. Those fish sure are picky, it
would sometimes take 20 cast over a riser for it to take my fly! I was
catching about 4 fish an hour, not exactly on fire, but steady in a slow
sort of way. Sally came out in the river and nudged up against me. Then
I hear the thunder and understood what she wanted. We headed out
and saw the approaching storm. Which turned out to be quite a frog strangler.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090212-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090212-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090212-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090212-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090212-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090212-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090212-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090212-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 03, 2012, 05:48:10 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 03, 2012, 05:48:10 AM
I hate midges too. Nice pics, as always! 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on September 08, 2012, 19:14:47 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on September 08, 2012, 19:14:47 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vaiT2ignyEc
Rolled over at 7:00 and started a pot of coffee. Packed my gear into the truck and headed Northeast. Made it to the mirror plant a little before 8. I took my time throwing on the body suit as I sort of began to dread the hike in. But, I just took a deep breath and a moment to thank God I had the day off and was going to enjoy some time on the river.
This is going to be more of a photo dump than anything....
Got to love the railroad!
[attach=1]
Fish were very active on top this morning and pretty much all day with an occasional dry spell...no pun intended ::)
[attach=2]
The sun was bright, but early on the water had a greenish tint to it which helped out a lot.
[attach=3]
[attach=4]
These Smith River browns sure catch the eye...
[attach=5]
[attach=6]
Had the river to myself up until maybe noon. But, whoever that guy was, he was like a rabbit. I saw him maybe 2 minutes and he was gone.
[attach=7]
Ran into the boss man a little later in the day...He and Sally were out enjoying the nice weather.
Sorry no pics of Keith...
[attach=8]
[attach=9]
[attach=10]
Nothing in the fly fishing realm beats a good rise...
Until next time...
Rolled over at 7:00 and started a pot of coffee. Packed my gear into the truck and headed Northeast. Made it to the mirror plant a little before 8. I took my time throwing on the body suit as I sort of began to dread the hike in. But, I just took a deep breath and a moment to thank God I had the day off and was going to enjoy some time on the river.
This is going to be more of a photo dump than anything....
Got to love the railroad!
[attach=1]
Fish were very active on top this morning and pretty much all day with an occasional dry spell...no pun intended ::)
[attach=2]
The sun was bright, but early on the water had a greenish tint to it which helped out a lot.
[attach=3]
[attach=4]
These Smith River browns sure catch the eye...
[attach=5]
[attach=6]
Had the river to myself up until maybe noon. But, whoever that guy was, he was like a rabbit. I saw him maybe 2 minutes and he was gone.
[attach=7]
Ran into the boss man a little later in the day...He and Sally were out enjoying the nice weather.
Sorry no pics of Keith...
[attach=8]
[attach=9]
[attach=10]
Nothing in the fly fishing realm beats a good rise...
Until next time...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 09, 2012, 06:58:42 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 09, 2012, 06:58:42 AM
'c; 'c; 'c; Nice.
I was going down Sunday morning until my responsible side said "take care of things at home, dumbshit".
Anybody up for Friday AM?
I was going down Sunday morning until my responsible side said "take care of things at home, dumbshit".
Anybody up for Friday AM?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 09, 2012, 12:49:32 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 09, 2012, 12:49:32 PM
Took sally up to the river, yesterday, for a few hours, the wind was blowing and the sky
was overcast. There were bugs on the water and fish were rising up and down the pool.
Somebody was shooting up on the ridge and gun shy Sally wouldn't leave my side. I
manage to get a few fish to rise and saw a couple of decent fish. It slowed down a bit
and I drank a beer of two. Scott came up from down below and we chatted for a while,
then a storm threatened to blow up. Scott called it a day, and I sat down and waited
for the river to clear from all of the leaves that were blown into the water. Things
never picked up and although I thought about fishing until dark, we left the stream for some pizza around six.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090812-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090812-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090812-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090812-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090812-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090812-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on September 09, 2012, 16:38:42 PM
Post by: gonephishin' on September 09, 2012, 16:38:42 PM
Went to the Smith this morning, nice and cool....felt wonderful. As I step into the water a dead fish is resting on a rock. Not a lot of risers but got about a dozen on a 18 red zebra midge, only a couple were picture worthy. Nice cold beverage to end the trip. Sorry my pics are terrible compared to most but here it is....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on September 09, 2012, 16:40:40 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on September 09, 2012, 16:40:40 PM
I got up Saturday morning and decided to head up to the Smith to fish Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning. I called Dean on the way and we decided to meet in Bassett around 4:00. I stopped and gassed up and checked into the motel. I arrived in Bassett around 3:00. Every one of my spots had people in it. I said the heck with it and went on to where I was supposed to meet Dean. I managed to lose my lanyard somewhere in Bassett while I was jumping in and out of my car checking spots. I fished downstream of where I was supposed to meet Dean, and picked up a few while I was waiting on Dean. He arrived a minute or two early and we fished for an hour or so. Dean mopped up for awhile and I picked up a few more. We then hit another spot and the fish were eating pretty good. Dean left before seven and headed home. I fished for a few more minutes and rode by the mirror pool. I didn't see anybody I knew and headed back to the motel. I started to stop and eat a pizza, but didn't. Dean called me at 8:30 this morning and we met again and fished for a couple more hours and we both caught some decent fish for the Smith.
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12017.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12015.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12014.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12009.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12012.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12011.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12010.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12006.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12003.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12013.jpg)
It was good to see Dean and I wished Peewee could have made it. Looks like you and Scott had fun, Keith.
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12017.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12015.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12014.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12009.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12012.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12011.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12010.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12006.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12003.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-8-9-12013.jpg)
It was good to see Dean and I wished Peewee could have made it. Looks like you and Scott had fun, Keith.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 09, 2012, 17:22:03 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 09, 2012, 17:22:03 PM
Good going gentlemen! 'c; You're killing me! b';
I'll tie up some more secret weapons this week while traveling and try to test the waters at the end of the week.
I'll tie up some more secret weapons this week while traveling and try to test the waters at the end of the week.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on September 09, 2012, 18:03:24 PM
Post by: gonephishin' on September 09, 2012, 18:03:24 PM
bd;0
Good job 5x, really nice size, makes me look like an amateur.........oh wait! I am :laugh:
Good job 5x, really nice size, makes me look like an amateur.........oh wait! I am :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: benben reincarnated on September 09, 2012, 18:11:00 PM
Post by: benben reincarnated on September 09, 2012, 18:11:00 PM
Nice reports by all as of late. 'c;
Keith, you ever call those hitchhikers on your waders beggar lice? I remember as a kid my grandfather called them that.
Keith, you ever call those hitchhikers on your waders beggar lice? I remember as a kid my grandfather called them that.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: flyrod on September 09, 2012, 18:26:36 PM
Post by: flyrod on September 09, 2012, 18:26:36 PM
Hey Ben, thanks for the bugs and the class on how to fish them. Really enjoyed the time on the water yesterday and today. Since I don't get to work for 7 weeks, I hope to spend some time on the water. Let me know when you want to go again. Thanks again.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on September 09, 2012, 19:32:50 PM
Post by: 22midge on September 09, 2012, 19:32:50 PM
Good job 5x sounds like you and flyrod had them covered this week.Going to have to get back in the water soon before I forget how to catch one of those Smith River brownies. Glad you guys found a few eating.......Be safe
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 09, 2012, 22:40:11 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 09, 2012, 22:40:11 PM
looks like you guys crushed 'em ....
I went back up to the Mirror plant.. will throw up some pics tomorrow...
I went back up to the Mirror plant.. will throw up some pics tomorrow...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 10, 2012, 11:15:36 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 10, 2012, 11:15:36 AM
A cold front blew through and it felt great outside the humidity was cut if half from the previous day to a comfy 42%. A hint of fall perhaps and after taking care of some yard work, I split for the river with the dog. She settles into the back seat, lying down out of the way of the rod that is still strung up from yesterday's trip.
As we pulled into the parking lot, Sally perked up and was ready to go. I was amazed that the lot was empty on such a gorgeous afternoon, where is everybody, I wondered. Never mind, I've got miles of river to myself, not that we cover more than 100 yards of it, it's still nice to know that you have it all.
Sally ran down the edge of the field, sniffing along the way, then bounding off to chase after some unseen varmint. It's a half mile to the pool / run where I like to fish. There were two Fat Tires and a Dogfish Pumpkin' Ale in the pack, and I set the New Belgians into the stream then popped open the 7% Pumpkin', which is tasty but has an ever so slight alcohol burn. I studied the river as I enjoyed the beer, a few midges, sulfurs and yellow and slate drakes popped off. No fish rose in the run, but I saw a trout chase down an emerging drake in the shallows not 6 inches from the bank. I set the beer down in the river half submerged up against a mid-stream rock. I worked the run hoping to entice a rise.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090912-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090912-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090912-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090912-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090912-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090912-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090912-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090912-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090912-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090912-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090912-11.jpg)
As the evening closed in, the river came to life, and the trout began to rise more eagerly. They were mostly small as usual for this part of the river.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/090912-12.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: OldDominionAngler on September 10, 2012, 12:02:37 PM
Post by: OldDominionAngler on September 10, 2012, 12:02:37 PM
Damn fine pictures Woolly, I especially like the picture of Sally in the water...perfect camouflage.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on September 10, 2012, 17:48:33 PM
Post by: gonephishin' on September 10, 2012, 17:48:33 PM
Woolly, I swear, I don't know what is better, your fish or your pictures! You could make a career out of it! 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 10, 2012, 18:52:07 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 10, 2012, 18:52:07 PM
Quote from: gonephishin' on September 10, 2012, 17:48:33 PM
Woolly, I swear, I don't know what is better, your fish or your pictures! .... 'c;
This.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on September 10, 2012, 19:35:06 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on September 10, 2012, 19:35:06 PM
Nice pics as always. That storm that brushed by us on Saturday layed the smack down on Martinsville city...at least thats whats i heard
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on September 11, 2012, 10:21:34 AM
Post by: gonephishin' on September 11, 2012, 10:21:34 AM
Quote from: consumnfire1229 on September 10, 2012, 19:35:06 PM
Nice pics as always. That storm that brushed by us on Saturday layed the smack down on Martinsville city...at least thats whats i heard
Yup, a few trees down and bad lightning. I was actually fishing under Martinsville dam as it came up....couple flashes of lightning had me making making a new trail through the trees back to the car!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 11, 2012, 14:54:10 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 11, 2012, 14:54:10 PM
three days running....
I somehow got it in my head that after I checked my emails this morning I could drive up to the river and throw streamers until thy opened up that dam at one. It was still kind of cool at 10:30 when I rigged up the 6wt. with an articulated brown peanut. Worked my down to the big bend without so much as a bump. Switched to a smaller fly. Foulhooked this:
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/091112-1.jpg)
hooked a decent brown but it self released before photo opportunity
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/091112-2.jpg)
Moved back up top and worked the big run, hooked this
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/9/091112-3.jpg)
might have been too bright and sunny today
water came up and I went back to work...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on September 12, 2012, 12:56:55 PM
Post by: gonephishin' on September 12, 2012, 12:56:55 PM
Got to the river around 8 this morning. Something was telling me to keep my phone on me today, so I put it in a zip lock bag and tucked it away. Per usual, only the very occasional riser so I tied on my usual set-up parachute adams and a zebra midge. 5 minutes in I had a nice sized one on the hook but he managed to shake himself off. A couple minutes later I made a cast under a few hanging limbs where I had seen a bit of rising going on and one took my midge. (Two pictures of the same fish.)
Then.......
Phone call from Patrick Henry Elementry school.....my 8 year old is sick and needs to be picked up! b';
I turn and look at all the water I had planned to cover and said "see ya Friday", cried a second and took off to fufill my fatherly obligations.
Then.......
Phone call from Patrick Henry Elementry school.....my 8 year old is sick and needs to be picked up! b';
I turn and look at all the water I had planned to cover and said "see ya Friday", cried a second and took off to fufill my fatherly obligations.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on September 14, 2012, 22:15:48 PM
Post by: gonephishin' on September 14, 2012, 22:15:48 PM
Fish were finicky on the Smith today, I tried emergers, streamers, midges..... I watched several fish chase after a couple olive streamers and my midges but they stopped before acting. b'; Had one hit and miss on a cahill. Finally one took my adams and then 2 cast later what looked like a dink brook hit my 22 zebra midge.
Also, happened to look down and saw a crayfish by my foot, as nothing was hitting at the moment I decided to get a pic in and it turned out it was full of eggs! Interesting :o
But hey, I'll take a 2 fish day over a no fish day anytime! -0-
Also, happened to look down and saw a crayfish by my foot, as nothing was hitting at the moment I decided to get a pic in and it turned out it was full of eggs! Interesting :o
But hey, I'll take a 2 fish day over a no fish day anytime! -0-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 14, 2012, 23:48:38 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 14, 2012, 23:48:38 PM
Sounds like work getting in the way of fishing paid off for me today. :D
Slay 'em next time, dude. d:b I'm trying them Sat. am. Hope they treat me more kindly.
Eggs?!? Neh, neh my friend. Bait. More bait for the brownies.
Slay 'em next time, dude. d:b I'm trying them Sat. am. Hope they treat me more kindly.
Eggs?!? Neh, neh my friend. Bait. More bait for the brownies.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on September 15, 2012, 20:17:00 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on September 15, 2012, 20:17:00 PM
Woke up this morning shortly after 5:30 a.m. and started a pot of coffee. Outside temp was just shy of 57. I'm excited to hit the river, but I knew my teeth were going to be chattering until the sun started shining. Threw some eggs in a pan and some bacon in the oven. Wife woke up around 6 and ate some breakfast with me and then I hit the trail.
Doug was supposed to meet me at the parking area at 7. Where's Doug? Then I hear his RPMs turning. Oh, here he comes.
We both take our time suiting up and finally make it down to the river. We haven't had any rain in at least a week. With no help from Towne Creek, the water was gin clear and ankle deep. Not to mention clear blue skies.
I connected early on with a left over rainbow from the hatchery. But, fishing was slow, and I mean slow. Early on, neither of us could put a finger on what was up, but if I had to guess it would be the gin clear water.
Doug working a rising fish.
[attach=1]
Lots of cream colored midges around a size 20 or 22 and as always those size 30 grey midges. Occasional MayFly along with a cinnamon colored caddis. But, even with the bug activity the fish just didn't see to be active at all. We would see an occasional rise or maybe find that one fish out of 100 that was feeding aggresively.
[attach=2]
We both had afternoon plans today. Doug bounced around Noon, but I was going to continue on until 1. I kept working my way up and finally found some activity going on
[attach=3]
[attach=4]
[attach=5]
Some of these pics could possibly be the same fish, I'm not really sure...
[attach=6]
[attach=7]
Until next time...
Doug was supposed to meet me at the parking area at 7. Where's Doug? Then I hear his RPMs turning. Oh, here he comes.
We both take our time suiting up and finally make it down to the river. We haven't had any rain in at least a week. With no help from Towne Creek, the water was gin clear and ankle deep. Not to mention clear blue skies.
I connected early on with a left over rainbow from the hatchery. But, fishing was slow, and I mean slow. Early on, neither of us could put a finger on what was up, but if I had to guess it would be the gin clear water.
Doug working a rising fish.
[attach=1]
Lots of cream colored midges around a size 20 or 22 and as always those size 30 grey midges. Occasional MayFly along with a cinnamon colored caddis. But, even with the bug activity the fish just didn't see to be active at all. We would see an occasional rise or maybe find that one fish out of 100 that was feeding aggresively.
[attach=2]
We both had afternoon plans today. Doug bounced around Noon, but I was going to continue on until 1. I kept working my way up and finally found some activity going on
[attach=3]
[attach=4]
[attach=5]
Some of these pics could possibly be the same fish, I'm not really sure...
[attach=6]
[attach=7]
Until next time...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on September 16, 2012, 21:49:17 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on September 16, 2012, 21:49:17 PM
I headed back yesterday for another go at it. I called Dean on the way up there and we agreed to meet around 5:00. A friend called on the way up there and he said he was going to be fishing too. I started fishing around 2:30 in the middle of town and caught around 8 in an hour or so. My second friend stopped for awhile and he decided to head upstream. I had about 2 hours to kill before I was going to meet Dean, so I stopped on the way to where I was going to finish up. I fished for an hour and a half and caught 3 fish. That stop was a tactical error on my part. I called Dean and he told me where he was. I went about a half mile below him and hopped in the water. That spot was the ticket. I caught fish steadily until it started getting too dark. By that time Dean had arrived. We talked for awhile and I headed back home. This is my favorite time of the year to fish that river.
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-17-2012011.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-17-2012010.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-17-2012008.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-17-2012007.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-17-2012005.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-17-2012003.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-17-2012012.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-17-2012011.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-17-2012010.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-17-2012008.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-17-2012007.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-17-2012005.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-17-2012003.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-17-2012012.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 17, 2012, 05:48:58 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 17, 2012, 05:48:58 AM
Damn Ben. You schooled us. My morning was a magnum suckage. I probably couldn't have caught a bluegill out of a farm pond, I was so cursed. b';
Then my team spit the bit, big time. Much drinking ensued......
Then my team spit the bit, big time. Much drinking ensued......
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 17, 2012, 07:01:18 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 17, 2012, 07:01:18 AM
bd;0
yer killin me Ben!
nice pics there Scott!
Thunderstorms forecast all week, don't know when I'll get back up there... 0:0
yer killin me Ben!
nice pics there Scott!
Thunderstorms forecast all week, don't know when I'll get back up there... 0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on September 24, 2012, 14:04:58 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on September 24, 2012, 14:04:58 PM
Went back this Saturday expecting to take up where I left off the past two weekends. The fish had other plans. The first place I went to I caught a grand total of 4 fish. I fished my rear end off to catch those. I left there in search of some easy fish where I always catch fish. I didn't land a fish there. I finished up where I always catch fish. I managed to hook a large rock and get broken off. I had to rerig and managed to drop my reading glasses in the river and had to go back to the car for a spare. I had more fish come off in that one day than I have all summer. I finally caught 3 fish at that spot before heading to the car. Once I got to the car things started improving. I called a friend back home and found out that S. Carolina had soundly whipped Missouri and that perked me up considerably. I then remembered that Ralph (ODG 3) graduated from Missouri and had some remorse for a few seconds, but I got over it. On the way home I called TM to get an update on the Florida State Clemson game. Both teams scored in the few minutes I was talking to him. I then lost cell service for awhile. When I got it back I called a buddy back home who is a SC fan, and he promised to call me whenever Florida State scored. I couldn't take more than one swallow of coffee at a time before the phone would ring. His color commentary was better than anything on the radio I'll guarantee you that. It was a long day for a few fish, but it was worth it. I caught 3 fish in the slot.
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-23-12002_zps4d84c1ed.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-23-12001_zps4f388fc4.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-23-12003_zps0889cfb5.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-23-12002_zps4d84c1ed.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-23-12001_zps4f388fc4.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith9-23-12003_zps0889cfb5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 24, 2012, 14:46:00 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 24, 2012, 14:46:00 PM
:-* "It was a long day for a few fish....."
Glad it's not just me......
Glad it's not just me......
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on September 29, 2012, 17:36:43 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on September 29, 2012, 17:36:43 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tpAOwJvTOio&feature=share
I've been away from the water for a couple of weeks. I was asked to sing in a wedding near Myrtle Beach, so my wife and I decided to go ahead and spend a few days at the beach.
Decided to hit the Smith early this morning, but I didn't want to get out of bed. I didn't make it to the river until sometime between 9:30 and 10:00. Fishing was slow for the first hour and things started to pick up.
First brown was very photo worthy, but about the time I snapped the picture my camera read "Card Error". So I let him go and started to sort out the technical difficulties.
[attach=1]
Same fish different angle
[attach=2]
Saw a bunch of these in a tree while I was trying to untangle...ID???
[attach=3]
[attach=4]
Is it a bad omen to catch a fish on a fly from someone else that you found in a tree limb??? I think so and you will begin to see why in a second. Brown Zebra Midge
[attach=5]
Largemouth stogger rainbow
[attach=6]
Dougfish and I were meeting up around 2:30 to fish in town, so I started to head back to the truck at about 2:00. As I'm walking along, I realize that my net is missing. MOTHER TRUCKER...I just bought that net 4 days ago. As I get back to the truck, a woman approaches me and ask if I will help her get a dead cat off of her front porch.
Story went like this...the woman's words are in quotations. "Hey, Hey, HEY!!! Can you help me with something" Help you with what? "Get a dead cat off my porch, I can't get it" What do you want me to do with it? "Throw it out in the field I reckon" What field? "I keep tires on my porch and I went for a walk and went I got back the tires were laying on the cat and its neck was sticking up through the hole and it was dead..." I phoned Doug and asked for back up...he was still a ways away, so I floored it and got the heck out of there. Then, the bottom fell out and it rained and rained and rained some more. Fishing sucked, but Doug said he was going to fish til dark. I left early...
Oh and I hope you guys enjoyed the video...
I've been away from the water for a couple of weeks. I was asked to sing in a wedding near Myrtle Beach, so my wife and I decided to go ahead and spend a few days at the beach.
Decided to hit the Smith early this morning, but I didn't want to get out of bed. I didn't make it to the river until sometime between 9:30 and 10:00. Fishing was slow for the first hour and things started to pick up.
First brown was very photo worthy, but about the time I snapped the picture my camera read "Card Error". So I let him go and started to sort out the technical difficulties.
[attach=1]
Same fish different angle
[attach=2]
Saw a bunch of these in a tree while I was trying to untangle...ID???
[attach=3]
[attach=4]
Is it a bad omen to catch a fish on a fly from someone else that you found in a tree limb??? I think so and you will begin to see why in a second. Brown Zebra Midge
[attach=5]
Largemouth stogger rainbow
[attach=6]
Dougfish and I were meeting up around 2:30 to fish in town, so I started to head back to the truck at about 2:00. As I'm walking along, I realize that my net is missing. MOTHER TRUCKER...I just bought that net 4 days ago. As I get back to the truck, a woman approaches me and ask if I will help her get a dead cat off of her front porch.
Story went like this...the woman's words are in quotations. "Hey, Hey, HEY!!! Can you help me with something" Help you with what? "Get a dead cat off my porch, I can't get it" What do you want me to do with it? "Throw it out in the field I reckon" What field? "I keep tires on my porch and I went for a walk and went I got back the tires were laying on the cat and its neck was sticking up through the hole and it was dead..." I phoned Doug and asked for back up...he was still a ways away, so I floored it and got the heck out of there. Then, the bottom fell out and it rained and rained and rained some more. Fishing sucked, but Doug said he was going to fish til dark. I left early...
Oh and I hope you guys enjoyed the video...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 30, 2012, 06:28:17 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 30, 2012, 06:28:17 AM
It continued to suck. I got rained on some more and bagged it within the hour. This road warrior's patience was wore away. Reset manana.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on September 30, 2012, 10:56:06 AM
Post by: 5xTippett on September 30, 2012, 10:56:06 AM
At least ya'll went. I had to work!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 01, 2012, 23:37:19 PM
Post by: Dougfish on October 01, 2012, 23:37:19 PM
After getting smacked around the last two times by my bitch called Smith, I decided a little redemption was due. I'll show you mojo. Sunday fishing. And I'll park in the back of the church lot. Just after services start. Hell, I'm a Baptist, sort of. The late guy to the service saw me putting on my waders. And stringing up. And beers are in the cooler in the truck, dude. And hey Scott, dead cat lady was walking into town as I rolled by Rosemont....giddy up. The river is my church.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mkpL2YYKWAo/UGpk7IvoVYI/AAAAAAAADZw/YbYyErV63As/s640/007.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IV7XLM1BUs8/UGpk-ho2FPI/AAAAAAAADaY/v1wwtfD0SO0/s640/013.JPG?gl=US)
I broke out my Home depot paint strainer and stuck it over my net to sample the stream. The choir sang. The reverend sermonized. Nothing. Almost nothing. A dreadful few little wigglys. It's that dreadful time on the torture chamber when nothing hatches with regularity, the terrestrials are going bye-bye, and the stunted little trouts are living off midges. F#%@ing midges. #20 zebras saved the day. I caught 'em. I missed 'em. I lost 'em. I caught 'em.
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-x8UmEcIumfk/UGpk8S7gdEI/AAAAAAAADaA/w2E0aN10myA/s640/009.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7as-UA-sFUg/UGpk9vwoggI/AAAAAAAADaQ/QUYSEIsk8E0/s576/011.JPG?gl=US)
Moved upstream after a good to me riffle turned into slack water. Besides, I had to take a leak. Church property? I think I would be pushing my luck.
A recharge with a Devils Backbone beer (what else/) and some nearly burned leftover pizza (again, what else??) prepped me for round two.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-nngNjdyk9YI/UGpk9fkCevI/AAAAAAAADaI/6m1s8l9mYdk/s512/010.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QpDKoWm3XSA/UGpk_nEGaGI/AAAAAAAADao/5UR7kbbrja0/s640/015.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-AeUrbRpEYaE/UGpk_PZqDqI/AAAAAAAADag/-lTHE9yxH-Y/s640/014.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UPn_3Ujj5zw/UGplBI74H6I/AAAAAAAADa4/WgDUb9gCaVE/s512/017.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/--wHljQ71_uI/UGplAbgkiHI/AAAAAAAADaw/qYWw5Fv4b88/s512/016.JPG?gl=US)
I caught a few more. Missed a few more. Some big yellow mayflies started to come off and a yellow elk hair caddis got some fish before I called it quits. I knew that brown zebra midge that Scott found and fished was mine. I lost it in the same place the week before on my extreme suckiest day on the water. It had come full circle as I left the stream. Dangling from a hawthorn branch was a small nymph. Daring me to fish him. Next time bitch. Today was not to be tarnished. A dozen browns washed me clean.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AUiRg_FcKTQ/UGplBQUjaqI/AAAAAAAADbA/-qK1xzfBtTo/s800/019.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mkpL2YYKWAo/UGpk7IvoVYI/AAAAAAAADZw/YbYyErV63As/s640/007.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IV7XLM1BUs8/UGpk-ho2FPI/AAAAAAAADaY/v1wwtfD0SO0/s640/013.JPG?gl=US)
I broke out my Home depot paint strainer and stuck it over my net to sample the stream. The choir sang. The reverend sermonized. Nothing. Almost nothing. A dreadful few little wigglys. It's that dreadful time on the torture chamber when nothing hatches with regularity, the terrestrials are going bye-bye, and the stunted little trouts are living off midges. F#%@ing midges. #20 zebras saved the day. I caught 'em. I missed 'em. I lost 'em. I caught 'em.
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-x8UmEcIumfk/UGpk8S7gdEI/AAAAAAAADaA/w2E0aN10myA/s640/009.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7as-UA-sFUg/UGpk9vwoggI/AAAAAAAADaQ/QUYSEIsk8E0/s576/011.JPG?gl=US)
Moved upstream after a good to me riffle turned into slack water. Besides, I had to take a leak. Church property? I think I would be pushing my luck.
A recharge with a Devils Backbone beer (what else/) and some nearly burned leftover pizza (again, what else??) prepped me for round two.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-nngNjdyk9YI/UGpk9fkCevI/AAAAAAAADaI/6m1s8l9mYdk/s512/010.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QpDKoWm3XSA/UGpk_nEGaGI/AAAAAAAADao/5UR7kbbrja0/s640/015.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-AeUrbRpEYaE/UGpk_PZqDqI/AAAAAAAADag/-lTHE9yxH-Y/s640/014.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UPn_3Ujj5zw/UGplBI74H6I/AAAAAAAADa4/WgDUb9gCaVE/s512/017.JPG?gl=US)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/--wHljQ71_uI/UGplAbgkiHI/AAAAAAAADaw/qYWw5Fv4b88/s512/016.JPG?gl=US)
I caught a few more. Missed a few more. Some big yellow mayflies started to come off and a yellow elk hair caddis got some fish before I called it quits. I knew that brown zebra midge that Scott found and fished was mine. I lost it in the same place the week before on my extreme suckiest day on the water. It had come full circle as I left the stream. Dangling from a hawthorn branch was a small nymph. Daring me to fish him. Next time bitch. Today was not to be tarnished. A dozen browns washed me clean.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AUiRg_FcKTQ/UGplBQUjaqI/AAAAAAAADbA/-qK1xzfBtTo/s800/019.JPG?gl=US)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on October 02, 2012, 16:59:45 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on October 02, 2012, 16:59:45 PM
Copper johns can prove to be effective on the Smith if fished in fast moving riffles. There is no way I would've left all that copper hanging in that tree limb. We have some copper thieves around here that would give their right arms for that much copper wire. :laugh:
Nice outing!
Nice outing!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on October 02, 2012, 21:16:34 PM
Post by: Al on October 02, 2012, 21:16:34 PM
Good job Doug - enjoyed your report. Hell I may go back to fishing :o. Been deer hunting down here in NC and so far the skunk is smelling strong :embarassed: My wife reminds me that every year I start at zero and should not let last years success swell my head. b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 04, 2012, 09:53:47 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 04, 2012, 09:53:47 AM
I went yesterday afternoon, go t to the river by 2:30, the water was still up a little, the last 2 hours of generation were at 300 cfs so it was easy to wade. I started off throwing some big articulated flies in the big run and worked my way down stream. I was using the 6wt with a sink tip . The flies were getting deep at some point I switched to a big Nut Butter (http://hatchesmagazine.com/blogs/Hatches/2012/02/29/nut-butter-by-matt-grajewski/) and had a big fish follow and strike but no hook up. That follow was pretty exciting, just to see a big spotted brown chase after the fly got me excited and I cast with renewed vigor. I worked my way back up and by this time the water had dropped all the way. I hit some of the spots on the way up to the bridge. Went around the right side of the Island and worked the bridge pool with several big flies. Then I worked my way down the left channel swinging the big stuff. I thought about going back down along the island, but it was 6:30 and I had enough disappointment for the day.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/10/100312-1.jpg)
maybe I need to be tossing a big crayfish pattern?
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/10/100312-2.jpg)
The water was still stained from the rain, I had really wanted to get up there Tuesday, but that just didn't work out. It was partly sunny, for the most part, but clouded up later in the evening. I think I'll try this section with big flies again if conditions are favorable.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on October 13, 2012, 22:27:57 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on October 13, 2012, 22:27:57 PM
Fished upstream right after lunch today. I actually got up a little earlier than normal today and arrived at the Sheetz shortly after 1:00. I caught about 10 out of the mirror pool in about an hour or two. I would catch a few and then it would die for a little while. When the sun got behind the hills the fish lost interest and so did I. I rolled down to Basset and fished for about 30 minutes and caught a couple more and that was it. I left Bassett around six and was home before eleven which was a record for me. The biggest fish I caught was twelve inches and I was glad to get him.
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith10-13-12011.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith10-13-12010.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith10-13-12009.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith10-13-12008.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith10-13-12007.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith10-13-12005.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith10-13-12002.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith10-13-12001.jpg)
I stopped on the way through Bassett and actually took a scenery picture!
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith10-13-12012.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith10-13-12011.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith10-13-12010.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith10-13-12009.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith10-13-12008.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith10-13-12007.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith10-13-12005.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith10-13-12002.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith10-13-12001.jpg)
I stopped on the way through Bassett and actually took a scenery picture!
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith10-13-12012.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 14, 2012, 08:09:46 AM
Post by: Dougfish on October 14, 2012, 08:09:46 AM
'c; Another hit and run spankage by Ben. You are the man!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on October 14, 2012, 16:18:54 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on October 14, 2012, 16:18:54 PM
I should've went to the Smith this afternoon. Nice reportage...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on October 20, 2012, 22:31:07 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on October 20, 2012, 22:31:07 PM
I went back for what I thought would be a good day. I was wrong. I am reaching the conclusion that it is now officially midge time and I am not much on midges. I fished upstream and caught a few. I rode by the Mirror Pool parking lot and spoke to Keith as he was rigging up. I went downstream a few miles and caught a few more including 1 rainbow. I think I am ready for duck season. Wait, that is over a month away. What the heck they are pretty in their spawning colors. These are the three biggest and they aren't real big at that.
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith10-20-2012005.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith10-20-2012004.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith10-20-2012001.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith10-20-2012005.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith10-20-2012004.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/Smith10-20-2012001.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 21, 2012, 06:42:38 AM
Post by: Dougfish on October 21, 2012, 06:42:38 AM
They are damn pretty! And I've been going blind tying midges.......
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 21, 2012, 08:24:24 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 21, 2012, 08:24:24 AM
With chores done and daylight left, I took to dog up to the river.
I got there around 5, not much time to fish, Ben tried to be social,
I cut him short. Sorry Ben. I fished tilll dark, there were fish rising and
Sulfurs, Midges and Rusty Spinners were working!
(http://brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/10/102012-1.jpg)
(http://brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/10/102012-2.jpg)
(http://brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/10/102012-3.jpg)
(http://brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/10/102012-4.jpg)
(http://brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/10/102012-5.jpg)
(http://brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/10/102012-6.jpg)
(http://brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/10/102012-7.jpg)
(http://brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/10/102012-8.jpg)
(http://brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/10/102012-9.jpg)
(http://brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/10/102012-10.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on October 21, 2012, 14:58:38 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on October 21, 2012, 14:58:38 PM
Keith, I was in a hurry myself! I was just being polite.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on October 21, 2012, 15:36:02 PM
Post by: Phil on October 21, 2012, 15:36:02 PM
Mr. Ben 5X -- Maybe you could take a hint from Keith's pics of trout, the way he handles 'em, and stop doing the complete Death Squeeze on every fish you catch at the Smith. Jist sayin, dude.....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on October 21, 2012, 17:21:57 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on October 21, 2012, 17:21:57 PM
Quote from: Phil on October 21, 2012, 15:36:02 PM
Mr. Ben 5X -- Maybe you could take a hint from Keith's pics of trout, the way he handles 'em, and stop doing the complete Death Squeeze on every fish you catch at the Smith. Jist sayin, dude.....
Phil - Are you serious? My goodness...
Ben - Keep posting the pics man.
Keith - Nice pics! I would've met up with you this afternoon on the Smith, but I wanted to try out some waters I haven't seen in a few months.
'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on October 21, 2012, 18:50:34 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on October 21, 2012, 18:50:34 PM
Phil, my fish are out of the water 5 or 10 seconds tops. I have cleared my fish handling with the biologist. I frankly don't give a rat's rear end whether you or anybody else likes it or not. Go catch a fish and show us how it's done. Better yet go catch one on the Smith and post a picture.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on October 21, 2012, 19:27:27 PM
Post by: 22midge on October 21, 2012, 19:27:27 PM
5X I was fishing below you last week and saw 58 dead fish floating by................maybe when you learn to catch a few you can learn how to handle them..........then teach me how its done. bd;0 bd;0 bd;0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 22, 2012, 09:46:50 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 22, 2012, 09:46:50 AM
I wanted to go to the SoHo on Sunday, but it just wasn't going to happen.
So I took Sally up to the Smith in the afternoon, I even tied up a half dozen
special flies. I think the dog may have enjoyed the trip more than I did, what a difference
a day can make. I got some fish to rise but missed most of 'em. The bug weren't as
prolific as there were on Saturday. Maybe my new ties weren't the ticket, but I threw
a lot of other flies as well, go figure. Glad I brought along some PBR!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/10/102112-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/10/102112-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/10/102112-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/10/102112-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/10/102112-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/10/102112-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Aka on October 22, 2012, 10:46:09 AM
Post by: Aka on October 22, 2012, 10:46:09 AM
Cut and paste from another forum? ;D
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on October 22, 2012, 09:46:50 AM
I wanted to go to the SoHo on Sunday, but it just wasn't going to happen.
So I took Sally up to the Smith in the afternoon, I even tied up a half dozen
special flies. I think the dog may have enjoyed the trip more than I did, what a difference
a day can make. I got some fish to rise but missed most of 'em. The bug weren't as
prolific as there were on Saturday. Maybe my new ties weren't the ticket, but I threw
a lot of other flies as well, go figure. Glad I brought along some PBR!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/102112-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/102112-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/102112-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/102112-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/102112-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/102112-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 22, 2012, 11:49:19 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 22, 2012, 11:49:19 AM
my bay bad, I left out the month in the url and then got distracted.... ran some errands and then saw that I hadn't fixed it,,
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Transylwader on October 22, 2012, 11:59:53 AM
Post by: Transylwader on October 22, 2012, 11:59:53 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on October 22, 2012, 11:49:19 AMBollocks, I need to call the dude at Krankies and tell em you can only be served half pints and after 3PM daily.
my bay, I left out the month in the url and then got distracted.... ran some errends and then saw that I hadn't fixed it,,
BTW, this is the second time I have opened this thread. I have seen a vast improvement in 5X's trout handling skills. Bravo mate, asshats like me can no longer shun you :o
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 23, 2012, 08:55:13 AM
Post by: Dougfish on October 23, 2012, 08:55:13 AM
Quote from: Phil on October 21, 2012, 15:36:02 PM
Mr. Ben 5X -- Maybe you could take a hint from Keith's pics of trout, the way he handles 'em, and stop doing the complete Death Squeeze on every fish you catch at the Smith. Jist sayin, dude.....
n!n Just in time for the return of the endless smites.
<<<<
Note my death grip.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 10, 2012, 22:00:31 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 10, 2012, 22:00:31 PM
http://youtu.be/hgI8bta-7aw (http://youtu.be/hgI8bta-7aw)
11/10/1975
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/11/111012-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/11/111012-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/11/111012-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/11/111012-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/11/111012-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/11/111012-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/11/111012-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/11/111012-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/11/111012-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/11/111012-10.jpg)
nothing much going on lately, took the god out for a spell, caught some fish
drank some beer..
here's some more from Friday...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/11/110912-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/11/110912-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/11/110912-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/11/110912-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/11/110912-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/11/110912-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/11/110912-7.jpg)
/'/ -0-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on November 10, 2012, 22:39:34 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on November 10, 2012, 22:39:34 PM
Glad to see you work some magic on the Smith. Depending on how things go tomorrow I may find my way there in the afternoon. Did you see any BWOs?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 10, 2012, 23:12:33 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 10, 2012, 23:12:33 PM
Tiny BWOs size extremely small
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 16, 2012, 10:11:03 AM
Post by: Dougfish on November 16, 2012, 10:11:03 AM
WTF with the river levels?
http://waterdata.usgs.gov/va/nwis/uv?site_no=02072000 (http://waterdata.usgs.gov/va/nwis/uv?site_no=02072000)
I know divers were inspecting the dam, but that was supposed to finish up last week.
http://waterdata.usgs.gov/va/nwis/uv?site_no=02072000 (http://waterdata.usgs.gov/va/nwis/uv?site_no=02072000)
I know divers were inspecting the dam, but that was supposed to finish up last week.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: OldDominionAngler on November 16, 2012, 16:25:35 PM
Post by: OldDominionAngler on November 16, 2012, 16:25:35 PM
Ah, Great Lakes. The Oktoberfest is most excellent and the Porter is even better. Looks like a good day to me.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on November 21, 2012, 12:19:22 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on November 21, 2012, 12:19:22 PM
The Smith started off yesterday kicking my butt. Rafts of tiny olive duns were covering the water, browns feeding BUT not on the duns. After ~ 1.5 hours, finally things got dialed in and trout started taking a few duns. Day ended well. It was one of the best hatches of the tiny critters that I have seen in some time. The Smith is an ideal water to polish the skills.
I saw a lot of beaver activity in the small seep/standing water that is next to the tracks, immediately below the mirror plant. They may make that their home-base for a while.
Happy turkey day!
I saw a lot of beaver activity in the small seep/standing water that is next to the tracks, immediately below the mirror plant. They may make that their home-base for a while.
Happy turkey day!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Beetle on November 21, 2012, 14:17:25 PM
Post by: Beetle on November 21, 2012, 14:17:25 PM
Muddie,
When rafts of tiny olive duns are on the water, your best bet is to start chucking rapalas. Jis sayin
Glad you had a decent trip and hope you have a great Thanksgiving. Call me next time!
'c;
When rafts of tiny olive duns are on the water, your best bet is to start chucking rapalas. Jis sayin
Glad you had a decent trip and hope you have a great Thanksgiving. Call me next time!
'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on November 21, 2012, 14:36:56 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on November 21, 2012, 14:36:56 PM
I shall let ya'll take care of the river for awhile. I'm gonna be shooting stuff!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on November 21, 2012, 15:50:49 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on November 21, 2012, 15:50:49 PM
It will be a couple of weeks before I get back to the river. We have 3 deer in the freezer, but on the quest for a couple more. Off to the hills with the entire family plus the pooch – for the traditional Thanksgiving meal of squirrel, squirrel gravy, and taters, then hunting for a few days. I think the tiny olive hatch will last. I remember seeing it after Christmas. Remind me that you want to go Beetle. Can we drag Flats from his lair?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Beetle on November 21, 2012, 16:08:31 PM
Post by: Beetle on November 21, 2012, 16:08:31 PM
We are unlikely to drag Flats away from bottles and diapers but we can certainly try. Look forward to it!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 21, 2012, 22:12:19 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 21, 2012, 22:12:19 PM
Fun but frustrating with those super small bugs. The last couple of times I've been up there late I the day the bugs and risers have been sparse. Glad you got out and caught a few
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on December 16, 2012, 16:40:05 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on December 16, 2012, 16:40:05 PM
Dougfish and I met up at the mirror plant at 9 a.m. anxious to suit up and hit the water. It was about 36 degrees when I left the house, but was closer to freezing down on the river. We both assumed that it would be another hour or so before things started to pick up.
Around the 10:30 mark the sun started to hit the river and the bugs started flying. Sort of like dust floating in the air through a sun glazed window. Tiny midges...Oddly enough, the fish just were rising. Doug and I tried everything from tiny griffith's knats to streamers. Nothing!
About 1 p.m. Doug left and said he knew when he had been beaten. Me on the other hand, I was tempted to catch a fish. At this point I had made it back to the trestle pool. Fish was rising sparsely and I tried my best.
Around 2:30, olive's started to come off the water in abundance. This last maybe 10 min...After a long hard day on the river, I managed 2 fish along with another 2 that came unbuttoned. If you were part of Big J's Christmas Swap, you will get a sample of the fly I caught the 2 on...
two measly pictures to show for it.
[attach=1]
Same fish....
[attach=2]
Until next time, chalk this one up as a win for the Smith.
Around the 10:30 mark the sun started to hit the river and the bugs started flying. Sort of like dust floating in the air through a sun glazed window. Tiny midges...Oddly enough, the fish just were rising. Doug and I tried everything from tiny griffith's knats to streamers. Nothing!
About 1 p.m. Doug left and said he knew when he had been beaten. Me on the other hand, I was tempted to catch a fish. At this point I had made it back to the trestle pool. Fish was rising sparsely and I tried my best.
Around 2:30, olive's started to come off the water in abundance. This last maybe 10 min...After a long hard day on the river, I managed 2 fish along with another 2 that came unbuttoned. If you were part of Big J's Christmas Swap, you will get a sample of the fly I caught the 2 on...
two measly pictures to show for it.
[attach=1]
Same fish....
[attach=2]
Until next time, chalk this one up as a win for the Smith.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 17, 2012, 05:48:56 AM
Post by: Dougfish on December 17, 2012, 05:48:56 AM
Ugh. A lovely waste of gas. :;!
Hope you plugged some more venison later.
Hope you plugged some more venison later.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on December 17, 2012, 08:02:26 AM
Post by: Big J on December 17, 2012, 08:02:26 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on December 17, 2012, 05:48:56 AM
Ugh. A lovely waste of gas. :;!
Hope you plugged some more venison later.
Now aren't you glad you went brook trout fishing last weekend ;D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Beetle on December 17, 2012, 08:37:34 AM
Post by: Beetle on December 17, 2012, 08:37:34 AM
I had a really good trip on Friday.
I drove up to the Smith and kept on going to my bird hunting destination. ;D
I drove up to the Smith and kept on going to my bird hunting destination. ;D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 23, 2012, 21:18:44 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 23, 2012, 21:18:44 PM
Hit the Smith for an hour before dark on the way to REI in Greensboro for some last minute Christmas Shopping...
[attach=1]
not granddad, but better than nothing ...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on December 23, 2012, 22:01:50 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on December 23, 2012, 22:01:50 PM
On your way to Greensboro from Winston? Not sure how the Smith is on the way but... bd;0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Chaser on December 23, 2012, 22:54:19 PM
Post by: Trout Chaser on December 23, 2012, 22:54:19 PM
Nice detour Wooly!! When did Greensboro get an REI?
TC
TC
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 23, 2012, 23:15:48 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 23, 2012, 23:15:48 PM
It's not really out of the way when trout are involved...
[attach=1]
At 3:15
Honey, I'm taking the big dog and going to pick up a few items at REI, I'm going to stop by the river on the way.
They don't close 'till 9, but I'll be home by 7:30
Okay....
Fished from 4:30 to 5:45, got home at 7:45...
REI's been there for three or four years now I think....
The Shops at Friendly,where the Apple Store is, just down the road from Friendly Shopping Center,
[attach=1]
At 3:15
Honey, I'm taking the big dog and going to pick up a few items at REI, I'm going to stop by the river on the way.
They don't close 'till 9, but I'll be home by 7:30
Okay....
Fished from 4:30 to 5:45, got home at 7:45...
REI's been there for three or four years now I think....
The Shops at Friendly,where the Apple Store is, just down the road from Friendly Shopping Center,
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 24, 2012, 06:35:43 AM
Post by: Dougfish on December 24, 2012, 06:35:43 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on December 23, 2012, 23:15:48 PM
It's not really out of the way when trout are involved...
Quote of the week. Good going, chief!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gamatt53 on December 24, 2012, 14:24:42 PM
Post by: gamatt53 on December 24, 2012, 14:24:42 PM
nice little detour. you were only a couple miles from my place. I have to stay away from REI for my bank account's sake
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: benben reincarnated on December 24, 2012, 17:09:45 PM
Post by: benben reincarnated on December 24, 2012, 17:09:45 PM
Nice play Woolly. I've done a little bit of detour fishing before too, but not quite of that magnitude.
I can walk to one from work, talk about trouble...and not to mention there is an Whorvis store across the street from that.
Quote from: gamatt53 on December 24, 2012, 14:24:42 PM
nice little detour. you were only a couple miles from my place. I have to stay away from REI for my bank account's sake
I can walk to one from work, talk about trouble...and not to mention there is an Whorvis store across the street from that.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 29, 2012, 16:13:46 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 29, 2012, 16:13:46 PM
http://youtu.be/_J38r6C26LA (http://youtu.be/_J38r6C26LA)
Lamenting the fact that I'm too old to fish in the cold with young
whippersnappers, I decided to take the dog up to the river and see
what was hatching. I knew that the rain from the previous day
would add a stain to the river but I didn't expect it to be chocolate.
There were no bugs in the air, nada, zilch, nothing, not even a midge.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/12/smithr.jpg)
Interactive Version! (http://photosynth.net/view.aspx?cid=cd0fbcc7-a8e6-44c4-a31b-4bcb38f0cba2&m=false&i=0:0:0&c=0:0:0&z=422.194412978413&d=-1.20919957615615:-1.20919957615615:-1.20919957615615&p=0:0&t=False)
I dug down deep into my pack and found an articulated Sex Dungeon,
which was not much smaller than most of upper Smith River brown trout.
It was big black and nasty, tied up by a former BRFFF member, Ditch
Monkey, who is now off on another one of life's adventures, snow skiing.
The monkey boy must have been short of lead eyes, 'cause his Sex
Dungeon is more of a floater than the pattern is intended to be. I swung
the fly into the runs and threw it up against the bank and stripped it back.
It took a little while but I finally got a trout to explode on it. I was so freaked
out that I may have stripped the fly right out of its mouth. Encouraged that
I might actually hook one of these trout, I continued to toss the streamer.
Five more fish blew up on that fly. Maybe the hooks were too big for them,
but it was fun just watching them go nuts for the big fly. I worked the short
stretch of my favorite water, then drank a beer and started over again.
It was getting late and I wanted to hit a run on the lower river at dusk during
falling water, so I pulled out and we headed on downstream. It was just after
sunset when I started wading down to the run. I was freaked out by the lack
of water, they are now, for some unknown reason, turning the water off to a dribble.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2012/12/smithrflow.jpg)
Despite the full moon, it was impossible to see the fly hit the water and I wasn't
sure how close I was getting to the far bank, but I hoped that I was close enough.
I worked the run and came up empty. That low water was most likely the problem.
The next day I was still thinking about those fish and decided to go back for some
more punishment that the Smith River can serve up so well. I got away much later
than had hoped too and I had to stop at the Citgo to pick up some barley pops.
The water had cleared and was back down to its normal low level, the sky was cloudy
and it was perfect conditions for a BWO hatch. All I saw were a few midges. I hate
nymphing this water and I reluctantly tied on a #22 bwo emerger trailed by a #22 RS2.
Worked the water, nothing. Fished till five when the water was expected to come up
and hit the trail. Another Tar Heel in the parking lot picked off four fish on a stonefly
pattern, in the riffles upstream from where I was, go figure. I should have hit the
lower river instead.... Next time!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Beetle on December 29, 2012, 16:39:49 PM
Post by: Beetle on December 29, 2012, 16:39:49 PM
Sounds like the Sex Dungeon needs a stinger hook trailing behind. Jis sayin....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on December 29, 2012, 16:42:52 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on December 29, 2012, 16:42:52 PM
The weather forecast changed a bit today and i thought about trying the smith this afternoon. I'm glad I stayed close to home.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 29, 2012, 16:49:17 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 29, 2012, 16:49:17 PM
Quote from: Beetle on December 29, 2012, 16:39:49 PM
Sounds like the Sex Dungeon needs a stinger hook trailing behind. Jis sayin....
stinger, xtra sharp, already included...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: _Fish_Pimp on December 30, 2012, 00:59:35 AM
Post by: _Fish_Pimp on December 30, 2012, 00:59:35 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on December 29, 2012, 16:49:17 PMQuote from: Beetle on December 29, 2012, 16:39:49 PM
Sounds like the Sex Dungeon needs a stinger hook trailing behind. Jis sayin....
stinger, xtra sharp, already included...
Tie anothernnn' on it! <-;:
the more hooks the better!!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 30, 2012, 07:41:11 AM
Post by: Dougfish on December 30, 2012, 07:41:11 AM
"The next day I was still thinking about those fish and decided to go back for some
more punishment that the Smith River can serve up so well."
I'm due to go back for my continued punishment, also. b'; :;!
more punishment that the Smith River can serve up so well."
I'm due to go back for my continued punishment, also. b'; :;!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on December 30, 2012, 19:55:41 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on December 30, 2012, 19:55:41 PM
I went out for some Smith River punishment today, only because I couldn't stand to sit in the house. I decided on the way that I would fish in town. Most people I know would consider me crazy for getting out in upper 30 degree weather with 15 mph winds just to catch some fish. If they only knew! When I got in town, I couldn't find a place to park. They stocked the lower section of the Smith a little over a week ago, but people were still out trying to put some food on the table. I rolled my first loop at 2:30 and was back home by 4:45. I caught two stockers and called it quits. I only wore one pair of thin socks and my feet would beginning to burn from the cold. No pictures because my battery was dead, but you guys don't care about stockers...neither do I...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on December 31, 2012, 12:51:26 PM
Post by: gonephishin' on December 31, 2012, 12:51:26 PM
I also spent about 2 hours on the lower river yesterday and got skunked. No insect activity whatsoever, water was better than it had been lately but still pretty low. I did happen to see a crayfish and a dink fleeting towards the dam. After 2 hours of nothing and 30+ mph wind gust i cut my losses and headed home to drink my misery away! b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on January 04, 2013, 17:28:55 PM
Post by: gonephishin' on January 04, 2013, 17:28:55 PM
Another day on the Smith....fished the upper and caught 3, one decent sized, nothing to go on and on about, just good to get out for a while. First time out since the birth of my daughter 3 weeks ago.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on January 04, 2013, 17:30:59 PM
Post by: gonephishin' on January 04, 2013, 17:30:59 PM
BTW, thats no kung fu grip on the last fish, just making sure he didnt slip away! ;D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on January 04, 2013, 21:47:56 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on January 04, 2013, 21:47:56 PM
That first brown is nice!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 04, 2013, 21:56:17 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 04, 2013, 21:56:17 PM
Good on you. Glad you got out. My turn on the bitch tomorrow afternoon. :-*
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on January 04, 2013, 23:43:42 PM
Post by: 22midge on January 04, 2013, 23:43:42 PM
top of the pools under the white water........stoneflies
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on January 06, 2013, 23:31:57 PM
Post by: gonephishin' on January 06, 2013, 23:31:57 PM
A couple more hours on the Smith today....3 of the typical 8/9 inch browns, not even worth posting pics. Most interesting event was on my way back to the car, i happen to see a large amount of activity under a tree on the far side of the river....instead of seeing the large rock infront of me and i took a swim! Brrrrrr
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on January 21, 2013, 16:58:17 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on January 21, 2013, 16:58:17 PM
Woke up at normal time this morning even though I was off of work. My body is a finely tuned machine, at least when it comes to what time it is in the morning. I initially planned to play golf today, but with the recent snow all of the local courses were closed or wouldn't allow carts.
Wind was in the forecast, but for the most part it was calm outside. They were supposed to generate from 6 a.m. until 8 a.m., but at 9:15 a.m. the Bassett gauge was showing close to 800 cfs. So I sat here on the couch waiting for USGS to update. At 11:30, the Bassett gauge was still reporting a 9:15 a.m. level. The Philpott guage was showing 60 cfs, so I took a chance and headed out.
When I got to the river, I was pleasantly surprised. Water was a bit high, but it was off color.
[attach=1]
I decided to bounce around, "hot spotting" if you will. I felt just like a "baiter". I saw maybe 2 midges and 1 winter stone fly. Bug activity was zip. I didn't see the first rise, so I decided to fish with gas (AKA, nymphs).
I moved my way into an area that I knew didn't see much pressure. People fish it, but not like other areas of the river. I tied on a winter stone fly pattern to use as an indicator and first cast a little brown came up from the depths and nailed it. A few moments later about 6 feet to my right, a violent rise grabbed my attention. It was one those places were you wouldn't expect a fish to be. No cover, no nothing. I decided to drift my winter stone fly by him, "WHAM!"
Little fella, but still a joy to catch.
[attach=2]
[attach=3]
People throw the most random stuff in this river.
[attach=4]
Really? A remote?
I only was out from about 12 until 3. It was good to get out instead of being shut up in the house.
Wind was in the forecast, but for the most part it was calm outside. They were supposed to generate from 6 a.m. until 8 a.m., but at 9:15 a.m. the Bassett gauge was showing close to 800 cfs. So I sat here on the couch waiting for USGS to update. At 11:30, the Bassett gauge was still reporting a 9:15 a.m. level. The Philpott guage was showing 60 cfs, so I took a chance and headed out.
When I got to the river, I was pleasantly surprised. Water was a bit high, but it was off color.
[attach=1]
I decided to bounce around, "hot spotting" if you will. I felt just like a "baiter". I saw maybe 2 midges and 1 winter stone fly. Bug activity was zip. I didn't see the first rise, so I decided to fish with gas (AKA, nymphs).
I moved my way into an area that I knew didn't see much pressure. People fish it, but not like other areas of the river. I tied on a winter stone fly pattern to use as an indicator and first cast a little brown came up from the depths and nailed it. A few moments later about 6 feet to my right, a violent rise grabbed my attention. It was one those places were you wouldn't expect a fish to be. No cover, no nothing. I decided to drift my winter stone fly by him, "WHAM!"
Little fella, but still a joy to catch.
[attach=2]
[attach=3]
People throw the most random stuff in this river.
[attach=4]
Really? A remote?
I only was out from about 12 until 3. It was good to get out instead of being shut up in the house.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on January 21, 2013, 17:20:27 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on January 21, 2013, 17:20:27 PM
At least you got out! I am about to die to get up there. I'll just look at your pictures so I can remember what fish look like.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 21, 2013, 17:59:53 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 21, 2013, 17:59:53 PM
bd;0 bd;0 bd;0
I salute you. Glad you did not suffer through the suckage that was my day............
I salute you. Glad you did not suffer through the suckage that was my day............
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 30, 2013, 07:11:19 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 30, 2013, 07:11:19 AM
Easy big fella. Is that the repaired rod?
On the bright side, the days are slowly getting longer. -0-
On the bright side, the days are slowly getting longer. -0-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 30, 2013, 10:08:19 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 30, 2013, 10:08:19 AM
Now that Battenkill is new to me, it was a 'presentation' rod and sold at an estate. It had never been fished before.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 30, 2013, 10:51:44 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 30, 2013, 10:51:44 AM
No wonder you were careful! Sweet.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 03, 2013, 21:43:50 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 03, 2013, 21:43:50 PM
http://youtu.be/XdHnGyU1yJQ (http://youtu.be/XdHnGyU1yJQ)
Took the dog up to the field for a run, can't believe what a wind tunnel
the Smith can be. Got down to the corner pool and tried the dry fly thing
for a while, decided to see how the boo would handle a small streamer. Worked
fine and the fish liked it too. Just caught a couple and the we moved upstream,
called the dog and scared up some young guy down in the river, he had managed 8
or nine, he was headed on down stream and we hiked up to the upper end of the field.
Couldn't entice anymore fish, so we split and hit another section of the river.
A brief show shower on the way back to the car. Brief hike in to the lower section.
Tied on a new articulated streamer, too much marabou, fly wouldn't sink at first
and I wasn't thrilled with it's movement, but that didn't matter to bib boy, grabbed
the hell out of it and shot off downstream in the current, had to run him down, and no
I wasn't fishing to boo, put that away and fished the Cortland 8' 6wt. My small trout
net was useless. I managed to get a hand on the fish and get a few photos before releasing
him. The may be the same fish that I caught last year, the jaw has a bit more of a kype now.
Made my day, fished the rest of the run but nobody else was interested.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/020313-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/020313-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/020313-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/020313-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/020313-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/020313-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/020313-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/020313-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/020313-13.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/020313-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/020313-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/020313-11.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: mecnc on February 03, 2013, 22:13:02 PM
Post by: mecnc on February 03, 2013, 22:13:02 PM
Nice fish WB. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on February 03, 2013, 22:19:00 PM
Post by: Big J on February 03, 2013, 22:19:00 PM
That is a very nice brown.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Chaser on February 03, 2013, 22:21:54 PM
Post by: Trout Chaser on February 03, 2013, 22:21:54 PM
A mighty fine Brown! 'c;
TC
TC
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on February 03, 2013, 22:40:38 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on February 03, 2013, 22:40:38 PM
Pretty fish, Keith!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Rod Champion on February 03, 2013, 23:03:20 PM
Post by: Rod Champion on February 03, 2013, 23:03:20 PM
Nice fish Keith.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on February 04, 2013, 07:39:24 AM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on February 04, 2013, 07:39:24 AM
bd;0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 04, 2013, 07:57:21 AM
Post by: Dougfish on February 04, 2013, 07:57:21 AM
Mighty fine. -0-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Jfey on February 04, 2013, 09:52:12 AM
Post by: Jfey on February 04, 2013, 09:52:12 AM
Note to self, add too much marabou to my streamers... Nice fish WB!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: sanjuanwormhatch on February 04, 2013, 10:19:46 AM
Post by: sanjuanwormhatch on February 04, 2013, 10:19:46 AM
Damn.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 04, 2013, 13:57:31 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 04, 2013, 13:57:31 PM
Just checked my pics, and this is the same bad body that I caught 10 months, 24 days ago. Glad to see he's doing so well.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on February 04, 2013, 14:17:22 PM
Post by: 22midge on February 04, 2013, 14:17:22 PM
yelp !! look at the gill cover how its scratched from nymphing those gravels.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on February 10, 2013, 23:04:15 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on February 10, 2013, 23:04:15 PM
I went to Winston Saturday to the show. I finally got to meet Flats and Beetle. They were both gentleman. Beetle could fish water in his knee boots that I couldn't fish out of a boat. Enjoyed it boys! It was a hoot watching TM tying flies and giving everybody watching inferiority complexes. It was even more amazing when you realize most people his age are sitting on the front porch in rockers watching their great grand children dig up flowers and stuff. Lying and tying Saturday night was fun and I got Papal Dispensation from Peewee to fish his and Dean's private water Sunday. I headed to Martinsville Sunday armed with 2 of Peewee's 15 pound flies. I arrived at 1:00 and fished until 2 and caught two fish. Neither one monsters, but they were first my Smith browns of the year. More important they were my first wild fish caught on my new rod that Ralph (ODG3) made for me. For all you people who don't know Ralph, he is a gentleman and a scholar and one of the best fisherman you will ever run into. He is also apparently a master craftsman and a member of the Notre Dame football team. I only fished for about an hour because it was cold enough that I was having trouble feeling my fingers on my left hand from stripping line and I am too old for that mess.
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith2-10-2013003_zpscad17006.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith2-10-2013001_zpscfb9593b.jpg)
I really enjoyed this weekend. I met Snag Saturday and Fish Pymp. Saturday night I saw a bunch of people I haven't seen in a while. I enjoyed seeing all of ya"ll.
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith2-10-2013003_zpscad17006.jpg)
(http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo284/JBCLMC/smith2-10-2013001_zpscfb9593b.jpg)
I really enjoyed this weekend. I met Snag Saturday and Fish Pymp. Saturday night I saw a bunch of people I haven't seen in a while. I enjoyed seeing all of ya"ll.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on February 11, 2013, 08:03:05 AM
Post by: Big J on February 11, 2013, 08:03:05 AM
I'd be happy with that. From my understanding, the Smith has perfected the art of skunking people in the winter.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 11, 2013, 08:37:24 AM
Post by: Dougfish on February 11, 2013, 08:37:24 AM
'c; 'c; 'c; Good times.
How about some rod pics?
How about some rod pics?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on February 11, 2013, 19:24:32 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on February 11, 2013, 19:24:32 PM
Doug, I'll show you the rod sometime. If I posted pictures of it every one would want one. Ralph is working hard as the dickens at this time and he now has one other thing he has to keep up.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on February 11, 2013, 19:51:22 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on February 11, 2013, 19:51:22 PM
Ralph is too busy looking for his girlfriend, seems she had disappeared of something like that! Go Irish!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on February 11, 2013, 21:07:16 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on February 11, 2013, 21:07:16 PM
Nice work! Sounds like the show was a good outing as well.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 16, 2013, 22:13:43 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 16, 2013, 22:13:43 PM
http://youtu.be/YFabNBveHOk (http://youtu.be/YFabNBveHOk)
After reading BryanM's post about his old dog, on the Drake, I wanted to spend another day on the river with my, soon to be 10 year old, aussie lab mix, Sally. She always gives me the look of disappointment when I tell her to stay as I'm going out the door, but she perks right up when I say, "Let's go!" She rides well in the car, but once we stop, she's ready to get going, and patiently waits for me to gear up so we can begin the hike to the river.
Sloppy snow was the forecast, it was in the mid-thirty's, so no chance of it sticking around.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/021613-6.jpg)
Silly dog got to the river and waded out and started to lay down in the stream, but as soon as her belly got wet she changed her mind.
This should be good.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/021613-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/021613-2.jpg)
Threw streamers for a couple of hours. Nothing. Saw 2 BWOs on the water, both got eaten.
Snow showers blew downstream on and off.
Poured a sip for all good dogs, and those who've passed on.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/021613-5.jpg)
Gave up on the upper river and moved on down to dogtown.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/021613-13.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/021613-11.jpg)
Have to leave Sally in the car down here. Made quick work of it.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/021613-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/021613-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/021613-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/021613-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/2/021613-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: sanjuanwormhatch on February 19, 2013, 20:00:37 PM
Post by: sanjuanwormhatch on February 19, 2013, 20:00:37 PM
How'd you like that happy ending (the beer)?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 19, 2013, 20:41:44 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 19, 2013, 20:41:44 PM
Spendy but well worth it!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 16, 2013, 22:55:42 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 16, 2013, 22:55:42 PM
Finally felt like I could get out in the river for a spell today. Had some difficulty getting the boot on with the wrapped up ankle and all. Parked at one of the closest river access points and hobbled on down to the water. Tossed a small streamer for a while then switched to half a chicken size. Wham, nice bend in the six weight sure felt good. Great fish for the smith probably went 14 inches or better. No pic so you'll just have to imaging a richly colored and large spotted brown with a huge yellow articulated fly hanging out of its mouth. Celebrated with a Bell's Hopslam!
Thunder drove me off the river.
Thunder drove me off the river.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on March 17, 2013, 15:48:45 PM
Post by: 22midge on March 17, 2013, 15:48:45 PM
here is a few of the better fish today
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y289/22midge/P3100054_zps9dfcc5a0.jpg)
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y289/22midge/P3170066_zps50e27e50.jpg)
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y289/22midge/P3170064_zpsa3baff33.jpg)
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y289/22midge/P3170062_zpsfbb278f4.jpg)
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y289/22midge/P3170060_zpsa75cfba4.jpg)
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y289/22midge/P3170058_zpse751d826.jpg)
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y289/22midge/P3170057_zps55d12f85.jpg)
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y289/22midge/P3100054_zps9dfcc5a0.jpg)
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y289/22midge/P3170066_zps50e27e50.jpg)
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y289/22midge/P3170064_zpsa3baff33.jpg)
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y289/22midge/P3170062_zpsfbb278f4.jpg)
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y289/22midge/P3170060_zpsa75cfba4.jpg)
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y289/22midge/P3170058_zpse751d826.jpg)
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y289/22midge/P3170057_zps55d12f85.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on March 17, 2013, 16:32:07 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on March 17, 2013, 16:32:07 PM
You enjoy rubbing in, don't you Peewee? bd;0 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: _Fish_Pimp on March 17, 2013, 16:53:54 PM
Post by: _Fish_Pimp on March 17, 2013, 16:53:54 PM
Quote from: 22midge on March 17, 2013, 15:48:45 PM
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y289/22midge/P3170066_zps50e27e50.jpg)
maybe the smiff is worth the gas... :-X
nice fish! bd;0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: tomato can on March 17, 2013, 17:37:01 PM
Post by: tomato can on March 17, 2013, 17:37:01 PM
Pretty impressive!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: flyrod on March 17, 2013, 17:40:37 PM
Post by: flyrod on March 17, 2013, 17:40:37 PM
Hey Smoke, I see ya got the fly line on right :). Good catch, I think the new bugs are working.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on March 17, 2013, 18:06:47 PM
Post by: 22midge on March 17, 2013, 18:06:47 PM
yea flyrod I can make cast 15 feet long now so I dont have to sneak up so close.The top and the bottom of the run had all the fish today.I did find another target at the second spot I fished today...flouro never stopped him.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 17, 2013, 19:39:40 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 17, 2013, 19:39:40 PM
Damn that a little piggy
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 18, 2013, 07:04:13 AM
Post by: Dougfish on March 18, 2013, 07:04:13 AM
You wore them out on that big stonefly! bd;0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on March 30, 2013, 15:11:30 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on March 30, 2013, 15:11:30 PM
Weatherman was calling for Spring weather today, so Dougfish and I planned a trip to the Smith. It felt a little more like spring today! We met up around 8:30 and made our way across the fields. A few weeks ago, Doug started hacking away at a trail along side the river and I helped extend it another 50 feet or so today.
Doug wanted you guys to believe he did something this morning...you can faintly see the trail...
[attach=1]
We started making our way down to the mirror pool around 10 a.m., keeping a close eye on the water checking for fish activity. Once we got down to the trussle pool, I said it doesn't look like we will be fishing dries. No sooner than I finished running my mouth, midges filled the air with a few caddis and the fish started rising!
[attach=2]
[attach=3]
[attach=4]
[attach=5]
Dinks, but they didn't come easy. We had to work for them.
All in all, it was a good day to get out and we accomplished what we came for. Extending the trail and catching a few browns...with the exception of Doug's one rainbow...
Until next time...
Doug wanted you guys to believe he did something this morning...you can faintly see the trail...
[attach=1]
We started making our way down to the mirror pool around 10 a.m., keeping a close eye on the water checking for fish activity. Once we got down to the trussle pool, I said it doesn't look like we will be fishing dries. No sooner than I finished running my mouth, midges filled the air with a few caddis and the fish started rising!
[attach=2]
[attach=3]
[attach=4]
[attach=5]
Dinks, but they didn't come easy. We had to work for them.
All in all, it was a good day to get out and we accomplished what we came for. Extending the trail and catching a few browns...with the exception of Doug's one rainbow...
Until next time...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on March 30, 2013, 16:31:27 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on March 30, 2013, 16:31:27 PM
I've got to get back up there! Fish away so I can at least see pictures 'c;!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 30, 2013, 16:56:24 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 30, 2013, 16:56:24 PM
Quote from: 5xTippett on March 30, 2013, 16:31:27 PMSome dumbass forgot his camera today. The 10" rainbow I caught was the wildest looking bow I've seen on the Smiff. A well established holdover or a wild fish? I know they are reproducing, at least limitedly.
I've got to get back up there! Fish away so I can at least see pictures 'c;!
First Yellow Swallowtail Butterfly of the year, two. Wildflowers are starting to bust.
Point your nose north, Ben!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on March 30, 2013, 20:10:42 PM
Post by: Big J on March 30, 2013, 20:10:42 PM
Glad to see you got Doug out :D
Now work on getting Bill out fishing....That's a nearly impossible task.
Now work on getting Bill out fishing....That's a nearly impossible task.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on March 30, 2013, 20:17:48 PM
Post by: 22midge on March 30, 2013, 20:17:48 PM
heading up tomorrow...... get your butt in the wind 5X maybe we can find a fish hungry enough to eat sompin.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on April 06, 2013, 21:00:30 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on April 06, 2013, 21:00:30 PM
I met up with another Smith River junkie this morning to tie flies for an hour or so before heading to the river. This area gets crazy two times a year when the race comes to town. Some real crazies pass through, but the most entertaining are those from out of state that do not have the lottery. I stopped at the store to get a sundrop and waited in line for a guy to buy $140 worth of scratch offs...sheeesh....
I'm not sure what this NS was running, but this train had 8 engines just in the front..man on man...I've always sort of been facinated with trains.
[attach=9]
Made it down to the river about 1:30 p.m. and fished an area frequented by others, but completely new to me. Awesome looking water, but the fish were uncooperative...
[attach=1]
The fish were quiet this afternoon despite the bug activity. There weren't any real hatches to speak of until about 5:30, but bugs continuously filled the air along with the occasional hendrickson and even a few sulphurs...
[attach=2]
[attach=3]
I spent most of the afternoon watching and waiting. The fish were not active today even sub-surface. Water was up and off-color and water temps made it up to 52 degrees.
[attach=4]
[attach=5]
[attach=8]
Around 5:15, I started to notice a little sippage and saw a guy upstream from bring one in.... I had a really hard time finding out what they were feeding on, but managed a couple on a sulphur comparadun.
Around 6 p.m., a remarkable caddis hatch started. The fish began to feed on the emerging caddis while I just continued to throw anything and everything that was remotely close to the winged adults. Finally, I decided to fish smart and tie on #22 CDC emerger and started hooking up in short fashion. Eager little farts!
[attach=6]
[attach=7]
Until next time...
I'm not sure what this NS was running, but this train had 8 engines just in the front..man on man...I've always sort of been facinated with trains.
[attach=9]
Made it down to the river about 1:30 p.m. and fished an area frequented by others, but completely new to me. Awesome looking water, but the fish were uncooperative...
[attach=1]
The fish were quiet this afternoon despite the bug activity. There weren't any real hatches to speak of until about 5:30, but bugs continuously filled the air along with the occasional hendrickson and even a few sulphurs...
[attach=2]
[attach=3]
I spent most of the afternoon watching and waiting. The fish were not active today even sub-surface. Water was up and off-color and water temps made it up to 52 degrees.
[attach=4]
[attach=5]
[attach=8]
Around 5:15, I started to notice a little sippage and saw a guy upstream from bring one in.... I had a really hard time finding out what they were feeding on, but managed a couple on a sulphur comparadun.
Around 6 p.m., a remarkable caddis hatch started. The fish began to feed on the emerging caddis while I just continued to throw anything and everything that was remotely close to the winged adults. Finally, I decided to fish smart and tie on #22 CDC emerger and started hooking up in short fashion. Eager little farts!
[attach=6]
[attach=7]
Until next time...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 07, 2013, 06:01:21 AM
Post by: Dougfish on April 07, 2013, 06:01:21 AM
Good stuff Scott! And stellar photography. too! 'c; 'c; 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: sanjuanwormhatch on April 07, 2013, 07:12:10 AM
Post by: sanjuanwormhatch on April 07, 2013, 07:12:10 AM
Nice shots.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on April 07, 2013, 22:08:37 PM
Post by: gonephishin' on April 07, 2013, 22:08:37 PM
Very nice, glad to see some decent hatches coming off
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 08, 2013, 17:42:47 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 08, 2013, 17:42:47 PM
cool Smith reportage, but now that the evening hatches have started, Dominion power is generation right on top of the hatch b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on April 08, 2013, 18:14:40 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on April 08, 2013, 18:14:40 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on April 08, 2013, 17:42:47 PM
cool Smith reportage, but now that the evening hatches have started, Dominion power is generation right on top of the hatch b';
I called today trying to plan an evening on the river after work, but they are generating 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. all week...smh
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on April 20, 2013, 21:09:25 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on April 20, 2013, 21:09:25 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qnydFmqHuVo
You can always tell when the fishing is getting good in other places when the "Smith-Continued" thread almost makes it down to page 2.
Today, TU teamed up with Gateway for a spring clean up. We all met up around 8 a.m. and shot the breeze over a lite breakfast and then started the trash removal around 9 and finished up around 12.
A Smith River fogy and I had planned ahead of time to fish after the clean up, but torrential rainfall on Friday had Towne Creek blow to smitherines. It baffles the fool out of me how much mud that creek will dump into the Smith. We decided to try our luck up near the dam. When I was suiting up, I noticed I was getting a headache. I decided to press on anyway!
Beautiful stretches of water, but the wind and the sun were brutal...
[attach=1]
The fish were very active this afternoon and we started connecting early.
[attach=2]
[attach=3]
[attach=4]
Flub...
[attach=5]
After a couple of hours, the sun started to dip behind the mountain, but the wind was still howling. At this point my head was killing me and I had to call it quits. It was a good thing because about that time, 2 guys came dragging their canoe through the shallow riffles and tossing spinners through the pools we were fishing.
One for Doug!
[attach=6]
Longest and most difficult drive home ever. I almost lost my cookies a few times. As soon as I got home I took a hot shower and took some pills accompanied with a three hour nap. I'm still not top notch, but I feel like a million bucks compared to earlier.
We accomplished what we set out for. Preservation! Get out and enjoy the river!!
Until next time...
You can always tell when the fishing is getting good in other places when the "Smith-Continued" thread almost makes it down to page 2.
Today, TU teamed up with Gateway for a spring clean up. We all met up around 8 a.m. and shot the breeze over a lite breakfast and then started the trash removal around 9 and finished up around 12.
A Smith River fogy and I had planned ahead of time to fish after the clean up, but torrential rainfall on Friday had Towne Creek blow to smitherines. It baffles the fool out of me how much mud that creek will dump into the Smith. We decided to try our luck up near the dam. When I was suiting up, I noticed I was getting a headache. I decided to press on anyway!
Beautiful stretches of water, but the wind and the sun were brutal...
[attach=1]
The fish were very active this afternoon and we started connecting early.
[attach=2]
[attach=3]
[attach=4]
Flub...
[attach=5]
After a couple of hours, the sun started to dip behind the mountain, but the wind was still howling. At this point my head was killing me and I had to call it quits. It was a good thing because about that time, 2 guys came dragging their canoe through the shallow riffles and tossing spinners through the pools we were fishing.
One for Doug!
[attach=6]
Longest and most difficult drive home ever. I almost lost my cookies a few times. As soon as I got home I took a hot shower and took some pills accompanied with a three hour nap. I'm still not top notch, but I feel like a million bucks compared to earlier.
We accomplished what we set out for. Preservation! Get out and enjoy the river!!
Until next time...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 20, 2013, 22:56:01 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 20, 2013, 22:56:01 PM
I came up there for a bit, fished the muddy part, tossed big streamers, didn't see a fish...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 21, 2013, 06:15:41 AM
Post by: Dougfish on April 21, 2013, 06:15:41 AM
Glad you got some fishing in Scott. Fogey? Shut your mouth!
Silene virginica, BTW. Fire Pink.
Silene virginica, BTW. Fire Pink.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: tomato can on April 21, 2013, 06:44:07 AM
Post by: tomato can on April 21, 2013, 06:44:07 AM
Nice ID doug.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 21, 2013, 08:24:46 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 21, 2013, 08:24:46 AM
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/4/042013-1.jpg)
greeting committee
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/4/042013-2.jpg)
lunch break
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/4/042013-3.jpg)
tasty
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/4/042013-4.jpg)
yup, it was muddy alright...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/4/042013-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/4/042013-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/4/042013-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/4/042013-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/4/042013-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/4/042013-10.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 06, 2013, 09:46:25 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 06, 2013, 09:46:25 AM
planned to fish the SoHo Saturday, even left the party early and set the alarm for 5:00
http://youtu.be/6JTzO_md0b8 (http://youtu.be/6JTzO_md0b8)
Friday Night Party...
woke up at eight, wtf? oh, weekday alarm, silly rabbit
baked a pie in the morning, headed to the river in the afternoon, expected some rain and high stained water took the full sink line.
when I got there it was cloudy, clear water, sulfurs hatching and fish rising, banged the banks, moved a few good fish, drank a few beers...
shoulda gone today!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/5/050513-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/5/050513-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/5/050513-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/5/050513-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/5/050513-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/5/050513-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/5/050513-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/5/050513-8.jpg)
Next time I'll make sure I've got a floating line with me...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on May 06, 2013, 11:06:52 AM
Post by: 5xTippett on May 06, 2013, 11:06:52 AM
Glad to see some bugs out! I was at a graduation. I will get up there soon. I don't own any sinking line, so I won;t have that decision to make.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gamatt53 on May 06, 2013, 12:58:45 PM
Post by: gamatt53 on May 06, 2013, 12:58:45 PM
I haven't been up there in way too long. Water looking good
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on May 06, 2013, 13:16:31 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on May 06, 2013, 13:16:31 PM
Keith, If I didn't know better, I would swear a professional photographer followed you around. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on May 30, 2013, 11:19:55 AM
Post by: gonephishin' on May 30, 2013, 11:19:55 AM
Anyone think this 24/7 generation will wash some of that rock snot out of the upper Smith? Love fishing up there but that shit is ridiculous!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 30, 2013, 14:32:36 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 30, 2013, 14:32:36 PM
Quote from: gonephishin' on May 30, 2013, 11:19:55 AM
Anyone think this 24/7 generation will wash some of that rock snot out of the upper Smith? Love fishing up there but that shit is ridiculous!
I think the flows will wash some away but be prepared for a bloom once it stops...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on May 30, 2013, 14:52:27 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on May 30, 2013, 14:52:27 PM
It's always thick above Town's Creek during the summer! I think Keith hit the nail on the head. However, the generation has to stop before we find out! >:D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gamatt53 on May 30, 2013, 16:19:27 PM
Post by: gamatt53 on May 30, 2013, 16:19:27 PM
Hmm looks like I finally may get to float the Smith on my bote if they run water on the weekends...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 30, 2013, 18:03:15 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 30, 2013, 18:03:15 PM
the ran it last weekend...
don't know how long it will last...
don't know how long it will last...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on May 31, 2013, 22:40:58 PM
Post by: gonephishin' on May 31, 2013, 22:40:58 PM
Boys the Smith is open for business this weekend, no gen on sat/sun, however Monday starting up at 10am thru 10pm, that was all the recording gave us...thru Monday. Maybe we can have some less slick wading in the upper reaches for the weekend. Will be interesting to see how the fishing is after a 24/7 run all week....see ya out there! /'/
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 03, 2013, 09:22:50 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 03, 2013, 09:22:50 AM
http://youtu.be/FKnf3_0xG-o (http://youtu.be/FKnf3_0xG-o)
The Smith has been unfishable for the last couple of weeks as the recent rains forced the dam to run 24/7, but when I checked the flow I realized that they had shut it off this weekend. Saturday was booked, so I made plans to fish the sulfur hatch on Sunday. Despite the weather I took off at 4 and drove the hour and a half to the river. I was pretty much a frog strangler on the drive up, had to take some mphs off the drive to avoid hydroplaning on the highway where the water pooled. But as I approached my destination the rain slacked off as I expected.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/060213-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/060213-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/060213-3.jpg)
I rigged up the boo in anticipation of a decent sulfur hatch. Walking on down to the river I noticed that Philpott had harvested his first batch of hay. The weather was unsettled and thunder boomed in the distance. When I got to the river there were bugs in the air and the river was slightly stained. A few fish were rising. I managed to get this little guy on a long drift from the top of the pool all the way around the bend, and as I muttered, "damn" in exasperation the fish hit the fly! A few more fish were rising, but the water was getting muddy and rising a bit. That storm must have dumped a lot of rain up on Town Creek.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/060213-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/060213-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/060213-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/060213-7.jpg)
Then the hatch subsided and I thought about leaving, but stayed to see if the evening would bring on another round of sulfurs. The rain came back as the bugs started to come off in good numbers. But the fish weren't looking up through the coffee colored water, but I wasn't ready to give up. I thought that at any moment the fish would begin to rise, I waited until dusk, still nothing happened. But I enjoyed the afternoon standing in the rain casting dry flies to fish that wouldn't rise. I enjoyed watching the bugs and the birds.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/060213-8.jpg)
On the walk out I saw this snapper wondering out of place, perhaps she had laid eggs nearby. I'm not too familiar with the habits of turtles.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/060213-9.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 03, 2013, 12:02:45 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 03, 2013, 12:02:45 PM
M-F, 10AM - 10PM generation. b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 04, 2013, 19:36:03 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 04, 2013, 19:36:03 PM
OK, I'm stupid enough to hit early tomorrow for a few hours. ;D
-0-
-0-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 05, 2013, 13:04:14 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 05, 2013, 13:04:14 PM
The forecast is looking dicey for the near future, so Big J and I's Saturday plans might be rained washed out. Screw that, I needed a fix. And I had not touched the Smith in a month or more. Out of bed and down the road this morning to get a couple of hours in before the generation.
I wasn't the only one with that idea. One guy was already there waiting on his buddy. They jumped in way below me and another fellow showed up above me. I only fished about 150 feet of river as I worked slowly and changed often to try to find the right pattern for that moment. A sporadic sulphur hatch was coming off and they were mainly taking the emergers. Enthusiastically for a while.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-LKKUDZM2oX4/Ua92k3TGaTI/AAAAAAAAHUI/_GauVWz5vlU/w712-h534-no/003.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-2oZAJQvTfaI/Ua92liLFFSI/AAAAAAAAHUM/CjNQSv78zSQ/w712-h534-no/004.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Yert97w6pak/Ua92mE1rpzI/AAAAAAAAHUU/xrc0SiOUFsE/w712-h534-no/006.JPG)
Oops!
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-0gEsjnVi0mQ/Ua92jmaGi2I/AAAAAAAAHT8/Elg8h2l3bO0/w712-h534-no/001.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ppzvOHiBavw/Ua92o1WB27I/AAAAAAAAHUs/YUeOa0tM1Gs/w712-h534-no/013.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-pddAliukuL0/Ua92qh9RkwI/AAAAAAAAHU8/6D0n91LZDSw/w712-h534-no/015.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-hepeOuYDzSo/Ua92nI6FgJI/AAAAAAAAHUc/UY6zcK6YfRQ/w712-h534-no/008.JPG)
Trippy!
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6QQnDfKr02E/Ua93pvKfqKI/AAAAAAAAHVQ/vb7V_tqRquE/w1043-h517-no/006-PANO.jpg)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-HKrSR9c9YYQ/Ua92p2bACmI/AAAAAAAAHU0/O9NsBLLVViQ/w712-h534-no/014.JPG)
The obligatory vegetation shots. Hophornbeam and Multiflora Rose.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MVUDLoTFH5Q/Ua92rmGw70I/AAAAAAAAHVE/17QxEzmmJng/w712-h534-no/017.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-fUP6zOBkNDs/Ua92sp2U8cI/AAAAAAAAHVI/uS-oNa3TwDg/w435-h534-no/018.JPG)
Fix satisfied. V:;
I wasn't the only one with that idea. One guy was already there waiting on his buddy. They jumped in way below me and another fellow showed up above me. I only fished about 150 feet of river as I worked slowly and changed often to try to find the right pattern for that moment. A sporadic sulphur hatch was coming off and they were mainly taking the emergers. Enthusiastically for a while.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-LKKUDZM2oX4/Ua92k3TGaTI/AAAAAAAAHUI/_GauVWz5vlU/w712-h534-no/003.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-2oZAJQvTfaI/Ua92liLFFSI/AAAAAAAAHUM/CjNQSv78zSQ/w712-h534-no/004.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Yert97w6pak/Ua92mE1rpzI/AAAAAAAAHUU/xrc0SiOUFsE/w712-h534-no/006.JPG)
Oops!
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-0gEsjnVi0mQ/Ua92jmaGi2I/AAAAAAAAHT8/Elg8h2l3bO0/w712-h534-no/001.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ppzvOHiBavw/Ua92o1WB27I/AAAAAAAAHUs/YUeOa0tM1Gs/w712-h534-no/013.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-pddAliukuL0/Ua92qh9RkwI/AAAAAAAAHU8/6D0n91LZDSw/w712-h534-no/015.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-hepeOuYDzSo/Ua92nI6FgJI/AAAAAAAAHUc/UY6zcK6YfRQ/w712-h534-no/008.JPG)
Trippy!
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6QQnDfKr02E/Ua93pvKfqKI/AAAAAAAAHVQ/vb7V_tqRquE/w1043-h517-no/006-PANO.jpg)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-HKrSR9c9YYQ/Ua92p2bACmI/AAAAAAAAHU0/O9NsBLLVViQ/w712-h534-no/014.JPG)
The obligatory vegetation shots. Hophornbeam and Multiflora Rose.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MVUDLoTFH5Q/Ua92rmGw70I/AAAAAAAAHVE/17QxEzmmJng/w712-h534-no/017.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-fUP6zOBkNDs/Ua92sp2U8cI/AAAAAAAAHVI/uS-oNa3TwDg/w435-h534-no/018.JPG)
Fix satisfied. V:;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on June 05, 2013, 13:18:17 PM
Post by: Big J on June 05, 2013, 13:18:17 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on June 05, 2013, 13:04:14 PMThe forecast is looking dicey for the near future, so Big J and I's Saturday plans might berainedwashed out.
I saw the forecast Doug, I may still get out Saturday, I may not. My wife Monday night broke her pinky toe (pretty badly too, almost ripped it off) and the fact she has the lowest pain tolerance I have ever seen, I may not be "allowed" out. I'm busting my tail to finish up this weeks hw though and still trying/wanting to get out Saturday.
I like the shots you've been taking with the new camera. Glad you could sneak down there before generation.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 05, 2013, 13:27:25 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 05, 2013, 13:27:25 PM
Quote from: Big J on June 05, 2013, 13:18:17 PM
My wife Monday night broke her pinky toe (pretty badly too, almost ripped it off) and the fact she has the lowest pain tolerance I have ever seen, I may not be "allowed" out.
Flip flop catastrophe? :o
I'm game for Saturday, buttt........
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on June 05, 2013, 15:22:36 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on June 05, 2013, 15:22:36 PM
Doug - I'll be back in town Saturday if Big J can't get out. The weather looks find for Saturday. I think the issue will be heavy rain on Friday! b';
Nice work on the Smith, btw!
Nice work on the Smith, btw!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 07, 2013, 08:39:40 AM
Post by: Dougfish on June 07, 2013, 08:39:40 AM
From the powerhouse hotline:
10-10 generation today.
12 midnight tonight - 12 midnight June 14. 24/7 generation.
They'll be be some hungry browns after another week of sluicing.
10-10 generation today.
12 midnight tonight - 12 midnight June 14. 24/7 generation.
They'll be be some hungry browns after another week of sluicing.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on June 13, 2013, 18:57:43 PM
Post by: gonephishin' on June 13, 2013, 18:57:43 PM
After the rain we had today it doesn't look good for the next week on the Smith
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 13, 2013, 20:34:14 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 13, 2013, 20:34:14 PM
Quote from: gonephishin' on June 13, 2013, 18:57:43 PM
After the rain we had today it doesn't look good for the next week on the Smith
why are they only spinning one wheel at the damn dam?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on June 14, 2013, 21:01:13 PM
Post by: gonephishin' on June 14, 2013, 21:01:13 PM
New schedule.....no generation Sat and Sunday...9am to 9pm Mon thru Friday
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gamatt53 on June 15, 2013, 17:08:26 PM
Post by: gamatt53 on June 15, 2013, 17:08:26 PM
Noticed they weren't generating today and decided to take my new pup on his first Smith fishing trip. I hadn't been up to the homeland in a couple months mostly due to the pup and work so it was nice to get out.
He enjoyed the walk through the fields below the mirror plant
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv171/gamatt53/IMG_0739_zpsf4e7c9d6.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/gamatt53/media/IMG_0739_zpsf4e7c9d6.jpg.html)
Noticed fish rising to sulphurs as soon as we stepped into the water - Tucker noticed too and decided to investigate b';. After he realized just how cold the water was though he mostly stayed in the shallow stuff behind me and let me work the run.
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv171/gamatt53/IMG_0732_zps4ae9212d.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/gamatt53/media/IMG_0732_zps4ae9212d.jpg.html)
Didn't take too long to connect with the first brown of the day
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv171/gamatt53/IMG_0736_zps3e6bf027.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/gamatt53/media/IMG_0736_zps3e6bf027.jpg.html)
They were looking up all afternoon with the sporadic hatch. Had to be hungry after all the recent generation
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv171/gamatt53/IMG_0745_zps585ac965.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/gamatt53/media/IMG_0745_zps585ac965.jpg.html)
I would stick a few then hit the field again to let Tucker run and warm up before jumping back in. Once I got to double digits I figured it was time to head back - ended up being a nice way to spend an afternoon.
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv171/gamatt53/IMG_0749_zps68b09575.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/gamatt53/media/IMG_0749_zps68b09575.jpg.html)
and tired puppy is a well behaved puppy. We will be back when the generation allows it!
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv171/gamatt53/IMG_0725_zpsb594867d.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/gamatt53/media/IMG_0725_zpsb594867d.jpg.html)
He enjoyed the walk through the fields below the mirror plant
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv171/gamatt53/IMG_0739_zpsf4e7c9d6.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/gamatt53/media/IMG_0739_zpsf4e7c9d6.jpg.html)
Noticed fish rising to sulphurs as soon as we stepped into the water - Tucker noticed too and decided to investigate b';. After he realized just how cold the water was though he mostly stayed in the shallow stuff behind me and let me work the run.
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv171/gamatt53/IMG_0732_zps4ae9212d.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/gamatt53/media/IMG_0732_zps4ae9212d.jpg.html)
Didn't take too long to connect with the first brown of the day
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv171/gamatt53/IMG_0736_zps3e6bf027.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/gamatt53/media/IMG_0736_zps3e6bf027.jpg.html)
They were looking up all afternoon with the sporadic hatch. Had to be hungry after all the recent generation
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv171/gamatt53/IMG_0745_zps585ac965.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/gamatt53/media/IMG_0745_zps585ac965.jpg.html)
I would stick a few then hit the field again to let Tucker run and warm up before jumping back in. Once I got to double digits I figured it was time to head back - ended up being a nice way to spend an afternoon.
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv171/gamatt53/IMG_0749_zps68b09575.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/gamatt53/media/IMG_0749_zps68b09575.jpg.html)
and tired puppy is a well behaved puppy. We will be back when the generation allows it!
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv171/gamatt53/IMG_0725_zpsb594867d.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/gamatt53/media/IMG_0725_zpsb594867d.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 15, 2013, 23:26:45 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 15, 2013, 23:26:45 PM
cool TR :o
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 16, 2013, 14:03:13 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 16, 2013, 14:03:13 PM
'c; Good day for you and the pup.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 21, 2013, 13:54:51 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 21, 2013, 13:54:51 PM
http://youtu.be/XYXXhn9fMYs (http://youtu.be/XYXXhn9fMYs)
The old 9 - 9 generation schedule sucks the big one. I've had a good roll going and I wanted to fish, but I probably won't get out this weekend, so I slipped out the door early and headed for the river. I was the only peckerhead there and the sulphurs were sporadically popping off and fish were rising as far as the eye could see.
Got my dry/dropper sorted out and slowly waded in. Third cast, fish. A few more, fish. It went like that for about two hours with a few slow spots thrown in. They took the soft hackle emerger about 2:1 over the dry. A lot of 10"+ fish today to go with the usual suspects. Hope Al and the boys whack 'em this weekend!
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-buQoPu3KFjQ/UcSdOtD_RuI/AAAAAAAAHpw/H-kmo_Qci70/w712-h534-no/019.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-QNiwsqNtQ6U/UcSdGt5IKDI/AAAAAAAAHoY/w9g93ZYacw0/w764-h534-no/003.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4vTOM6aXDq4/UcSdHZIUoTI/AAAAAAAAHok/NIP3-H-80rc/w712-h534-no/005.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-48u77V0Rebg/UcSdIa3-SqI/AAAAAAAAHow/ogsYENYZzBo/w426-h534-no/007.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ndkAJrtZsvU/UcSdKBqJABI/AAAAAAAAHpA/CIEiJN4hAKs/w712-h534-no/009.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Hhz7rdzRMwY/UcSdK4oYODI/AAAAAAAAHpI/h8k3Qkar4yo/w712-h534-no/010.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RSyZuYh43tA/UcSdL3mo0jI/AAAAAAAAHpQ/Lo4HnhzPdFc/w712-h534-no/011.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-W1eRkQohxio/UcSdNl9-nDI/AAAAAAAAHpk/r86pCmTmwVI/w712-h534-no/013.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-m_tILfaovFw/UcSdOOVLQvI/AAAAAAAAHpo/MHwDZUp6lCA/w712-h534-no/015.JPG)
The old 9 - 9 generation schedule sucks the big one. I've had a good roll going and I wanted to fish, but I probably won't get out this weekend, so I slipped out the door early and headed for the river. I was the only peckerhead there and the sulphurs were sporadically popping off and fish were rising as far as the eye could see.
Got my dry/dropper sorted out and slowly waded in. Third cast, fish. A few more, fish. It went like that for about two hours with a few slow spots thrown in. They took the soft hackle emerger about 2:1 over the dry. A lot of 10"+ fish today to go with the usual suspects. Hope Al and the boys whack 'em this weekend!
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-buQoPu3KFjQ/UcSdOtD_RuI/AAAAAAAAHpw/H-kmo_Qci70/w712-h534-no/019.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-QNiwsqNtQ6U/UcSdGt5IKDI/AAAAAAAAHoY/w9g93ZYacw0/w764-h534-no/003.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4vTOM6aXDq4/UcSdHZIUoTI/AAAAAAAAHok/NIP3-H-80rc/w712-h534-no/005.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-48u77V0Rebg/UcSdIa3-SqI/AAAAAAAAHow/ogsYENYZzBo/w426-h534-no/007.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ndkAJrtZsvU/UcSdKBqJABI/AAAAAAAAHpA/CIEiJN4hAKs/w712-h534-no/009.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Hhz7rdzRMwY/UcSdK4oYODI/AAAAAAAAHpI/h8k3Qkar4yo/w712-h534-no/010.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RSyZuYh43tA/UcSdL3mo0jI/AAAAAAAAHpQ/Lo4HnhzPdFc/w712-h534-no/011.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-W1eRkQohxio/UcSdNl9-nDI/AAAAAAAAHpk/r86pCmTmwVI/w712-h534-no/013.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-m_tILfaovFw/UcSdOOVLQvI/AAAAAAAAHpo/MHwDZUp6lCA/w712-h534-no/015.JPG)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 21, 2013, 14:15:16 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 21, 2013, 14:15:16 PM
that's not a bad way to start the day...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 22, 2013, 17:53:08 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 22, 2013, 17:53:08 PM
OK, round two after yesterday's slap down. Al needed some Wounded Warrior help, and I have a women who lets me get away. A 6:30AM kiss on the cheek and gone. I gathered Joe at Al's cabin and we hit the the lower hay field, a section he had never fished. Cool! Fish were not as eager as yesterday, but we scored.
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-FnUFJ8zpN14/UcYRa35e_2I/AAAAAAAAHqY/VXYJimnZRxw/w878-h534-no/001.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-MTpLsYvfRog/UcYRb26e1GI/AAAAAAAAHqg/wNZu3gGcdq0/w712-h534-no/002.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-T1II1DcC5Vo/UcYRclMOTgI/AAAAAAAAHqo/vCdD3JtDD7Q/w712-h534-no/003.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-GY1DAHOCa4A/UcYReeo_YUI/AAAAAAAAHq0/UgoF4XYB6t8/w712-h534-no/005.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-e3Vxnym-cwQ/UcYRgzoo7LI/AAAAAAAAHrI/HqxR80G64fI/w712-h534-no/007.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-fNzmjAo_tF0/UcYRmG7cUrI/AAAAAAAAHrw/vkc7fn7cdSM/w712-h534-no/013.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-rRWp4aEiWjc/UcYRnEW6GWI/AAAAAAAAHr4/RS1RHsfQpTs/w712-h534-no/014.JPG)
0:0 And Salute!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on June 23, 2013, 13:29:18 PM
Post by: Big J on June 23, 2013, 13:29:18 PM
Cool cool. Flows back to normal down there?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gamatt53 on June 23, 2013, 16:43:58 PM
Post by: gamatt53 on June 23, 2013, 16:43:58 PM
I was up there with the Pup yesterday afternoon as well - just about the same result as last time except they wanted an emerger. Good way to spend a saturday
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 23, 2013, 19:29:36 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 23, 2013, 19:29:36 PM
Quote from: Big J on June 23, 2013, 13:29:18 PM
Cool cool. Flows back to normal down there?
Looking good for generation for the near future. The late sulphur hatch will be under generation though. b';
Quote from: gamatt53 on June 23, 2013, 16:43:58 PM
I was up there with the Pup yesterday afternoon as well - just about the same result as last time except they wanted an emerger. Good way to spend a saturday
I noticed a couple of NC tags alongside us when I took out at noonish. Trestle pool action? Emerger...check!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on June 24, 2013, 07:59:32 AM
Post by: Al on June 24, 2013, 07:59:32 AM
Big shout out and thank you to Doug and Larry for helping me with a Wounded Warriors / Project Healing Waters group this past weekend. As most of you know I'm a vet from another era. I remember how we were treated when we came home. In my own little way I've vowed to do what I can to make sure our current veterans do not experience the same thing. We did a good thing this past weekend.
No one got hurt, everyone caught fish, we had fun and if my empty food locker is a good indicator :o, everyone put on a little weight.
More detailed report to follow when I retrieve my camera's SD card from my cabin kitchen table - likely next weekend.
No one got hurt, everyone caught fish, we had fun and if my empty food locker is a good indicator :o, everyone put on a little weight.
More detailed report to follow when I retrieve my camera's SD card from my cabin kitchen table - likely next weekend.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 30, 2013, 14:33:50 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 30, 2013, 14:33:50 PM
http://youtu.be/czZNjEBtMAM (http://youtu.be/czZNjEBtMAM)
Responding to my daughter's question, I replied, "Well, you could go to church". To which she replied, "Why? You don't go". "I went to church last night, I was on the river," I stated. "That's not church," she retorted. "It's my church! I listened to the birds chirping, waiting for the sulfurs to hatch and the fish to rise. I watched the birds sweep down over the water, picking bugs off the surface. How do they do that? The nymphs are emerging under the water and they molt on the surface and are there for only a few seconds before they fly away. How do the birds see them and swoop down and pick them off the surface? I mean, I can see them, but the birds are flying around, while I'm just standing there and watching. It's really amazing, so yes, I was at church last night," I explained.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/072913-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/072913-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/072913-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/072913-3.jpg)
I expected sulfurs, but I got midges, the fish weren't really rising, and I refused to nymph, I thought about it, but decided to drink a beer and wait, hoping that the evening would bring on a hatch like I've seen before. "Are they done for the season", I asked myself? I rigged up the ole Orvis Bamboo, man, they feels heavy, especially after fishing with the One Ounce last weekend. Got into the groove, feeling the rod throw the line out there like only bamboo can do. I managed to catch a few of the smallest brown trout. An angler upstream from me, fishing the flat water, casting up against the rhododendron covered far bank, set the hook with a Bill Dance special, "A little less pepper on the hook-set," I yelled. Laughing, he replied, "Too much slack in the line".
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/072913-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/072913-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/072913-6.jpg)
There were a few sulfurs but not many, and the midges were taking over. I sat down and drank another beer.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/072913-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/072913-9.jpg)
Finally the fish were looking up a little and I managed to catch a number of the regulars and a stocked rainbow too. This was the first rainbow that I've caught in this section of the river, I hope it's not a sign of the future.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/072913-11.jpg)
As the sun set a small number of sulfurs hatched along with a billion midges and a few more fish were caught. Nice evening of the river with the dog.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/6/072913-10.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 01, 2013, 06:05:43 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 01, 2013, 06:05:43 AM
Nice, WB. You are a patient SOB. I throw on the dropper from the get go and start casting! /'/
And I always catch bows that have washed down in that section. Also, I've scored a couple of the "rainbows don't reproduce in the Smith" wild ones, too.
And I always catch bows that have washed down in that section. Also, I've scored a couple of the "rainbows don't reproduce in the Smith" wild ones, too.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on July 01, 2013, 06:39:41 AM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on July 01, 2013, 06:39:41 AM
I decided to see what was doing on Sunday. Much of the same. Blazing hot temps pushed me out until the evening hours. Even worse, two guys were already where I wanted to start the day, so it pushed me further down the tracks in the heat b';
[attach=1]
[attach=2]
Sporadic rises and no real bug activity to speak of...
[attach=3]
[attach=4]
Doug - Do you recognize that fly?
[attach=5]
[attach=6]
[attach=7]
In the last half hour, Sulphurs started to break the surface. I guess it was a hatch if you want to call it that? One of the last...
[attach=8]
[attach=9]
[attach=1]
[attach=2]
Sporadic rises and no real bug activity to speak of...
[attach=3]
[attach=4]
Doug - Do you recognize that fly?
[attach=5]
[attach=6]
[attach=7]
In the last half hour, Sulphurs started to break the surface. I guess it was a hatch if you want to call it that? One of the last...
[attach=8]
[attach=9]
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 01, 2013, 06:45:36 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 01, 2013, 06:45:36 AM
Quote from: consumnfire1229 on July 01, 2013, 06:39:41 AM
[attach=4]
Doug - Do you recognize that fly?
You're sinking pretty low to be using my secret weapon. :-*
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: CaddisMan on July 01, 2013, 06:58:29 AM
Post by: CaddisMan on July 01, 2013, 06:58:29 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on June 30, 2013, 14:33:50 PMAmen.
http://youtu.be/czZNjEBtMAM (http://youtu.be/czZNjEBtMAM)
Responding to my daughter's question, I replied, "Well, you could go to church". To which she replied, "Why? You don't go". "I went to church last night, I was on the river," I stated. "That's not church," she retorted. "It's my church! I listened to the birds chirping, waiting for the sulfurs to hatch and the fish to rise. I watched the birds sweep down over the water, picking bugs off the surface. How do they do that? The nymphs are emerging under the water and they molt on the surface and are there for only a few seconds before they fly away. How do the birds see them and swoop down and pick them off the surface? I mean, I can see them, but the birds are flying around, while I'm just standing there and watching. It's really amazing, so yes, I was at church last night," I explained.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: CaddisMan on July 01, 2013, 07:12:58 AM
Post by: CaddisMan on July 01, 2013, 07:12:58 AM
Quote from: consumnfire1229 on July 01, 2013, 06:39:41 AM
Doug - Do you recognize that fly?
Caddis larvae, perhaps... com'on, give it up...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on July 01, 2013, 07:18:41 AM
Post by: Big J on July 01, 2013, 07:18:41 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on July 01, 2013, 06:45:36 AMQuote from: consumnfire1229 on July 01, 2013, 06:39:41 AM
[attach=4]
Doug - Do you recognize that fly?
You're sinking pretty low to be using my secret weapon. :-*
Ah, his fleshy looking dropper. Looks like the cat is out of the bag doug ;D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 01, 2013, 21:29:11 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 01, 2013, 21:29:11 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on July 01, 2013, 06:05:43 AM
Nice, WB. You are a patient SOB. I throw on the dropper from the get go and start casting! /'/
And I always catch bows that have washed down in that section. Also, I've scored a couple of the "rainbows don't reproduce in the Smith" wild ones, too.
I was lucky to have some beer and the dog with me to pass the time while waiting for those few remaining sulfurs.. I didn't get into a good hatch on the Smith this year... damn dams!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 02, 2013, 04:48:18 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 02, 2013, 04:48:18 AM
Headed down to try some early AM action as soon as the coffee's brewed -0- ......TBC.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: CaddisMan on July 02, 2013, 09:09:33 AM
Post by: CaddisMan on July 02, 2013, 09:09:33 AM
Must do decaf on fishing mornings. I know its not the same but I roast my own beans so at least I have a comforting warm brew in my hands before tying a #22 midge larvae on a 7x tippet. Not sure what I'll do if I ever get to drive Smith-way at 4am like I mean to...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 02, 2013, 12:07:24 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 02, 2013, 12:07:24 PM
I went to church this morning. No Tuesday morning church song, so here's a reasonable stand in. Killer penny whistle.
http://youtu.be/FtjuxoYnlaw (http://youtu.be/FtjuxoYnlaw)
After brewing the high test coffee I boogied down to river (I OD'ed on caffeine in college. Doesn't affect me much anymore ;D).
The skies looked iffy, and sure enough, I was into the rain pretty soon. Then I ran out of it at the Henry Co. line. Got rigged up and headed to the not so secret spot. Slower rises than the last few trips, definitely less bugs coming off. But I got dialed in after a few changes. And I wasn't using the not so secret anymore dropper, Scott.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-lLfKNN6oUqE/UdMBmm-9gAI/AAAAAAAAHtc/o4g8hXKsZ8g/w712-h534-no/002.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-KmFKNtDQtBg/UdMBn8Rw_VI/AAAAAAAAHto/hREfz-MQpso/w712-h534-no/003.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ijikMu9_1fU/UdMBpdzEemI/AAAAAAAAHt4/MZx23aIRg9w/w831-h534-no/005.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o3l36Kku4V4/UdMBp3ePWEI/AAAAAAAAHuA/klQfk-pxPII/w712-h534-no/006.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-GyM944N6fWc/UdMBrIc4Z7I/AAAAAAAAHuQ/wv_wrkPmEtA/w964-h534-no/009.JPG)
I got sprinkled on a few times but it wasn't too bad. No rain jacket, BTW. b';
Then the fish started getting bigger. And my misses started getting more numerous. I threw up a throw-away cast into an unproductive spot so I could move up and over a few feet. When I glanced up, my dry was gone. I set the hook and a very nice brown shook me off. Dumbass!
The only fish to take the dry. Buttah!
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-0RdZ-ZUQacw/UdMBsUWNCJI/AAAAAAAAHug/6TexdXozMM8/w712-h534-no/012.JPG)
Nice bow for Woolly. Your spot, too. :P
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-o9SDNTqHZVA/UdMBt1pOhAI/AAAAAAAAHuw/FNd54BQwjpY/w712-h534-no/016.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-rjWwK-6Ow6M/UdMBuSMbg6I/AAAAAAAAHu4/1VzURMit9EM/w643-h534-no/017.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Ew_VGRiRKgo/UdMBv1v_i_I/AAAAAAAAHvI/QNkYdBzVKWc/w712-h534-no/019.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-gyrE9Tbg_eo/UdMBruPTBYI/AAAAAAAAHuY/pXj1Z2p1ILY/w618-h534-no/010.JPG)
Elderberry and Queen Anne's Lace to close the show.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q3RZwh-ny80/UdMBxUrVoXI/AAAAAAAAHvc/NyQQDG3lwHo/w712-h534-no/021.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6aHxUCgJ6Cw/UdMB0TRLMmI/AAAAAAAAHv0/Z9msMflmTTU/w712-h534-no/025.JPG)
Rained most of the way home. The fishing is done for a few days. 0:0
http://youtu.be/FtjuxoYnlaw (http://youtu.be/FtjuxoYnlaw)
After brewing the high test coffee I boogied down to river (I OD'ed on caffeine in college. Doesn't affect me much anymore ;D).
The skies looked iffy, and sure enough, I was into the rain pretty soon. Then I ran out of it at the Henry Co. line. Got rigged up and headed to the not so secret spot. Slower rises than the last few trips, definitely less bugs coming off. But I got dialed in after a few changes. And I wasn't using the not so secret anymore dropper, Scott.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-lLfKNN6oUqE/UdMBmm-9gAI/AAAAAAAAHtc/o4g8hXKsZ8g/w712-h534-no/002.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-KmFKNtDQtBg/UdMBn8Rw_VI/AAAAAAAAHto/hREfz-MQpso/w712-h534-no/003.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ijikMu9_1fU/UdMBpdzEemI/AAAAAAAAHt4/MZx23aIRg9w/w831-h534-no/005.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o3l36Kku4V4/UdMBp3ePWEI/AAAAAAAAHuA/klQfk-pxPII/w712-h534-no/006.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-GyM944N6fWc/UdMBrIc4Z7I/AAAAAAAAHuQ/wv_wrkPmEtA/w964-h534-no/009.JPG)
I got sprinkled on a few times but it wasn't too bad. No rain jacket, BTW. b';
Then the fish started getting bigger. And my misses started getting more numerous. I threw up a throw-away cast into an unproductive spot so I could move up and over a few feet. When I glanced up, my dry was gone. I set the hook and a very nice brown shook me off. Dumbass!
The only fish to take the dry. Buttah!
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-0RdZ-ZUQacw/UdMBsUWNCJI/AAAAAAAAHug/6TexdXozMM8/w712-h534-no/012.JPG)
Nice bow for Woolly. Your spot, too. :P
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-o9SDNTqHZVA/UdMBt1pOhAI/AAAAAAAAHuw/FNd54BQwjpY/w712-h534-no/016.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-rjWwK-6Ow6M/UdMBuSMbg6I/AAAAAAAAHu4/1VzURMit9EM/w643-h534-no/017.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Ew_VGRiRKgo/UdMBv1v_i_I/AAAAAAAAHvI/QNkYdBzVKWc/w712-h534-no/019.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-gyrE9Tbg_eo/UdMBruPTBYI/AAAAAAAAHuY/pXj1Z2p1ILY/w618-h534-no/010.JPG)
Elderberry and Queen Anne's Lace to close the show.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q3RZwh-ny80/UdMBxUrVoXI/AAAAAAAAHvc/NyQQDG3lwHo/w712-h534-no/021.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6aHxUCgJ6Cw/UdMB0TRLMmI/AAAAAAAAHv0/Z9msMflmTTU/w712-h534-no/025.JPG)
Rained most of the way home. The fishing is done for a few days. 0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2013, 13:06:09 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2013, 13:06:09 PM
you done did good this morning...
If I could get may lazy ass up extra early, I might make a morning trip...
hmmmm, looks like my VA license is up for renewal... b';
If I could get may lazy ass up extra early, I might make a morning trip...
hmmmm, looks like my VA license is up for renewal... b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 02, 2013, 13:22:14 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 02, 2013, 13:22:14 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2013, 13:06:09 PM
you done did good this morning...
If I could get may lazy ass up extra early, I might make a morning trip...
hmmmm, looks like my VA license is up for renewal... b';
My weekends are toast for a while. It's this, or nothing. This is working just dandy.
While standing in the middle of a well traveled creek and talking to a VDGIF employee who was surveying fisherman, I realized that mine had expired a month and a half ago. :o Thank goodness he wasn't a warden. Vamoosed into town and fixed that. Yea, I carped on a busy lake with it expired, too. With a newspaper columnist. And cameras. b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on July 02, 2013, 13:39:17 PM
Post by: Big J on July 02, 2013, 13:39:17 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on July 02, 2013, 13:22:14 PMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2013, 13:06:09 PM
you done did good this morning...
If I could get may lazy ass up extra early, I might make a morning trip...
hmmmm, looks like my VA license is up for renewal... b';
My weekends are toast for a while. It's this, or nothing. This is working just dandy.
While standing in the middle of a well traveled creek and talking to a VDGIF employee who was surveying fisherman, I realized that mine had expired a month and a half ago. :o Thank goodness he wasn't a warden. Vamoosed into town and fixed that. Yea, I carped on a busy lake with it expired, too. With a newspaper columnist. And cameras. b';
At least you fish at all. I'm beginning to turn into Bill....heck, even he is fishing now.
I would of paid good money to see your mug in that newspaper column getting handed a ticket. You know that columnist would of never let you live that down.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: tomato can on July 02, 2013, 19:26:18 PM
Post by: tomato can on July 02, 2013, 19:26:18 PM
That is right Big J I am fishing. Headed to B!@#!@# creek tomorrow evening! And then on Saturday flying to MN to fish the boundary waters for a week - every stinking day And then when I get home I am going to do a TWO day float if the river ever comes down + some more blue line fishing. You prob. got a toilet to unplug, get that lespedeza under control, gutter cleaning and some mulching.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on July 02, 2013, 20:11:24 PM
Post by: Big J on July 02, 2013, 20:11:24 PM
Quote from: tomato can on July 02, 2013, 19:26:18 PM
That is right Big J I am fishing. Headed to B!@#!@# creek tomorrow evening! And then on Saturday flying to MN to fish the boundary waters for a week - every stinking day And then when I get home I am going to do a TWO day float if the river ever comes down + some more blue line fishing. You prob. got a toilet to unplug, get that lespedeza under control, gutter cleaning and some mulching.
I had to look up lespedeza. I do hate lespedeza. Thanks for teaching me that. Also, as far as you fishing so much.......I hate you.........
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2013, 20:31:17 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2013, 20:31:17 PM
I had to look it up too, lespedeza I thought that was something else...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on July 02, 2013, 20:53:47 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on July 02, 2013, 20:53:47 PM
Unless Towne is blown up, an early morning may be my only July 4th option...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2013, 20:59:07 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2013, 20:59:07 PM
Rain, rain and more rain.
oh, and just a side note about the Boundary Waters, my son, who is working at the BSA high adventure camp; northern tier called today! He's already guided two trips, one out of Atikokan, then they brought him back to Ely to guide his second trip. He's going back to Canada on Saturday, and his next trip is Sunday.
/'/ /'/
oh, and just a side note about the Boundary Waters, my son, who is working at the BSA high adventure camp; northern tier called today! He's already guided two trips, one out of Atikokan, then they brought him back to Ely to guide his second trip. He's going back to Canada on Saturday, and his next trip is Sunday.
/'/ /'/
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 03, 2013, 15:52:36 PM
Post by: Al on July 03, 2013, 15:52:36 PM
Repost of my blog which went to some of you already - figured I'd let the rest of the folks know I am still alive. ::)
It has been awhile since I did any serious Smith River fishing. Been a little here and there but it was either just a short burst trying to beat the crazy 24/7 generation schedule or with someone else which is not exactly serious fishing in my book. The lawn needed mowing at my get away place which sits on a wooded ridge less then a mile from the Smith so I got that out of the way and headed to a favorite section of the river. My favorite sections are not necessarily the best fishing sections. I label them by where there is easy entrance to the river and a fairly easy exit based on how much time I have to fish. I hate fishing a section and then turning around and wading back downstream to the same point for exit – as many of you know, there are not many spots on the Smith where you can just get out without acting like a Billy Goat or busting brush. I thought I had the river broken down into entrance / exit sections but as my back seems to ache sooner then it used to after a long day of wading I may have to rethink my strategy b';
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9233_zpsaca40946.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9233_zpsaca40946.jpg.html)
Here is one of those sections. I hear a lot of folks say they don't know how to catch fish in all that flat water. My advice is learn. Most of the better fish I catch on the Smith come from water such as this.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9220_zps8ac592c4.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9220_zps8ac592c4.jpg.html)
It took we a while to get them dialed in. I rolled seven fish and I mean "rolled them" before obtaining a solid hookup that brought this typical Smith River Brown to the net. BTW I love my ghost net. It is so much easier on the fish and it eliminates the hassle of trying to get your dropper fly out of the regular string woven netting. My last string woven net ended up with more flies then I carry in my fly box :P
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9231_zpscc8324b9.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9231_zpscc8324b9.jpg.html)
Lots of rainbows still in the river. The last two stockings occurred while they were in the 24/7 generation cycle so the fish which are not used to moving water got pushed downstream away from the normal "follow the stock truck" fishing holes. Hint, hint to the DGIF folks who read my ramblings - We (SRTU) sent a letter to DGIF suggesting they coordinate stockings with the COE generation schedule. W e also asked them to let us know ahead of time when they were coming and we will try to round up a "bucket crew" to help spread out the fish. I even talked with one of my friends who is noted for following the stock truck. He thought it was a great idea and said he could get some of his buddies to help as well – no one ever asked them before. BTW nothing wrong with bait fishermen. We all started out that way. I encountered 5 bait fishermen this past weekend and every one of them was just as nice as can be. Most are entranced with the way our fly lines and flies dance across the water. When I talk with them, many would like to take up fly fishing but they fear it is too difficult to learn. I've even given impromptu casting lessons on the stream.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9227_zps93c65402.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9227_zps93c65402.jpg.html)
This rainbow had a serious overbite problem. Not sure if it is a generic thing or maybe he just rubbed on the raceway at the hatchery too much before growing to stocking size. BTW Kudos to DGIF for stocking some nice fish. Most that I caught were well into the 12-14 inch range. I did see a 20 plus inch rainbow on the stringer of one of the bait fishermen. Even though it broke my heart to think I would not have a chance to catch him, he was caught legally and I congratulated the fisherman who caught him.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9229_zpse7901f53.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9229_zpse7901f53.jpg.html)
This is what I was after! This and several others I caught in two days of fishing would have fallen into the 10-24 inch protected slot.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9245_zpse05aa1db.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9245_zpse05aa1db.jpg.html)
Here is another one of my favorite sections – this one has a few more riffles.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9250_zpse360b63d.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9250_zpse360b63d.jpg.html)
Lots of rainbows stack up in the riffles at this time of the year.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9254_zpsc8fa76e1.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9254_zpsc8fa76e1.jpg.html)
I could bore you with a lot more fish photos – Lets just say the Smith is fishing well ;)
It has been awhile since I did any serious Smith River fishing. Been a little here and there but it was either just a short burst trying to beat the crazy 24/7 generation schedule or with someone else which is not exactly serious fishing in my book. The lawn needed mowing at my get away place which sits on a wooded ridge less then a mile from the Smith so I got that out of the way and headed to a favorite section of the river. My favorite sections are not necessarily the best fishing sections. I label them by where there is easy entrance to the river and a fairly easy exit based on how much time I have to fish. I hate fishing a section and then turning around and wading back downstream to the same point for exit – as many of you know, there are not many spots on the Smith where you can just get out without acting like a Billy Goat or busting brush. I thought I had the river broken down into entrance / exit sections but as my back seems to ache sooner then it used to after a long day of wading I may have to rethink my strategy b';
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9233_zpsaca40946.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9233_zpsaca40946.jpg.html)
Here is one of those sections. I hear a lot of folks say they don't know how to catch fish in all that flat water. My advice is learn. Most of the better fish I catch on the Smith come from water such as this.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9220_zps8ac592c4.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9220_zps8ac592c4.jpg.html)
It took we a while to get them dialed in. I rolled seven fish and I mean "rolled them" before obtaining a solid hookup that brought this typical Smith River Brown to the net. BTW I love my ghost net. It is so much easier on the fish and it eliminates the hassle of trying to get your dropper fly out of the regular string woven netting. My last string woven net ended up with more flies then I carry in my fly box :P
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9231_zpscc8324b9.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9231_zpscc8324b9.jpg.html)
Lots of rainbows still in the river. The last two stockings occurred while they were in the 24/7 generation cycle so the fish which are not used to moving water got pushed downstream away from the normal "follow the stock truck" fishing holes. Hint, hint to the DGIF folks who read my ramblings - We (SRTU) sent a letter to DGIF suggesting they coordinate stockings with the COE generation schedule. W e also asked them to let us know ahead of time when they were coming and we will try to round up a "bucket crew" to help spread out the fish. I even talked with one of my friends who is noted for following the stock truck. He thought it was a great idea and said he could get some of his buddies to help as well – no one ever asked them before. BTW nothing wrong with bait fishermen. We all started out that way. I encountered 5 bait fishermen this past weekend and every one of them was just as nice as can be. Most are entranced with the way our fly lines and flies dance across the water. When I talk with them, many would like to take up fly fishing but they fear it is too difficult to learn. I've even given impromptu casting lessons on the stream.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9227_zps93c65402.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9227_zps93c65402.jpg.html)
This rainbow had a serious overbite problem. Not sure if it is a generic thing or maybe he just rubbed on the raceway at the hatchery too much before growing to stocking size. BTW Kudos to DGIF for stocking some nice fish. Most that I caught were well into the 12-14 inch range. I did see a 20 plus inch rainbow on the stringer of one of the bait fishermen. Even though it broke my heart to think I would not have a chance to catch him, he was caught legally and I congratulated the fisherman who caught him.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9229_zpse7901f53.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9229_zpse7901f53.jpg.html)
This is what I was after! This and several others I caught in two days of fishing would have fallen into the 10-24 inch protected slot.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9245_zpse05aa1db.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9245_zpse05aa1db.jpg.html)
Here is another one of my favorite sections – this one has a few more riffles.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9250_zpse360b63d.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9250_zpse360b63d.jpg.html)
Lots of rainbows stack up in the riffles at this time of the year.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9254_zpsc8fa76e1.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9254_zpsc8fa76e1.jpg.html)
I could bore you with a lot more fish photos – Lets just say the Smith is fishing well ;)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 05, 2013, 20:12:07 PM
Post by: Al on July 05, 2013, 20:12:07 PM
I see Woolly put this out on the chat board but thought it might be good here as well - If youre planning to fish the Smith next week be sure to bring your raft, canoe or kayak. They are running water 24/7 all week until at least midnight July 12th.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: CaddisMan on July 13, 2013, 05:24:09 AM
Post by: CaddisMan on July 13, 2013, 05:24:09 AM
Drove up on a whim Friday morning and got lucky. A temporary shutdown allowed me to wade just below the dam for these two (my first browns caught on the Smith). I was just going to do some deep water dead drifting from the lawn (I don't know if this ever works) but, to my surprise and delight, noticed the river was down and the trout were topwater feeding (couldn't identify any sort of hatch.) So, I tried a floating terrestrial, but with no luck I switched to a dry/dropper and caught this'un first on the nymph drifting under the tree overhang.
Couldn't repeat that so I put on a stimulator and cast up and out. This guy snapped it up on the second cast and within a couple of seconds after touch-down. Then the horn blew and the river rose.
My unexpected opportunity had the adrenaline pumping and I fiddled with gear and knots (forgot my scissor/forceps - stuck using my knife) more than I would have liked. I suppose with practice and experience comes efficiency. I only fished for a short time but I had a blast and enjoyed the scene.
Any chance the dam staff noticed me arrive and was afraid I might wade the torrent? That or just luck, either way, cheers to the timing at Philpott Dam.
Couldn't repeat that so I put on a stimulator and cast up and out. This guy snapped it up on the second cast and within a couple of seconds after touch-down. Then the horn blew and the river rose.
My unexpected opportunity had the adrenaline pumping and I fiddled with gear and knots (forgot my scissor/forceps - stuck using my knife) more than I would have liked. I suppose with practice and experience comes efficiency. I only fished for a short time but I had a blast and enjoyed the scene.
Any chance the dam staff noticed me arrive and was afraid I might wade the torrent? That or just luck, either way, cheers to the timing at Philpott Dam.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 13, 2013, 07:17:55 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 13, 2013, 07:17:55 AM
'c; 'c; 'c;
You lucked out on the pause in generation. Congrats.
10am-midnight over the weekend. 3am-midnight M-Th. 5am-midnight F. Ugh!
You lucked out on the pause in generation. Congrats.
10am-midnight over the weekend. 3am-midnight M-Th. 5am-midnight F. Ugh!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 13, 2013, 11:21:28 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 13, 2013, 11:21:28 AM
I've not been fishing this month! going crazy, waiting for all this rain to subside .. but good to see some body got after them on the Smith!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on July 18, 2013, 11:12:46 AM
Post by: 5xTippett on July 18, 2013, 11:12:46 AM
I went for the first time in about 6 weeks this past weekend. I fished for about 30 minutes on Saturday afternoon on the one of the few places I could stand on the bank on high water and caught a grand total of 2 fish. It started raining and I left and ate a pizza. Spent the night and fished Sunday from around 9 until 1 or so. I caught around 20 during that period. I caught some of the smallest fish I have caught out of there in years. I caught 6 fish in the slot with the biggest being maybe 12 inches. I caught fish that would have made a sardine look like a whale.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 26, 2013, 13:07:41 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 26, 2013, 13:07:41 PM
I scooted down to the river this morning for a little therapy. Between rains and goofy generation schedules, the Smith has been tough to get on without a bote. A NC tagged truck beat me to the parking lot. He must have started at the trestle hole because I could just barely make him out downriver when I fished around the bend. Cooler temps this morning, no mist on the river. Flubbed a bunch of fish pics today, so a lite report.
My welcoming committee was there. Black dog wouldn't pose, but was present.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-K263GZlFhiA/UfK0e7DQyTI/AAAAAAAAH4U/Nr14JYlUYeo/w712-h534-no/002.JPG)
The river was cloudy from storms they got yesterday. Just made my footwork a little dicier. Fish still cooperated. Beadhead PT soft hackle is still the go to. Lost one, missed a few, scored enough to make the day.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9MY3xlvTf-4/UfK0fg4llOI/AAAAAAAAH4c/2F9R6S2Rj0g/w673-h534-no/003.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-izcQ5YQcLAg/UfK0gtJEcfI/AAAAAAAAH4o/USVHN8XCIvQ/w666-h534-no/005.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-C26ytu6tYSk/UfK0iE7fkoI/AAAAAAAAH40/MredGeUn_1M/w757-h534-no/007.JPG)
Most of today's fish were in the 10-11" range. But not this frisky little fellow.
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-SgaS8u0K1nI/UfK0jtcq_dI/AAAAAAAAH5E/wW03IsOvu6I/w712-h534-no/012.JPG)
Hopped out before the generation got to me and headed home.
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-i7tpMc_mWbU/UfK0i4QJ4FI/AAAAAAAAH48/QbvJp6B2lGU/w712-h534-no/009.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-DHGU4fPJ6rw/UfK0hRByz4I/AAAAAAAAH4s/jl7FiUreLmQ/w594-h534-no/006.JPG)
On the honey/bee theme. Sourwood honey in progress
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-LKUQkr4c5BA/UfK0kpnvppI/AAAAAAAAH50/ZZV-fCEJ2iw/w712-h534-no/015.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-WxYsfCiuy7c/UfK0lf1dy4I/AAAAAAAAH5U/6HWCPX52YTE/w687-h534-no/018.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Otlnc8s1oQU/UfK_hopE_7I/AAAAAAAAH6E/rshUTxiBnLI/w401-h534-no/020.JPG)
0:0 mates! To the beach for most of next week. No rod. A week of Sweetie time buys me unlimited fishing upon our return. :-*
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 26, 2013, 13:20:01 PM
Post by: Al on July 26, 2013, 13:20:01 PM
What did you do to that last fish? (Just before the flower shots) It looks abnormal - might even be related to a snakefish or eel. Take a look - expect it is the camera angle but sure looks thin.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 26, 2013, 13:30:40 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 26, 2013, 13:30:40 PM
Quote from: Al on July 26, 2013, 13:20:01 PM
What did you do to that last fish? (Just before the flower shots) It looks abnormal - might even be related to a snakefish or eel. Take a look - expect it is the camera angle but sure looks thin.
Half in the water, half out. Does look weird.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on July 27, 2013, 10:55:51 AM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on July 27, 2013, 10:55:51 AM
I was hoping to go this weekend, but the rain is going to keep me away...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 05, 2013, 13:47:49 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 05, 2013, 13:47:49 PM
http://youtu.be/ZclddLcOYYA (http://youtu.be/ZclddLcOYYA)
I'm coming off a weeks vacation that involved running to the NC for 4 7 1/2 days and then on to the high hills of Northen WV for the weekend (I was a good boy and didn't take the rods to the beach or WV ;D). We were pooped when we rolled in last night, so my wife decided to work from home and I decided to get in a half day of fishing before hitting the road for work for the rest of the week. Got a lazy start and hopped out before the noon generation got to me. Didn't slay, didn't suck.
Got high holed by man's best friends before I could get rigged up. b';
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vfJ0erlk_Z0/Uf_tpy3JJ6I/AAAAAAAAH6c/IWzMs_pi9ZQ/w712-h534-no/003.JPG)
Fish, fish, fish. Browns, browns, browns. Stood in the middle of the river and talked with consumnfire by phone just to rub it in. :-*
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-9xPC7r0_KcM/Uf_trgaNJqI/AAAAAAAAH6s/0i6c10wJYps/w712-h534-no/006.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-w6rurzcGwi0/Uf_tqhizj1I/AAAAAAAAH6k/0IQgyEEVZ8A/w855-h534-no/004.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-pxThmOgsx5k/Uf_ttZYwRmI/AAAAAAAAH68/86gbzGbD_o4/w712-h534-no/015.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-MXhDu79i6i8/Uf_tvE8tayI/AAAAAAAAH7M/0R3alr6IfNY/w817-h534-no/018.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-FQSU64Px0Bc/Uf_txj-3rGI/AAAAAAAAH7k/0tkKI6--QQM/w712-h534-no/021.JPG)
Flubbed the pic on maybe the nicest fish of the day.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-V7CVcx_VBug/Uf_twNKsrNI/AAAAAAAAH7U/--TaiebGdF0/w712-h534-no/019.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-KQ1CHYE9Sro/Uf_tudFk4WI/AAAAAAAAH7E/cC_EMTt80bM/w837-h534-no/017.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-cUfmYaMSrEQ/Uf_tz182_2I/AAAAAAAAH7w/M57LCE8H3ek/w859-h534-no/024.JPG)
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: tomato can on August 05, 2013, 14:26:49 PM
Post by: tomato can on August 05, 2013, 14:26:49 PM
Nice Dougfish. Maybe we can go fishing together before the summer is out but we is running' out of time.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 05, 2013, 14:30:06 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 05, 2013, 14:30:06 PM
Quote from: tomato can on August 05, 2013, 14:26:49 PM
Nice Dougfish. Maybe we can go fishing together before the summer is out but we is running' out of time.
Next week. Give me a call and we'll plan. You know, decide daaaays ahead of time....... ;D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on August 05, 2013, 19:06:15 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on August 05, 2013, 19:06:15 PM
Nice work! That second fish is a beauty!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 05, 2013, 19:15:20 PM
Post by: Al on August 05, 2013, 19:15:20 PM
There was another Smith River Clean Up this past weekend so I made the 147 mile journey north to lend a hand. This was the third clean up of the year. The groups who spearheaded the previous clean ups were publicly thanked for helping get the river in great shape for the upcoming Smith River Fest http://www.visitmartinsville.com/Smith-River-Fest.html (http://www.visitmartinsville.com/Smith-River-Fest.html) . We didn't have the big turnout we had last year but there were enough to get the job done. I did see several folks wearing Trout Unlimited hats which is always encouraging. The Martinsville Bulletin did a story today along with photos at http://www.martinsvillebulletin.com/article.cfm?ID=38586 (http://www.martinsvillebulletin.com/article.cfm?ID=38586)
A fellow from Greensboro came up to help out and to learn a little about the river. We hit it off, so once the clean up was over I provided him up with a sketch map and gave him a "windshield tour"of the river which included some of my favorite sections along with access points. He did not bring his fishing gear or I would have included a little sampling of the river. Once he headed back to Greensboro I had an early dinner, pulled on my waders and headed out to fish until dark.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9396_zps64d9d4e8.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9396_zps64d9d4e8.jpg.html)
I wasn't the only one with the same idea because the first two places I went to fish were already covered by local fishermen. Not to worry the Smith has +30 miles of trout holding water and most of it is decent fishing. I finally settled on a long stretch of flat water. The depth ranged from knee to chest deep – ideal holding area for a big brown.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9398_zps5ef0d997.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9398_zps5ef0d997.jpg.html)
Well not exactly the big brown I was looking for but at least I know there are fish here. No breeze this evening and it must have been in the lower 90's. I actually broke into a sweat anytime I was in water less then waist deep. The water was real smooth and I could see a long way upstream – only 2-3 rises observed the entire evening.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9392_zps647a8f0b.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9392_zps647a8f0b.jpg.html)
Only decent fish of the evening and he was still shy of the 10 inch protected slot limit. I caught a decent number but it was hard fishing and the size was so-so. I tried a variety of flies (I normally cast three at a time) but every one of them came to the fly you saw in the first fish photo.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9399_zps1fa8b96a.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9399_zps1fa8b96a.jpg.html)
The exit point had a nice riffle which I fished hard and succeeded in adding a couple more to the tally. All in all a good evening – not what I had hoped for but still a good evening of fishing.
I hope to see some of you at the Smith River Fest on Saturday, August 10th at the Smith River Sports Complex, 1000 Irisburg Road in Axton, just off the Hwy 58 Bypass. Smith River TU will have a booth right next to the beer garden. We'll be tying flies, giving casting lessons and talking up the regions fishing opportunities. If you bring your gear one of us might even go fishing with you afterwards.
A fellow from Greensboro came up to help out and to learn a little about the river. We hit it off, so once the clean up was over I provided him up with a sketch map and gave him a "windshield tour"of the river which included some of my favorite sections along with access points. He did not bring his fishing gear or I would have included a little sampling of the river. Once he headed back to Greensboro I had an early dinner, pulled on my waders and headed out to fish until dark.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9396_zps64d9d4e8.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9396_zps64d9d4e8.jpg.html)
I wasn't the only one with the same idea because the first two places I went to fish were already covered by local fishermen. Not to worry the Smith has +30 miles of trout holding water and most of it is decent fishing. I finally settled on a long stretch of flat water. The depth ranged from knee to chest deep – ideal holding area for a big brown.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9398_zps5ef0d997.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9398_zps5ef0d997.jpg.html)
Well not exactly the big brown I was looking for but at least I know there are fish here. No breeze this evening and it must have been in the lower 90's. I actually broke into a sweat anytime I was in water less then waist deep. The water was real smooth and I could see a long way upstream – only 2-3 rises observed the entire evening.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9392_zps647a8f0b.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9392_zps647a8f0b.jpg.html)
Only decent fish of the evening and he was still shy of the 10 inch protected slot limit. I caught a decent number but it was hard fishing and the size was so-so. I tried a variety of flies (I normally cast three at a time) but every one of them came to the fly you saw in the first fish photo.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9399_zps1fa8b96a.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9399_zps1fa8b96a.jpg.html)
The exit point had a nice riffle which I fished hard and succeeded in adding a couple more to the tally. All in all a good evening – not what I had hoped for but still a good evening of fishing.
I hope to see some of you at the Smith River Fest on Saturday, August 10th at the Smith River Sports Complex, 1000 Irisburg Road in Axton, just off the Hwy 58 Bypass. Smith River TU will have a booth right next to the beer garden. We'll be tying flies, giving casting lessons and talking up the regions fishing opportunities. If you bring your gear one of us might even go fishing with you afterwards.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: wind_knot on August 06, 2013, 05:27:40 AM
Post by: wind_knot on August 06, 2013, 05:27:40 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on August 05, 2013, 13:47:49 PM
Got high holed by man's best friends before I could get rigged up. b';
I think we need to change your name to Dogfish as many times as he's been fishing with you!! ;D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 06, 2013, 05:42:24 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 06, 2013, 05:42:24 AM
Quote from: wind_knot on August 06, 2013, 05:27:40 AMQuote from: Dougfish on August 05, 2013, 13:47:49 PM
Got high holed by man's best friends before I could get rigged up. b';
I think we need to change your name to Dogfish as many times as he's been fishing with you!! ;D
Yellowdog and Blackdog greet me in the parking area almost every trip. I pet and talk to them, but I don't feed them. I could never get rid of them if they got a treat.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: wind_knot on August 06, 2013, 05:43:51 AM
Post by: wind_knot on August 06, 2013, 05:43:51 AM
You can't get rid of them now! If you gave them a treat, they'd be in the car before you could open the door all the way!!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: rford on August 18, 2013, 14:58:56 PM
Post by: rford on August 18, 2013, 14:58:56 PM
Has anyone heard or know about a possible draw down of Philpott Lake in the next month or so? I have heard that they have a leak in the dam that means generating until they lower the lake by 60 feet. That will mean a good deal of 24/7 generating.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 19, 2013, 05:15:16 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 19, 2013, 05:15:16 AM
Quote from: rford on August 18, 2013, 14:58:56 PM
Has anyone heard or know about a possible draw down of Philpott Lake in the next month or so? I have heard that they have a leak in the dam that means generating until they lower the lake by 60 feet. That will mean a good deal of 24/7 generating.
Heard nothing Roy. Will keep my ear to the ground.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 19, 2013, 08:53:46 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 19, 2013, 08:53:46 AM
Per the Philpott Operations Manager, there is work scheduled (as always), but no drawdown is scheduled. Rumor squashed.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 20, 2013, 11:50:28 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 20, 2013, 11:50:28 AM
I thought about getting some fishing done on Sunday afternoon, so I headed up to the Smith.
I should have gone to a pool party, but no, I headed up to VA only to find the lower river high, and the old special regs section muddy. I hit the section above town creek, no risers, nymphed with a zebra and a soft hackle to no avail, I should have stayed home and expressed the dogs anal glans! The only saving grace was the cold beer stashed in the cooler!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/8/081813-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/8/081813-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/8/081813-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2013/8/081813-4.jpg)
no fish were harmed making this report.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on August 20, 2013, 16:47:09 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on August 20, 2013, 16:47:09 PM
I headed up there Saturday and fished for a couple of hours in the rain. I caught a grand total of 5 fish before surrendering. I went to Poppa's and ate some pizza. I got up the next morning and headed way upstream. It was still cold but the water was getting clearer. I caught a grand total of 2 in the first 2 hours. I got back n the car and went about a mile downstream. Lo and behold nobody was in that spot. I went downstream hopped in the river and started fishing. It had warmed up some and no rain was to be found. I started catching fish immediately. The first 3 were all under 10 inches. Then I started catching them in the slot. They were barely in the slot, but what the heck. I then got back in the car and headed down to a hole I normally save for the fall, but with the river muddy below Town's Creek I didn't have much choice. I parked and walked downstream to where I normally hit the river and saw some sucker on the other side of the river fishing upstream. I don't know where the heck he came from but he told me he was going to fish on upstream. No choice for me, but to keep walking. I walked downstream to where I could get in the river and fish a stretch I hadn't fished in years. I won't wait that long the next. The first spot was dead, but the next pool had 10 and 11 inch fish stacked up against the bank and I had a ball for the next hour or so. The water was fairly shallow and they nowhere to go but up. They were jumping like 10 and 11 inch salmon. They have changed photobucket on me and I haven't had the time or the inclination to figure out how to resize them. Here are a few pictures if it works.
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-1718-2913005_zps1fc10b78.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-1718-2913005_zps1fc10b78.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-1718-2913014_zps81ba0939.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-1718-2913014_zps81ba0939.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-1718-2913013_zps2e8816d2.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-1718-2913013_zps2e8816d2.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-1718-2913019_zps4493e87d.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-1718-2913019_zps4493e87d.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-1718-2913012_zpsb3287ed4.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-1718-2913012_zpsb3287ed4.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-1718-2913007_zpsee0a7700.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-1718-2913007_zpsee0a7700.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-1718-2913016_zpsce61dcd1.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-1718-2913016_zpsce61dcd1.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-1718-2913005_zps1fc10b78.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-1718-2913005_zps1fc10b78.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-1718-2913014_zps81ba0939.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-1718-2913014_zps81ba0939.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-1718-2913013_zps2e8816d2.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-1718-2913013_zps2e8816d2.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-1718-2913019_zps4493e87d.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-1718-2913019_zps4493e87d.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-1718-2913012_zpsb3287ed4.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-1718-2913012_zpsb3287ed4.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-1718-2913007_zpsee0a7700.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-1718-2913007_zpsee0a7700.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-1718-2913016_zpsce61dcd1.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-1718-2913016_zpsce61dcd1.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 20, 2013, 19:38:38 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 20, 2013, 19:38:38 PM
WB, tough luck brother. We were Smiffing Sat. until a little voice told us to go to a higher stream. It spoke the truth.
5x, persistence pays off. 'c; Glad to see a Smith reportage from you. I thought you got mad and went away. :laugh:
And, congrats and thank you at the same time on your winning ticket a week+ ago. bd;0
5x, persistence pays off. 'c; Glad to see a Smith reportage from you. I thought you got mad and went away. :laugh:
And, congrats and thank you at the same time on your winning ticket a week+ ago. bd;0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on August 20, 2013, 19:55:46 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on August 20, 2013, 19:55:46 PM
Doug, I've barely fished this summer. My twins moved home from Atlanta in May and are now working here, so I had to get them situated. Also, my 84 year old mother had back surgery in June. My wife and I have been keeping an eye on her while she is in rehab getting her strength back. It seems like every time I could get away they were generating. It is just getting to the time of year I like to fish up there anyway. -0-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 20, 2013, 20:03:52 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 20, 2013, 20:03:52 PM
Quote from: 5xTippett on August 20, 2013, 19:55:46 PM
...... It is just getting to the time of year I like to fish up there anyway. -0-
I thought I saw some "green" in one of those pics. ::)
Sorry about your Mom. I am heading down that road soon myself. Not fun.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on August 21, 2013, 07:49:53 AM
Post by: Big J on August 21, 2013, 07:49:53 AM
Quote from: 5xTippett on August 20, 2013, 19:55:46 PM
My twins moved home from Atlanta in May and are now working here, so I had to get them situated.
Nice report 5x. Your twins didn't like Atlanta? I told you my thoughts on Atlanta haha
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on August 21, 2013, 09:27:36 AM
Post by: 5xTippett on August 21, 2013, 09:27:36 AM
They enjoyed Atlanta for 6 or 7 months and then they got tired of the traffic. Forty five minutes to get to work if you left at a certain time, and an hour if you left fifteen minutes later. It is nice to have then back in town.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 21, 2013, 15:11:12 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 21, 2013, 15:11:12 PM
Ben, that water nowhere resembles what I saw on Sunday... to me it looked like Yahoo....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on August 21, 2013, 15:41:35 PM
Post by: Fin on August 21, 2013, 15:41:35 PM
Woolly, I hit the river above Towne Sunday evening as well. Not gin clear as it normally would be but not Yoohoo either. Conditions looked perfect, and I did catch fish, but not quite the evening I had anticipated. Lots of dinks even by Smith River standards.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on August 21, 2013, 16:07:31 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on August 21, 2013, 16:07:31 PM
Keith, it was clear by about 1:30 which is about the time I started catching fish. I ended up about a mile above you when I quit fishing at around 5:30. They started eating when it started warming up.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on August 21, 2013, 20:31:39 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on August 21, 2013, 20:31:39 PM
Nice reports! Fishing the Smith has been unpredictable with rain every 15 minutes for the past 3 months, not to mention cold fronts.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 02, 2013, 14:08:31 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 02, 2013, 14:08:31 PM
http://youtu.be/kdnzB_xkERQ (http://youtu.be/kdnzB_xkERQ)
After a spring and summer of wearing out the Smith (when fishable b';), I went down this AM for some mental health time and more slaying.
Nay nay, cocky bastard!
I get to the Mirror Plant and some numb nuts had parked right in the middle of the entrance. A huge grass lot and he stops right off the road? There's your sign. I suit up and walk down through the hayfield wondering where nummsie put in. The river was mucho cloudy. WTF! 0.13 " of rain in the last 60 hours and Townes Ck. is running Yoo-hoo. I assume the parking impaired walked down the tracks 'cause the spider webs are all intact. I string up and ease out to the middle to let the river creatures calm down. While tying on my flies I notice the guy about 100 yards downstream. Fishing downstream. He plows through a hundred yards of river and starts back up. I chuckle, then stop. I can't buy a fish. Maybe he's got the right idea. :o I missed a couple. Made numerous fly changes, dropper changes. Throw on a big ass foam hopper and four fish slash at it. No strikes, just violet slashes. "Get that shit out of here!" slashes. I caught a few on three different droppers. The really dumb ones, obviously. I ended up chucking a bugger through the last hole to see if I could get an attack or two. Not easy with the 4 wt. and unsuccessful, too. Fudge it. Home beckoned. Back to the truck and on the road by noon. Four vehicles in the lot, nummsie in the entrance. Two VA plates, two NC and one MD. Poor saps.
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-KlrqVBEynlM/UiTQJp4udnI/AAAAAAAAIWY/RMKFyUS_LYE/w712-h534-no/016.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-PGPoLPMpk-Y/UiTQNEW2UdI/AAAAAAAAIWw/JmkHi-mx3NM/w401-h534-no/019.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-KFqcGqbwfo4/UiTQOXNOJbI/AAAAAAAAIag/Oy-ENqRvBxk/w489-h534-no/020.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tW4rw1LMbyI/UiTQTMEknlI/AAAAAAAAIas/t5ropEN-25s/w593-h534-no/024.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-_EbmTAOL96U/UiTQXkMY8wI/AAAAAAAAIa8/eMZER-liZ_E/w712-h534-no/028.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-piDO0yIeBSI/UiTQexYdPMI/AAAAAAAAIYg/WV7_jRju550/w712-h534-no/033.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-xVcYKAHYOd4/UiTQZ5WxTJI/AAAAAAAAIYQ/Ta_XSRoZIZw/w712-h534-no/031.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ENAfODCyfXA/UiTQiRH4dXI/AAAAAAAAIZI/9ZuB1pPjtCQ/w712-h534-no/037.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Vp6GyW-uCc4/UiTQRjjGqQI/AAAAAAAAIXQ/m9f7QS-JWbA/w712-h534-no/023.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-5QLi20hZD9k/UiTQPVYmaLI/AAAAAAAAIXA/Kz1Hxul75Jo/w401-h534-no/021.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-xmcAjx4quxE/UiTQLzDgIOI/AAAAAAAAIaY/-_5OK9-U_qo/w846-h534-no/018.JPG)
Sigh. Very few fish were hurt in the making of this TR. I ended up with one guy above me and two below when I took out. Not a lot was going on, fish wise.
Happy Labor Day from your Smith River finicky fishes!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on September 09, 2013, 10:26:47 AM
Post by: 5xTippett on September 09, 2013, 10:26:47 AM
Went back this weekend to have at it again. It was more or less a replay of the last time minus the rain with a few more fish caught. I tried an experiment Saturday afternoon. I parked in Bassett and walked way downstream to the next bridge and fished back to the car. Two hours later I had 4 fish and was thoroughly disgusted. I won't be back there. I hopped in the car and headed downstream to another spot where I normally end up. I managed 6 fish in an hour. One was pushing 14 inches which was the highlight of a somewhat disappointing day. I spent the night and hit the river the next morning. The first spot started slow but it picked up somewhat. I went back to the car, got something to eat and headed back to the river. The next spot I went to was a replay of the last time I fished there except I caught more fish and had even more fun. The fish were up against both banks. I stood in the middle and caught fish everywhere.
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-78-2013011_zpsad83041a.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-78-2013011_zpsad83041a.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-78-2013010_zps082737bb.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-78-2013010_zps082737bb.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-78-2013008_zps1946b23d.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-78-2013008_zps1946b23d.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-78-2013005_zps1f6c2a95.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-78-2013005_zps1f6c2a95.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-78-2013004_zpsa5ca563b.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-78-2013004_zpsa5ca563b.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-78-2013003_zpsf1a385c5.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-78-2013003_zpsf1a385c5.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-78-2013013_zpsafbed9c8.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-78-2013013_zpsafbed9c8.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-78-2013011_zpsad83041a.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-78-2013011_zpsad83041a.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-78-2013010_zps082737bb.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-78-2013010_zps082737bb.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-78-2013008_zps1946b23d.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-78-2013008_zps1946b23d.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-78-2013005_zps1f6c2a95.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-78-2013005_zps1f6c2a95.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-78-2013004_zpsa5ca563b.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-78-2013004_zpsa5ca563b.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-78-2013003_zpsf1a385c5.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-78-2013003_zpsf1a385c5.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-78-2013013_zpsafbed9c8.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-78-2013013_zpsafbed9c8.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Rod Champion on September 09, 2013, 10:42:54 AM
Post by: Rod Champion on September 09, 2013, 10:42:54 AM
Sorry about your Mother, Ben. That is so hard..
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on September 09, 2013, 11:12:03 AM
Post by: 5xTippett on September 09, 2013, 11:12:03 AM
Rod, Mother is all right now. She had back surgery, but she is back home now slowly recovering.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: wind_knot on September 09, 2013, 11:38:05 AM
Post by: wind_knot on September 09, 2013, 11:38:05 AM
Quote from: 5xTippett on September 09, 2013, 11:12:03 AM
Rod, Mother is all right now. She had back surgery, but she is back home now slowly recovering.
If you need any pointers on back surgery, I've had 4 fusions.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 09, 2013, 17:06:57 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 09, 2013, 17:06:57 PM
Good to see you catching those SMB (Smith River Browns)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 09, 2013, 18:11:07 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 09, 2013, 18:11:07 PM
bd;0
Seriously good smack down and congrats on sticking with it....again!
Seriously good smack down and congrats on sticking with it....again!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on September 11, 2013, 10:37:33 AM
Post by: gonephishin' on September 11, 2013, 10:37:33 AM
Question for you guys...yesterday I had a guy tell me that he catches smallmouth out of the smith on a regular basis....anyone ever seen 'em in there or is he blowing smoke? (Or smoking crack!)
Got me thinking about putting the boat in just above martins ville dam
Got me thinking about putting the boat in just above martins ville dam
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 11, 2013, 11:16:17 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 11, 2013, 11:16:17 AM
smallies are way down stream well past the Sports Complex off of 58... or so I've been told /'/
Martinsville, VA - Google Maps (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Martinsville,+VA&hl=en&ll=36.585898,-79.754391&spn=0.07526,0.162907&sll=35.170517,-79.860994&sspn=4.902499,10.426025&oq=martin&hnear=Martinsville,+Virginia&t=m&z=13)
Martinsville, VA - Google Maps (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Martinsville,+VA&hl=en&ll=36.585898,-79.754391&spn=0.07526,0.162907&sll=35.170517,-79.860994&sspn=4.902499,10.426025&oq=martin&hnear=Martinsville,+Virginia&t=m&z=13)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on September 11, 2013, 11:43:00 AM
Post by: 22midge on September 11, 2013, 11:43:00 AM
about Mitchell Bridge and down river...................they say
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on September 11, 2013, 13:13:00 PM
Post by: gonephishin' on September 11, 2013, 13:13:00 PM
DAAAAMMMMNNN :o
Am I seeing this right? To float that section starting at Mitchell bridge the next launch is in eden??!! Anyone tried that before??
Am I seeing this right? To float that section starting at Mitchell bridge the next launch is in eden??!! Anyone tried that before??
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on September 11, 2013, 14:07:42 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on September 11, 2013, 14:07:42 PM
They are supposed to be in Towns Creek. So I have heard! Some could occasionally wash into the upper river. I have caught a redbreast in the upper river but that is it. I would suggest you follow Peewee's and Wooly's suggestions.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on September 11, 2013, 15:03:00 PM
Post by: gonephishin' on September 11, 2013, 15:03:00 PM
I agree...seems more plausible but this guy was talking about where the river backs up between Kohler and martinsville dam....now I've taken my boat back there and caught some bluegill and even a couple largemouth but never fished it seriously.....hmmmmm....may have to spend the weekend exploring. I could do an eggleston to Mitchell float but I don't know about Eden.... that's damn near 13miles!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Rod Champion on September 11, 2013, 19:35:55 PM
Post by: Rod Champion on September 11, 2013, 19:35:55 PM
Fish at Black curly tail jig, you will find out.. no kidding.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued-Fish w/a friend event
Post by: Dougfish on September 17, 2013, 06:48:21 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 17, 2013, 06:48:21 AM
SRTU hosted an event last Saturday to promote the Smith and the club to non-members and newbies. We had decent turnout, with at least 8 members and 5 guests. Correct me if I'm wrong Scott. It was a beautiful day and expectations were high that we could put these guys on some fish. Guests came from Fayetteville, Raleigh and Marion, to name a few. Feather Chucker and Wind Knot were present and accounted for. Club/forum members Fin, Al, Shane, Consuminfire, and myself were there to impart some
Paul started us out with a blessing of this unholy gathering and away we went.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-a7KtZKaj1e4/Ujg6v8TUyEI/AAAAAAAAIi0/8UuWy3S8fUM/w712-h534-no/IMGP9739.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IKHAJW_RBbk/Ujg6pc3AJfI/AAAAAAAAIic/bUNbFwR41yg/w712-h534-no/IMGP9734.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-QbobJ0hBFz0/Ujg6t6MVtvI/AAAAAAAAIis/P1UhPwl1REM/w712-h534-no/IMGP9738.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-h-A9YvVv1tE/UjWdKGUQVjI/AAAAAAAAIek/QAW2L7zTs08/w777-h534-no/003.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-JeLIeFz4h4I/UjWdJAmr1DI/AAAAAAAAIec/uMWlQlz9Vis/w712-h534-no/002.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-iOGJ0vEKB_M/UjWdPC8XaiI/AAAAAAAAIfA/hjd5tcck8Y0/w712-h534-no/009.JPG)
My bunch. Team Flogger. I wadded out and made a few casts while my two guests finished rigging up. How could I be faster than them? :o
Like a good coach, I caught a brown on the fifth cast. "See guys, do it just like that!" It went downhill quickly from there. b';
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-TPux0cYfYww/Ujg6r7sl8PI/AAAAAAAAIik/DBAP5HBq0AA/w712-h534-no/IMGP9737.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-VaTlRLFhzwk/UjWdSK_4Q9I/AAAAAAAAIfY/Lr-ecYCkMJg/w712-h534-no/012.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-hYaO6-vJThw/UjWdRataSQI/AAAAAAAAIfU/y457u38gddc/w712-h534-no/011.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-gVgZFV8X66M/UjWdZdVMJ8I/AAAAAAAAIgU/2wjKfBXe0mA/w712-h534-no/027.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZHZ8S6JiOTE/UjWdbl8yONI/AAAAAAAAIgo/5iT9hxXeE10/w712-h534-no/034.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-bxSGi-T4Ylg/UjWdc9lgWkI/AAAAAAAAIg0/PNgfNg4xpN0/w712-h534-no/035.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-SdnNUmuG5zE/UjWde748eYI/AAAAAAAAIhA/qQ5SmpVZbG0/w401-h534-no/037.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-WmZh8ElZRPc/UjWdVRCXznI/AAAAAAAAIfw/vu9_ss6Jmcg/w712-h534-no/015.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-fGfhKr4eXJ8/UjWdUcc8EXI/AAAAAAAAIfs/P2Q9qZB2i7U/w712-h534-no/014.JPG)
The water was weirdly warm and we saw very few active fish. And nobody caught those, either. There was much sloppy wading, a pratfall or two, a lot of tippet sacrificed, flies donated to the shrubbery and egos bruised. I played coach/spectator most of the time, but even when I did fish, I could not score another fish. Of course we probably spooked every one within a hundred yards. Two fish for three
Hey Mudders, what's this? Just off center to the lower left. Looked like a miniature horseshoe crab. Saw quite a few of them when I resorted to playing with rocks. On a good note, I saw more insect activity on the Smith's rocks than I normally do! Excellent plant day, too.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XBLNciC84Fc/UjWdWarvHGI/AAAAAAAAIf8/-I9PlfQY_3k/w705-h534-no/019.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-z4UgN7a8WiY/UjWdeMv7DWI/AAAAAAAAIg8/pXeUzpHrUmc/w712-h534-no/036.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-EIh6sObIYpQ/UjWdiNVHVPI/AAAAAAAAIhY/pYFB8-CuP-E/w712-h534-no/041.JPG)
More pics from Al's downstream camera:
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-W0Q0Bt3KG7w/Ujg6xoASTsI/AAAAAAAAIi8/iOxl0709_I8/w712-h534-no/IMGP9742.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Qig9_eIL38c/Ujg62aUjKEI/AAAAAAAAIjM/jaPHdKRs1TA/w712-h534-no/IMGP9748.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-LEoUbdCy6aw/Ujg64MxcCrI/AAAAAAAAIjY/eUM_5ymV_mE/w712-h534-no/IMGP9750.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_pd9giusW0c/Ujg65_cmX6I/AAAAAAAAIjk/u7h1XSrUzBM/w640-h480-no/IMGP9756.JPG)
We finished up with lunch and lies at the parking area. Thanks Scott, for pulling the event together!
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-VaHJjV_oqX8/Ujg66iP4nlI/AAAAAAAAIjs/ahIZm2bt2fI/w640-h480-no/IMGP9758.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-3QjIxrN19-k/Ujg6-uAEh6I/AAAAAAAAIkM/Tz-5-_4nHes/w640-h480-no/IMGP9763.JPG)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on September 17, 2013, 08:52:59 AM
Post by: Al on September 17, 2013, 08:52:59 AM
Well I told you what they were hitting on but no one wanted to hear it
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9743_zps223d54b1.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9743_zps223d54b1.jpg.html)
Good show guys - Big thanks to all who showed up.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9743_zps223d54b1.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9743_zps223d54b1.jpg.html)
Good show guys - Big thanks to all who showed up.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Feather Chucker on September 17, 2013, 09:06:02 AM
Post by: Feather Chucker on September 17, 2013, 09:06:02 AM
Quote from: Al on September 17, 2013, 08:52:59 AM
Well I told you what they were hitting on but no one wanted to hear it
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP9743_zps223d54b1.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP9743_zps223d54b1.jpg.html)
Good show guys - Big thanks to all who showed up.
I have to learn the hard way first. Try every fly in my box that obviously is not working, use 8ft leaders, wade quickly. What really sucked is when Fin and I used the same fly and he was behind me catching fish after fish and I wasn't even getting a hit. I used to think I was kind of a decent fly fisherman. The Smith showed me otherwise. I think if you can succeed on the Smith you can probably catch fish anywhere in the United States.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: wind_knot on September 17, 2013, 09:07:11 AM
Post by: wind_knot on September 17, 2013, 09:07:11 AM
I wouldn't say I got skunked. I just resorted to trying to see the river from the fishes point of view!! Thank you SRTU and visitors for showing a good time regardless of my catching abilities. It is a river I will visit I between trips to the SoHo (a place where I know how to catch fish, but not necessarily know how to actually fly fish). And Doug, your advice was sound. Well, the part on cleated soles anyway! :laugh:
**Edit**
Maybe I should learn the Allie worm. That and making a less false casts.
**Edit**
Maybe I should learn the Allie worm. That and making a less false casts.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 17, 2013, 10:10:37 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 17, 2013, 10:10:37 AM
Quote from: Feather Chucker on September 17, 2013, 09:06:02 AM
What really sucked is when Fin and I used the same fly and he was behind me catching fish after fish and I wasn't even getting a hit.
I told you about Neil before we started. If he gets ahead of you.......well, you're doomed.
That dude can really fish.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on September 17, 2013, 12:15:06 PM
Post by: Al on September 17, 2013, 12:15:06 PM
Quote from: wind_knot on September 17, 2013, 09:07:11 AM
Maybe I should learn the Allie worm. That and making a less false casts.
At the risk of taking a lot of ribbing here is my advise on fishing the Smith and any other water - this works most of the time for me - not all the time but most of the time.
1) Start out with something you know catches fish, in my case the Allieworm - it will start you out with confidence. IMHO most any dark nymph will do. It has more with how you fish and not what you fish. IMHO unless you see a lot of surface activity you are limiting your bent rod opportunities if you insist on fishing a dry fly only.
2) Use an indicator - bushy fly or yarn is best. Those plastic, cork or paste on jobs make too much of a splash when cast and sucking noise when picked up.
3) False casting puts the fish down, especially on clear water such as the Smith. Pull out whatever amount of line you're comfortable casting and go with that - if you can't reach the fish, move your feet.
4) Fish the near water first - you know there is a fish at the far bank but there may be one in that shallower water you are about to wade in so you can reach the far bank. Give marginal water a lick or two, then move in. Fish out each cast, even those that do not land exactly where you intended - might be a fish there. Never ceases to amaze me the folks who false cast, set it down and then immediately pick it up with a popping sound and then sit it back down about 6 inches from where they just disturbed the water. They then mutter that the fish are not biting today.
5) Cast above where you think the fish will be and let it sink and drift down to the fish. Quartering casts are best - it keeps the fly line off the fish. Let it drift 3-4 feet beyond the sweet spot then pick it up and do it again. Hit each likely looking spot 3-4 licks then move your feet. You're looking for a fish that wants to eat - not every fish in the river is going to hit.
6) Rod tip low - usually pointing at fly with very little slack line is best. If you have a lot of slack you are going to miss the hit. Indicator goes down or jiggles sideways tighten up the line and sideways hook set. We are not bass fishing here - no need to cross their eyes.
7) Careful wading. Shuffle your feet - do not do a lot of high stepping. Do not stand on boulders, you will slide off and likely take an unexpected bath. Studs/cleats and a wading stick help.
8) If after about a half hour nothing is happening then pull out your fly box
9) If after a few fly changes and even going back to your "go to" fly you can't figure them out and you really want to catch some fish you should consider moving up or downstream a couple miles. I have done that often enough to know it works. One section is devoid of feeding fish and another has a feeding frenzy going on - that's fishing.
10) I'm sure you have some tips of your own - these are what work for me.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: wind_knot on September 17, 2013, 12:55:16 PM
Post by: wind_knot on September 17, 2013, 12:55:16 PM
Well Al, you won't get any "ribbing" from me! Thank you very much for the pointers!!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Feather Chucker on September 17, 2013, 16:19:49 PM
Post by: Feather Chucker on September 17, 2013, 16:19:49 PM
Thanks for the help Al. I'll put these hints to work the next time I hit the Smith.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 17, 2013, 17:18:15 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 17, 2013, 17:18:15 PM
11. if all else fails drink a beer or two!
-0--0--0--0--0--0--0--0-
-0--0--0--0--0--0--0--0-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: wind_knot on September 17, 2013, 18:41:08 PM
Post by: wind_knot on September 17, 2013, 18:41:08 PM
This is why Woolly is the Boss!!
Al, thank you again for numbers 1 - 10!! I am sure they'd help anywhere!! Well, except the Allieworm part. ;D
Al, thank you again for numbers 1 - 10!! I am sure they'd help anywhere!! Well, except the Allieworm part. ;D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: croaker on September 17, 2013, 20:46:53 PM
Post by: croaker on September 17, 2013, 20:46:53 PM
Quote from: Al on September 17, 2013, 12:15:06 PM4) Fish the near water first - you know there is a fish at the far bank but there may be one in that shallower water you are about to wade in so you can reach the far bank. Give marginal water a lick or two, then move in. Fish out each cast, even those that do not land exactly where you intended - might be a fish there. Never ceases to amaze me the folks who false cast, set it down and then immediately pick it up with a popping sound and then sit it back down about 6 inches from where they just disturbed the water. They then mutter that the fish are not biting today.
Sound advice for any flowing water fishing right there.
Hard to hook a fish if the flys in the air...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on September 18, 2013, 20:40:23 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on September 18, 2013, 20:40:23 PM
Nice reports from a day of sluggish fishing. At least we all had a good time!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on September 23, 2013, 10:00:56 AM
Post by: 5xTippett on September 23, 2013, 10:00:56 AM
I fished Sunday upstream and it was pretty tough. I caught about 5 and earned everyone of them. Around 3 I headed down to Bassett to see what was going on. I made the remarkable discovery that the river was pretty durn stained. It was too late to head back up so I stopped and fished for an hour or so. I couldn't see my feet so it made the wading interesting. I saw more fish moving in the stained water then I had the whole morning upstream. I ended up catching 7 more if you count the one rainbow. The last 2 fish I caught were 12 and 14 inches. That last hour saved the day from being an absolute failure.
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-22-13003_zps460d1dca.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-22-13003_zps460d1dca.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-22-13007_zpsf67cd8cc.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-22-13007_zpsf67cd8cc.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-22-13008_zps8b414447.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-22-13008_zps8b414447.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-22-13003_zps460d1dca.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-22-13003_zps460d1dca.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-22-13007_zpsf67cd8cc.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-22-13007_zpsf67cd8cc.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith9-22-13008_zps8b414447.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith9-22-13008_zps8b414447.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on September 23, 2013, 10:12:10 AM
Post by: Big J on September 23, 2013, 10:12:10 AM
Glad you got into them. I'll have to meet ya on the Smith sometime this fall. Give me a call next time you head that way and need someone to fish.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: tomato can on September 23, 2013, 18:06:57 PM
Post by: tomato can on September 23, 2013, 18:06:57 PM
Did Big J just say he is going to fish the Smith?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gamatt53 on September 23, 2013, 18:09:39 PM
Post by: gamatt53 on September 23, 2013, 18:09:39 PM
Bwo's started yet?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on September 23, 2013, 19:10:59 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on September 23, 2013, 19:10:59 PM
The midges were out in full force. I had an urge to switch rods and fish midges, but I successfully suppressed it. I would probably caught more fish but I am not in the mood for that yet.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 23, 2013, 20:25:47 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 23, 2013, 20:25:47 PM
Damn Ben! When do give lessons? 8) bd;0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on September 23, 2013, 20:57:06 PM
Post by: 22midge on September 23, 2013, 20:57:06 PM
hey 5x you doing alright up on the top of the river.Can I sign up for them lessons ?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 24, 2013, 06:39:42 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 24, 2013, 06:39:42 AM
Nice work! Sometimes a little stain is all you need!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on September 26, 2013, 20:01:48 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on September 26, 2013, 20:01:48 PM
I made a mistake today and got my hopes up for an evening Smith run after work. I didn't check the Gen. Schedule.
p;- Nice work Ben!
p;- Nice work Ben!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JWJ on November 13, 2013, 16:58:56 PM
Post by: JWJ on November 13, 2013, 16:58:56 PM
Haven't been around the forum in a while
Try and fish the Smith for a few hours every time I'm home. Which is rare
(http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd448/JWaJa/PA220860.jpg) (http://s1220.photobucket.com/user/JWaJa/media/PA220860.jpg.html)
(http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd448/JWaJa/8ed7c3f5-d35f-4581-933f-6924fbf63764_zpsef292588.jpg) (http://s1220.photobucket.com/user/JWaJa/media/8ed7c3f5-d35f-4581-933f-6924fbf63764_zpsef292588.jpg.html)
(http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd448/JWaJa/5d9d374e-8523-49fa-af6d-492ff4f707d4_zpsfe596647.jpg) (http://s1220.photobucket.com/user/JWaJa/media/5d9d374e-8523-49fa-af6d-492ff4f707d4_zpsfe596647.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on November 13, 2013, 17:24:05 PM
Post by: 22midge on November 13, 2013, 17:24:05 PM
nice fish!!!!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 13, 2013, 17:32:48 PM
Post by: Dougfish on November 13, 2013, 17:32:48 PM
Well shit. bd;0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on November 13, 2013, 18:19:19 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on November 13, 2013, 18:19:19 PM
Very nice Smith browns! Great job!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on November 13, 2013, 20:39:32 PM
Post by: Al on November 13, 2013, 20:39:32 PM
Nice to see someone is still fishing the Smith. I'd give it a try but I still collecting fly tying supplies. Maybe at the end of the year :-\ but then again the urban archery season goes until the last Saturday in March ;D.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: sanjuanwormhatch on November 14, 2013, 06:59:34 AM
Post by: sanjuanwormhatch on November 14, 2013, 06:59:34 AM
Keel Your Face.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on November 14, 2013, 08:06:39 AM
Post by: Big J on November 14, 2013, 08:06:39 AM
Man, you picked a good couple of hours.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Feather Chucker on November 14, 2013, 09:37:51 AM
Post by: Feather Chucker on November 14, 2013, 09:37:51 AM
Dang, those are some of the biggest fish I've seen come out of the Smith in awhile.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 14, 2013, 13:00:44 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 14, 2013, 13:00:44 PM
good browns fer sure... p;-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on November 14, 2013, 19:54:48 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on November 14, 2013, 19:54:48 PM
Pretty fish!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on November 14, 2013, 19:58:05 PM
Post by: 22midge on November 14, 2013, 19:58:05 PM
didnt think there was any fish that size left in the Smith.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: outdoorguy3 on November 14, 2013, 20:13:39 PM
Post by: outdoorguy3 on November 14, 2013, 20:13:39 PM
Quote from: 22midge on November 14, 2013, 19:58:05 PM:o ;D ;D
didnt think there was any fish that size left in the Smith.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on November 15, 2013, 06:47:21 AM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on November 15, 2013, 06:47:21 AM
In a Borat voice...Very Nice!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on March 01, 2014, 20:07:19 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on March 01, 2014, 20:07:19 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMAI26FPeyM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMAI26FPeyM)
People on scooters piss me off...
Had the "old" special reg. section to myself today. Long stressful week forced me to get out this weekend even though I knew the fishing would be tough.
Eager friggin' beaver...
[attach=1]
Big tree a crapped beside of...
[attach=2]
Porno for Doug...
[attach=3]
After two hours, I had a LDR on a "descent" brown... b';
Around 12:30 the sun started to peak through the clouds. I decided to get out of the river and start hunting for a potential rising trout. I have had mediocre success on the Smith by keying in on actively feeding trout. No sooner that I started my stalk, I noticed dimples, then more dimples, and more dimples... V:; This was the beginning of an amazing Olive hatch!!! I said it was amazing, but for me, it was very challenging. I only managed just a handful of fish...these Olives were an 18 at best, if not smaller. It was amazing...it lasted for about 45 minutes to an hour of just non-stop struggling adults blowing across the surface of the water with those little brownies exploding on them! The hatch didn't end abruptly either, it gradually tapered off, but I continued to see Olives up until about 3:30.
[attach=4]
Since I was a small kid, I have had a slight fascination with trains. Part of my excitement for the trip was the potential to see a train. After the BWO hatch tapered off, my train finally came through. Something very odd happened though! This train came to a complete stop and not a second later, it started going again. Usually, if a train stops in this section, two trains are passing each other. I wonder if he wanted to make sure that the tracks were switched properly?!?!
B&W?
[attach=5]
From 3 or 3:30 until about 4:30, I sat and watched in Wooly's favorite place...nothing...
[attach=6]
One more month, and it should get real good!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 01, 2014, 20:58:58 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 01, 2014, 20:58:58 PM
'c;
"A", for effort.
"A", for effort.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on March 03, 2014, 21:49:56 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on March 03, 2014, 21:49:56 PM
Went up today because fishing in the shit gets the Karma primed up for the good weather. It snowed a lot. I cursed a lot. Re-layered a lot. covered a shit ton of new water moved some fish and snagged a couple. Sun came out and was quite beautiful. The way home was interesting, saw a large fire in Martinsville, saw a truck flipped into the oncoming lane sitting on its roof on 158, saw a cop slid out into a guardrail under a 40-biz bridge. glad I made it home without dying V:;. It was a facking war zone out there. If i see one more chick in uggs my shit will be lost, ready for spring and chicks in sun dresses.. jeebus
Fish of the day
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/0100C84B-0D6E-4449-B271-A64E77FB1C55_zpsjrmsyqga.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/0100C84B-0D6E-4449-B271-A64E77FB1C55_zpsjrmsyqga.jpg.html)
Contenders
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/1A41A917-A3F8-4B7F-BF0D-A076C749CEAA_zpsdtaaui76.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/1A41A917-A3F8-4B7F-BF0D-A076C749CEAA_zpsdtaaui76.jpg.html)
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/201B46DB-45A3-4782-9E3F-469FF65EC071_zpsx1f8rkfn.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/201B46DB-45A3-4782-9E3F-469FF65EC071_zpsx1f8rkfn.jpg.html)
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/C943E4CF-FEE3-4733-ABF5-323F3E3427C8_zpskrdjam5u.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/C943E4CF-FEE3-4733-ABF5-323F3E3427C8_zpskrdjam5u.jpg.html)
Swung through Martinsville to hit the Exxon with the cheap gas and saw a large plume of smoke, then balls of flame started spouting out of it so I pulled over and ate a sandwich and watched that shit burn. Fire trucks whizzed by, I need a better camera, but there's better pics online now anyway. Hopefully Martinsville is still on the map and everyone survived.
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/D677225F-C5CA-4A85-B5CF-B7C6A15D5621_zpsg5c1rluw.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/D677225F-C5CA-4A85-B5CF-B7C6A15D5621_zpsg5c1rluw.jpg.html)
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/57C31803-B20F-44EB-8977-BD93DD9FB3CC_zpsyfz7zio8.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/57C31803-B20F-44EB-8977-BD93DD9FB3CC_zpsyfz7zio8.jpg.html)
And then sat behind a fire truck for 30 minutes while they flipped a 95' ferd Ranger off its roof, shit was crazy today, Hide yo kids and or wife
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/895A4D48-A08D-49EE-A87B-5C873C3103F5_zpshnx42o3b.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/895A4D48-A08D-49EE-A87B-5C873C3103F5_zpshnx42o3b.jpg.html)
Fish of the day
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/0100C84B-0D6E-4449-B271-A64E77FB1C55_zpsjrmsyqga.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/0100C84B-0D6E-4449-B271-A64E77FB1C55_zpsjrmsyqga.jpg.html)
Contenders
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/1A41A917-A3F8-4B7F-BF0D-A076C749CEAA_zpsdtaaui76.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/1A41A917-A3F8-4B7F-BF0D-A076C749CEAA_zpsdtaaui76.jpg.html)
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/201B46DB-45A3-4782-9E3F-469FF65EC071_zpsx1f8rkfn.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/201B46DB-45A3-4782-9E3F-469FF65EC071_zpsx1f8rkfn.jpg.html)
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/C943E4CF-FEE3-4733-ABF5-323F3E3427C8_zpskrdjam5u.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/C943E4CF-FEE3-4733-ABF5-323F3E3427C8_zpskrdjam5u.jpg.html)
Swung through Martinsville to hit the Exxon with the cheap gas and saw a large plume of smoke, then balls of flame started spouting out of it so I pulled over and ate a sandwich and watched that shit burn. Fire trucks whizzed by, I need a better camera, but there's better pics online now anyway. Hopefully Martinsville is still on the map and everyone survived.
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/D677225F-C5CA-4A85-B5CF-B7C6A15D5621_zpsg5c1rluw.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/D677225F-C5CA-4A85-B5CF-B7C6A15D5621_zpsg5c1rluw.jpg.html)
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/57C31803-B20F-44EB-8977-BD93DD9FB3CC_zpsyfz7zio8.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/57C31803-B20F-44EB-8977-BD93DD9FB3CC_zpsyfz7zio8.jpg.html)
And then sat behind a fire truck for 30 minutes while they flipped a 95' ferd Ranger off its roof, shit was crazy today, Hide yo kids and or wife
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/895A4D48-A08D-49EE-A87B-5C873C3103F5_zpshnx42o3b.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/895A4D48-A08D-49EE-A87B-5C873C3103F5_zpshnx42o3b.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: RiverbumCO on March 03, 2014, 22:36:33 PM
Post by: RiverbumCO on March 03, 2014, 22:36:33 PM
I saw a dude in Uggs just now at the wally world in Grants Pass.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Aka on March 04, 2014, 06:44:02 AM
Post by: Aka on March 04, 2014, 06:44:02 AM
Quote from: RiverbumCO on March 03, 2014, 22:36:33 PM
I saw a dude in Uggs just now at the wally world in Grants Pass.
West coast, totally different. Now if said ugh wearer were a bit closer to brookings there'd be a good chance the body weren't found fer a few years.
You doing any fishing out there?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on March 04, 2014, 08:30:16 AM
Post by: Big J on March 04, 2014, 08:30:16 AM
Had guy I know who is a jacked body builder who grew up in California who wears uggs. He is odd. I saw him catch a mouse with his bare hands and microwave it. He is very very odd.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on March 04, 2014, 16:20:42 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on March 04, 2014, 16:20:42 PM
4 chicks in my Accounting class this morning with varied colors of UGGs, and one who had the foresight to wear her hooker boots, I love accounting
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on March 04, 2014, 18:58:14 PM
Post by: Big J on March 04, 2014, 18:58:14 PM
Quote from: NCsporksman on March 04, 2014, 16:20:42 PM
I love accounting
Said no one ever. Even accountants hate accounting.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 04, 2014, 20:44:10 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 04, 2014, 20:44:10 PM
Quote from: Big J on March 04, 2014, 18:58:14 PMQuote from: NCsporksman on March 04, 2014, 16:20:42 PM
I love accounting
Said no one ever. Even accountants hate accounting.
You sir, have never been to an accountant convention!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on March 04, 2014, 20:53:56 PM
Post by: Big J on March 04, 2014, 20:53:56 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on March 04, 2014, 20:44:10 PM
You sir, have never been to an accountant convention!
I take great pride in saying no I have not. I did have one guy who interned at the company I work for who was majoring in accounting and he thought it was the coolest thing since sliced bread. He hated working with me.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on March 04, 2014, 21:25:57 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on March 04, 2014, 21:25:57 PM
Big-J just come sit in on my class, apparently young women in their early morning skankerwear love accounting which is funny cause I thought the remedial math would be more their flavor
But seriously it helps to know what my accountant is doing, maybe even edge her outta the picture one day and keep mo of my hard earned money -+;
But seriously it helps to know what my accountant is doing, maybe even edge her outta the picture one day and keep mo of my hard earned money -+;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: RiverbumCO on March 05, 2014, 02:01:16 AM
Post by: RiverbumCO on March 05, 2014, 02:01:16 AM
Quote from: AK Aaron on March 04, 2014, 06:44:02 AMQuote from: RiverbumCO on March 03, 2014, 22:36:33 PM
I saw a dude in Uggs just now at the wally world in Grants Pass.
West coast, totally different. Now if said ugh wearer were a bit closer to brookings there'd be a good chance the body weren't found fer a few years.
You doing any fishing out there?
Let me explain further, "set the stage" so to speak. He was wearing those middle-school-math-teacher-thick-brown-rimmed-aviator-shaped-bottle-cap glasses, a camo and khaki vest with way too many pockets, a camo hat, a camo and khaki fanny pack (wish i was making this up, really tried to get a pic), mesh-6"-above-the-knee basketball shorts and motherfucking no bullshit mudstained ugg boots. I had plenty of time to double check. That shit occurred. Total bottom feeder.
On a brighter note, the TV show Portlandia is totally true best i can tell.
Drove thru Brookings, floated 24 miles in 7 days, TR to come. Glad my new friend Aaron knows Arregon.
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on March 06, 2014, 08:49:56 AM
Post by: NCsporksman on March 06, 2014, 08:49:56 AM
Serial killer status, prolly took the uggs off a victim hence the mud
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 10, 2014, 11:04:50 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 10, 2014, 11:04:50 AM
http://youtu.be/mQ2Fhl8ORSE (http://youtu.be/mQ2Fhl8ORSE)
I sent a text to "Mr. I'm a Big Time Steelheader Now", to see if he wanted to explore some more of the mighty Smith River. But, he had no time for the moody trout of the Virginia Tailwater, and he suggested that I should give NCsporksman at try. He wasn't too busy and we left Winston with a cup of coffee from Krankies the next morning.
The river was up a little and stained, we went in at the "Dead Baby" hole. I let the Sporksman lead the way, offering up first chance at the good looking runs. I tried to let him have the far side of the run too, but he insisted that it was my turn and he thought my articulated peanut envy had a better profile in the murky water. Working from top towards the tail I turned a good fish in the middle, I saw it roll on the fly which was perhaps a foot below the surface. A little while later and a little further down the run a good fish slammed the fly. The Spork was kind enough to net it and take the hero shot... While removing the hook, I managed to scrape my finger against the upper teeth of this boy and I notice that I was dripping blood as I released the fish. This was a good fish for the Smith and I declared 'I'm done!', meaning that one fish would make the day, I didn't expect that it would be our last fish. Next time this happens, I going to say, "Nice way to START the day!" so as not to put the jinx on us again.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/030914-9.jpg)
We fished on for a while there and then moved on to another location where we were surprised to see two other NC trucks in the parking lot. We spied the anglers and made a move to high hole them only to discover they were BRFFF friends, PeeWee and Dean, they were nymphing and weren't planning to hit the high holes in these water conditions. As we negotiated the slick rocks we noticed that the water was getting muddier, taking on a coffee color. The water was really pushing through the runs and it didn't look good. Spork turned a good fish up against the bank in an eddy but that was the only fish we saw up there. Time for lunch and some brewski.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/030914-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/030914-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/030914-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/030914-4.jpg)
We relocated upstream and stuck out there too. Later we moved on down to the middle section and gave it out last shot at the honey hole. We didn't see any fish, the water was too cloudy to even see a follow. Hiking down to find some more structure, we noticed a kayaker paddling up the river. I wondered where he had put in. "We're going to scare the hell out of him," I commented before I called out "Hello." "Wooly," came the reply from the river. It was BRFFFer FIN in the yak. "Is there anybody you don't know on the river," commented the Spork. It was quite a coincidence to see someone floating on the river as we had been talking about doing that earlier. Now all I need is a towee and a jet drive....
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/030914-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/030914-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/030914-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/030914-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 10, 2014, 11:13:10 AM
Post by: Dougfish on March 10, 2014, 11:13:10 AM
Quite the traffic jam on the Smiff. Sunshine brings all the cretins to the river.
Nice fish. 'c;
Nice fish. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on March 10, 2014, 11:16:57 AM
Post by: Fin on March 10, 2014, 11:16:57 AM
QuoteHiking down to find some more structure, we noticed a kayaker paddling up the river. I wondered where he had put in. "We're going to scare the hell out of him," I commented before I called out "Hello."
Dang right you scared the hell out of me! I hear someone call out, look up and see some disheveled looking homeless dude in fatigues standing in the bushes, drinking a beer. I nearly went overboard. It was good to see you guys after I got over my initial shock.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on March 10, 2014, 11:27:00 AM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on March 10, 2014, 11:27:00 AM
Fin is the gatekeeper.
Nice hero shot!
Nice hero shot!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on March 10, 2014, 20:05:57 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on March 10, 2014, 20:05:57 PM
lol disheveled homeless dude, not dudes, glad I got a haircut Saturday -0-
Started w a couple of these
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/689E8B40-8493-40B4-8A44-E8412DAA2222_zpsp6gb9vm9.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/689E8B40-8493-40B4-8A44-E8412DAA2222_zpsp6gb9vm9.jpg.html)
Keith floggin a honey hole that provided no honey
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/3B9403E8-16F5-4A70-8235-3454716B8DDE_zpscdpadzif.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/3B9403E8-16F5-4A70-8235-3454716B8DDE_zpscdpadzif.jpg.html)
Streamer weather or bust
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/FA255050-73A7-410F-8E0E-3BB153A51D7B_zpsrrcz3jx3.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/FA255050-73A7-410F-8E0E-3BB153A51D7B_zpsrrcz3jx3.jpg.html)
will be back with these
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/E8F14BF4-D776-4C1E-9B63-379E9C4D6DC0_zpsdnsduhtg.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/E8F14BF4-D776-4C1E-9B63-379E9C4D6DC0_zpsdnsduhtg.jpg.html)
Started w a couple of these
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/689E8B40-8493-40B4-8A44-E8412DAA2222_zpsp6gb9vm9.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/689E8B40-8493-40B4-8A44-E8412DAA2222_zpsp6gb9vm9.jpg.html)
Keith floggin a honey hole that provided no honey
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/3B9403E8-16F5-4A70-8235-3454716B8DDE_zpscdpadzif.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/3B9403E8-16F5-4A70-8235-3454716B8DDE_zpscdpadzif.jpg.html)
Streamer weather or bust
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/FA255050-73A7-410F-8E0E-3BB153A51D7B_zpsrrcz3jx3.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/FA255050-73A7-410F-8E0E-3BB153A51D7B_zpsrrcz3jx3.jpg.html)
will be back with these
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/E8F14BF4-D776-4C1E-9B63-379E9C4D6DC0_zpsdnsduhtg.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/E8F14BF4-D776-4C1E-9B63-379E9C4D6DC0_zpsdnsduhtg.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 10, 2014, 20:38:26 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 10, 2014, 20:38:26 PM
Now you're choosing wisely. Olive, amber and gray would be good additions.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 10, 2014, 22:43:30 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 10, 2014, 22:43:30 PM
Going to beat the sporkster to the river (http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/11/myburuna.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 12, 2014, 11:00:58 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 12, 2014, 11:00:58 AM
http://youtu.be/gp5JCrSXkJY (http://youtu.be/gp5JCrSXkJY)
Sunny and in the 70s, sitting at the coffee bar with my laptop finishing up some work, the barista ask when I'm going fishing again. I thought about it for a few seconds and said, "Now"! I called the powerhouse to check the generation schedule and found that I could fish the upper river till close to dark.
The water is cold enough to warrant waders all year round, but the air felt warm enough to wet wade. I hiked in, the clear sky high UV day was beating down and it felt good to finally set into the chilly waters of the Smith. While rigging up the rod and breaking out the 7x, I noticed BWOs mixed in with the usual midges. The long slick pool was running clear and the leafless trees provided only broken shade. "Gulp", a trout rose. There were a few other fish who hit the surface but nothing steady, I tied on a #22 emerging midge pattern and went to work. I caught a couple of the small resident brown trout and took a picture with the phone as the Olympus TG-1 was at home.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/031114-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/031114-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/031114-3.jpg)
I searched the river for rising fish, but didn't find any in the runs and riffles where the BOWs were hatching. If I had beer with me I would have called rule 11 and drank a few while waiting for the river to light up. Instead I found a comfortable spot on the bank to lay down and watch the river for a while. Hawks were soaring on the thermals and a beaver crossed the river above me, silently paddling in a straight line to the other side. The bugs were really starting to come off and there were egg layers as well I saw bugs emerge and float down through the feeding lanes for 30 or 40 seconds totally ignored and unmolested by the trout which I was certain were lurking down below and that at any moment would begin to rise regularly. I just relaxed and waited. Closing my eyes I saw the rubber legs of the streamers I had been tying. Then a red ever changing red orb floating above the river, I relaxed and began deep breathing then drifting off listening to the riffle above to the left and the other one downstream, mixed with birds chirping. I was almost asleep, when the sound of a trout rising brought me back to focus on the river. I waited and continued to watch, the trout rose again, "Could this be the beginning", I wondered. An hour had passed and there were only two hours left to fish. This effort to do nothing may have been brought on by a joke I read earlier in the day, "A Buddhist Monk approaches a hotdog stand and says, "Make me one with everything".
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/031114-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/031114-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/031114-7.jpg)
The trout never rose, but I did find a couple who were willing to take a BWO parachute. Spring is here, the hatches will only get better and the fish will rise. Next up Sulfurs!
When I got home this was waiting for me.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/031114-8.jpg)
What's up with the integrated rod sock divider thingy?
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/031114-9.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Feather Chucker on March 12, 2014, 11:16:37 AM
Post by: Feather Chucker on March 12, 2014, 11:16:37 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on March 04, 2014, 20:44:10 PMQuote from: Big J on March 04, 2014, 18:58:14 PMQuote from: NCsporksman on March 04, 2014, 16:20:42 PM
I love accounting
Said no one ever. Even accountants hate accounting.
You sir, have never been to an accountant convention!
Must be like a pharmaceutical rep convention. Basically any kind of sales convention usually has some talent.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Rhody on March 12, 2014, 11:32:04 AM
Post by: Rhody on March 12, 2014, 11:32:04 AM
we need to go break in that 6 wt., nice writin
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 12, 2014, 13:47:39 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 12, 2014, 13:47:39 PM
Quote from: Rhody on March 12, 2014, 11:32:04 AM
we need to go break in that 6 wt., nice writin
SoHo Saturday is looking good
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 12, 2014, 14:08:41 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 12, 2014, 14:08:41 PM
You have much patience, Grasshopper. Sitting and observing. With brewski, of course.
I would have been throwing the whole fly box at them.
I would have been throwing the whole fly box at them.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on March 12, 2014, 14:41:32 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on March 12, 2014, 14:41:32 PM
I'm with D-fish, why drive to the river just to sit there, didn't have ya pegged for a Buddhist...hippie maybe
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on March 12, 2014, 20:39:52 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on March 12, 2014, 20:39:52 PM
Sometimes you just have to take in what God made!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: bmeador on March 15, 2014, 21:15:24 PM
Post by: bmeador on March 15, 2014, 21:15:24 PM
Fished Friday after generation till dark - 830 to 330 Saturday. Friday was pretty good. Landed 8 browns with 2 being 12 - 13 inches, all on a streamer. Got into a pool loaded with stockers and took 6 home.
Sat. was tougher. Only brought 3 to hand. Wind was terrible. Very sporadic stones started popping off around 1030. Up in the top end of the SRA, BWO and Blue Quills started coming off really good around 1230 - saw a couple of stones in the mix. Only saw a single fish take a dry off the surface. The wind was blowing straight down the river and it was tough to get a decent cast!
All in all it was a wonderful day, LOTS of company from Stanleytown bridge all the way up. The rock is where the beverages came out and my day was over...
Sat. was tougher. Only brought 3 to hand. Wind was terrible. Very sporadic stones started popping off around 1030. Up in the top end of the SRA, BWO and Blue Quills started coming off really good around 1230 - saw a couple of stones in the mix. Only saw a single fish take a dry off the surface. The wind was blowing straight down the river and it was tough to get a decent cast!
All in all it was a wonderful day, LOTS of company from Stanleytown bridge all the way up. The rock is where the beverages came out and my day was over...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on March 15, 2014, 22:03:03 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on March 15, 2014, 22:03:03 PM
4 months and have yet to see a fish take a dry on that river
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 16, 2014, 05:57:33 AM
Post by: Dougfish on March 16, 2014, 05:57:33 AM
Good job! More times than not, the wind is coming right down that river. b';
Glad to see you posting.
Glad to see you posting.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on March 16, 2014, 19:55:16 PM
Post by: 22midge on March 16, 2014, 19:55:16 PM
Found a couple of bigger ones today eating meat...........
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y289/22midge/P1010170_zps37589f1f.jpg) (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/22midge/media/P1010170_zps37589f1f.jpg.html)
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y289/22midge/P1010173_zps3a9ad9e5.jpg) (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/22midge/media/P1010173_zps3a9ad9e5.jpg.html)
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y289/22midge/P1010170_zps37589f1f.jpg) (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/22midge/media/P1010170_zps37589f1f.jpg.html)
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y289/22midge/P1010173_zps3a9ad9e5.jpg) (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/22midge/media/P1010173_zps3a9ad9e5.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: bmeador on March 16, 2014, 20:10:01 PM
Post by: bmeador on March 16, 2014, 20:10:01 PM
Very nice feesh! Congrats! 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Rod Champion on March 16, 2014, 20:13:38 PM
Post by: Rod Champion on March 16, 2014, 20:13:38 PM
you got that gig figured out don't you Midge.
Very nice !
Very nice !
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 16, 2014, 20:18:37 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 16, 2014, 20:18:37 PM
Dayun peewee you be tearing them up!
I caught one and turned five others, while Spork also caught one and turned three or four others.
Pics to follow
I caught one and turned five others, while Spork also caught one and turned three or four others.
Pics to follow
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 17, 2014, 13:58:40 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 17, 2014, 13:58:40 PM
http://youtu.be/An2a1_Do_fc (http://youtu.be/An2a1_Do_fc)
Spork wanted to fish, rain was coming, we left as early as possible after a Saturday night. He said 7, I said 8, to which he replied, "I thought old people got up early". I did a little recon on Saturday and broke in the Sage Response, catching a nice brown on the swing. This is perhaps the worst fish photo that I've taken. Shot with the iPhone which does not have a waterproof case. So I'm paranoid about dropping it in the water. Ended the day after losing both articulated flies.. Tied up two more, running low on marabou and hooks... First fish on the Double L replacement rod, a Sage Response.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/031514-1.jpg)
This fish looks like a pune in this pic but it was over 14", it was stuffed full of a bait fish, the tail was just sticking out of its mouth, no room to swallow anything else but it still hit the fly.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/031514-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/031514-3.jpg)
I got to the coffee shop with 20 minutes to spare, while waiting for Spork to show up I went over THE LIST in my head, "Fuck! I forgot the rain jacket", I thought! "Just enough time to drive home and get it, it wasn't even an option. When I returned it was exactly 8:00. Settled in for the long ride after hitting Sheetze Autofood Mart thing. I get the auto menu thing, but why can't I just swipe a card right there?
Geared up and hiked on in with high hopes. Water looked awesome, little satin two foot visibility... rocks slick as anywhere, need to all more cleats to the boots and remember to take the wading staff. The Spork got knocked down a time or two and I came damn close to taking a spill.
Turned some fish and then got a solid. Glad I had the Olympus with me..
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/031614-2.jpg)
Trout lilies pushing up, spring is near, waiting on caddis hatch!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/031614-3.jpg)
Rested the water and drank some of these.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/031614-7.jpg)
Before getting back to tossing these.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/031614-5.jpg)
Turned some more fish, fucked up a hookset or two... finally the Spork got into one.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/031614-16.jpg)
After seeing some of the huge mottled sculpin in this river we are going to tie up bigger flies..
Bugger out.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 17, 2014, 14:14:49 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 17, 2014, 14:14:49 PM
Now that's what we're talking about! 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: bmeador on March 17, 2014, 16:56:10 PM
Post by: bmeador on March 17, 2014, 16:56:10 PM
Good Job!! Better than any I landed. bd;0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creekfreak on March 17, 2014, 19:26:01 PM
Post by: creekfreak on March 17, 2014, 19:26:01 PM
Nice!! Got them studs just for that river, see what the weather does this week.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on March 17, 2014, 19:56:46 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on March 17, 2014, 19:56:46 PM
Here piggy, piggy! I just wish those had the coloration of their upper kinfolk... bd;0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on March 17, 2014, 21:39:05 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on March 17, 2014, 21:39:05 PM
Quote from: consumnfire1229 on March 17, 2014, 19:56:46 PM
Here piggy, piggy! I just wish those had the coloration of their upper kinfolk... bd;0
Truth....Thought I'd hung a stray rainbow until he was in the net, straight silver
slick rocks and too much turbo-dog the nite before got my ass... woolly looked like a fugging zen ass heron wading next to me and he was multiple beers deep
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 24, 2014, 10:40:39 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 24, 2014, 10:40:39 AM
Beetle called, "Let's go fishing Sunday!" "Okay, it's going to rain! Bring streamers and sink tip!", I reply. I was going anyway, the weather report sounded too iffy to make the three hour drive to TN so we selected a stream a little closer to home. I tied up a coupled of extra flies.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/032314-6.jpg)
In the morning the weather wasn't too bad, warmer than forecast and the rain hadn't started.
We hiked in and stripped streamers, nothing turned, changed flies still nothing. Beetle spied three big fish but they had lockjaw. I went on down to a run where I had turned a good fish last week, having a wading staff helped on the snot covered rocks. I worked into position, studied the water, stripped out some line, and cast into the run. BOOM! Fish on! After removing the hook the fish slashed out and those brown trout teeth caught my finger.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/032314-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/032314-5.jpg)
The rain started, and we fished on. Beetle had a big brown on the line, it hit the Peanut Envy that I tied (inspired by Kell G and Matt G) but the trout set allowed the fish to evade capture.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/032314-3.jpg)
Beetle called an early day and I celebrated with a Hopslam!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/3/032314-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 24, 2014, 10:54:05 AM
Post by: Dougfish on March 24, 2014, 10:54:05 AM
Weee doggie! That's a nice fish! bd;0
The big boys do have some "update your tetanus booster" teeth.
The big boys do have some "update your tetanus booster" teeth.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Transylwader on March 24, 2014, 10:55:35 AM
Post by: Transylwader on March 24, 2014, 10:55:35 AM
I think Im gonna head to the shitter for an ego boost, since I can't fish this Smith River n all...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on March 24, 2014, 18:56:58 PM
Post by: 22midge on March 24, 2014, 18:56:58 PM
nice fish Woolly ....the rain got there a little to soon .
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: _Fish_Pimp on March 24, 2014, 21:11:28 PM
Post by: _Fish_Pimp on March 24, 2014, 21:11:28 PM
sweet fishy
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Michael Toris on March 24, 2014, 21:23:03 PM
Post by: Michael Toris on March 24, 2014, 21:23:03 PM
It's no carp but, I guess it's better than sitting at home
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Transylwader on March 24, 2014, 21:28:29 PM
Post by: Transylwader on March 24, 2014, 21:28:29 PM
You WS bearded fuckers are a weird bunch...where the cunter is my blasted invite?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 24, 2014, 21:44:38 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 24, 2014, 21:44:38 PM
Tranny,
You have been very social on the boards in the past few. Giddy, playful. You even took Dylar fishing. Humanitarian-like.
Ah Spring. It brings lovers, combatants, territorial males, and compliant hens into a social whirling dervish that leaves us breathless, and in awe. And then the Saffa with a 2 wt and a 18 pack of PBR entered the field. Screenplay by Homer. Should be an epic spring for you. And the casual observer. Carry on.
But just to be clear, you don't want a piece of the Smith. It wants a piece of you.
You have been very social on the boards in the past few. Giddy, playful. You even took Dylar fishing. Humanitarian-like.
Ah Spring. It brings lovers, combatants, territorial males, and compliant hens into a social whirling dervish that leaves us breathless, and in awe. And then the Saffa with a 2 wt and a 18 pack of PBR entered the field. Screenplay by Homer. Should be an epic spring for you. And the casual observer. Carry on.
But just to be clear, you don't want a piece of the Smith. It wants a piece of you.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Beetle on March 25, 2014, 07:34:14 AM
Post by: Beetle on March 25, 2014, 07:34:14 AM
Last time I invited Tranny to fish- I never heard back from him. I spotted him cruising through WS on the way to "something way more epic". He gave me the finger and hightailed it to wherever he was going to catch 5" brookies, break rods and get arrested. :P
Sound about right Keith?
Sound about right Keith?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on March 25, 2014, 08:01:01 AM
Post by: NCsporksman on March 25, 2014, 08:01:01 AM
It got a piece of me yesterday, all up in my waders and only a dink brown to show fer it all, fack!!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on March 25, 2014, 08:37:22 AM
Post by: 22midge on March 25, 2014, 08:37:22 AM
the old gal has enough slick rocks to keep you honest...........every once in awhile you have to write her a check.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 25, 2014, 09:09:58 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 25, 2014, 09:09:58 AM
Tranny, you know the door to the Smith is always open... -+;
Spork is going to have to take a loan to cover the debt the river is collecting...
Spork is going to have to take a loan to cover the debt the river is collecting...
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 31, 2014, 10:02:40 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 31, 2014, 10:02:40 AM
No photos, no fish, from a Sunday visit to the river on race weekend. Water and wind were up, tossed a green sex dungeon. Moved a nice fish right off the bat, then found an eager bastard who hit the fly four times, coming completely out of the water twice, it failed to swallow. Water was pushing hard with an extra 125 cfs. That wind was monstrous and almost blew me into the drink several times.
Thought I had the race traffic beat but stop lights on 158 were all backed up, it took an extra 30 minutes to get home.
Thought I had the race traffic beat but stop lights on 158 were all backed up, it took an extra 30 minutes to get home.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Transylwader on March 31, 2014, 10:20:13 AM
Post by: Transylwader on March 31, 2014, 10:20:13 AM
I want a piece of this beat down the Smiff claims she dishes. I bet it's served...cold.
Im flex. Beetle, I haven't been arrested in 9 months. /'/
Im flex. Beetle, I haven't been arrested in 9 months. /'/
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 31, 2014, 10:36:03 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 31, 2014, 10:36:03 AM
Quote from: Transylwader on March 31, 2014, 10:20:13 AM
I haven't been arrested in 9 months. /'/
a bit overdue, aren't you? :;!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 31, 2014, 10:37:20 AM
Post by: Dougfish on March 31, 2014, 10:37:20 AM
Quote from: Transylwader on March 31, 2014, 10:20:13 AM
I want a piece of this beat down the Smiff claims she dishes. I bet it's served...cold.
Im flex. Beetle, I haven't been arrested in 9 months. /'/
Looks like an interesting April lining up for you, pune.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Transylwader on March 31, 2014, 10:43:32 AM
Post by: Transylwader on March 31, 2014, 10:43:32 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on March 31, 2014, 10:37:20 AMWe'll make it OUR lovefest. April, she's a chick, not the overrated steelie queen, the news reporter from The Teenage Mutant Hero Turtles. :;!Quote from: Transylwader on March 31, 2014, 10:20:13 AM
I want a piece of this beat down the Smiff claims she dishes. I bet it's served...cold.
Im flex. Beetle, I haven't been arrested in 9 months. /'/
Looks like an interesting April lining up for you, pune.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 31, 2014, 10:53:12 AM
Post by: Dougfish on March 31, 2014, 10:53:12 AM
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9sofFpGWxRo/UzmPIaVdPyI/AAAAAAAALn8/b4ve9VoS7bM/w400-h398-no/38231372.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 14, 2014, 14:22:42 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 14, 2014, 14:22:42 PM
http://youtu.be/0y8Q2PATVyI (http://youtu.be/0y8Q2PATVyI)
For your Monday viewing pleasure, I bring to you a few spring hours spent on a Virginia tail water. I wanted to get to the water early, but it's not always easy to rise early on a Sunday morning, but I still managed to get there before nine and there were some shadows reaching out across the runs I planned to fish. I went with a olive peanut envy based on past experiences on this water. Nothing, no follows, not strikes, nothing at all. I noticed some boot prints on the way in and wondered how hard the river had been hammered on Saturday. Were the fish sulking in the depths? I changed flies, several times, to no avail, before moving on down to the next run, a fishy looking place, where I had never caught or even seen a trout before. A pretty significant caddis hatch was going on and the flies were dapping the water in their final glory. I was now casting a white Zoo Cougar which I acquired from the Ditch Monkey a few years back, spun hair is something I haven't mastered, the fly looked alive in the waters as stripes caused it to flutter in an appetizing manner. Working from close to far, the last casts were up against a submerged tree. Strip, Strip, Strip, Bam! Fish on. The smallest brown from this section, but a fine specimen non the less. Despite working more water, my one fish streak continued. The sun was now high in the bluebird sky and any confidence of getting a trout to strike had faded in the bright light.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/4/041314-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/4/041314-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/4/041314-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/4/041314-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/4/041314-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 14, 2014, 14:52:02 PM
Post by: Dougfish on April 14, 2014, 14:52:02 PM
'c;
But do you now plan on streamer fishing exclusively? Even on a blueline in two weeks?
But do you now plan on streamer fishing exclusively? Even on a blueline in two weeks?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Michael Toris on April 14, 2014, 14:52:04 PM
Post by: Michael Toris on April 14, 2014, 14:52:04 PM
AH YISSS!
#woollyselfies
#woollyselfies
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Beetle on April 14, 2014, 15:30:10 PM
Post by: Beetle on April 14, 2014, 15:30:10 PM
I have found Mrs. Smith to be a total bitch.
Nice going Bugger!
Nice going Bugger!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on April 16, 2014, 15:51:16 PM
Post by: Al on April 16, 2014, 15:51:16 PM
Deer hunting is my passion so it has been awhile since I did any serious fishing. With urban archery season behind us I have no excuse - well maybe a little excuse because I'm now scouting for next season and moving stands. Deer hunting for me never really ends. Anyway the generation schedule did not kick in until late afternoon this past Monday so I hit a section of the Smith River.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0266_zps3d8e3bbb.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0266_zps3d8e3bbb.jpg.html)
Maybe some of you guys with photographic memories and eagle eyes can figure out this secret spot.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0265_zps26c36ebd.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0265_zps26c36ebd.jpg.html)
It took about five hits before I was able to close the deal with this small Smith River Brown. I was fishing a soft hackle dropped off my traditional Allieworm. This particular section had a lot of ditty-mo which made me shorten the distance from the indicator to avoid globs of ditty-mo AKA "rock snot".
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0268_zps2612c110.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0268_zps2612c110.jpg.html)
Before too long I got into a pod of stocked Rainbows. Kudos to DGIF for stocking some nice size fish.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0269_zpsf048a61f.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0269_zpsf048a61f.jpg.html)
I now look at Rainbows on the Smith as competition for the limited food source so creeled a limit of six for the skillet. You eagle eyed folks will note the soft hackle is holding it's own.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0273_zpsf8a38dbd.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0273_zpsf8a38dbd.jpg.html)
I finally caught a decent brown which would have been protected under the 10-24 inch slot limit.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0278_zps572d1197.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0278_zps572d1197.jpg.html)
I was about to dump my entire fly box of Alliworms in the river when this small Brown fell for the old standby. This was followed by several more of about the same size. Probably a good thing because I have so many Allieworms if I'd chucked them all in the stream I could have been cited for creating a hazardous waste dump.
Well there ya have it. I now have something to do while waiting for deer season to roll around again. Hmmmmm, now let's see - I still need to move the deer stand down near the old stump about 15 feet to the left.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0266_zps3d8e3bbb.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0266_zps3d8e3bbb.jpg.html)
Maybe some of you guys with photographic memories and eagle eyes can figure out this secret spot.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0265_zps26c36ebd.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0265_zps26c36ebd.jpg.html)
It took about five hits before I was able to close the deal with this small Smith River Brown. I was fishing a soft hackle dropped off my traditional Allieworm. This particular section had a lot of ditty-mo which made me shorten the distance from the indicator to avoid globs of ditty-mo AKA "rock snot".
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0268_zps2612c110.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0268_zps2612c110.jpg.html)
Before too long I got into a pod of stocked Rainbows. Kudos to DGIF for stocking some nice size fish.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0269_zpsf048a61f.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0269_zpsf048a61f.jpg.html)
I now look at Rainbows on the Smith as competition for the limited food source so creeled a limit of six for the skillet. You eagle eyed folks will note the soft hackle is holding it's own.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0273_zpsf8a38dbd.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0273_zpsf8a38dbd.jpg.html)
I finally caught a decent brown which would have been protected under the 10-24 inch slot limit.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0278_zps572d1197.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0278_zps572d1197.jpg.html)
I was about to dump my entire fly box of Alliworms in the river when this small Brown fell for the old standby. This was followed by several more of about the same size. Probably a good thing because I have so many Allieworms if I'd chucked them all in the stream I could have been cited for creating a hazardous waste dump.
Well there ya have it. I now have something to do while waiting for deer season to roll around again. Hmmmmm, now let's see - I still need to move the deer stand down near the old stump about 15 feet to the left.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on April 16, 2014, 19:14:35 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on April 16, 2014, 19:14:35 PM
Glad you got out, Al!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 16, 2014, 19:38:06 PM
Post by: Dougfish on April 16, 2014, 19:38:06 PM
Glad you got some fish to break up that venison diet! ;D
'c;
'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 17, 2014, 17:47:44 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 17, 2014, 17:47:44 PM
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/18/eza6aguj.jpg)(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/18/da8yvu2y.jpg)(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/18/evy7yqe2.jpg)(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/18/abe6u8y4.jpg)(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/18/ba2a7asa.jpg)
What to do on Thursday afternoon?
Hit the upper Smith! Flow was up much higher than usual so I was forced to throw a small woolly bugger in the black variety, the fish agreed. Brought an easy dozen to hand.
What to do on Thursday afternoon?
Hit the upper Smith! Flow was up much higher than usual so I was forced to throw a small woolly bugger in the black variety, the fish agreed. Brought an easy dozen to hand.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on April 17, 2014, 21:11:52 PM
Post by: Al on April 17, 2014, 21:11:52 PM
Good show Woolly. I'm beginning to think bigger fly, bigger fish.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 21, 2014, 11:04:56 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 21, 2014, 11:04:56 AM
Conditions were going to be very favorable for a trip up in search of Leroy. When I arrive at the river, I saw that Peewee and Dean had the same idea. As I hiked in footprints revealed that they had already fished the top end of the fishable water. But I was confident that with the strong cloud cover and spit of rain that I could entice a strike. I worked the runs that had produced in the past and cursed by friends when I failed to turn a fish. Moving on down to a large pool, precariously perched on top of a bolder for additional reach, I cast a Zoo Cougar, strip, strip, and a follow, with a slashing short strike. "Damn, that was huge," adrenaline pumping, I cast again, and on the swing the trout rose completely out of the water attacking the fly. "Strip set," I silently commanded, and I felt the weight and the tug as the trout went down in a frothing tail slapping dive. The fish was lost, became unbuttoned, and I cursed loudly enough to turn Dean's head 100 yard down river.
Later, I worked a run that I had fished many time before without seeing a fish, but this time a large trout struck the streamer, and I was already anticipating a celebratory beer, when I lost that fish too! WTF? A close inspection of the fly revealed a rock dulled hook. Argggg, "my bad," as they say. "I will sharpen my hooks, I will sharpen my hooks, I will sharpen my hook . . .
I somehow managed to fuck up another hookset before heading back to the car, Peewee and Dean were there, they had caught a few, mostly with stoneflies. I moved on to another part of the river and on the way in stumbled across a patch of Morels. "Well, even without catching a trout, this isn't a bad day after all."
I worked all my favorite runs and hooked another large brown, but my streak of suk continued, I was anticipating taking a photo when this fish managed to shake loose. I continued on in a funk but determined to catch a fish. Finally one came to hand, the smallest fish that I've caught on this part on the river, but a brown trout none the less.
Hiking back to the car I discovered another patch of Morels and picked a few more. On the way home, at dusk I went back to see in the big brown that I stuck earlier in day would come out to play again. No dice.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/4/041914-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/4/041914-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/4/041914-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/4/041914-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/4/041914-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/4/041914-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/4/041914-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/4/041914-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/4/041914-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/4/041914-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/4/041914-11.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 21, 2014, 12:36:24 PM
Post by: Dougfish on April 21, 2014, 12:36:24 PM
Nice fungus haul.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: DRIFTS on April 22, 2014, 05:08:01 AM
Post by: DRIFTS on April 22, 2014, 05:08:01 AM
Any part of the smith floatable with a drifter?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 22, 2014, 05:11:20 AM
Post by: Dougfish on April 22, 2014, 05:11:20 AM
PM, Drifts.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: tomato can on April 22, 2014, 05:58:02 AM
Post by: tomato can on April 22, 2014, 05:58:02 AM
The prob. with the ramps i have used on the smith (and many va waters) is they are not trailerable. You can not back your trailer down to the water and launch your DB. They have inconveniently placed a bollard or split rail fencing in the way of the boat ramp. I don't know why VA had done this with many of the ramps, it sucks. But I am itching to float the smith again so when your ready let me know.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 22, 2014, 09:55:52 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 22, 2014, 09:55:52 AM
When watching the sampling in the smith at the ramp, I saw that they removed the split rails to get their equipment down to the river.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on April 28, 2014, 10:24:50 AM
Post by: Al on April 28, 2014, 10:24:50 AM
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0434_zps720960a8.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0434_zps720960a8.jpg.html)
One of my fishing buddies won't let anyone photograph him with the stream in the background or with him holding a nice fish before he takes the fly out of it's mouth because he doesn't want to give away any secrets. I fall in the other extreme. Most of us are in it for fun and also doing "catch and release" so no secrets here. Besides that, in the case of the Smith, the more folks fish her the more clout we will have to help make changes necessary to return her to a world class trout fishery once again. Here is one of my favorite spots. I really had not planned to fish here Sunday morning but someone else was already fishing my original choice so I drove on and ended up here. I've been fishing the Smith for over twenty years and don't really have a favorite spot. I've mentally broken up the river into sections based on ease of entry and exit points - they are all good if you fish them right.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0433_zpscbbc4770.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0433_zpscbbc4770.jpg.html)
It took more time then I like to admit for the first fish to come to the net. I'm now keeping stocked rainbows on the Smith because they compete with the stream spawned browns for the limited food. I'm hoping for a limit of six before I shuffle my feet forward to my "get out" point.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0439_zps387c3bd7.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0439_zps387c3bd7.jpg.html)
Caught a lot of browns - not many required the net but if they have any size at all I've found it easier to control them for a photo when you're standing waist deep in water.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0435_zps0727796d.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0435_zps0727796d.jpg.html)
The real small ones get the wet hand light grip treatment. I see a couple flies on display but they don't show very well so let me reveal I was fishing an Allieworm about 2 feet under a yarn indicator with a zebra midge dropped about a foot below the AW. The zebra midge got most of the play on Sunday, however this particular fish fell for the AW.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0437_zps8b6f052c.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0437_zps8b6f052c.jpg.html)
A half dozen rainbows committed suicide by the time I approached my predetermined exit point.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0445_zps6f251aaf.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0445_zps6f251aaf.jpg.html)
Ok, here is where things go astray. My creel is one of those "keep it cool" canvas types which straps to your waist and rides in the water if you're wading fairly deep. I'm small framed without much in the way of hips so the full creel was slipping down. I unhooked it with the intention of tightening the waist strap. It was full of water so I turned it up to lighten the load. Much to my feeble brains astonishment the fish poured out right along with the water. I was able to corral four of them but two sank out of sight never to be seen again.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0449_zpse8239520.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0449_zpse8239520.jpg.html)
Every fish I caught after that bone headed mishap was a brown trout so there were no replacements. What the heck - it makes for a good story anyway. Great morning. In my opinion the Smith is fishing very well. I saw a lot of midges but no splashes or swirls to indicate the fish were keying on them or anything else. Nymphing is the way to put a bend in your rod most of the time. That could change shortly because we are approaching the 2-3 week period of great sulphur hatches and right after that it will be time to try beetles and ants.
One of my fishing buddies won't let anyone photograph him with the stream in the background or with him holding a nice fish before he takes the fly out of it's mouth because he doesn't want to give away any secrets. I fall in the other extreme. Most of us are in it for fun and also doing "catch and release" so no secrets here. Besides that, in the case of the Smith, the more folks fish her the more clout we will have to help make changes necessary to return her to a world class trout fishery once again. Here is one of my favorite spots. I really had not planned to fish here Sunday morning but someone else was already fishing my original choice so I drove on and ended up here. I've been fishing the Smith for over twenty years and don't really have a favorite spot. I've mentally broken up the river into sections based on ease of entry and exit points - they are all good if you fish them right.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0433_zpscbbc4770.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0433_zpscbbc4770.jpg.html)
It took more time then I like to admit for the first fish to come to the net. I'm now keeping stocked rainbows on the Smith because they compete with the stream spawned browns for the limited food. I'm hoping for a limit of six before I shuffle my feet forward to my "get out" point.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0439_zps387c3bd7.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0439_zps387c3bd7.jpg.html)
Caught a lot of browns - not many required the net but if they have any size at all I've found it easier to control them for a photo when you're standing waist deep in water.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0435_zps0727796d.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0435_zps0727796d.jpg.html)
The real small ones get the wet hand light grip treatment. I see a couple flies on display but they don't show very well so let me reveal I was fishing an Allieworm about 2 feet under a yarn indicator with a zebra midge dropped about a foot below the AW. The zebra midge got most of the play on Sunday, however this particular fish fell for the AW.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0437_zps8b6f052c.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0437_zps8b6f052c.jpg.html)
A half dozen rainbows committed suicide by the time I approached my predetermined exit point.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0445_zps6f251aaf.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0445_zps6f251aaf.jpg.html)
Ok, here is where things go astray. My creel is one of those "keep it cool" canvas types which straps to your waist and rides in the water if you're wading fairly deep. I'm small framed without much in the way of hips so the full creel was slipping down. I unhooked it with the intention of tightening the waist strap. It was full of water so I turned it up to lighten the load. Much to my feeble brains astonishment the fish poured out right along with the water. I was able to corral four of them but two sank out of sight never to be seen again.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0449_zpse8239520.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0449_zpse8239520.jpg.html)
Every fish I caught after that bone headed mishap was a brown trout so there were no replacements. What the heck - it makes for a good story anyway. Great morning. In my opinion the Smith is fishing very well. I saw a lot of midges but no splashes or swirls to indicate the fish were keying on them or anything else. Nymphing is the way to put a bend in your rod most of the time. That could change shortly because we are approaching the 2-3 week period of great sulphur hatches and right after that it will be time to try beetles and ants.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: flyrod on May 02, 2014, 19:59:17 PM
Post by: flyrod on May 02, 2014, 19:59:17 PM
Hey, I just recently retired in March. Been wanting to fish the Smith during the Spring sulfur hatch. This past wed. and thur. I got the chance to fish in the afternoon. Been having some luck and really enjoying myself. Here are a few pics of many, all on a sulfur pattern.
(http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d82/flyrod5w/2014-05-01033007_zps2689cccd.jpg) (http://s33.photobucket.com/user/flyrod5w/media/2014-05-01033007_zps2689cccd.jpg.html)(http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d82/flyrod5w/2014-05-01030806_zpsd496a00f.jpg) (http://s33.photobucket.com/user/flyrod5w/media/2014-05-01030806_zpsd496a00f.jpg.html)(http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d82/flyrod5w/2014-04-30033758_zps1bd1a4f4.jpg) (http://s33.photobucket.com/user/flyrod5w/media/2014-04-30033758_zps1bd1a4f4.jpg.html)(http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d82/flyrod5w/2014-05-01033010_zps86e16b5a.jpg) (http://s33.photobucket.com/user/flyrod5w/media/2014-05-01033010_zps86e16b5a.jpg.html)
(http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d82/flyrod5w/2014-05-01033007_zps2689cccd.jpg) (http://s33.photobucket.com/user/flyrod5w/media/2014-05-01033007_zps2689cccd.jpg.html)(http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d82/flyrod5w/2014-05-01030806_zpsd496a00f.jpg) (http://s33.photobucket.com/user/flyrod5w/media/2014-05-01030806_zpsd496a00f.jpg.html)(http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d82/flyrod5w/2014-04-30033758_zps1bd1a4f4.jpg) (http://s33.photobucket.com/user/flyrod5w/media/2014-04-30033758_zps1bd1a4f4.jpg.html)(http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d82/flyrod5w/2014-05-01033010_zps86e16b5a.jpg) (http://s33.photobucket.com/user/flyrod5w/media/2014-05-01033010_zps86e16b5a.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on May 02, 2014, 20:13:47 PM
Post by: 22midge on May 02, 2014, 20:13:47 PM
nice work flyrod..........guess them yeller corks are finally here . Glad you are getting some time on the water. Be safe
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 03, 2014, 07:08:59 AM
Post by: Dougfish on May 03, 2014, 07:08:59 AM
Good stuff. The rain messed with my mid-week plans. Maybe I'll see you next week.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 04, 2014, 19:40:30 PM
Post by: Al on May 04, 2014, 19:40:30 PM
Good work Dean.
I was up this past weekend and fished with a couple friends who had never fly fished before. Challenging but they all caught a few fish - will post more tomorrow. Saw some bugs but did not see enough surface activity to make me fish on top. May try to key on them next time I am up.
I was up this past weekend and fished with a couple friends who had never fly fished before. Challenging but they all caught a few fish - will post more tomorrow. Saw some bugs but did not see enough surface activity to make me fish on top. May try to key on them next time I am up.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: rford on May 05, 2014, 05:11:23 AM
Post by: rford on May 05, 2014, 05:11:23 AM
I saw some bugs flying, but I did not see any fish rising to get them. I tried some dry flies without any success on the dries.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 05, 2014, 08:04:52 AM
Post by: Al on May 05, 2014, 08:04:52 AM
Quote from: rford on May 05, 2014, 05:11:23 AM
I saw some bugs flying, but I did not see any fish rising to get them. I tried some dry flies without any success on the dries.
Flies in the air but no surface activity - try emergers and soft hackles unless of course you just like to practice your casting.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: outdoorguy3 on May 05, 2014, 10:14:30 AM
Post by: outdoorguy3 on May 05, 2014, 10:14:30 AM
Soft hackles..........do they work?
Ralph ;D
Ralph ;D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 05, 2014, 20:12:53 PM
Post by: Al on May 05, 2014, 20:12:53 PM
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0457_zpscc6e498a.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0457_zpscc6e498a.jpg.html)
It is not every day you get a chance to link up with old army buddies to play the "do you remember" game and at the same time share with them the passion many of us have for fly fishing. We did just that this past weekend when the executive officer (XO) from my company commander days in the 82nd Airborne and one of the lieutenants from a sister company and their wives were guests at my "get away" place in Bassett, VA. None of them had ever fly fished but having read some of my fishing reports knew if old Captain K could do it, it must be pretty easy.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0455_zps8ab2ef45.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0455_zps8ab2ef45.jpg.html)
First things first. How about a little casting instruction on the lawn? "Hmmmmmm, why does my line keep collapsing in a big mess right in front of my rod tip?"
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0453_zpsaa2abf80.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0453_zpsaa2abf80.jpg.html)
The sister company officer from "back in the day" suffered a stoke about 15 years ago and wisely decided fly fishing might not be on his bucket list.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0501_zps4e761e5b.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0501_zps4e761e5b.jpg.html)
His wife however, took to it like a duck takes to water.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0475_zps172ddcbf.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0475_zps172ddcbf.jpg.html)
Wade, cast, place the line under your finger, point the rod tip towards the indicator, keep slack line to a minimum - WOW, Captain K. is still a hard taskmaster.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0471_zps9b567042.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0471_zps9b567042.jpg.html)
It is funny how a fish brought to hand changes a frustrated frown to a big smile.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0511_zps51aa1dfe.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0511_zps51aa1dfe.jpg.html)
"Hold on there - I'm putting one on the scoreboard for the ladies"
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0518_zps25ade714.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0518_zps25ade714.jpg.html)
"You're going home with me buddy. Al says we can keep rainbows"
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0467_zpsf643767a.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0467_zpsf643767a.jpg.html)
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0497_zps330525ae.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0497_zps330525ae.jpg.html)
There are a lot of nice stream spawned browns and plump stocked rainbows available right now. It is not easy pickings but if you can cast about two rod lengths beyond your rod tip you can catch them. Just remember to control your slack line and watch the indicator!
It was great reconnecting with old friends. Just sitting there BS-ing made me recall things I have not remembered in years. I am honored they saw me in such a positive light. Another plus was we did a little touring around my adopted hometown of Martinsville / Henry County. We also ran into several folks who knew me and dropped a few dollars on the local economy. Life is good.
It is not every day you get a chance to link up with old army buddies to play the "do you remember" game and at the same time share with them the passion many of us have for fly fishing. We did just that this past weekend when the executive officer (XO) from my company commander days in the 82nd Airborne and one of the lieutenants from a sister company and their wives were guests at my "get away" place in Bassett, VA. None of them had ever fly fished but having read some of my fishing reports knew if old Captain K could do it, it must be pretty easy.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0455_zps8ab2ef45.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0455_zps8ab2ef45.jpg.html)
First things first. How about a little casting instruction on the lawn? "Hmmmmmm, why does my line keep collapsing in a big mess right in front of my rod tip?"
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0453_zpsaa2abf80.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0453_zpsaa2abf80.jpg.html)
The sister company officer from "back in the day" suffered a stoke about 15 years ago and wisely decided fly fishing might not be on his bucket list.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0501_zps4e761e5b.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0501_zps4e761e5b.jpg.html)
His wife however, took to it like a duck takes to water.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0475_zps172ddcbf.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0475_zps172ddcbf.jpg.html)
Wade, cast, place the line under your finger, point the rod tip towards the indicator, keep slack line to a minimum - WOW, Captain K. is still a hard taskmaster.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0471_zps9b567042.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0471_zps9b567042.jpg.html)
It is funny how a fish brought to hand changes a frustrated frown to a big smile.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0511_zps51aa1dfe.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0511_zps51aa1dfe.jpg.html)
"Hold on there - I'm putting one on the scoreboard for the ladies"
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0518_zps25ade714.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0518_zps25ade714.jpg.html)
"You're going home with me buddy. Al says we can keep rainbows"
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0467_zpsf643767a.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0467_zpsf643767a.jpg.html)
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0497_zps330525ae.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0497_zps330525ae.jpg.html)
There are a lot of nice stream spawned browns and plump stocked rainbows available right now. It is not easy pickings but if you can cast about two rod lengths beyond your rod tip you can catch them. Just remember to control your slack line and watch the indicator!
It was great reconnecting with old friends. Just sitting there BS-ing made me recall things I have not remembered in years. I am honored they saw me in such a positive light. Another plus was we did a little touring around my adopted hometown of Martinsville / Henry County. We also ran into several folks who knew me and dropped a few dollars on the local economy. Life is good.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 05, 2014, 20:22:02 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 05, 2014, 20:22:02 PM
Nice, Al.
See you shortly. We'll see if you can use a new pattern. ....or need it.
See you shortly. We'll see if you can use a new pattern. ....or need it.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on May 10, 2014, 21:37:34 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on May 10, 2014, 21:37:34 PM
I woke up at 4:30 this morning and hit the turkey woods. Those of you who do not know me or care to know a little bit more about me, I am an avid whitetail deer and turkey hunter. I didn't connect with a turkey with the good ol' 12 gauge, but it was by far the most exciting turkey hunt I have ever had.
Now to Sulphurs! I left the house around 4:15 p.m. to meet up with pwooley to see if we could capitalize on an evening sulphur hatch...I'll let the pics and video take care of the rest...
Doug porn...
[attach=1]
[attach=2]
[attach=3]
Odd find...Mudwall??
[attach=4]
Doing some "waiting"
[attach=5]
[attach=6]
[attach=7]
Crappy pic, but you get the idea!
[attach=8]
The vid...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sOGbVKhw-sY&feature=youtu.be (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sOGbVKhw-sY&feature=youtu.be)
Until next time...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Michael Toris on May 10, 2014, 22:20:15 PM
Post by: Michael Toris on May 10, 2014, 22:20:15 PM
Nice hatch
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 11, 2014, 02:02:13 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 11, 2014, 02:02:13 AM
Game on!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 11, 2014, 06:12:20 AM
Post by: Dougfish on May 11, 2014, 06:12:20 AM
Good stuff, dude! I hope they are stay playing at the end of the week.
And in true fashion, Paul is talking loud enough so anyone with a quarter mile can hear him. :laugh:
And in true fashion, Paul is talking loud enough so anyone with a quarter mile can hear him. :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 11, 2014, 14:17:34 PM
Post by: Al on May 11, 2014, 14:17:34 PM
That "Doing some waiting" photo reminded me of why I don't get excited about a sulphur hatch.
Went there one time with with Paul and there were several others, including Mudwall staking out their spot. We got into line and stood on one leg with rod pointing to the water - sort of like a bird dog pointing out a covey of quail. Paul and Muddy thought it was sacrilegious but I caught 2-3 with my AW while waiting. The hatch was pretty sparse that evening and did not come until dark which made it 1-2 fish and you're done - Lot's of "ya should have been here last night" stories on the walk back to the parking lot.
Went there one time with with Paul and there were several others, including Mudwall staking out their spot. We got into line and stood on one leg with rod pointing to the water - sort of like a bird dog pointing out a covey of quail. Paul and Muddy thought it was sacrilegious but I caught 2-3 with my AW while waiting. The hatch was pretty sparse that evening and did not come until dark which made it 1-2 fish and you're done - Lot's of "ya should have been here last night" stories on the walk back to the parking lot.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on May 11, 2014, 14:54:56 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on May 11, 2014, 14:54:56 PM
Quote from: Al on May 11, 2014, 14:17:34 PM
That "Doing some waiting" photo reminded me of why I don't get excited about a sulphur hatch.
Went there one time with with Paul and there were several others, including Mudwall staking out their spot. We got into line and stood on one leg with rod pointing to the water - sort of like a bird dog pointing out a covey of quail. Paul and Muddy thought it was sacrilegious but I caught 2-3 with my AW while waiting. The hatch was pretty sparse that evening and did not come until dark which made it 1-2 fish and you're done - Lot's of "ya should have been here last night" stories on the walk back to the parking lot.
I remember that evening, but what I don't remember is Al offering an AW or any other pattern to me or Paul. Now that was "sacrilegious" and downright rude. I have zero AWs in my box. In fact I could not even identify the pattern. There's probably a delicate message in this nonexistent transaction. I have no real pals!!!
Good luck on the Smith gentlemen. Duties pull me in a different direction.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 11, 2014, 19:30:03 PM
Post by: Al on May 11, 2014, 19:30:03 PM
Come on down to the L&T shindig at Bassett Cabin this weekend Muddy - We'll have a good time and I'll even give you a couple AW.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on May 16, 2014, 13:55:31 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on May 16, 2014, 13:55:31 PM
www.youtube.com/watch?v=8nexuAIKZmY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8nexuAIKZmY)
Unsuspecting generosity in generation scheduling coupled with a solid chance of clouds and rain made Thursday the day to slug the Smiff. Woolly was down to skip work and play..I fished... he caught...dudes got mad mojo on this river..I rake over a spot til its beat and the man walks in and pulls the fish....."just cleanin up your mess dude"
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/P5150343_zps894ea6d2.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/P5150343_zps894ea6d2.jpg.html)
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/P5150339_zps68f826e2.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/P5150339_zps68f826e2.jpg.html)
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/P5150340_zps99bb0e82.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/P5150340_zps99bb0e82.jpg.html)
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/P5150345_zpsca6ae99e.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/P5150345_zpsca6ae99e.jpg.html)
"Dude you gotta take a selfie in the rain" tis protocol?
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/P5150348_zps80c818ac.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/P5150348_zps80c818ac.jpg.html)
Then the ass fell outta the clouds... mass soaking occured... one more fish jumped my fly and thats a wrap p;-
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/P5150351_zps932b7ca9.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/P5150351_zps932b7ca9.jpg.html)
This Man routinely outfishes me
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/P5150335_zps08f44b51.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/P5150335_zps08f44b51.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: RiverbumCO on May 16, 2014, 14:51:04 PM
Post by: RiverbumCO on May 16, 2014, 14:51:04 PM
Hes got my trout 'milk' for sure. Warmwater...well lets just let him have his moment.
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 17, 2014, 06:15:33 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 17, 2014, 06:15:33 AM
I should have taken that big ass fly out on water, bet the beastly browns would have smashed it too.
Favorable generation schedule this week as well. All we need is another storm.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/17/unu5yta6.jpg)
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/17/aruhybag.jpg)
Favorable generation schedule this week as well. All we need is another storm.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/17/unu5yta6.jpg)
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/17/aruhybag.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Michael Toris on May 17, 2014, 19:17:41 PM
Post by: Michael Toris on May 17, 2014, 19:17:41 PM
I love me some selfies
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Deepblu505 on May 18, 2014, 14:12:01 PM
Post by: Deepblu505 on May 18, 2014, 14:12:01 PM
Thanks to the guys at the SRTU ,It was good to meet yall. And thanks to Al for the invite had a good time shoot the bull around the fire the last two nights, Look forward to coming up there again, maybe even cat some fish next time.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on May 18, 2014, 21:23:57 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on May 18, 2014, 21:23:57 PM
On Friday, we met up at the cabin for some lyin' and tyin'. There wasn't any tyin' going on while I was there, but some of the stuff I heard was definitely far from the truth.
On falling water...
[attach=1]
I decided after Friday night, I was going to skip out on the rest of the outing. My wife had been out of town on week, returning on Saturday. Plus, there were a number of chores that needed to be completed around the house. Dougfish, Pwolley and I discussed fishing the Sulphur hatch on Sunday evening.
I met up with Dougfish around 4:30 and Pwooley soon followed...
[attach=2]
Bug activity was sporadic early on...the fish would key in on emergers for about 2 or 3 min, and then it would shut off...
[attach=3]
[attach=4]
Then the bottom fell out...
[attach=5]
[attach=6]
[attach=7]
[attach=8]
[attach=9]
Until next time...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on May 18, 2014, 21:31:36 PM
Post by: Big J on May 18, 2014, 21:31:36 PM
Dang. I didn't know the Smith had hatches like that. bd;0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Michael Toris on May 18, 2014, 21:37:13 PM
Post by: Michael Toris on May 18, 2014, 21:37:13 PM
Wish I could have made it up....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on May 18, 2014, 22:02:12 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on May 18, 2014, 22:02:12 PM
insanity...how are those fish still so dinkish...hope you guys ritualistically sacrificed those fitches on a bed of frisee with browned butter and toasted pecans, 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 18, 2014, 22:28:26 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 18, 2014, 22:28:26 PM
http://youtu.be/nEjUfu9-W-w (http://youtu.be/nEjUfu9-W-w)
Three days of fishing.
Again.
I had not (gasp!) fished the Smith since early March. Our Lyin', Tyin' and Fishin' weekend fixed that for me.
Al has pics of the cabin festivities, I'll go straight to the river.
Fished a little at the cabin section before generation Friday and then after generation as the water fell. Caught fish, no home runs.
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/ArfjcnqNvIj578joD-1IU7DD0n6ejYerNkZ2DZ_GAxiE=w720-h540-no)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Z0h83rMIveeDPQ-N99KFqURgumcdM_tjoZCloZRf72HY=w720-h540-no)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/8kV_jKNHcjXdrBw1eDvN1rDQQD_WtJKmx735zER7QjHH=w720-h540-no)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/ybhSS9lFhvhz8tiQR9cq7bG44eBkqLLbXGqKJzJ8DzoL=w720-h540-no)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-4uV4Y1irFI8/U3lv8VV2ukI/AAAAAAAATY0/mDnbPvOhNLQ/w720-h540-no/P5160008.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/hUYtejETGVTNpIguUBPARurdCDUvkT1KLQOQvDC-B6RQ=w720-h540-no)
Saturday dawned cold. 42 friggin' degrees!
The evening's alcohol slowed everyone down and we tied some while savoring the coffee and smelling bacon frying.
Shane and I headed down to a usual haunt. Hendricksons and Cahills were coming off. Slow, but steady for four hours.
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/gXmGEljkW4tdx0Dvgj9kSG-PTRFQxix_9RBEqnxMIimT=w720-h540-no)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Jw6mgtL6b6w/U3lwA5m4zRI/AAAAAAAATZg/sOyG7YTd8hw/w720-h540-no/P5170013.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-FSmAtWyDygQ/U3lwBmC7fWI/AAAAAAAATZo/1ysITnK3x50/w720-h540-no/P5170014.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xlbpHvLa5UU/U3lwCqPBCBI/AAAAAAAATZw/ZWsnctv3eoM/w608-h540-no/P5170015.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9qo2pYUVShY/U3lwDpEb-zI/AAAAAAAATZ4/Qvtl1lE7afQ/w624-h540-no/P5170016.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-zJ4hpluh_Iw/U3lwFqiND3I/AAAAAAAATaI/4VaiZA1tyKU/w720-h540-no/P5180022.JPG)
Sunday came too fast. I started tying the blank fly that had proved to be the go to emerger yesterday.
Ugh, different day, rules changed. Oh, well. The Smith, if nothing else, is a classroom.
I fished by myself after we cleaned up, loaded and said our good byes.
I was going to go lower, but I could not account for all the people that the cars in the parking area allowed. I assumed some folks had beat me to it, so I jumped in at the same place as yesterday. Flat water? Nadda. Seams, riffles, slots? Bang!
I brought 12+ fish to hand and lost more in a few hours.
Hiked back to the car and got a brew and snack and tied some more flies while waiting on consumingfire and pwooly. There were still two cars in the lot and Scott was freakin' thinking they were gonna be in "his" spot. One car load showed up just as we were ready to go.
The guy who was working toward the honey holes had dumbly decided to go down and flog the water that I had fished.
The sulfurs started to sputter off. Then they really picked up. But matching the emergers the fish were keying on was tough. It's a little unnerving to be looking through your fly box while trout are savagely eating all around you.
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-qUo2TzU8icc/U3lwHeS22VI/AAAAAAAATaY/jevZRYwXTWg/w720-h540-no/P5180026.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-qAxac7BAd-Q/U3lwIYoUy9I/AAAAAAAATag/bsQ7hYxVXvI/w720-h540-no/P5180027.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-EOwUIkh2-Hs/U3lwLBTTOZI/AAAAAAAATa0/gxN0LljYqlw/w720-h540-no/P5180030.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-XZWg4gmBU2k/U3lwL0FAHFI/AAAAAAAATbA/PnN6sCM_I1k/w708-h540-no/P5180031.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Zlb4u-KBgpY/U3lwMgGU9SI/AAAAAAAATbI/eJi5_xBEPSE/w720-h540-no/P5180032.JPG)
Thanks to all the campers and day trippers for a fun weekend. Good to put some more faces to names!
We will have our June Meeting on the river and have our Fish w/A Friend immediately afterward. Look for a post on that.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 19, 2014, 19:35:18 PM
Post by: Al on May 19, 2014, 19:35:18 PM
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0590_zpsb649237d.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0590_zpsb649237d.jpg.html)
Looking at the calendar and trying to figure a date for an event without conflicting with something else is near impossible these days. With that in mind SRTU stuck to it's guns and went with our originally announced schedule of Friday, Saturday and Sunday, May 16-18 for our Lying / Tying / Fishing at the Bassett Cabin which sits right on the bank of the dam or upper section of the Smith River. Considering everything else that was going on we had a pretty good turnout.
Some folks bunked at the cabin, some camped on the grounds and several who lived in the local area just came for the main events and went home for the evening. One thing is for sure, those who missed it, missed a heck of a good time and also missed some good fishing.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0565_zps269e51d8.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0565_zps269e51d8.jpg.html)
Others have posted some good stories and photos on BRFFF about the fishing http://www.brfff.com/forum/index.php/topic,10127.0/topicseen.html (http://www.brfff.com/forum/index.php/topic,10127.0/topicseen.html) so I will confine my post to happenings at the cabin with a little of the fishing thrown in where I was personally involved. Photo above shows a couple Smith River Regulars waiting for "newbies" to show up so they could be greeted and pointed in the right direction.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0551_zps4fe5918a.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0551_zps4fe5918a.jpg.html)
On Friday they were generating from 1-7pm so afternoon fishing was limited to the lower river ahead of the flow or the upper river during the last hour before dark once they shut the turbines off. I was there early so jumped ahead of the flow to see if the river was fishable after the recent rain which had dumped a lot of silt into the lower river. The section down through Bassett was cloudy but apparently the fish could see a nymph because I caught a half dozen like this before heading back to the cabin to help greet folks.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0566_zps71eb9992.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0566_zps71eb9992.jpg.html)
We had two fishermen from Fayetteville NC show up in hopes of learning a little more about the closest trout stream to the majority of folks who live in eastern NC. Just before the COE turned the turbines off I grabbed one of them and headed to the dam in hopes of catching a sulfur hatch on falling water. We had to wait a little before stepping in but as soon as the water started to receed you could see fish activity.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0607_zps04cd2a8b.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0607_zps04cd2a8b.jpg.html)
I fished downstream and gave the riffle with all the activity to Eddie.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0568_zps13a703c3.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0568_zps13a703c3.jpg.html)
I just knew we were going to tear them up but I went a long way before hooking this stocked rainbow. I added a couple of small brown trout to the tally before locating a "get out" point. The recent surge of 44 degree water was bone chilling cold. When I got back to the truck Eddie reported a similar experience, i.e. some activity but no spectacular hatches like we had hoped for.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0571_zps50ed71e4.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0571_zps50ed71e4.jpg.html)
Prior to heading out we had been made the "designated pizza delivery team", so called ahead to Papa's Pizza where we dropped the better half of a century note on the local economy. Pizza, a hot fire, good friends, tall tales authenticated by a liberal flow of adult beverages - What more can a fisherman ask for?
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0578_zpsafe61473.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0578_zpsafe61473.jpg.html)
There was no generation over the weekend so we should have been up early and on the water but for some reason folks were late getting out of the sack.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0584_zps1ab92f31.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0584_zps1ab92f31.jpg.html)
Once up no one was eager to be the first to head out. It seemed like most of the tying took place in the morning both days - folks were mumbling about trying to tie something that would match the hatch they had seen the evening before.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0585_zps155d7b18.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0585_zps155d7b18.jpg.html)
Shane does a great job of whipping up breakfast.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0586_zps304206bc.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0586_zps304206bc.jpg.html)
While the folks who had over indulged the night before got their act together a few tested the waters right in front of the cabin. We saw several fish rising there but if anyone caught them they did not reveal it to me.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0605_zps09804e57.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0605_zps09804e57.jpg.html)
I took a different "newbie" to a well know spot. There had been a drastic change in the weather with a cold front pushing through but we were determined to give the fish a try.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0599_zps1b0da85b.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0599_zps1b0da85b.jpg.html)
It doesn't take long - at least half a dozen similar to this put a big grin on his face. I'm betting we have the makings of a "Smith River Regular" here.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0611_zpsc656682f.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0611_zpsc656682f.jpg.html)
Saturday evening we had a big meal of barbequed pork with all the fixings washed down with the beverage of your choice. I even tried a strawberry beer which tasted like strawberries (officer I've been eating strawberries all day - they must have been spoiled and fermented in my bloodstream).
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0614_zps2934af35.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0614_zps2934af35.jpg.html)
Once again no early risers Sunday morning. The crowd has thinned a bit but Doug is determined to tie something which will match the hatch everyone saw the evening before.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0618_zps51cfe43d.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0618_zps51cfe43d.jpg.html)
Got to give that pesky trout which has been giving us the finger for the past three days one more opportunity to commit suicide. It turns out it is still saying "are you kidding me - I'm not falling for that imitaiton". Some of the diehards stuck around for the evening hatch and reported "ya should have been here". Most of us packed it in, cleaned up the place and headed for home with the feeling that life is good and we are fortunate to have good friends to share it with.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 19, 2014, 20:14:16 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 19, 2014, 20:14:16 PM
Big props to Shane for hooking us up at the cabin. V:;
He is the man!
We tied some flies. We potentially wore out the pit toilet. :laugh:
We caught fish. We made new friends. and solidified others.
Seeing Scott hooked up in a cloud of sulphurs sealed the deal. Good times.
He is the man!
We tied some flies. We potentially wore out the pit toilet. :laugh:
We caught fish. We made new friends. and solidified others.
Seeing Scott hooked up in a cloud of sulphurs sealed the deal. Good times.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 29, 2014, 09:43:38 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 29, 2014, 09:43:38 AM
http://youtu.be/mnZzNToI1tE (http://youtu.be/mnZzNToI1tE)
When I stepped out of the car I heard thunder to the north and saw lightened flash in the clouds. I had left all of my rain gear at home but it was close to ninety degrees and I hoped any storm would be brief. As I walked the half mile to the river through the hay field which was ready for a second cut, it started to rain huge drops that spattered on my back and hat. The sun was out and as my grandmother would say, "The Devil is beating his wife!", as I walked east into my growing shadow. It was so humid that my shirt was soaked, reminding me of sleepless summer nights lying in bed sweating and praying for a cool breeze to blow in the window. On down to the river, I found that I was early and the water had not receded enough from the generation to be fishable. As I rigged the rod I realized that I had left the fly box with the flies that I had tied just for this evening on the front seat of the car. Damn! I popped a Dale's and hiked back to the car. The rain had stopped by the time I got back to the river and the water had fallen another six inches. There was a thick fog growing on the water as the evening approached. I opened another beer. A fish rose, I cast. Again. It took a while to adjust to the bamboo, especially after casting chickens for musky. On the third cast the fish rose to my fly and I felt the tug of a Smith River brown. It's been a while since I've fished the boo, after breaking the tip on this rod a couple of years ago, I've been hesitant to take it to the river. Photo taken, fish released, eyes on the water looking for the next rise. I was hoping for a decent hatch and or a spinner fall, but it wasn't coming on. I saw a few sulfurs floating and saw more fish rise as darkness approached. The river came to life, with fish rising everywhere, during the last half hour of light and I fishing on until it was too dark to see the fly upon the water. Stepping up out of the riverbed to the open field I walked through a blizzard of fireflies that blinked and danced in the cool night air.
Old School!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/5/052814-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/5/052814-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/5/052814-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/5/052814-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/5/052814-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/5/052814-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/5/052814-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/5/052814-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/5/052814-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/5/052814-10.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JWJ on May 29, 2014, 14:06:28 PM
Post by: JWJ on May 29, 2014, 14:06:28 PM
That's the essence of fishing a hatch right there Woolly. I think I'm gonna have to go check on the sulfurs at my local now.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 29, 2014, 15:15:59 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 29, 2014, 15:15:59 PM
Sounds like my experience Saturday night.
Except the boo part. You're too cool for school. 'c;
Except the boo part. You're too cool for school. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 29, 2014, 16:31:04 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 29, 2014, 16:31:04 PM
I'd go back again but it's a long drive for an hour if action
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on May 29, 2014, 20:03:08 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on May 29, 2014, 20:03:08 PM
Quote from: troutfanatic on May 29, 2014, 19:54:42 PMQuoteI'd go back again but it's a long drive for an hour if action
amen to that and I have a couple more hours than you, but I bought the damn license. might as well put it to use.
That's what I said.. Woolly's always down to hit the smiff, I started neglecting responsibilities, stopped answering calls, telling myself the cheap gas was worth it, friends got worried, thankfully I'm back at work now but damn I'll be back up there next week whoring myself out to the fickle bitch p;-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 30, 2014, 13:54:56 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 30, 2014, 13:54:56 PM
http://youtu.be/Lm-L9uMxzQA (http://youtu.be/Lm-L9uMxzQA)
rain last night, clouds this morning, no generation. got out the door early.
wasn't as dark and stormy as I had hoped.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/5/053014-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/5/053014-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/5/053014-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/5/053014-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/5/053014-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on May 30, 2014, 14:29:35 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on May 30, 2014, 14:29:35 PM
holding the record strong for "Old man selfies" ...nice bass
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: DRIFTS on May 30, 2014, 15:10:57 PM
Post by: DRIFTS on May 30, 2014, 15:10:57 PM
Damb nice Woolly, can i get me driffter down through said drainage? bd;0
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 30, 2014, 15:56:26 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 30, 2014, 15:56:26 PM
Quote from: DRIFTS on May 30, 2014, 15:10:57 PM
Damb nice Woolly, can i get me driffter down through said drainage? bd;0
Pretty sure you can float from the dam to the sports complex, getting over the falls would be tough, that's where I fish
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on June 03, 2014, 07:19:21 AM
Post by: Al on June 03, 2014, 07:19:21 AM
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/OurcabininVA_zpsee4ce873.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/OurcabininVA_zpsee4ce873.jpg.html)
I spent the past weekend at our "get away" place in Bassett VA. We are celebrating sixteen years of ownership this month. It has been a good ride. When we first purchased it we said we'd keep it for at least ten years, then it was maybe five years more. We now say as long as it is still fun we will take it year to year. I bought it because it sits less then a mile from the Smith River. The fishing is good and the deer and turkey hunting, which was an afterthought, is good as well. Another big plus has been several local people who share our passion for the outdoors have become good friends. We joined with many of those people to help clean up the river and enhance the fishery long before such things were in vogue. Thankfully the value of economic tourism has caught on and many others have now taken the lead - I'm happy to support them when time and energy permits.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0679_zps5a404f5d.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0679_zps5a404f5d.jpg.html)
Once cabin chores were out of the way, (That's one of the joys of owning two places - you have two lawns to mow, two roofs to keep in repair, two water systems to keep running, two of everything), I headed to one of my known spots on the river. I've said this before - I don't really have a favorite spot. They are all good and I pick them by how much time I want to devote to fishing. Most of the river is hemmed in with private property but less then 5% of it is posted. See a spot to park, pull on your waders and go fishing - just don't block a driveway or damage any property on your way to the river. Getting into and out of the river is sometimes a challenge - the riverbed has eroded one grain of sand at a time over the past 50 years of power generation. This has resulted in 5-6 feet of steep banks before you reach the water. Combine that with underbrush and just getting in and out of the water is problematical.
I was just working some line out when a lone kayak paddler came by. I don't mind sharing the river with them because the more folks utilize the river the more clout we have.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0682_zpsf0fa3d18.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0682_zpsf0fa3d18.jpg.html)
That paddler did not disturb my fishing because on the second cast of the day this stocked rainbow decided the zebra midge I hung underneath my primary fly was too good to pass up.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0684_zpsd168ea9a.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0684_zpsd168ea9a.jpg.html)
You can't fish the Smith without catching lots of these little brown trout. Pretty, and they are a challenge for those who only fish delayed harvest water but it would be nice if they all averaged a foot or more in length.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0697_zps5faeee54.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0697_zps5faeee54.jpg.html)
This and a few others of better size were brought to hand before it was time to check on my bride who I'd left back at the cabin.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0692_zps5515a82a.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0692_zps5515a82a.jpg.html)
The following morning I decided to beat the weekend crowd by getting up early but found this fellow already had another of my good sections of the river staked out.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0686_zpsff32e21b.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0686_zpsff32e21b.jpg.html)
He muttered a few loud choice words and flew off when I pulled this decent brown out right in front of him.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0698_zps7589d6ce.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0698_zps7589d6ce.jpg.html)
Morning number three of my long weekend (They are all long weekends when you're retired ;D) found me at a different section of the river where I had some prime water all to myself.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0700_zps3f67ca19.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0700_zps3f67ca19.jpg.html)
This was probably my best fish of the weekend. He certainly fell in the protected slot of 10-24 inches. I was pleased to catch him but I was really looking for a nice rainbow to take home as a baking fish.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0702_zpsb1e28509.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0702_zpsb1e28509.jpg.html)
Turns out I caught a dozen fish that morning but only one was a rainbow. This small brown came to the top for my size ten stimulator which I use as an indicator. I guess he thought if he could catch and swallow that huge fly he would not have to eat again for a week.
There ya have it. We had a good weekend. Got the lawn mowed, did some fishing, spread a little money around on the local economy and had good friends over for some venison and delightful conversation. Life don't get much better than that.
I spent the past weekend at our "get away" place in Bassett VA. We are celebrating sixteen years of ownership this month. It has been a good ride. When we first purchased it we said we'd keep it for at least ten years, then it was maybe five years more. We now say as long as it is still fun we will take it year to year. I bought it because it sits less then a mile from the Smith River. The fishing is good and the deer and turkey hunting, which was an afterthought, is good as well. Another big plus has been several local people who share our passion for the outdoors have become good friends. We joined with many of those people to help clean up the river and enhance the fishery long before such things were in vogue. Thankfully the value of economic tourism has caught on and many others have now taken the lead - I'm happy to support them when time and energy permits.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0679_zps5a404f5d.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0679_zps5a404f5d.jpg.html)
Once cabin chores were out of the way, (That's one of the joys of owning two places - you have two lawns to mow, two roofs to keep in repair, two water systems to keep running, two of everything), I headed to one of my known spots on the river. I've said this before - I don't really have a favorite spot. They are all good and I pick them by how much time I want to devote to fishing. Most of the river is hemmed in with private property but less then 5% of it is posted. See a spot to park, pull on your waders and go fishing - just don't block a driveway or damage any property on your way to the river. Getting into and out of the river is sometimes a challenge - the riverbed has eroded one grain of sand at a time over the past 50 years of power generation. This has resulted in 5-6 feet of steep banks before you reach the water. Combine that with underbrush and just getting in and out of the water is problematical.
I was just working some line out when a lone kayak paddler came by. I don't mind sharing the river with them because the more folks utilize the river the more clout we have.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0682_zpsf0fa3d18.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0682_zpsf0fa3d18.jpg.html)
That paddler did not disturb my fishing because on the second cast of the day this stocked rainbow decided the zebra midge I hung underneath my primary fly was too good to pass up.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0684_zpsd168ea9a.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0684_zpsd168ea9a.jpg.html)
You can't fish the Smith without catching lots of these little brown trout. Pretty, and they are a challenge for those who only fish delayed harvest water but it would be nice if they all averaged a foot or more in length.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0697_zps5faeee54.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0697_zps5faeee54.jpg.html)
This and a few others of better size were brought to hand before it was time to check on my bride who I'd left back at the cabin.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0692_zps5515a82a.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0692_zps5515a82a.jpg.html)
The following morning I decided to beat the weekend crowd by getting up early but found this fellow already had another of my good sections of the river staked out.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0686_zpsff32e21b.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0686_zpsff32e21b.jpg.html)
He muttered a few loud choice words and flew off when I pulled this decent brown out right in front of him.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0698_zps7589d6ce.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0698_zps7589d6ce.jpg.html)
Morning number three of my long weekend (They are all long weekends when you're retired ;D) found me at a different section of the river where I had some prime water all to myself.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0700_zps3f67ca19.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0700_zps3f67ca19.jpg.html)
This was probably my best fish of the weekend. He certainly fell in the protected slot of 10-24 inches. I was pleased to catch him but I was really looking for a nice rainbow to take home as a baking fish.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0702_zpsb1e28509.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0702_zpsb1e28509.jpg.html)
Turns out I caught a dozen fish that morning but only one was a rainbow. This small brown came to the top for my size ten stimulator which I use as an indicator. I guess he thought if he could catch and swallow that huge fly he would not have to eat again for a week.
There ya have it. We had a good weekend. Got the lawn mowed, did some fishing, spread a little money around on the local economy and had good friends over for some venison and delightful conversation. Life don't get much better than that.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 03, 2014, 07:52:28 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 03, 2014, 07:52:28 AM
Nice get away report. I had some paddlers come down last week late in the evening. We fished the spinner fall last night and I got a newb onto the fish. She hooked three and landed two.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 03, 2014, 10:57:51 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 03, 2014, 10:57:51 AM
I was filling up the growler for my pending float with Rhody, when I ran into a friend. She had just broken up with her boyfriend, and when she found out that I was floating the river, she said, "I want to go, I need an adventure!" I sat down and told her that I would take her up to the Smith some evening for the spinner fall and put her on some rising trout. That evening I checked the upcoming generation schedule and told her that Monday or Tuesday would be the evenings to go this week as the generation was stopping at 6 pm.
I picked her up at Krankies at 5:30, she was drinking a Pisgah Ale and brought along three more. We suited up at the Mirror Plant in the heat of the afternoon and hiked the field down to the falling water of the chilly river. The water was still up and no fish were rising but there was a decent flotilla of yellow bugs cruising down the currents. So we drank a beer and waited. I demoed casting technique and then she gave it a try, too much wrist but eventually she began to get the fly out into the current and she began to spot the rising fish. I worked one up against the bank, and hooked it, much to her amazement, on the third cast. She went back to the bank for another beer and brought one out to me in the middle of the river where we waited for the magic to start. A king fisher flew down stream and chirped out its territorial warning. Fish began to rise, I stashed the beer in my vest, and got her to cast upstream from the rise and bam, "Oh my god, I caught one." She played it and stripped in the line so that I could net her first fish ever caught! That was 8:40 pm, six minutes past sunset, light fading fast. High fives and toasts ensued, and she cast again and again getting another bigger brown to hit the Puff Daddy, but, after a short fight it self-released. Somewhere in there, the fly got birdnested and I had to tie on another fly, a rusty spinner. She cast that and bam another fish on at 9:00, the last fish of the evening, we did fish on for a few more minutes, I don't think she wanted to stop, but it was way too dark to fish, and we stumbled to the bank in the darkness.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/060214-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/060214-2.jpg)
First fish ever! On the puff daddy @ 8:40 pm
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/060214-3.jpg)
Second fish on a rusty spinner @ 9:00 pm
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/060214-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on June 03, 2014, 11:35:22 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on June 03, 2014, 11:35:22 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on June 03, 2014, 10:57:51 AMWell ain't that sweet!!!
I was filling up the growler for my pending float with Rhody, when I ran into a friend. She had just broken up with her boyfriend, and when she found out that I was floating the river, she said, "I want to go, I need an adventure!" I sat down and told her that I would take her up to the Smith some evening for the spinner fall and put her on some rising trout. That evening I checked the upcoming generation schedule and told her that Monday or Tuesday would be the evenings to go this week as the generation was stopping at 6 pm.
I picked her up at Krankies at 5:30, .................. A bunch more of mushy, sappy stuff!
I am damned sure this potential malfeasance should be reported to the BRFFF OPR (Office of Professional Responsibility). Well scribed commandments have been broken, unwritten contractual covenants have been wrecked, tossed to the wind with what appears to be libido-driven disregard.
Surely there are others here that have flouted the laws, specifically those encompassing the Fly Angling Anti-Title IX, but there have been few that have so blatantly defied the code with publically displayed photos and text.
An official review will be scheduled!
Other than that, great job!!!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: DRIFTS on June 03, 2014, 11:42:17 AM
Post by: DRIFTS on June 03, 2014, 11:42:17 AM
Way to go Woolly! You da man! V:;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on June 03, 2014, 11:54:55 AM
Post by: Al on June 03, 2014, 11:54:55 AM
Bring her to SRTU Fish w/a Friend this Saturday - Meet at Mirror Plant @ 9 am. I'm sure one of the Smith River Regulars would love to show her his favorite hole. If she is real adventurous, and she must be to go fishing with Woolly, we may invite her to the Grayson Highlands outing 20-22 June.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on June 03, 2014, 12:04:07 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on June 03, 2014, 12:04:07 PM
Quote from: Al on June 03, 2014, 11:54:55 AM
Bring her to SRTU Fish w/a Friend this Saturday - Meet at Mirror Plant @ 9 am. I'm sure one of the Smith River Regulars would love to show her his favorite hole. If she is real adventurous, and she must be to go fishing with Woolly, we may invite her to the Grayson Highlands outing 20-22 June.
That's it; all of you randy old coots are going on report.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 03, 2014, 12:09:44 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 03, 2014, 12:09:44 PM
Quote from: Al on June 03, 2014, 11:54:55 AM
Bring her to SRTU Fish w/a Friend this Saturday - Meet at Mirror Plant @ 9 am. I'm sure one of the Smith River Regulars would love to show her his favorite hole. If she is real adventurous, and she must be to go fishing with Woolly, we may invite her to the Grayson Highlands outing 20-22 June.
Not a chance Al, not a chance,
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Transylwader on June 03, 2014, 17:22:22 PM
Post by: Transylwader on June 03, 2014, 17:22:22 PM
Hey hey!
Fast forward to 0:38
40 year old virgin mooj (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vhwQEc4-Kw#ws)
Fast forward to 0:38
40 year old virgin mooj (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vhwQEc4-Kw#ws)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on June 03, 2014, 20:33:10 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on June 03, 2014, 20:33:10 PM
I'm baffled :o
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: RiverbumCO on June 03, 2014, 21:18:11 PM
Post by: RiverbumCO on June 03, 2014, 21:18:11 PM
I hope to Buddha that he tried the ol creeper thigh grab as they drove back to WS.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on June 04, 2014, 05:30:42 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on June 04, 2014, 05:30:42 AM
Quote from: RiverbumCO on June 03, 2014, 21:18:11 PM
I hope to Buddha that he tried the ol creeper thigh grab as they drove back to WS.
I suppose, but what I hope is he got some sort of clarification on why today's gals paint every other nail. Now that is baffling. In the day, I liked all the nails on my concubine to be painted.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 08, 2014, 06:46:56 AM
Post by: Dougfish on June 08, 2014, 06:46:56 AM
We held our June meeting in the Mirror Plant parking area. In waders.
Small turnout of the usual suspects and two guests.
I took Mark, a guest from Raleigh, down to the river and gave him a tour from the trestle pool to the end of the vegetable fields.
Then we fished.
Did some tying this week. Soft hackles.
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-uUbJa3vF-yo/U5RHlJQsOnI/AAAAAAAAaFI/ojJTTIMvpf8/w405-h540-no/P6060004.JPG)
Two fishermen.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kZ2eN5Nzsss/U5RHmIwIEWI/AAAAAAAAaFQ/SffR8Osb--Y/w873-h540-no/P6070013.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-t0pQ-zFNLG0/U5RHosjX0YI/AAAAAAAAaFo/Z5EoeutzML0/w720-h540-no/P6070032.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wCZfCZsC7UE/U5RHm9ooYaI/AAAAAAAAaFY/KINBb5No8Cc/w720-h540-no/P6070014.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-6NofnSy-W20/U5RHsZllPEI/AAAAAAAAaGI/YJe9yzNaa8k/w720-h540-no/P6070041.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-_VusUMK1_JE/U5RHpWasbDI/AAAAAAAAaFw/PzvHmDqJFOU/w720-h540-no/P6070033.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-0LzwmSrjFkk/U5RHqf7N6LI/AAAAAAAAaF4/UyDpUTixdZk/w720-h540-no/P6070035.JPG)
Forget-me-nots
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-bm9EgERUUv0/U5RHn143gYI/AAAAAAAAaFg/PwKUUohc5hU/w720-h540-no/P6070023.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Bq3C2JZedh8/U5RHrZLZd3I/AAAAAAAAaGA/1-uQa2tiinU/w720-h540-no/P6070039.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-IhhoUdxtyGA/U5RHtP-9eYI/AAAAAAAAaGQ/1rKsAtC7mm0/w720-h540-no/P6070042.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Uh0nhl6BqLg/U5RHuO3v0XI/AAAAAAAAaGY/aQLBjKEmORc/w720-h540-no/P6070043.JPG)
We broke for a grilled burger and dog lunch. Thanks consuminfire!
Then everyone bugged out except for he and I. It was bright and hot.
The bugs were still coming off and the fish were off and on. But not cooperating.
We flogged for a while and packed it in.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-rdss4CswsmY/U5RHu2LPC6I/AAAAAAAAaGg/hRww8m_HYi8/w622-h540-no/P6070044.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-kezFrUahP-E/U5RHw4ERQ8I/AAAAAAAAaGw/P8cEyOJB2j0/w720-h540-no/P6070046.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-8zvC4y4-qu8/U5RHx2tnayI/AAAAAAAAaG4/wcVDwk3ICY8/w720-h540-no/P6070048.JPG)
I have replaced almost all my modern reels with vintage ones now. Pfleuger 1494, sculted pillars, round guide, metal cap, metal drag knob. From the '30s. Solid as a rock.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-cdBV_lYTF9I/U5RHypYR1HI/AAAAAAAAaHA/ZYEfwv7KCQc/w708-h540-no/P6070051.JPG)
Picked up some big bottles when traveling this week. How could I refuse this one? Very good, unfiltered, Nelson Co. ale.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-wSNOfUZP4bg/U5RHzmC0jeI/AAAAAAAAaHI/ZzDxDfpE25E/w405-h540-no/P6070052.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Fr65DJVdECA/U5RH04oTd_I/AAAAAAAAaHQ/qUJuL-Cz8nU/w405-h540-no/P6070054.JPG)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on June 08, 2014, 21:18:03 PM
Post by: Al on June 08, 2014, 21:18:03 PM
This is an addition to DougFish's post on same topic:
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0706_zpsc3134295.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0706_zpsc3134295.jpg.html)
If you missed the Smith River Fish with a Friend event this past weekend you missed a great opportunity to network with some very knowledgeable fishermen who are collectively known in some circles as the "Smith River Regulars". It was a great chance to peek into fly boxes, compare rod and leader set ups, watch experienced fishermen as they approached different sections of the river and have fun doing it.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0709_zps209f93fd.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0709_zps209f93fd.jpg.html)
Trout streams don't get much prettier than this. Plenty of casting space. Most sections are wader friendly and there are lots of fish. Some of you may be thinking, "Ya - but what do you do with all that flat water beyond that attractive riffle and old log?" Knowledgeable "regulars" will tell you that is where most of the fish are located. Learn to fish it and you will have solved half the rivers secrets.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0714_zpsf0468732.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0714_zpsf0468732.jpg.html)
Need proof - here you go! I pulled this one and several others out of that very long stretch of flat water.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0710_zpse899a857.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0710_zpse899a857.jpg.html)
Sure there are a lot of small fish in the Smith River but they are fun to catch. There is a saying which I believe has merit. It goes something like this - "If you can consistently catch a handful of trout out of the Smith you can catch trout anywhere" or words to that effect.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0738_zps2a3ccb44.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0738_zps2a3ccb44.jpg.html)
One of our "friends" took awhile to figure it out but that bend in his rod and the determined look on his face tells the story.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0723_zps38f3c26b.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0723_zps38f3c26b.jpg.html)
Back at the Mirror Factory parking lot all that smoke must mean it is time to share some good food and swap stories.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0724_zps5a58bf8e.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0724_zps5a58bf8e.jpg.html)
"I swear the one I lost right at the net was at least this long - maybe a little longer"
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0743_zpsd5b1da7a.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0743_zpsd5b1da7a.jpg.html)
After lunch we were on our own. A few linked up with a "regular" and gave it another try. "Now lets see - how did he say I should fish this gorgeous section of flat water?"
Our next scheduled event is a fishing trip to Grayson Highlands 20-22 June 14. We did this same trip last year during the same timeframe and had a great time. You don't have to be a member of SRTU to attend. If you would like to join us contact Doug Jessie djessie@jrpeters.com or Al Kittredge aakitt@earthlink.net
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0706_zpsc3134295.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0706_zpsc3134295.jpg.html)
If you missed the Smith River Fish with a Friend event this past weekend you missed a great opportunity to network with some very knowledgeable fishermen who are collectively known in some circles as the "Smith River Regulars". It was a great chance to peek into fly boxes, compare rod and leader set ups, watch experienced fishermen as they approached different sections of the river and have fun doing it.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0709_zps209f93fd.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0709_zps209f93fd.jpg.html)
Trout streams don't get much prettier than this. Plenty of casting space. Most sections are wader friendly and there are lots of fish. Some of you may be thinking, "Ya - but what do you do with all that flat water beyond that attractive riffle and old log?" Knowledgeable "regulars" will tell you that is where most of the fish are located. Learn to fish it and you will have solved half the rivers secrets.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0714_zpsf0468732.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0714_zpsf0468732.jpg.html)
Need proof - here you go! I pulled this one and several others out of that very long stretch of flat water.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0710_zpse899a857.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0710_zpse899a857.jpg.html)
Sure there are a lot of small fish in the Smith River but they are fun to catch. There is a saying which I believe has merit. It goes something like this - "If you can consistently catch a handful of trout out of the Smith you can catch trout anywhere" or words to that effect.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0738_zps2a3ccb44.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0738_zps2a3ccb44.jpg.html)
One of our "friends" took awhile to figure it out but that bend in his rod and the determined look on his face tells the story.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0723_zps38f3c26b.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0723_zps38f3c26b.jpg.html)
Back at the Mirror Factory parking lot all that smoke must mean it is time to share some good food and swap stories.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0724_zps5a58bf8e.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0724_zps5a58bf8e.jpg.html)
"I swear the one I lost right at the net was at least this long - maybe a little longer"
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/IMGP0743_zpsd5b1da7a.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/IMGP0743_zpsd5b1da7a.jpg.html)
After lunch we were on our own. A few linked up with a "regular" and gave it another try. "Now lets see - how did he say I should fish this gorgeous section of flat water?"
Our next scheduled event is a fishing trip to Grayson Highlands 20-22 June 14. We did this same trip last year during the same timeframe and had a great time. You don't have to be a member of SRTU to attend. If you would like to join us contact Doug Jessie djessie@jrpeters.com or Al Kittredge aakitt@earthlink.net
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 14, 2014, 17:27:26 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 14, 2014, 17:27:26 PM
I hadn't fished by myself in a while so I kept my mouth shut and eased down to the river this AM. It was good. I took my time. Sampled the flows for bugs with my seine. Turned over rocks. Sat in the shade and watched. Observed. Watched caterpillars drop into the river and meet their fate.
I feel like I should write a haiku about the day.
It was a quiet Saturday. Only saw one other fisherman and he was working away from me. The bugs were not coming off much. And there were long droughts of nothing. I ended up nymphing more than dry flying. Caught enough to make me happy, lost/missed enough to piss me off. That's me and this river. I know what patterns I need to tie more of, how to tweak them, and what sizes. A few pics.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-qR4B8VuM8kw/U5zFn9Qq_mI/AAAAAAAAaWo/ZyH_ycViNLo/w720-h540-no/P6140021.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-MdooZ9yhsgA/U5zFjn2_xSI/AAAAAAAAaV4/Dj7_GqZweWI/w720-h540-no/P6140010.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-nUIyaPPef4U/U5zFmGOMLPI/AAAAAAAAaWY/dPPMPq87-dM/w720-h540-no/P6140019.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-IeT4lmMvCUw/U5zFk9UxUCI/AAAAAAAAaWI/xGPF2xGHbZo/w720-h540-no/P6140017.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8-_0hfUnqYE/U5zFhjsFCoI/AAAAAAAAaVg/GhrA3_Ty3bM/w720-h540-no/P6140002.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Bf9ZHCA7ujs/U5zFjLyMk8I/AAAAAAAAaVw/9BCbfkpcQTY/w720-h540-no/P6140008.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-RJIXA2yyPqY/U5zFm_WyZdI/AAAAAAAAaWg/ZnE2CA0uKOg/w720-h540-no/P6140020.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ajPbi9dSMGw/U5zFkZ2gK1I/AAAAAAAAaWA/522ozAKB4Z8/w720-h540-no/P6140012.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-YBIKV8Deb30/U5zFoqA_nqI/AAAAAAAAaWw/mlLGDNY5rT4/w720-h540-no/P6140024.JPG)
Turtle in forest
Brown trout in milky waters
Big crayfish dies old
Brown trout in milky waters
Big crayfish dies old
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: tomato can on June 14, 2014, 18:01:31 PM
Post by: tomato can on June 14, 2014, 18:01:31 PM
Is that white paniculated crap elderberry?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 14, 2014, 18:07:48 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 14, 2014, 18:07:48 PM
Quote from: tomato can on June 14, 2014, 18:01:31 PM
Is that white paniculated crap elderberry?
Elderberry, yes.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on June 14, 2014, 19:15:48 PM
Post by: Al on June 14, 2014, 19:15:48 PM
Good show Doug.
Yep, just fishing by yourself is satisfying at times. Maybe not as much fun but definitely more productive.
Yep, just fishing by yourself is satisfying at times. Maybe not as much fun but definitely more productive.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on June 14, 2014, 20:02:05 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on June 14, 2014, 20:02:05 PM
What, you can't take the high holing anymore? I'm hurt..
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on June 14, 2014, 20:07:36 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on June 14, 2014, 20:07:36 PM
Elderberry syrup, a great way to make any desert sauce sound pretentious in a fine dining atmosphere....I wish I knew what flies to use, tweak and tie..
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 14, 2014, 20:26:27 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 14, 2014, 20:26:27 PM
Quote from: NCsporksman on June 14, 2014, 20:07:36 PM
Elderberry syrup, a great way to make any desert sauce sound pretentious in a fine dining atmosphere....I wish I knew what flies to use, tweak and tie..
I make a Manhattan with Black Elderberry syrup, called a Black Miranda. My woman is putty in my hands after two of those.
I don't know shit, but learn every day. Then I go back all cocky and stuff, and get smacked down. But my fly box(es) is(are) full.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 15, 2014, 00:50:41 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 15, 2014, 00:50:41 AM
Quote from: NCsporksman on June 14, 2014, 20:07:36 PM
Elderberry syrup, a great way to make any desert sauce sound pretentious in a fine dining atmosphere....I wish I knew what flies to use, tweak and tie..
#16 puff daddy & rusty spinner
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 15, 2014, 12:07:21 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 15, 2014, 12:07:21 PM
http://youtu.be/kVpLi1iJH7Y (http://youtu.be/kVpLi1iJH7Y)
Little recon in the evening, since they don't generate on the weekends I can get a better look at the bugs.
BWOs came off, followed by the sulfurs at dusk. Forgot to put the memory card back in the camera so iPhone had to be put into service. Early on swung soft hackles and picked off some of the bigger fish (12 inches is good in the upper Smith) followed by Puff Daddy and Rusty Spinners. Dale's Pale Ale helped pass the time while waiting for the river to light up.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/061414-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/061414-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/061414-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/061414-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/061414-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 27, 2014, 11:52:50 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 27, 2014, 11:52:50 AM
http://youtu.be/SBNFG-NZW5o (http://youtu.be/SBNFG-NZW5o)
Hot and humid, work done, needed to get away. Took the Sally god up to the river. As I drove into town the western sky looked bleak. Check the radar app, yup a narrow band of T-Stroms headed my way, they should pass in an hour I thought. I got to the parking lot and grabbed a cold one and listened to the radio and waited for the storm to pass. I was early and it would be a while before the water receded from the dam release anyway. It rained pretty hard and I was worried that Town Creek might start pouring in mud. A little after seven I could see clear sky to the west and I geared up in the light rain. We could still hear thunder in the distance and Sally stayed in the car until I was ready to hike down to the river.
I carried a couple of White Zombies and a Dale's to the river. The water was still up a bit and I popped the top on the Dale's. Opening my fly box I was drawn to the Zoo Cougars that I swiped from the Transylwader last weekend... Picked the green one and worked my way across the river to cast to the far bank. Bam! Fish on! That was quick. But further efforts didn't product. Fish started to rise and I switched over to a #16 Sulfur comparadun. I targeted the rising fish and brought six to hand before it became too dark to see the fly. Hiking back to the car Sally heard a deer break brush and took off like a rifle shot... she came back into the field 50 yards down the trail a few moments later. She chased something else unseen by me, so she was pretty pleased with the trip too!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/062614-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/062614-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/062614-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/062614-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/062614-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/062614-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/062614-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/062614-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/062614-9jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/062614-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/062614-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/062614-12.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on June 27, 2014, 19:33:16 PM
Post by: Onslow on June 27, 2014, 19:33:16 PM
I crossed this river right many times in Martinsville while traveling to various jobsites in southern Va but have never made an effort to wank a rod there. Dammit, I guess I need to give a try.
Too many effing rivers and too little time.
Too many effing rivers and too little time.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on June 29, 2014, 08:01:11 AM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on June 29, 2014, 08:01:11 AM
I thought about an evening or two after work, but responsibilities kept me at bay...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 30, 2014, 09:45:24 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 30, 2014, 09:45:24 AM
http://youtu.be/S7sNSduf7Gc (http://youtu.be/S7sNSduf7Gc)
Not much going on, but I felt the need to get out for a bit and drove up to the river to check out the weekend flows.
Got there last and stayed till 9:00 really couldn't see the fly after that and the rising fish were gone too.
Early they wouldn't take the puff daddy, but after the sunset they were on it. Nothing specular, just sight casting to rising browns.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/062914-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/062914-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/062914-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/6/062914-4.jpg)
too dark to photo without the flash....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Transylwader on June 30, 2014, 09:57:40 AM
Post by: Transylwader on June 30, 2014, 09:57:40 AM
Those Zoo cougars work on red drum too. I think it's the new "clouser". Tied up some in white. The GARfunkels are in big shit tomorrow.
Gewd shiat brah. /'/
Gewd shiat brah. /'/
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 30, 2014, 13:05:28 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 30, 2014, 13:05:28 PM
WB, last two reports were dark and moody. I likey. 'c;
Oh, good brownies. I'm due a trip.
Oh, good brownies. I'm due a trip.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 30, 2014, 15:27:39 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 30, 2014, 15:27:39 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on June 30, 2014, 13:05:28 PM
WB, last two reports were dark and moody. I likey. 'c;
Oh, good brownies. I'm due a trip.
that's what happens 1/2 hour past sunset....
d:b
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: DRIFTS on June 30, 2014, 15:46:52 PM
Post by: DRIFTS on June 30, 2014, 15:46:52 PM
Woolly...we got to float that bitch one day...I wood enjoy putting the jack on a few leroys!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Shane on July 01, 2014, 10:25:46 AM
Post by: Shane on July 01, 2014, 10:25:46 AM
Quote from: DRIFTS on June 30, 2014, 15:46:52 PM
Woolly...we got to float that bitch one day...I wood enjoy putting the jack on a few leroys!
Go from Fieldale to Country Club
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: DRIFTS on July 01, 2014, 11:43:39 AM
Post by: DRIFTS on July 01, 2014, 11:43:39 AM
Thanks for info
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 01, 2014, 21:00:49 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 01, 2014, 21:00:49 PM
Quote from: Shane on July 01, 2014, 10:25:46 AMQuote from: DRIFTS on June 30, 2014, 15:46:52 PM
Woolly...we got to float that bitch one day...I wood enjoy putting the jack on a few leroys!
Go from Fieldale to Country Club
Where does one take out? Is there a ramp?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on July 01, 2014, 21:03:52 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on July 01, 2014, 21:03:52 PM
there is a canoe ramp off of Dupont Rd....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Shane on July 02, 2014, 10:19:16 AM
Post by: Shane on July 02, 2014, 10:19:16 AM
Quote from: consumnfire1229 on July 01, 2014, 21:03:52 PM
there is a canoe ramp off of Dupont Rd....
There is an outlaw takeout on Country Club road. If you get onto the 58 bypass toward Stuart from the City dam, it's your first right. Go down until you come to the cable gate of the Pythian property. Might be a better place for a boat that can't get past a canoe ramp pole obstruction. Kind of a steep muddy bank, but Scott Lewis and I have taken his big raft out of there a few times.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Migray on July 02, 2014, 20:53:39 PM
Post by: Migray on July 02, 2014, 20:53:39 PM
Hi guys, Migray again. I figured I would participate a little. I went down a bit farther than I usually do to toss some streamers. I don't think I have ever done a day of only streamer fishing but I read Kelly Galloup's book and I am in. I had a ton of huge splashy hits but only one fish to hand. He was around 13 or so inches. I am tired but happy with how that went down. I believe one of them was pretty decent. 16-18 possibly. That is a fun way to catch trout. There were some fish feeding up top but I did my best to ignore them.
[attach=1 align=left width=400]
[attach=1 align=left width=400]
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: RiverbumCO on July 02, 2014, 21:10:50 PM
Post by: RiverbumCO on July 02, 2014, 21:10:50 PM
Quote from: Migray on July 02, 2014, 20:53:39 PM
Hi guys, Migay again.
Stop.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: bmadd on July 03, 2014, 13:50:41 PM
Post by: bmadd on July 03, 2014, 13:50:41 PM
Migay, I have a serious question. This has kept me up at night since reading your introduction. Is the first half of your name pronounced "my" or "me"? I'm not judging, just curious.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 05, 2014, 12:22:49 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 05, 2014, 12:22:49 PM
http://youtu.be/0O1v_7T6p8U (http://youtu.be/0O1v_7T6p8U)
Headed up the road to catch the falling water and hopefully an evening hatch.
As I approached town, I noticed that the river was extremely muddy. I drove on hoping the upper river would be clear.
Town creek was muddy but I was still hopeful that any stain would still be fishable. As I was hiking in Old Man Phillpott pull up in his pickup, he offered some advise and offered my a ride down to the end of the field. I declined and continued to hike on down. The water had just started to fall an wading in the river was a little dodgy. I brought along two rods, 4 wt for dries and a 6 wt sink tip for streamers. I started off with a zoo cougar but the fast water and short sink tip wasn't getting the job done. Switched to a conehead slumpbuster and the game was on! Although I heard there aren't many if any baitfish this far up the river, the stunted browns were all over the green rabbit! The action continued until I noticed some bugs popping and a few risers. Switched rods and got one, just on one the dry during the last half hour of light.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/7/070414-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/7/070414-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/7/070414-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/7/070414-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/7/070414-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/7/070414-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/7/070414-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/7/070414-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/7/070414-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/7/070414-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/7/070414-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/7/070414-13.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/7/070414-14.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/7/070414-15.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/7/070414-16.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/7/070414-17.jpg)
Days are getting shorter and I had to stop at 9:05!
Peepers and Fireworks greeted me on the way out.
http://youtu.be/gpM45f40elM (http://youtu.be/gpM45f40elM)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 05, 2014, 17:24:58 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 05, 2014, 17:24:58 PM
Way to adapt, boss. Nice fish! 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 06, 2014, 20:07:13 PM
Post by: Al on July 06, 2014, 20:07:13 PM
If that "LIVE FISH" truck went through Bassett / Henry County half the population would be following it. :o b'; b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 11, 2014, 21:53:21 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 11, 2014, 21:53:21 PM
I needed to get out. A couple of weeks without fishing had me in a foul mood. Family stuff, life stuff, you know.
Went to visit a friend. A friend who loves me, a friend who kicks my ass.
The Smith.
http://youtu.be/6yCIDkFI7ew (http://youtu.be/6yCIDkFI7ew)
Scooted down the road to catch the falling water of a early generation. Met up with Pwolley on the way for a shady parking lot reel for cash exchange.
Old Medalist finds a worthy owner. He got his 1492, I reversed the flow of reels coming in by one.
A fellow Roanoker I didn't know followed me into the lot, and we suited up trying to high hole each other.
We walked down through the hayfield together.
Ended up he wanted to jump in waaaay higher than me in slack water. Bye, sucker!
The water was off color and coming down fast. I tied on the only bugger in the box. b';
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_TgDH1r9mDM/U8B1arnx_eI/AAAAAAAAauE/cXeKFLxlpJY/w720-h540-no/P7110001.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tfBS7L5_S9o/U8B1dc0k28I/AAAAAAAAauc/7ggZClO79yI/w861-h540-no/P7110005.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-uVTdc3qFE7U/U8B1cpS0IoI/AAAAAAAAauU/Kqg4TdmGmHk/w504-h540-no/P7110004.JPG)
Unlike the true Bugger, I only had one fish fall to the stripped offering.
The water dropped, the dry/dropper rig went on. I started small.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-74_cRC2BZNo/U8B1ei0zHEI/AAAAAAAAaus/V2PrlOa8gtw/w720-h540-no/P7110008.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-SPRpF4yDlcw/U8B1fV_8lYI/AAAAAAAAau0/VrXqZIYPSdE/w720-h540-no/P7110009.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-i4nJIZax3Gg/U8B1eBlAdQI/AAAAAAAAauk/985Z9CsGyIg/w720-h540-no/P7110006.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RtfPhXZmCe4/U8B1f7WAXZI/AAAAAAAAau8/SYePWYEf_l4/w720-h540-no/P7110011.JPG)
Stashed a beer, hit a dependable section. Meh.
Caught a few. Not as productive as it should have been.
Hit some slack water and fish were rising. WTF, lets do this.
Switched to a more delicate landing dropper. Game. On.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-nalHVMfi3RI/U8B1iMDatoI/AAAAAAAAavU/ijBxAd5TO5c/w720-h540-no/P7110016.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-YozQ5FKt9fs/U8B1jtn-tZI/AAAAAAAAavk/jG7l9CnrX30/w720-h540-no/P7110022.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-DUsk1FvY5as/U8B1kd2BxSI/AAAAAAAAavs/FTGpAQPHcuA/w720-h540-no/P7110024.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Cxpqe2GjFTY/U8B1lI9jgAI/AAAAAAAAav0/0DNQChrXTZE/w720-h540-no/P7110025.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Hcl-dpXRTs4/U8B1l3AXQoI/AAAAAAAAav8/xmfCYPCK1vs/w806-h540-no/P7110026.JPG)
The last pic doesn't do the upper Smith brown justice. He would not sit for a hand held pic. 15" of brown in 9" of water. Jumped like a tarpon.
He did not want to pose for a hand held shot.
I was a hundred feet from the walk out. I let him go, clipped the flies off and headed for the truck. Thank you, river.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-8Xm0vdBRQxQ/U8B1nFWmqmI/AAAAAAAAawM/BQB6r6lynFU/w698-h540-no/P7110028.JPG)
Tipped a Parkway nod to Roanoke's Beth Macy at the truck. Her award winning book about the Bassett family and the furniture industry is coming out July 15. "Factory Man". Seriously good American story. Parkway brewed an IPA to celebrate. Damned good beer. 'c;
A hell of a writer, a hell of a story, an IPA girl.
Happy to have the local connection.
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on July 12, 2014, 16:10:09 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on July 12, 2014, 16:10:09 PM
Why didn't pwolley join you? Didn't want to miss the blue hairs in the pool at the Y? He loves them water aerobics...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creekfreak on July 12, 2014, 17:27:24 PM
Post by: creekfreak on July 12, 2014, 17:27:24 PM
Excellent reportage Doug. Great call on the Parkway, quickly becoming my fav in that area.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 12, 2014, 19:58:22 PM
Post by: Al on July 12, 2014, 19:58:22 PM
Here is a look at some behind the scenes history of Bassett VA and surrounding area
http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/currency/2014/07/a-tale-of-two-furniture-towns.html#slide_ss_0=1 (http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/currency/2014/07/a-tale-of-two-furniture-towns.html#slide_ss_0=1)
http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/currency/2014/07/a-tale-of-two-furniture-towns.html#slide_ss_0=1 (http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/currency/2014/07/a-tale-of-two-furniture-towns.html#slide_ss_0=1)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on July 12, 2014, 20:48:26 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on July 12, 2014, 20:48:26 PM
Yea D-man shitty pic aside that's an upper smiff hawg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: RiverbumCO on July 12, 2014, 21:36:56 PM
Post by: RiverbumCO on July 12, 2014, 21:36:56 PM
Good story Al and nice report there, Douglas.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 13, 2014, 06:18:24 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 13, 2014, 06:18:24 AM
Quote from: consumnfire1229 on July 12, 2014, 16:10:09 PM
Why didn't pwolley join you? Didn't want to miss the blue hairs in the pool at the Y? He loves them water aerobics...
He was headed to Roanoke for an appointment. Gimpy knee.
Otherwise he would have probably joined me.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: DRIFTS on July 14, 2014, 05:46:57 AM
Post by: DRIFTS on July 14, 2014, 05:46:57 AM
Nice report. ..I got to get down there soon to float her
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on July 14, 2014, 07:06:27 AM
Post by: Big J on July 14, 2014, 07:06:27 AM
'c; It's been nice not seeing you post up a tr every two days and are back to the fishing schedule of most of us working folk.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 14, 2014, 08:47:01 AM
Post by: Al on July 14, 2014, 08:47:01 AM
Here is another link to the "Bassett" history story I posted earlier. Book recently published.
http://www.roanoke.com/arts_and_entertainment/columns_and_blogs/blogs/back_cover/book-review-a-remarkable-work-about-made-in-virginia/article_5417f952-cf1b-507c-8e22-f2fee660a5e1.html (http://www.roanoke.com/arts_and_entertainment/columns_and_blogs/blogs/back_cover/book-review-a-remarkable-work-about-made-in-virginia/article_5417f952-cf1b-507c-8e22-f2fee660a5e1.html)
http://www.roanoke.com/arts_and_entertainment/columns_and_blogs/blogs/back_cover/book-review-a-remarkable-work-about-made-in-virginia/article_5417f952-cf1b-507c-8e22-f2fee660a5e1.html (http://www.roanoke.com/arts_and_entertainment/columns_and_blogs/blogs/back_cover/book-review-a-remarkable-work-about-made-in-virginia/article_5417f952-cf1b-507c-8e22-f2fee660a5e1.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Shane on July 14, 2014, 09:24:09 AM
Post by: Shane on July 14, 2014, 09:24:09 AM
PS,
That Live Fish truck is full of Tilapia on their way to chinatown in chicago, Philly, or New York. Martinsville is home to the world's largest indoor aquaculture facility. Their customers prefer to be shipped live fish.
That Live Fish truck is full of Tilapia on their way to chinatown in chicago, Philly, or New York. Martinsville is home to the world's largest indoor aquaculture facility. Their customers prefer to be shipped live fish.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 25, 2014, 06:53:42 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 25, 2014, 06:53:42 AM
http://youtu.be/s1sAkZF7SCQ (http://youtu.be/s1sAkZF7SCQ)
I could not make the river clean up and fishing afterward. Sorry mates.
I was able to sneak down Tuesday AM after a early generation.
I was a l little late and missed the falling water, though. b';
Smoke on the water.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-osE5Z9PTeac/U875_LYRMSI/AAAAAAAAays/wrF0wONxP7g/w720-h540-no/P7220007.JPG)
Then fire in the sky as temperature climbed.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RtfPhXZmCe4/U8B1f7WAXZI/AAAAAAAAau8/SYePWYEf_l4/w720-h540-no/P7110011.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-qhBs-D_BtJs/U8759329_CI/AAAAAAAAayY/i2HDb54mlhY/w720-h540-no/P7220004.JPG)
I was sweating like a pig by the time I hopped into the cold water. A few fish were rising, even fewer bugs were coming off. Threw a beetle, a hopper, changed the dropper. Caught a couple, but they were not keyed in like they should have been. Switched to the recent go to's even though the mayflies were barely there. Bang!
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-7yELphHhbDM/U876DMsQEmI/AAAAAAAAa3g/xldsL5wMB_o/w720-h540-no/P7220025.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-UxuThp81Zu4/U876EgIJJbI/AAAAAAAAa3w/5KZqwsK6ZQY/w720-h540-no/P7220027.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9_nd_LMUFzQ/U8-hsLLoWGI/AAAAAAAAa28/AtRb5e3TtfE/w764-h540-no/P7220033-001.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-fWJQDOtK_w4/U876Im00N7I/AAAAAAAAa4g/bJhk_y6iIuQ/w720-h540-no/P7220039.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-X5hXv3bM0ZI/U876KaCh16I/AAAAAAAAa4w/_iYy2LC1ev0/w720-h540-no/P7220042.JPG)
On an average day, most fish are below the slot. This day, most were within the 10-24" slot. Good bug year = growing fish.
I fished on, but I didn't even cover 200 yds. Came to my stashed brewski and called it quits. Satisfied.
Circus cast. Mad skills.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-NXTpaJi-3AU/U876MeimenI/AAAAAAAAa1I/C1IK4YpiVD8/w720-h540-no/P7220049.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-EGe9O4BS3-g/U876K9hbN0I/AAAAAAAAa00/D0HuxiSkmZM/w720-h540-no/P7220043.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-McyUlwzmhbY/U876N0T9h6I/AAAAAAAAa1c/gdBReSdHdQI/w405-h540-no/P7220057.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZjbJGMKiX6s/U876Qzxwu0I/AAAAAAAAa18/kSjHf2NPso0/w720-h540-no/P7220066.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-vp3_kgn6iIM/U876HzzhXgI/AAAAAAAAa4Y/EVsk62YHmok/w720-h540-no/P7220036.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-moG6ESzxb7I/U876Ag40cDI/AAAAAAAAay8/Osli1wPYdWg/w720-h540-no/P7220016.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-7bpWHMBp7Xk/U876EEQG5fI/AAAAAAAAa3o/BGkW8YpAKAg/w720-h540-no/P7220026.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Uf96F5yXJ0k/U876B3GKLGI/AAAAAAAAa3Q/eDxj_ndo9bA/w720-h540-no/P7220023.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-LPz5uCpIRKI/U876OjT6sII/AAAAAAAAa1k/wJLDTB1gZVI/w720-h540-no/P7220060.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-znmvk2VTyaY/U875-oboWkI/AAAAAAAAayk/5iKWUZvKTfg/w720-h540-no/P7220005.JPG)
Hopped out. Caught sight of a better fisherman in the midday smoke.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-amY_95ZOzLc/U876PXCqseI/AAAAAAAAa1s/_QZwV02mATg/w679-h540-no/P7220062.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-4b3ODHozAY8/U8759JHTKOI/AAAAAAAAayQ/pdmvmaFqkws/w720-h540-no/P7220001.JPG)
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on July 25, 2014, 07:37:22 AM
Post by: Big J on July 25, 2014, 07:37:22 AM
That was good. I know you needed that outing with everything on your plate as of late.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: benben reincarnated on July 25, 2014, 07:45:40 AM
Post by: benben reincarnated on July 25, 2014, 07:45:40 AM
Doug, get that Old Chub on nitro, it will change your life.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on July 25, 2014, 08:51:02 AM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on July 25, 2014, 08:51:02 AM
I'm going somewhere this weekend. Period! Nice work!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 27, 2014, 19:15:28 PM
Post by: Al on July 27, 2014, 19:15:28 PM
The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) will be "shock sampling" the trout holding sections of the Smith River starting on Tuesday, August 19th through Thursday August 21st. They nomally arrive in the area about 10:00 am on the first day and work the specific locations and times around the Philpott generation schedule, much like knowledgeable fishermen who either get behind or ahead of the generation surge. They remain in the area for a full day on Wednesday and usually depart early afternoon on Thursday. There are ten or more sample sites. A good way to locate them is ride up and down the easy access points and look for a half dozen or more VDGIF trucks.
The VDGIF Fisheries Biologists encourage participation by volunteers willing to help as they scoop up and process the fish. Don't forget your waders if you want to help with the line of "netters" as they move upstream through each site. If you just want to sit on the bank and watch they don't mind that either. Many of us have participated before and it is definitely an eye opener. It gets pretty humbling when you look at a 100 yard section of stream and think "I could probably catch 2-3 out of there" and then they come up through it with the electro prods and roll up 4-600. There are a couple of sites that normally produce over a 1000.
As the time gets closer and we have a more definitive schedule we will share it with you.
The VDGIF Fisheries Biologists encourage participation by volunteers willing to help as they scoop up and process the fish. Don't forget your waders if you want to help with the line of "netters" as they move upstream through each site. If you just want to sit on the bank and watch they don't mind that either. Many of us have participated before and it is definitely an eye opener. It gets pretty humbling when you look at a 100 yard section of stream and think "I could probably catch 2-3 out of there" and then they come up through it with the electro prods and roll up 4-600. There are a couple of sites that normally produce over a 1000.
As the time gets closer and we have a more definitive schedule we will share it with you.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: TroutMedic on August 18, 2014, 04:17:39 AM
Post by: TroutMedic on August 18, 2014, 04:17:39 AM
Al can I get some more info on this. I would love to participate
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 18, 2014, 07:37:15 AM
Post by: Al on August 18, 2014, 07:37:15 AM
Quote from: TroutMedic on August 18, 2014, 04:17:39 AM
Al can I get some more info on this. I would love to participate
Here ya go - this direct from VDGIF
Here is our schedule for sampling the Smith River next week if flows stay the same. Please pass on to your TU group for those who may want to attend.
Day 1: August 19, 2014
1. Meet at sampling site at 10 AM, Bassett Mirror Plant 36 47' 14" N by 79 59" 51" W (travel to the back side of the plant, through the field to the far left corner to the sampling site) sample and then have lunch
2. Travel to next sampling site, Bassett Library 36 45' 45" N by 79 59' 45" W
3. Travel to next sampling site, Shady view Road 36 44' 15" N by 79 56' 24" W (by historic church at dead end road)
End of day one sampling.
Day 2: August 20, 2014
1. Meet at sampling site 9:00 AM, Yellow Stairs 36 47' 38" N by 80 01' 03 " W (This is half way up the road going to dam)
2. Travel to next sampling site, Martinsville Dam 36 39' 35" N by 79 52' 46" W (Lunch)
3. Travel to next sampling site, Derelict Bridge 36 44' 15" N by 79 57' 26" W
4. Travel to next sampling site, Sewage Plant 36 41' 35" N by 79 55' 32" W
End of day two sampling.
Day 3: August 21, 2014
1. Meet at sampling site 9:00 AM, Dam 36 47' 37" N by 80 01' 34" W
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 18, 2014, 14:57:56 PM
Post by: Al on August 18, 2014, 14:57:56 PM
Small change to schedule - see email below which just came in from VDGIF - Start at Yellow Steps instead of Mirror Factory on Tuesday.
With all the rain we are having we need to adjust the sampling schedule. We were planning to meet tomorrow at the Bassett Mirror Plant at 10 AM but the rain may make travel through the field hard. So we are going to switch sites an start at the yellow stair at 10:00 am. Please confirm that you received this email and are aware of the change, let others know also.
Thanks and see you tomorrow
Day 1: August 19, 2014
1. Meet at sampling site 10:00 AM, Yellow Stairs 36 47' 38" N by 80 01' 03 " W
1. Travel to next sampling site, Bassett Library 36 45' 45" N by 79 59' 45" W
2. Travel to next sampling site, Shady view Road 36 44' 15" N by 79 56' 24" W
End of day one sampling.
Day 2: August 20, 2014
1. Meet at sampling site at 9 AM, Bassett Mirror Plant 36 47' 14" N by 79 59" 51" W (travel to the back side of the plant, through the field to the far left corner to the sampling site)
2. Travel to next sampling site, Martinsville Dam 36 39' 35" N by 79 52' 46" W (Lunch)
3. Travel to next sampling site, Derelict Bridge 36 44' 15" N by 79 57' 26" W
4. Travel to next sampling site, Sewage Plant 36 41' 35" N by 79 55' 32" W
End of day two sampling.
Day 3: August 21, 2014
1. Meet at sampling site 9:00 AM, Dam 36 47' 37" N by 80 01' 34" W
With all the rain we are having we need to adjust the sampling schedule. We were planning to meet tomorrow at the Bassett Mirror Plant at 10 AM but the rain may make travel through the field hard. So we are going to switch sites an start at the yellow stair at 10:00 am. Please confirm that you received this email and are aware of the change, let others know also.
Thanks and see you tomorrow
Day 1: August 19, 2014
1. Meet at sampling site 10:00 AM, Yellow Stairs 36 47' 38" N by 80 01' 03 " W
1. Travel to next sampling site, Bassett Library 36 45' 45" N by 79 59' 45" W
2. Travel to next sampling site, Shady view Road 36 44' 15" N by 79 56' 24" W
End of day one sampling.
Day 2: August 20, 2014
1. Meet at sampling site at 9 AM, Bassett Mirror Plant 36 47' 14" N by 79 59" 51" W (travel to the back side of the plant, through the field to the far left corner to the sampling site)
2. Travel to next sampling site, Martinsville Dam 36 39' 35" N by 79 52' 46" W (Lunch)
3. Travel to next sampling site, Derelict Bridge 36 44' 15" N by 79 57' 26" W
4. Travel to next sampling site, Sewage Plant 36 41' 35" N by 79 55' 32" W
End of day two sampling.
Day 3: August 21, 2014
1. Meet at sampling site 9:00 AM, Dam 36 47' 37" N by 80 01' 34" W
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: TroutMedic on August 19, 2014, 03:27:11 AM
Post by: TroutMedic on August 19, 2014, 03:27:11 AM
Thanks al
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 31, 2014, 14:37:03 PM
Post by: Al on August 31, 2014, 14:37:03 PM
Well I tried to get back with you but you were likely in the middle of the river and did not want to risk dropping your cellphone. Wanted to clue you in on where we removed a lot of fish during recent sampling - likely there are still fish there but not as many as before because several hundred from 3 different sites were relocated downriver.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on September 01, 2014, 07:10:43 AM
Post by: Big J on September 01, 2014, 07:10:43 AM
I was actual thinking about fishing the smith this next weekend. Too warm for musky still and too warm for brookies. I don't know if I can bring myself to fish the smith though. . .
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 01, 2014, 08:02:52 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 01, 2014, 08:02:52 AM
Get Scott to show you the way. :P
I'll be in dirty Jersey. b';
I'll be in dirty Jersey. b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on September 02, 2014, 21:16:54 PM
Post by: driver on September 02, 2014, 21:16:54 PM
Quote from: Big J on September 01, 2014, 07:10:43 AM
I was actual thinking about fishing the smith this next weekend. Too warm for musky still and too warm for brookies. I don't know if I can bring myself to fish the smith though. . .
Sure is nice to get in that cold water on a hot summer day. I'm tossing the same idea around as well.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on September 02, 2014, 22:33:03 PM
Post by: Fin on September 02, 2014, 22:33:03 PM
Quote from: Big J on September 01, 2014, 07:10:43 AMThe Cup awaits your visit to the Smith Big J. :P
I was actual thinking about fishing the smith this next weekend. Too warm for musky still and too warm for brookies. I don't know if I can bring myself to fish the smith though. . .
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on September 07, 2014, 14:39:49 PM
Post by: driver on September 07, 2014, 14:39:49 PM
Had the urge to catch some trout Saturday. Decided to make the short run up to the Smith to see if *I could catch a few. The weather report was calling for partly cloudy skies. When usually appeases the brownie gods. I left home about 7:30 I noticed the skyies had burned off to blue bird skies. I immediately cursed and start thinking of where the closest place to catch some smallies was. But as I got closer to Martinsville the skyies started to look more favorable. I decided to fish a stretch that i have never fished before. Hopped in the foggy river to see what I could do. I didn't see many bugs coming off. Only a few sulfers. And only a couple of rises. The water was pretty cloudy. So I went to my favorite winter time pattern. And on the second drift..
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/P1000825_800x600_zps37b7c7b1.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/P1000825_800x600_zps37b7c7b1.jpg.html)
on the third..
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/P1000826_800x600_zpsfc73f16a.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/P1000826_800x600_zpsfc73f16a.jpg.html)
I proceded to catch about 10 out of this one hole.
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/P1000827_800x600_zpsefe25360.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/P1000827_800x600_zpsefe25360.jpg.html)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/P1000828_800x600_zps6f3a743d.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/P1000828_800x600_zps6f3a743d.jpg.html)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/P1000837_800x600_zps7eacb472.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/P1000837_800x600_zps7eacb472.jpg.html)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/P1000838_800x600_zps0e544f89.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/P1000838_800x600_zps0e544f89.jpg.html)
I worked my way up stream and picked up a few more. Did catch one nice wormchunker fodder at the next hole. Decided to head back to the truck and fish some more familiar spots. I couldn't resist the first spot. So I made a few more drifts there. And watched the line stop and lifted up. I immediately knew if was a good fish. Got it to the surface and it made another run and threw the hook. Looked to be about 16 inches. Would have been the biggest brown I have ever caught out of the Smith.
Headed upstream a bit and the bottom fell out. I looked at the radar and it seemed it was going to pour for awhile. So I called it a day. So no food or beer pics.
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/P1000825_800x600_zps37b7c7b1.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/P1000825_800x600_zps37b7c7b1.jpg.html)
on the third..
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/P1000826_800x600_zpsfc73f16a.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/P1000826_800x600_zpsfc73f16a.jpg.html)
I proceded to catch about 10 out of this one hole.
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/P1000827_800x600_zpsefe25360.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/P1000827_800x600_zpsefe25360.jpg.html)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/P1000828_800x600_zps6f3a743d.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/P1000828_800x600_zps6f3a743d.jpg.html)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/P1000837_800x600_zps7eacb472.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/P1000837_800x600_zps7eacb472.jpg.html)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/P1000838_800x600_zps0e544f89.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/P1000838_800x600_zps0e544f89.jpg.html)
I worked my way up stream and picked up a few more. Did catch one nice wormchunker fodder at the next hole. Decided to head back to the truck and fish some more familiar spots. I couldn't resist the first spot. So I made a few more drifts there. And watched the line stop and lifted up. I immediately knew if was a good fish. Got it to the surface and it made another run and threw the hook. Looked to be about 16 inches. Would have been the biggest brown I have ever caught out of the Smith.
Headed upstream a bit and the bottom fell out. I looked at the radar and it seemed it was going to pour for awhile. So I called it a day. So no food or beer pics.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 08, 2014, 16:22:01 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 08, 2014, 16:22:01 PM
Went to scope out the lower Smith today, it was muddy.
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/09/08/7bc703cb8ecc9abb0c2f8036e812b9e7.jpg)
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/09/08/a620fd2fc5d28c44229b7dce6d1c5a8d.jpg)
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/09/08/7bc703cb8ecc9abb0c2f8036e812b9e7.jpg)
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/09/08/a620fd2fc5d28c44229b7dce6d1c5a8d.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on September 08, 2014, 16:46:29 PM
Post by: Onslow on September 08, 2014, 16:46:29 PM
QuoteWent to scope out the lower Smith today, it was muddy.
Shit mayne, I had an unexpected partial day off. Water with on the Old plateau was fine.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 08, 2014, 17:16:53 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 08, 2014, 17:16:53 PM
Driver with the smackdown! 'c;
Nice fish, man.
Nice fish, man.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 08, 2014, 17:51:20 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 08, 2014, 17:51:20 PM
Great to see the Smiff is still alive and willing to share some of her bounty
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on September 14, 2014, 23:58:29 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on September 14, 2014, 23:58:29 PM
The old codger and myself set upon Smith's River for a day of leisure....all pictures were shot in dramatic filter for effect, said drama is feigned, it was a very drama free day...except woolly lost his net on account of his diminishing faculties.... the net was recovered and further drama was averted...much rejoicing ensued and we filled the net with many troots of proportions too large to speak of, here's the smaller ones
<-;:
<-;:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=45HPaTF0u7U (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=45HPaTF0u7U)
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/P9141777_zps60149b4c.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/P9141777_zps60149b4c.jpg.html)
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/P9141780_zpsf8777a3f.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/P9141780_zpsf8777a3f.jpg.html)
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/P9091768_zpsa8d973ea.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/P9091768_zpsa8d973ea.jpg.html)
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/P9141789_zpsbfe3f5c5.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/P9141789_zpsbfe3f5c5.jpg.html)
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/P9141783_zpseb663a71.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/P9141783_zpseb663a71.jpg.html)
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/P9141782_zps1b3237b0.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/P9141782_zps1b3237b0.jpg.html)
A kind old man
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/P9141791_zps8d01e5cc.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/P9141791_zps8d01e5cc.jpg.html)
why yes G, that is a new reel with sex appeal
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/P9141798_zps48129c0d.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/P9141798_zps48129c0d.jpg.html)
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/P9141800_zps4f72f552.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/P9141800_zps4f72f552.jpg.html)
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/P9141788_zps46b8fcfa.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/P9141788_zps46b8fcfa.jpg.html)
the Real Score here, gas station burger I will put up against any other any day...fuck yes
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on September 15, 2014, 06:59:34 AM
Post by: Big J on September 15, 2014, 06:59:34 AM
That's a nice brown.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 15, 2014, 07:30:42 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 15, 2014, 07:30:42 AM
My first real trip on the month, long over due.
Struggled to bring the fish to net today, few and far between.
Note the two small fish have clipped adipose fins. These fish were "transplanted" during the recent sampling.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091414-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091414-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091414-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091414-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091414-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091414-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091414-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091414-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091414-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091414-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091414-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091414-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091414-13.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 15, 2014, 07:48:58 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 15, 2014, 07:48:58 AM
Sweet! Nicely done, gents. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on September 15, 2014, 23:32:14 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on September 15, 2014, 23:32:14 PM
The same fish back in May I think, he's put on maybe 2 dick inches, stop gettin caught and he'll be a badass mutha
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/P5150340_zps99bb0e82.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/P5150340_zps99bb0e82.jpg.html)
(http://i1346.photobucket.com/albums/p694/homegrowncrepe/P5150340_zps99bb0e82.jpg) (http://s1346.photobucket.com/user/homegrowncrepe/media/P5150340_zps99bb0e82.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Rhody on September 16, 2014, 08:35:47 AM
Post by: Rhody on September 16, 2014, 08:35:47 AM
good to see another old man with a wading crutch, noice fish, beats my weekend plumbing under the kitchen sink when i needa be fishin
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 19, 2014, 16:56:37 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 19, 2014, 16:56:37 PM
http://youtu.be/XJIuP7zEVeM (http://youtu.be/XJIuP7zEVeM)
skipped work, drove on up to the local in the rain, hoped for the best, water was up and muddy, threw streamers, large, small, dark, bright and everything in between
Shoulda stayed home and tied up some flies, NOT!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091914-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091914-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091914-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091914-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091914-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091914-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091914-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091914-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091914-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091914-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091914-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091914-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091914-13.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/9/091914-14.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 21, 2014, 18:31:03 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 21, 2014, 18:31:03 PM
Looks like the new camera is a winner
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on September 21, 2014, 21:36:10 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on September 21, 2014, 21:36:10 PM
ya might of caught something if you didn't spend your whole trip showing us your macro skillz guy
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 28, 2014, 19:12:47 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 28, 2014, 19:12:47 PM
Well the finicky little bitch is back.
After treating me so good, very good, for so long, I got bitch slapped today.
I should have known I was due.
Tomatocan said the Smith "was great yesterday!". And the overcast skies I was counting on turned into bluebird skies.
It was slow from the start. The caddis were not coming off (like they would have been on an overcast day). Little gray stoneflies were.
But the fish don't tend to care for those. Must taste like ass.
"Moved a few fish" (WTF is that?), had a couple SDR's at my feet, fumbled a small fish, missed some, and cursed.
Did find some good pawpaws and had a delightful snack. Moved upstream to see how Shane and his buddy were doing. Ditto experience.
We tied on stupid stuff, big stuff, little stuff. Shot the shit, decided to move on.
Turned them onto the joys of pawpaws, drank the second beer and said fuck it. You win. b';
Fucking worthless flies:
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-u0h2kquypTw/VCcvPwV2jCI/AAAAAAAAcAw/im6szRr3nxM/w405-h540-no/P9270024.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IruomSdT-_Q/VChhh8VsmtI/AAAAAAAAcE0/TjTDLoFPSFY/w720-h540-no/P9280003.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-AMjby6Y_PFI/VChhijZKqmI/AAAAAAAAcE8/q9KKUk_MhiM/w720-h540-no/P9280004.JPG)
Waders!
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-q_aDWe4EBQM/VChhk7v63MI/AAAAAAAAcEU/BpbFES1n3ko/w405-h540-no/P9280007.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-1HvBo5_DAbc/VChhnK1uvLI/AAAAAAAAcEM/TEd4NF-yWG4/w720-h540-no/P9280010.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GwBhCa9OZoA/VChhoYZiu3I/AAAAAAAAcDc/4YN86BCDwYQ/w405-h540-no/P9280012.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-s7hqsqr5fE8/VChhp0mZIUI/AAAAAAAAcDo/Vj9fhYUHQ_I/w465-h540-no/P9280014.JPG)
For TC, they are not to be confused with Chinese Quince, Pseudocydonia:
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-y695esHmnlo/VChhsp6TJMI/AAAAAAAAcD4/L-_tehZ3eYc/w720-h540-no/P9280017.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-9Z12e_b7bHk/VChhtbZHDeI/AAAAAAAAcDI/Acx_m8iRnpM/w720-h540-no/P9280018.JPG)
I have yet to try and render this edible. Hard as my head.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: tomato can on September 28, 2014, 19:35:25 PM
Post by: tomato can on September 28, 2014, 19:35:25 PM
I got a sack full of them paw paws yesterday. Hope to make some paw paw ice-cream this week or get my wife to cook some paw paw nut bread. I think you have to cook the quince but I am not sure. I also think they get FB real bad so I have never messed with them. Was that quince growing wild or are you foraging in someone's yard?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 28, 2014, 19:47:31 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 28, 2014, 19:47:31 PM
It's in my yard. I grow it for it's great bark. It is awesome.
And yes, it has some fireblight going on. Chainsaw bait one day.
Where's the TR?
And yes, it has some fireblight going on. Chainsaw bait one day.
Where's the TR?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Shane on September 28, 2014, 20:08:46 PM
Post by: Shane on September 28, 2014, 20:08:46 PM
Yeah, we moved a few fish. Rolled a couple.
Fuckin A paw paws
Fuckin A paw paws
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: RiverbumCO on September 28, 2014, 21:02:02 PM
Post by: RiverbumCO on September 28, 2014, 21:02:02 PM
Hey Shane.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on September 28, 2014, 21:28:45 PM
Post by: Big J on September 28, 2014, 21:28:45 PM
TC, when are you going to invite me over for some of this mysterious PawPaws I've never tried?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 29, 2014, 17:47:20 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 29, 2014, 17:47:20 PM
I'll have to give those Paw paws a try the next time I'm up that way...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 20, 2014, 14:20:19 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 20, 2014, 14:20:19 PM
http://youtu.be/VLs09J_x6-c (http://youtu.be/VLs09J_x6-c)
Took the god our for a half day of fishing and running in the field. She's getting older now and didn't express too much interesting in chasing after stuff. She mostly stayed with me on the river settling on a mid-stream rock. No memory card in the camera so I was limited in picture taking. Tons of bugs popping off the water, micro bwos, a few sulfurs, an occasional yellow drake and midges, tons and tons of 'em. I passed an angler who was coming off the river as I was heading in, "They are starting to rise, I've been nyphing and didn't want to change lures." Go figure on that one... Fish were rising, but only occasionally, I got a half dozen to hit, but no hook-ups as I constantly changes flies... Finally, I fooled a finicky fish which fought frenetically for a few moments.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/10/101914-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/10/101914-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/10/101914-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/10/101914-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/10/101914-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/10/101914-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: tomato can on October 20, 2014, 19:33:19 PM
Post by: tomato can on October 20, 2014, 19:33:19 PM
The Kinks! Yes yes yes
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: DRIFTS on October 25, 2014, 08:36:47 AM
Post by: DRIFTS on October 25, 2014, 08:36:47 AM
Nice TR there Woolly...can't wait to get out after em again. Keep it coming
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on October 25, 2014, 09:40:16 AM
Post by: Phil on October 25, 2014, 09:40:16 AM
Nice.
Damn Woolly, you are a good photographer.
Damn Woolly, you are a good photographer.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 29, 2014, 17:10:27 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 29, 2014, 17:10:27 PM
http://youtu.be/HKhI09XO5R0 (http://youtu.be/HKhI09XO5R0)
Filled up the night before in anticipation of an early start.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/10/102614-10.jpg)
I wanted to go sohoing but, didn't get out of the house until 11ish, so I drove on up to the local, forgetting that it was race weekend. I managed to avoid the traffic by taking the back way in. It was close to noon and the sun was beating down through the cloudless sky. I was using this trip as a Gopro experiment, using the camera with the "chesty" harness for the first time.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/10/102614-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/10/102614-13.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/10/102614-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/10/102614-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/10/102614-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/10/102614-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/10/102614-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/10/102614-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/10/102614-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/10/102614-8.jpg)
Topped off on the way home....
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/10/102614-14.jpg)
Learned a few lessons about the camera, grabbed some stills from the footage...
I had a few follows, that was all...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 29, 2014, 19:21:46 PM
Post by: Dougfish on October 29, 2014, 19:21:46 PM
Thank you, B-day boy for bringing us this visage. -0-
Lordy, I need to get back in that water.
Lordy, I need to get back in that water.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 31, 2014, 08:00:40 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 31, 2014, 08:00:40 AM
Work sux so I took the dog out for a bit.
Intended to try a time-lapse with the GoPro, but
couldn't mash the correct buttons... d:b
I was in such a rush to get to the river that I left my
cell phone on the seat (not secure in a convertible)
and didn't check the tippet on my lanyard, only hade 12 lb
no 6x or 7x, fished with a clipped 9 6x foot leader, but after
changing flies a few times it was getting pretty stout. Also
forgot the magic fly dust stuff... Bwos, Sulfurs, Caddis, Midges
and Yellow Drakes, I tied on a big ole Sulfur parachute and
that did the trick...
Fly Fishing on the Smith River VA on Vimeo (http://vimeo.com/110543075)
Made this for the hater p;-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 03, 2014, 08:56:28 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 03, 2014, 08:56:28 AM
http://youtu.be/zhCfehYJxXA (http://youtu.be/zhCfehYJxXA)
The hunt continues for the big browns. It rained all day Saturday and I should have gone then, but I thought the river might be too muddy. Sent out a group msg to my hommies, one yes, on can't and one was too hungover and in the godhouse. I was hoping the water would still be off color on Sunday. I couldn't believe how clear the river was when we arrived just before noon. Despite the full on sun, there was a chill in the air and the wind was wicked at times. We fished all the usual spots and found a few new ones as well, we both moved a couple of fish and felt a short lived tug or two. As the day was getting late we made a move to another section. That worked for me and the Spork had a tug as well.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-1.jpg)
id the tree from the seed?
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-13.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-14.jpg)
found this hoop in the water, any ideas???
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-15.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-16.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-18.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-19.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-21.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: bmadd on November 03, 2014, 09:45:51 AM
Post by: bmadd on November 03, 2014, 09:45:51 AM
Nice looking trip.
Seeds look like they're from a persimmon
Seeds look like they're from a persimmon
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Michael Toris on November 03, 2014, 09:51:34 AM
Post by: Michael Toris on November 03, 2014, 09:51:34 AM
Damm, I wish I could have gone. That looked sorta fun
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 03, 2014, 09:53:18 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 03, 2014, 09:53:18 AM
Quote from: wildmttrout on November 03, 2014, 09:51:34 AM
Damm, I wish I could have gone. That looked sorta fun
you coulda gone if you manned up! y;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 03, 2014, 09:56:19 AM
Post by: Dougfish on November 03, 2014, 09:56:19 AM
Nice. I need to check generation and head down.
Pawpaw seeds, I believe.
The hoop? I got nothin.
Pawpaw seeds, I believe.
The hoop? I got nothin.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: TroutMedic on November 03, 2014, 12:23:14 PM
Post by: TroutMedic on November 03, 2014, 12:23:14 PM
The hoop is a treasure. Comes from the native Bassett residents. A dream catcher non the less.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 03, 2014, 17:02:16 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 03, 2014, 17:02:16 PM
Quote from: TroutMedic on November 03, 2014, 12:23:14 PM
The hoop is a treasure. Comes from the native Bassett residents. A dream catcher non the less.
I can see it now, all my dreams washed away downstream in the dirty smith river
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: croaker on November 03, 2014, 22:43:27 PM
Post by: croaker on November 03, 2014, 22:43:27 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on November 03, 2014, 08:56:28 AM
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/110214-14.jpg)
found this hoop in the water, any ideas???
Upper Slot Size Trout Dream Catcher? 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: benben reincarnated on November 04, 2014, 06:53:19 AM
Post by: benben reincarnated on November 04, 2014, 06:53:19 AM
Keith, that's a dark ass brown you caught.
On the video you are filming of you driving your go-cart around, what kind of mount do you have to mount it to your car for the side shots and the front-view shots?
On the video you are filming of you driving your go-cart around, what kind of mount do you have to mount it to your car for the side shots and the front-view shots?
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 04, 2014, 07:41:19 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 04, 2014, 07:41:19 AM
Quote from: benben on November 04, 2014, 06:53:19 AM
Keith, that's a dark ass brown you caught.
On the video you are filming of you driving your go-cart around, what kind of mount do you have to mount it to your car for the side shots and the front-view shots?
Gopro grip mount is a spring clamp with an articulated arm, twist and turn
Fish was lit up but I didn't get a good shot of its belly
[attach=2]
this shot shows the color better...
Go cart gets 30.59 mpg!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: AwesomeBillFrmDawsonville on November 07, 2014, 09:43:24 AM
Post by: AwesomeBillFrmDawsonville on November 07, 2014, 09:43:24 AM
Those are beautiful photos Woolly Bugger, keep it up!
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 01, 2014, 18:49:06 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 01, 2014, 18:49:06 PM
My friend released his first album in three or four years, The Arrow, by Jeffrey Dean Foster.
My friend Haydee put together this video for him, she shot it while sailing about England, France, and Spain this summer with more friends.
Jigsaw Man by Jeffrey Dean Foster on Vimeo (http://vimeo.com/112131041)
The path to the river was littered with a blanket leaves, all brown and piled thick, they crunched as I hiked in along the trail to the river. The sun was off the water, the hill blocking the winter sun. There would only be about three hours of daylight. I was here yesterday and I didn't move a fish, I planned on tossing the same streamer, it caught fish here before. I brought along the floating line and tied up some stoneflies as a backup. Rigging up the streamer express, I noticed a few more nicks in the coating and wondered when I would have to buy a new one. " Has anyone tried heat shrink tubing", I wondered? Three feet of 15 lb looped to the short leader should do. I study the water and try to look through it, trying to figure out where the trout are. I remember exactly where every fish was caught or blew up on the fly. I cover all the water several times and was about to change flies or move on when, "Bam! Fish on!"
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/113014-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/113014-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/113014-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/113014-2.jpg)
Moving on down to the next run I came across an unfinished raccoon meal.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/113014-5.jpg)
I covered all of the accessible spots on this part of the river and only left the water when it was too dark to see.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/113014-6.jpg)
Finished the day with a Hoots Morning Stout (brewed with Krankies Coffee)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/113014-7.jpg)
My friend Haydee put together this video for him, she shot it while sailing about England, France, and Spain this summer with more friends.
Jigsaw Man by Jeffrey Dean Foster on Vimeo (http://vimeo.com/112131041)
The path to the river was littered with a blanket leaves, all brown and piled thick, they crunched as I hiked in along the trail to the river. The sun was off the water, the hill blocking the winter sun. There would only be about three hours of daylight. I was here yesterday and I didn't move a fish, I planned on tossing the same streamer, it caught fish here before. I brought along the floating line and tied up some stoneflies as a backup. Rigging up the streamer express, I noticed a few more nicks in the coating and wondered when I would have to buy a new one. " Has anyone tried heat shrink tubing", I wondered? Three feet of 15 lb looped to the short leader should do. I study the water and try to look through it, trying to figure out where the trout are. I remember exactly where every fish was caught or blew up on the fly. I cover all the water several times and was about to change flies or move on when, "Bam! Fish on!"
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/113014-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/113014-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/113014-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/113014-2.jpg)
Moving on down to the next run I came across an unfinished raccoon meal.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/113014-5.jpg)
I covered all of the accessible spots on this part of the river and only left the water when it was too dark to see.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/113014-6.jpg)
Finished the day with a Hoots Morning Stout (brewed with Krankies Coffee)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/11/113014-7.jpg)
[size=50]MY HP Envy crashed last week, motherboard gone bad, HP's two year warranty came through, but I had to reload all of the programs that I use. Office, CS6, were the two biggies.... all data was backed up but some of my recent TR photos are on the backup computer... so these TRs are going to be a bit out of order for now.[/size]
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 01, 2014, 19:29:52 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 01, 2014, 19:29:52 PM
Nice! 'c;
Including the video. y;
Including the video. y;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on December 01, 2014, 21:44:25 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on December 01, 2014, 21:44:25 PM
You are a bastard n!n
That coon left all the good parts
That coon left all the good parts
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JWJ on December 02, 2014, 09:24:11 AM
Post by: JWJ on December 02, 2014, 09:24:11 AM
Nice Woolly!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 05, 2014, 15:48:01 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 05, 2014, 15:48:01 PM
http://youtu.be/KzHMxfbF-cI (http://youtu.be/KzHMxfbF-cI)
December, getting close to the end of another year. Many age related milestones in my family. Parents hitting 90, my son turned 21, daughter 18, and I hit the big 60! It brings new joys and challenges too. My high school classmate and long time accountant passed away this spring and I'm missing him as we get ready to close the books for 2014.
The Smith River TU chapter's meeting was last night, George Palmer and Scott Smith, fisheries biologists with the Virginia Department Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) gave a presentation about the results of the recent electroshocking survey of the upper and lower river section. It confirmed what we all know, lots of small fish close to the dam, getting bigger and fewer as you move downstream to the next dam. Big fish below the second dam, but fewer and father between. George is new to the area and has some plans to "improve" the fishery, I'm skeptical.
Since I was making the drive, I might as well fish a bit. The lower dam was releasing too much water to wade, so I hit the upper section and took the Sally god with me, where she can run in the big field besides the river. After I geared up and we began the hike across Philpott's field, Sally caught a sent and was off running down the edge of the woods. When we arrived at the path to the river, Sally lay down on the top of the bank as I stepped down onto the gravelbar. Nothing was happening on the water, the grey skies were perfect for a BWO hatch, but all I saw was an occasional midge. I looked in several boxes for inspiration before settling on an emerging midge patter, which I received from the suk basketball pool a few years back. Damn if that think didn't raise a fish on the third or fourth cast! I though I was good, but not another fish would hit that fly. Finally gave up and clipped it off, settling for a fly that I picked up at the TU monthly raffle last month, a large elk hair sulfur patter, which I thought looked like the yellow drakes that sometimes pop off.
Cast that fly up under the rhodos where I had seen an early rise, and bam! They like the big yellow fly and several fish came to hand before darkness crept in and my casting was either two feet short or in the trees. I retreated to the bank and sat down with the god and drank a beer while waiting for the river to rise from the evening generation.
I led the way up the path to the field and when I stepped into the open there was a whitetail 10 yards in front of me. The deer froze until Sally, who was two steps behind me stepped up and got a glance, she shot off in hot pursuit as the deer ran across the open field to the wood about 200 yards away. Sally quit at the far edge an circled back to my as I began to hike back to the car. I guess she got her exercise for the day.
We drove back into town for the TU meeting where we heard the biologist report on the data collected from the most recent sampling. Some interesting options were brought up for "improving" the lower river fishery. More sampling needs to be done.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/12/120414-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/12/120414-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/12/120414-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/12/120414-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/12/120414-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 05, 2014, 16:20:57 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 05, 2014, 16:20:57 PM
Good to see ya, bossman. And glad you and Sally got out. 'c;
If nothing else, George is enthusiastic and has plans. Nobody else has had that fire. We'll see what happens!
If nothing else, George is enthusiastic and has plans. Nobody else has had that fire. We'll see what happens!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 07, 2014, 12:57:57 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 07, 2014, 12:57:57 PM
http://youtu.be/3fa4HUiFJ6c (http://youtu.be/3fa4HUiFJ6c)
It was a prefect streamer day, heavy overcast, falling water, and just a slight intermittent drizzle, and I had visions of hooking into a big brown. I started up on some runs that I have not visited in a while, they weren't productive, but I was saving the best part for the end of the day. Moving on down I worked some new water, exploring the river and finding a few new ways to wade across the rive and hit the far bank. Took one pune on the swing and that was it for the second location. Packed up and hit the lower river, each cast was filled with anticipation, but I failed to get a strike. I moved around and worked parts of the river from opposite the usual way we attack this water and I discovers some new access points. One fish blew up on the fly and I had a second solid tug but no fish came to hand. Moving up past the head of the rapids, I climbed up on top of a log jam. Peering over the top I saw some really great looking water where a trout was surly to hold. With one foot placed on top of the log, I stepped out to brace myself with the other foot on a smaller and lower log. Looking down, didn't look good, falling was not an option. It wasn't he most secure or comfortable position, but, hopefully secure enough to cast from. I began to strip out line, I wasn't sure how I would land a fish from here, and was aware that hooking a big fish here might be tragic. Dropped the fly right in the diner plate, got a number of good cast into the run but I got nothing! I backed down, knowing that I would have to keep on trying this new spot. Came off the river at o'dark thirty and headed home to the local brewpub for a pint or two of their, just released, Creekside Pale Ale, which I think is their best beer to date!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/12/120614-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/12/120614-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/12/120614-15.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/12/120614-16.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/12/120614-21.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gamatt53 on December 08, 2014, 10:39:20 AM
Post by: gamatt53 on December 08, 2014, 10:39:20 AM
I hadn't been up to the Smith since springtime but decided to hit the road Saturday around 11 to see how she was doing. Planned on running and gunning but I stuck a good fish on the 5th cast and stayed in the same general area all day.
Glad I went because I had my most succesful day I have ever had on a section of river where I have been skunked plenty before but knew good fish lurked. When conditions are right like they were saturday these browns just crush a certain fly on the swing.
Best brown of the year for me. Iphone pics forgot my camera b';
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv171/gamatt53/stuff/fish4_zpsd35f56f7.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/gamatt53/media/stuff/fish4_zpsd35f56f7.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv171/gamatt53/stuff/fish5_zpsbb4f5f02.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/gamatt53/media/stuff/fish5_zpsbb4f5f02.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv171/gamatt53/stuff/fish1_zps21105737.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/gamatt53/media/stuff/fish1_zps21105737.jpg.html)
Glad I went because I had my most succesful day I have ever had on a section of river where I have been skunked plenty before but knew good fish lurked. When conditions are right like they were saturday these browns just crush a certain fly on the swing.
Best brown of the year for me. Iphone pics forgot my camera b';
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv171/gamatt53/stuff/fish4_zpsd35f56f7.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/gamatt53/media/stuff/fish4_zpsd35f56f7.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv171/gamatt53/stuff/fish5_zpsbb4f5f02.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/gamatt53/media/stuff/fish5_zpsbb4f5f02.jpg.html)
(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv171/gamatt53/stuff/fish1_zps21105737.jpg) (http://s681.photobucket.com/user/gamatt53/media/stuff/fish1_zps21105737.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on December 08, 2014, 11:54:45 AM
Post by: Onslow on December 08, 2014, 11:54:45 AM
'c; Hell yeah
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 08, 2014, 12:07:47 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 08, 2014, 12:07:47 PM
Mighty fine fish. Redemption song. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on December 08, 2014, 12:49:47 PM
Post by: driver on December 08, 2014, 12:49:47 PM
Nice! I might have to head that way this weekend.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 14, 2014, 10:17:24 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 14, 2014, 10:17:24 AM
http://youtu.be/Y1q4Eb34mwM (http://youtu.be/Y1q4Eb34mwM)
Clear skies be damned, I'm still throwing streamers...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/12/121314-1.jpg)
the streamer bite was off, so I took this pic.
I switched to dredging the bottom with a rubber legs, and then got low holed by two spinners,
who, armed with worms and Rapalas proceeded to whack'em, I moved on and hit the last
chance big run and found some fish that were interested in my offering.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/12/121314-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/12/121314-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/12/121314-4.jpg)
Left the river and got ready to move on down the road, reached down into my waders and
removed my wallet as I planned to may a drive through snack run, but when I got there,
I couldn't find my wallet, which I thought I tossed onto the seat. I pulled out of line and
tore the Miata apart looking for it. I began to freak out as I feared I was loosing my mind.
Drove back to the put in scouring the road and parking lot, but it wasn't there. Tore everything
out of the car once again, and then patted down my waders in hopes that I had somehow
dropped it. This was beginning to ruin my day, and I was ready to call it quits ad drive home.
So I took off my waders and there, down in the bottom was my wallet! Crazy, I guess the
gravel guard prevented me from feeling it. Well, that only took a half hour or so. Got my
snack and drove on down the road to the next spot.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/12/121314-5.jpg)
Hiked in and ran the rubber legs through some of the runs, got a nice bump, in a spot
where I've never taken a fish before, but that was it. I switched back to the streamer as
the sun was fully off the water now. After a while I double hauled the lead eyed streamer
right into the tip of the rod, THWACK! Oh, shit, I broke the tip off the rod.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/12/121314-6.jpg)
Hiked back to the car to rig up the spare and went back in. Started way up at the top
and worked my way back on down. Finally got a nice one swinging in the tail of a big
pool. It was 5:22, 18 minutes past sunset. I hoped for another and fished on for another
20 minutes or so before hiking out in the dark.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/12/121314-7.jpg)
flash went off
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/12/121314-8.jpg)
turned it off 1/2 sec. f/2 iso 100
Until next time.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2014/12/121314-9.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on December 14, 2014, 10:22:12 AM
Post by: Onslow on December 14, 2014, 10:22:12 AM
Veddy nice, boss. Still have yet to wank it on the Smith.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 14, 2014, 10:25:29 AM
Post by: Dougfish on December 14, 2014, 10:25:29 AM
Nice, big guy.
Way to squeeze in that broken rod just before the end of the year.
Way to squeeze in that broken rod just before the end of the year.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 14, 2014, 10:42:19 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 14, 2014, 10:42:19 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on December 14, 2014, 10:25:29 AM
Nice, big guy.
Way to squeeze in that broken rod just before the end of the year.
it didn't last long, purchased 3/6/14
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on December 21, 2014, 17:37:52 PM
Post by: driver on December 21, 2014, 17:37:52 PM
Didn't have time to run 3 hours west today. So I settled on the Smiff. I decided to do some exploring today, and fish some areas I have never fished before. I can count on both hands how many times I've been to the Smith.
Arrived at 9am, 38 degrees
First run I fished yields this guy
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/shareimage20141221_171309_zps858fa1da.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/shareimage20141221_171309_zps858fa1da.jpg.html)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/shareimage20141221_171545_zps2a5f9e38.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/shareimage20141221_171545_zps2a5f9e38.jpg.html)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/shareimage20141221_171705_zpsfa3308d4.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/shareimage20141221_171705_zpsfa3308d4.jpg.html)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/shareimage20141221_171615_zpsafe6932a.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/shareimage20141221_171615_zpsafe6932a.jpg.html)
First cast into a run and I thought I was hung up. Until the rock took off down stream. My biggest Smith brown to date.
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/shareimage20141221_171118_zps55d04c08.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/shareimage20141221_171118_zps55d04c08.jpg.html)
a hair under 19
Caught many more that weren't camera worthy. The sun came out about 2:30 and I decided not to push my luck.
Some fine wine for the ride home
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/shareimage20141221_171741_zps81a19c18.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/shareimage20141221_171741_zps81a19c18.jpg.html)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/shareimage20141221_171828_zps06a6a26a.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/shareimage20141221_171828_zps06a6a26a.jpg.html)
Arrived at 9am, 38 degrees
First run I fished yields this guy
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/shareimage20141221_171309_zps858fa1da.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/shareimage20141221_171309_zps858fa1da.jpg.html)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/shareimage20141221_171545_zps2a5f9e38.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/shareimage20141221_171545_zps2a5f9e38.jpg.html)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/shareimage20141221_171705_zpsfa3308d4.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/shareimage20141221_171705_zpsfa3308d4.jpg.html)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/shareimage20141221_171615_zpsafe6932a.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/shareimage20141221_171615_zpsafe6932a.jpg.html)
First cast into a run and I thought I was hung up. Until the rock took off down stream. My biggest Smith brown to date.
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/shareimage20141221_171118_zps55d04c08.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/shareimage20141221_171118_zps55d04c08.jpg.html)
a hair under 19
Caught many more that weren't camera worthy. The sun came out about 2:30 and I decided not to push my luck.
Some fine wine for the ride home
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/shareimage20141221_171741_zps81a19c18.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/shareimage20141221_171741_zps81a19c18.jpg.html)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y220/jtdriver/shareimage20141221_171828_zps06a6a26a.jpg) (http://s6.photobucket.com/user/jtdriver/media/shareimage20141221_171828_zps06a6a26a.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on December 21, 2014, 18:05:49 PM
Post by: Onslow on December 21, 2014, 18:05:49 PM
Well fuck, that be a nice haul there homes 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 21, 2014, 18:40:21 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 21, 2014, 18:40:21 PM
Well, shit. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on December 21, 2014, 20:14:37 PM
Post by: Al on December 21, 2014, 20:14:37 PM
'c; 'c; 'c; Very nice.
Less than two weeks more of this insanity called deer hunting which I get afflicted with every fall and I'm switching gears. Anyone know a good delayed harvest stream I can hone my skills on?
Less than two weeks more of this insanity called deer hunting which I get afflicted with every fall and I'm switching gears. Anyone know a good delayed harvest stream I can hone my skills on?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on December 22, 2014, 08:42:30 AM
Post by: Fin on December 22, 2014, 08:42:30 AM
Driver, fish number 3 appears to have a clipped adipose fin. That would make it an upstream transplant; appears to be enjoying it's new home.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on December 22, 2014, 11:46:45 AM
Post by: driver on December 22, 2014, 11:46:45 AM
I forgot about the fin clipping until afterwards. So I didn't look for it while on the stream.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on December 26, 2014, 17:39:50 PM
Post by: Big J on December 26, 2014, 17:39:50 PM
Fin and Doug convinced me to fish the Smith. I was pleased with it. Threw streamers and was rewarded.
(http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m144/BigJSV2/65187E10-5BEA-45BA-BDAE-17EBA14A844D_zps0o8lrda3.jpg) (http://s103.photobucket.com/user/BigJSV2/media/65187E10-5BEA-45BA-BDAE-17EBA14A844D_zps0o8lrda3.jpg.html)
Cheap gas
(http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m144/BigJSV2/0837ABFE-0D5B-4341-BAC7-C6051121AF16_zpsyppfbhab.jpg) (http://s103.photobucket.com/user/BigJSV2/media/0837ABFE-0D5B-4341-BAC7-C6051121AF16_zpsyppfbhab.jpg.html)
FIL assuming I'm incompetent.
(http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m144/BigJSV2/48070C65-CCA8-4609-87F7-196D92465446_zpsw5j8kjqo.jpg) (http://s103.photobucket.com/user/BigJSV2/media/48070C65-CCA8-4609-87F7-196D92465446_zpsw5j8kjqo.jpg.html)
Cold morning drive
(http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m144/BigJSV2/0EAB555B-A486-4125-A0EE-9AE21CEEE77A_zpspvgpy7vq.jpg) (http://s103.photobucket.com/user/BigJSV2/media/0EAB555B-A486-4125-A0EE-9AE21CEEE77A_zpspvgpy7vq.jpg.html)
Was rewarded. I had good guides though to show me the ropes.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on December 26, 2014, 19:21:20 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on December 26, 2014, 19:21:20 PM
Are you trying to say a pack of Newports is outrageous? $4.99???? Good lawd! That's a lot of mamma-jamma!
p;- on you guys!
p;- on you guys!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on December 27, 2014, 21:32:32 PM
Post by: Big J on December 27, 2014, 21:32:32 PM
Dang spork. You killed it today.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on December 27, 2014, 23:28:10 PM
Post by: Fin on December 27, 2014, 23:28:10 PM
Nice! What a difference a day makes. Friday we dealt with 400 + CFS and muddy water. Tough fishing and even tougher wading.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 28, 2014, 07:41:35 AM
Post by: Dougfish on December 28, 2014, 07:41:35 AM
Fudger. {S;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Beetle on December 28, 2014, 08:13:11 AM
Post by: Beetle on December 28, 2014, 08:13:11 AM
Nice job! One more day of this and I am done finally. Time to go fishing
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: mealworm on December 28, 2014, 11:43:46 AM
Post by: mealworm on December 28, 2014, 11:43:46 AM
That explains why I couldn't find a parking spot down there.
Had to settle for dinks on dry flies further north.
Had to settle for dinks on dry flies further north.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on December 28, 2014, 19:37:37 PM
Post by: Onslow on December 28, 2014, 19:37:37 PM
Quote from: mealworm on December 28, 2014, 11:43:46 AM
That explains why I couldn't find a parking spot down there.
Had to settle for dinks on dry flies further north.
Do your really live in Needmore? I'm trying to understand why you're fishing at the Smith. I've been scoping out stuff in your backyard. I've crossed the Smith on my way to various jobs about 50 times. Not once have I fished there.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: mealworm on December 28, 2014, 20:01:50 PM
Post by: mealworm on December 28, 2014, 20:01:50 PM
Quote from: Phallus in Wonderland on December 28, 2014, 19:37:37 PMQuote from: mealworm on December 28, 2014, 11:43:46 AM
That explains why I couldn't find a parking spot down there.
Had to settle for dinks on dry flies further north.
Do your really live in Needmore? I'm trying to understand why you're fishing at the Smith. I've been scoping out stuff in your backyard. I've crossed the Smith on my way to various jobs about 50 times. Not once have I fished there.
I travel a LOT. Spent many days on the Smith before. Was feeling a little nostalgic.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on December 29, 2014, 12:11:47 PM
Post by: Onslow on December 29, 2014, 12:11:47 PM
Some of these fine showings will surely cause some groin anxiety for some. Wonder if this will ultimately result in more dick on the smiff.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on December 29, 2014, 15:35:15 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on December 29, 2014, 15:35:15 PM
Quote from: Phallus in Wonderland on December 29, 2014, 12:11:47 PM
Some of these fine showings will surely cause some groin anxiety for some. Wonder if this will ultimately result in more dick on the smiff.
Yes, I am sure the river will see a few more visitors. The somewhat recent encouraging fishy photos and reports coupled with the fresh management strategy for the resource will create a beckoning aroma. The whole contemporary uniqueness could be a double-edged sword.
Heck fire, if I had the time, the equipment, and the knowledge I might even follow the scent. I will say I am happy for the Smith lovers; they are enjoying the fishery and it appears they are having a great time.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on December 29, 2014, 16:57:34 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on December 29, 2014, 16:57:34 PM
p;- good luck to all and any who wanna give er' a go, she's a nasty bitch, not all that good lookin either...my type I guess
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on December 30, 2014, 19:01:56 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on December 30, 2014, 19:01:56 PM
Quote from: mealworm on December 28, 2014, 11:43:46 AM
That explains why I couldn't find a parking spot down there.
Had to settle for dinks on dry flies further north.
[attach=1]
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 31, 2014, 10:50:26 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 31, 2014, 10:50:26 AM
I managed to hit the Smith with the Sally dog, nothing going on up top, so we scooted on down to where the Sprok was killing 'em, but that was any better for me...
Slid off a rock into a deep hole, got soaked, flooded the waders, but fished on for a while before quitting
Slid off a rock into a deep hole, got soaked, flooded the waders, but fished on for a while before quitting
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on December 31, 2014, 20:01:30 PM
Post by: Al on December 31, 2014, 20:01:30 PM
Quote from: Mudwall Gatewood on December 29, 2014, 15:35:15 PMQuote from: Phallus in Wonderland on December 29, 2014, 12:11:47 PM
Some of these fine showings will surely cause some groin anxiety for some. Wonder if this will ultimately result in more dick on the smiff.
Yes, I am sure the river will see a few more visitors. The somewhat recent encouraging fishy photos and reports coupled with the fresh management strategy for the resource will create a beckoning aroma. The whole contemporary uniqueness could be a double-edged sword.
I know a lot of folks are into "secret spots" and I'm with them when it comes to small streams. I have also been around the Smith long enough that IMHO if not for the hue and cry put out by a few which caught the attention of many others we would not be where we are today. The more folks who fish the water the larger a voice we have. We seem to have arrested the downward decline. Still too early to tell if the upward trend will continue but it is not for the lack of trying.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 01, 2015, 21:20:52 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 01, 2015, 21:20:52 PM
http://youtu.be/1Ahtcp_LUwg (http://youtu.be/1Ahtcp_LUwg)
late start, was invited to float the soho, but I didn't get up in time and besides it was friggin cold in Tennessee. So it was off to the local, where, last week, spork landed three good fish on streamers. Brand new 300 grain sink tip, a Christmas present, on the reel.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/1/010115-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/1/010115-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/1/010115-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/1/010115-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/1/010115-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/1/010115-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 02, 2015, 17:18:41 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 02, 2015, 17:18:41 PM
http://youtu.be/OFgHy-ia8RM (http://youtu.be/OFgHy-ia8RM)
Consuminfire and I rang in the new year by getting our arses handed to us on a cold, small stream.
Did it on this stream last February, too. b'; Less snow this time, though.
We then scouted some sketchy water, some promising new water, and I ended up driving home in my waders and boots.
Defeated. Well shit.
The highlight of the morning. Local nog, bourbon. Breakfast of skunkage.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-liSuyajwb00/VKcDdCMRZSI/AAAAAAAAd2s/4TNBpfqs2Yo/w402-h540-no/P1010003.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-FLNc0z9wqTI/VKcDfiTxw0I/AAAAAAAAd28/UDIpjqXc_74/w720-h540-no/P1010006.JPG)
That left me in a foul mood. You see, I got skunked slingin streamers last Friday. Fuck this.
Nobody was looking for me to be very productive today anyhow. Redemption time. d:b
Got down to the usual and there was some river virgin from Durm waiting on his buddy river virgin from Cheater Hill.
Gave him a few tidbits and was on the water by 10:30.
First run, three fish, one miss, one unbuttoned. OK, this more like it.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-rWkO_9vYXy8/VKcDj9P_N8I/AAAAAAAAd3U/lW6jNJ6z1XE/w720-h540-no/P1020009.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-AOnk2CvXjiQ/VKcDrYSNNII/AAAAAAAAd4M/SXtnuWTxXos/w720-h540-no/P1020023.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mtAavw1BV9s/VKcDskUKAII/AAAAAAAAd4U/Tu0WHJthH5M/w720-h540-no/P1020024.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-1rAMSuMw6jo/VKcDm5Tn8JI/AAAAAAAAd3s/1Mcl2xlExaA/w720-h540-no/P1020016.JPG)
Dammit Scott, told you we should fished here yesterday!
Water temp was 42 degrees. I only saw a handful of BWO's coming off.
All damage was done deep. It slowed a little after that, but I kept picking up fish. Pretty nice fish, too.
Tall boy with lunch.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-qVCWo7vNbUo/VKcDwCK9PqI/AAAAAAAAd4s/NmOnl2OLF18/w679-h540-no/P1020028.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6hrIhvXcCWY/VKcDxrokDbI/AAAAAAAAd40/MRjbU0UTvfA/w429-h540-no/P1020032.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-nCpZS5EY7ic/VKcDy7wLFlI/AAAAAAAAd48/ykv5eNpiQ6U/w720-h540-no/P1020062.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-PlfKIWPMjaw/VKcDkybzmSI/AAAAAAAAd3c/uHM7TQQUZJs/w764-h540-no/P1020012.JPG)
Woolly wasn't home.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-nQIzm1Hgf1I/VKcD8i48FcI/AAAAAAAAd50/sCVgMgHQ65o/w720-h540-no/P1020069.JPG)
Two spin guys showed up on the bank about 75 feet ahead of me and started to rig up.
I busted some etiquette on them and advised that I was fishing this run. They went down below me and I said Thank You.
But the mojo was gone, and I soon hung it up.
NC crew was parking challenged.
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Tjby_JR1I2c/VKcEGi4LrKI/AAAAAAAAd6c/IjDmRnK_CT0/w720-h540-no/P1020074.JPG)
Thanks for the new tasty beers from up the valley, bro.
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on January 02, 2015, 17:58:39 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on January 02, 2015, 17:58:39 PM
What we did and what we should've done, will always be two different things! Nice work!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on January 02, 2015, 20:41:44 PM
Post by: Onslow on January 02, 2015, 20:41:44 PM
Well that does it Doug. I reckon I will haul my arse up there to play with ice tit.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on January 04, 2015, 10:15:42 AM
Post by: Onslow on January 04, 2015, 10:15:42 AM
Well damn, that be some fine catchin there. I'd drive an hour and a half for that.
Yessir. That is the reason for my brown love.
QuoteBut i swear smith browns are actually muskys.
Yessir. That is the reason for my brown love.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 04, 2015, 11:50:09 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 04, 2015, 11:50:09 AM
Mitey fine, boys. Mitey fine. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Jfey on January 04, 2015, 11:53:31 AM
Post by: Jfey on January 04, 2015, 11:53:31 AM
Glad you finally caught a fish
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: benben reincarnated on January 04, 2015, 12:17:14 PM
Post by: benben reincarnated on January 04, 2015, 12:17:14 PM
Shit Erik.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: bmadd on January 04, 2015, 13:04:23 PM
Post by: bmadd on January 04, 2015, 13:04:23 PM
Nice fish bum and nice pics. I was disappointed that the bottle of champagne in pic 2 was not popped midstream.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Aka on January 04, 2015, 16:39:41 PM
Post by: Aka on January 04, 2015, 16:39:41 PM
All y'all just suck.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on January 04, 2015, 17:52:41 PM
Post by: driver on January 04, 2015, 17:52:41 PM
Thats it! These Smith reports have to stop! This sucker is going to be as crowded the SoHo before long if reports like these keep getting out.;D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on January 04, 2015, 18:08:41 PM
Post by: Big J on January 04, 2015, 18:08:41 PM
That is a nice fish Bum.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: consumnfire1229 on January 04, 2015, 19:07:49 PM
Post by: consumnfire1229 on January 04, 2015, 19:07:49 PM
:o
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on January 04, 2015, 19:32:53 PM
Post by: 22midge on January 04, 2015, 19:32:53 PM
...need maps and flashing lights for all the parking areas ;D ;D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 05, 2015, 07:24:34 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 05, 2015, 07:24:34 AM
You fuckers had high water to fish, too.
Damn you. n!n
Hotspotter money, these posts.
Damn you. n!n
Hotspotter money, these posts.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: SouthernDrifts on January 08, 2015, 19:27:13 PM
Post by: SouthernDrifts on January 08, 2015, 19:27:13 PM
Darren. Met you and your freind out near the mirror plant sunday. Was wondering if you could email me the picture of my catch of the day? Baughman803@gmail.com thanks
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 08, 2015, 20:19:27 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 08, 2015, 20:19:27 PM
Don't think Darren is on this board
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 08, 2015, 20:57:05 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 08, 2015, 20:57:05 PM
Another Roanoker on here? WTF.
Dude, I'll pass it on to Darrin.
Dude, I'll pass it on to Darrin.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ptfranze on January 15, 2015, 22:49:29 PM
Post by: ptfranze on January 15, 2015, 22:49:29 PM
So how muddy is the Smith going to be this weekend? Anyone heading up there?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 16, 2015, 06:41:51 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 16, 2015, 06:41:51 AM
Gin clear.
Going? Maaaaaybe.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-1tSwn-XRRjs/VLj4ERa4GBI/AAAAAAAAeAQ/iaxBm9JLrvM/w405-h540-no/P1150002.JPG)
Without the 9' 4 wt., though. Broke at the first ferrule and here. p;-
Guess I'll be reviewing the new Recon rod soon.
Going? Maaaaaybe.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-1tSwn-XRRjs/VLj4ERa4GBI/AAAAAAAAeAQ/iaxBm9JLrvM/w405-h540-no/P1150002.JPG)
Without the 9' 4 wt., though. Broke at the first ferrule and here. p;-
Guess I'll be reviewing the new Recon rod soon.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ruttness on January 16, 2015, 07:44:54 AM
Post by: ruttness on January 16, 2015, 07:44:54 AM
They replacing it with the recon?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on January 16, 2015, 09:51:45 AM
Post by: Al on January 16, 2015, 09:51:45 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on January 16, 2015, 06:41:51 AM
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-1tSwn-XRRjs/VLj4ERa4GBI/AAAAAAAAeAQ/iaxBm9JLrvM/w405-h540-no/P1150002.JPG)
Without the 9' 4 wt., though. Broke at the first ferrule and here. p;-
Guess I'll be reviewing the new Recon rod soon.
I'm guessing there is a story behind that broke rod and it does not involve hooking up to a fish.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: TroutMedic on January 16, 2015, 10:36:15 AM
Post by: TroutMedic on January 16, 2015, 10:36:15 AM
Someone thinks it's clear enough to fish.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: TroutMedic on January 16, 2015, 10:36:56 AM
Post by: TroutMedic on January 16, 2015, 10:36:56 AM
Someone thinks it's clear enough to fish.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 16, 2015, 11:22:18 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 16, 2015, 11:22:18 AM
Quote from: Al on January 16, 2015, 09:51:45 AM
I'm guessing there is a story behind that broke rod and it does not involve hooking up to a fish.
Aren't most rods broke on something besides fish?
I casted the top three sections off while chucking streamers for a couple of hours without checking to see if things were loosening up.
Took about 3/4" of the male ferrule with it. Knew it was doomed after that.
5 or 6 trips later, and many fish, it snapped on a hang up. Weaker than 5x tippet.
When it's time, it's time.
Going in the mail today.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on January 21, 2015, 17:19:28 PM
Post by: Al on January 21, 2015, 17:19:28 PM
It's taken a while to get folks thinking like this but there may be life in the old Smith after all
http://www.martinsvillebulletin.com/article.cfm?ID=45154 (http://www.martinsvillebulletin.com/article.cfm?ID=45154)
http://www.martinsvillebulletin.com/article.cfm?ID=45154 (http://www.martinsvillebulletin.com/article.cfm?ID=45154)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on January 21, 2015, 17:59:18 PM
Post by: driver on January 21, 2015, 17:59:18 PM
They should worry about improving stream conditions, not stream bank conditions.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 21, 2015, 19:11:24 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 21, 2015, 19:11:24 PM
Money spent on anything along the river causes people to look closer at the river itself.
It's all good in the end.
It's all good in the end.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: TroutMedic on January 21, 2015, 20:53:07 PM
Post by: TroutMedic on January 21, 2015, 20:53:07 PM
I think that money is suppose to be for a bait shop as well Would be nice to get a fly shop.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: TroutMedic on January 23, 2015, 14:03:26 PM
Post by: TroutMedic on January 23, 2015, 14:03:26 PM
Fished this morning.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 24, 2015, 09:07:12 AM
Post by: Dougfish on February 24, 2015, 09:07:12 AM
Update to this:
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-1tSwn-XRRjs/VLj4ERa4GBI/AAAAAAAAeAQ/iaxBm9JLrvM/w405-h540-no/P1150002.JPG)
Got the rod back from the big O yesterday. Almost 5 weeks to the day.
Still a Hydros, not a Recon. They replaced the bottom section only. I guess they deemed the female ferrule in the next section OK.
The quality of the cork is not as good as the original, either. They are not getting five stars from me on this deal.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-1tSwn-XRRjs/VLj4ERa4GBI/AAAAAAAAeAQ/iaxBm9JLrvM/w405-h540-no/P1150002.JPG)
Got the rod back from the big O yesterday. Almost 5 weeks to the day.
Still a Hydros, not a Recon. They replaced the bottom section only. I guess they deemed the female ferrule in the next section OK.
The quality of the cork is not as good as the original, either. They are not getting five stars from me on this deal.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on May 24, 2015, 13:35:43 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on May 24, 2015, 13:35:43 PM
Nice report. Still using waders?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 24, 2015, 13:49:38 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 24, 2015, 13:49:38 PM
Waders?
It's a tailwater. 44 degrees right now. Come on up, lets watch you wet wade. -+;
It's a tailwater. 44 degrees right now. Come on up, lets watch you wet wade. -+;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on May 24, 2015, 14:03:37 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on May 24, 2015, 14:03:37 PM
I wasn't being a smartass. I was really actually curious. I haven't been there.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on May 24, 2015, 14:23:48 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on May 24, 2015, 14:23:48 PM
No worries. I'm going to try it. Hopefully sooner than later.
Last year I was wet wading a river at the first of April I think it was. Leg cramps like a champ. I wondered if I would make it back to my truck. No fun. Caught some nice smallies though.
Last year I was wet wading a river at the first of April I think it was. Leg cramps like a champ. I wondered if I would make it back to my truck. No fun. Caught some nice smallies though.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 24, 2015, 14:44:34 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 24, 2015, 14:44:34 PM
I thought everybody on here was a smartass?
Me included.
Me included.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on May 24, 2015, 14:46:52 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on May 24, 2015, 14:46:52 PM
I think you're right. Fukk it.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 24, 2015, 16:07:10 PM
Post by: Al on May 24, 2015, 16:07:10 PM
Let me see if I can add a little to TF's trip report. First of all it was a good trip even if we fished our butt off and didn't do as well as we had hoped. Just getting out with good friends is what if is all about anyway.
Light was fading fast by the time we rigged up and made it to the "hot spot" where the annual sulfur hatch had been reported to be under way. The fact that we had the parking lot to ourselves was a clue that it might have been an unfounded rumor :'(
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm030/IMGP1561_zpsaokpg2ci.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm030/IMGP1561_zpsaokpg2ci.jpg.html)
I gave TF the prime run and moved upstream a ways so as to let him move back and forth if need be. There really was not any surface activity. A few insects (probably sulfurs) were coming off but nothing was raising to them. It was a long time before I heard a shout and saw a bend in his rod.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm030/IMGP1603_zpse1ze9k4c.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm030/IMGP1603_zpse1ze9k4c.jpg.html)
In the meantime I targeted a fish that was periodically rising in a seam right up against the far bank. About the third drift down past him and there was a "gulp" and the fight was on. Nothing big but at least I had the potential "skunk" out of the way.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm030/IMGP1568_zpsoji9nmeo.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm030/IMGP1568_zpsoji9nmeo.jpg.html)
By the time I released my first fish the water all in front of me started dimpling and with feeding fish. I was able to put a bend in my rod about every third or fourth cast. I shouted to TF to get his butt up here but he replied he was observing lots of rises in his section as well (But he was not able to entice them - I think he has a stimulator up on top which was way too big for what the fish were keying on)
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm030/IMGP1587_zps6adqsyci.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm030/IMGP1587_zps6adqsyci.jpg.html)
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm030/IMGP1572_zpsxqoolqir.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm030/IMGP1572_zpsxqoolqir.jpg.html)
I got to the point where I could not see my fly and just reacted anytime I say a splash near where I thought it was. It was over as quickly as in began - they totally stopped rising just before dark.
The following morning we went to one of my "secret" spots. We did some re-rigging and tied on double nymphs backed up with indicators.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm030/IMGP1573_zps6j5xopyo.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm030/IMGP1573_zps6j5xopyo.jpg.html)
The water was a little low, gin clear and the sky was one of those "Chamber of Commerce" days. Not a good formula for fishing.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm030/IMGP1579_zpsfpodl0xx.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm030/IMGP1579_zpsfpodl0xx.jpg.html)
We caught a few but for the most part they were "dinks" - Just before we reached our "get out point" TF shouted "I've got a nice one on - now if I can just get him in. I watched for several minutes and we both thought he had foul hooked an 8-9 inch fish and was pulling it in sideways. When it finally made an appearance it was a large shouldered brown fairly hooked in the mouth. Now to play it cool until a net could be slipped under him.
http://(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm032/IMGP1584_zpsdexsjpju.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm032/IMGP1584_zpsdexsjpju.jpg.html)
Nice brown - just about as large as I have seen in the past 2-3 years in that section of the river.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm032/IMGP1590_zpsezihnj0t.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm032/IMGP1590_zpsezihnj0t.jpg.html)
We spent the afternoon moving around to several other sections of the river - all of which have yealded double digets in an hour or so of fishing, but not today. A fish here and there but only one worth writing home about
http://(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm030/IMGP1612_zpsy9mulxrf.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm030/IMGP1612_zpsy9mulxrf.jpg.html)
Back at my cabin where we picked up our overnight bags and loaded up for the long drive back to Fayetteville. Just before I left I pulled the SD card from the Deer Camera I keep on the edge of the back lawn. When we got there the afternoon before I mentioned to TF I wonder why that camera is tilted almost sideways when in normally sits straight up and down? Downloaded the pictures this morning and it is obvious what happened - here is shot when things are normal, then a shot of the culprit and what he did to the camera when he didn't like his picture taken.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm031/CDY_0042_zpsnk9ezr6z.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm031/CDY_0042_zpsnk9ezr6z.jpg.html)
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm031/CDY_0043_zps9pc7cyku.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm031/CDY_0043_zps9pc7cyku.jpg.html)
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm031/CDY_0045_zpsqbmltbj2.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm031/CDY_0045_zpsqbmltbj2.jpg.html)
Overall a good trip - Thanks watching after this old fart and sharing time on my favorite trout stream TF
Light was fading fast by the time we rigged up and made it to the "hot spot" where the annual sulfur hatch had been reported to be under way. The fact that we had the parking lot to ourselves was a clue that it might have been an unfounded rumor :'(
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm030/IMGP1561_zpsaokpg2ci.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm030/IMGP1561_zpsaokpg2ci.jpg.html)
I gave TF the prime run and moved upstream a ways so as to let him move back and forth if need be. There really was not any surface activity. A few insects (probably sulfurs) were coming off but nothing was raising to them. It was a long time before I heard a shout and saw a bend in his rod.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm030/IMGP1603_zpse1ze9k4c.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm030/IMGP1603_zpse1ze9k4c.jpg.html)
In the meantime I targeted a fish that was periodically rising in a seam right up against the far bank. About the third drift down past him and there was a "gulp" and the fight was on. Nothing big but at least I had the potential "skunk" out of the way.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm030/IMGP1568_zpsoji9nmeo.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm030/IMGP1568_zpsoji9nmeo.jpg.html)
By the time I released my first fish the water all in front of me started dimpling and with feeding fish. I was able to put a bend in my rod about every third or fourth cast. I shouted to TF to get his butt up here but he replied he was observing lots of rises in his section as well (But he was not able to entice them - I think he has a stimulator up on top which was way too big for what the fish were keying on)
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm030/IMGP1587_zps6adqsyci.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm030/IMGP1587_zps6adqsyci.jpg.html)
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm030/IMGP1572_zpsxqoolqir.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm030/IMGP1572_zpsxqoolqir.jpg.html)
I got to the point where I could not see my fly and just reacted anytime I say a splash near where I thought it was. It was over as quickly as in began - they totally stopped rising just before dark.
The following morning we went to one of my "secret" spots. We did some re-rigging and tied on double nymphs backed up with indicators.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm030/IMGP1573_zps6j5xopyo.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm030/IMGP1573_zps6j5xopyo.jpg.html)
The water was a little low, gin clear and the sky was one of those "Chamber of Commerce" days. Not a good formula for fishing.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm030/IMGP1579_zpsfpodl0xx.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm030/IMGP1579_zpsfpodl0xx.jpg.html)
We caught a few but for the most part they were "dinks" - Just before we reached our "get out point" TF shouted "I've got a nice one on - now if I can just get him in. I watched for several minutes and we both thought he had foul hooked an 8-9 inch fish and was pulling it in sideways. When it finally made an appearance it was a large shouldered brown fairly hooked in the mouth. Now to play it cool until a net could be slipped under him.
http://(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm032/IMGP1584_zpsdexsjpju.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm032/IMGP1584_zpsdexsjpju.jpg.html)
Nice brown - just about as large as I have seen in the past 2-3 years in that section of the river.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm032/IMGP1590_zpsezihnj0t.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm032/IMGP1590_zpsezihnj0t.jpg.html)
We spent the afternoon moving around to several other sections of the river - all of which have yealded double digets in an hour or so of fishing, but not today. A fish here and there but only one worth writing home about
http://(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm030/IMGP1612_zpsy9mulxrf.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm030/IMGP1612_zpsy9mulxrf.jpg.html)
Back at my cabin where we picked up our overnight bags and loaded up for the long drive back to Fayetteville. Just before I left I pulled the SD card from the Deer Camera I keep on the edge of the back lawn. When we got there the afternoon before I mentioned to TF I wonder why that camera is tilted almost sideways when in normally sits straight up and down? Downloaded the pictures this morning and it is obvious what happened - here is shot when things are normal, then a shot of the culprit and what he did to the camera when he didn't like his picture taken.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm031/CDY_0042_zpsnk9ezr6z.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm031/CDY_0042_zpsnk9ezr6z.jpg.html)
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm031/CDY_0043_zps9pc7cyku.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm031/CDY_0043_zps9pc7cyku.jpg.html)
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm031/CDY_0045_zpsqbmltbj2.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm031/CDY_0045_zpsqbmltbj2.jpg.html)
Overall a good trip - Thanks watching after this old fart and sharing time on my favorite trout stream TF
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 25, 2015, 09:27:41 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 25, 2015, 09:27:41 AM
http://youtu.be/Tf7DV0wEong (http://youtu.be/Tf7DV0wEong)
Went back up to the local for more sulphur action, had to wait a spell before things turned on.
Pretty spectacular when the fish start chasing down the bugs and leaping out of the water after them.
These trout don't grow big in this section due to lack of food, uber cold water and other factors, but they sure color up nice!
Waiting for the evening rise...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052415-2.jpg)
little yaller bugs
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052415-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052415-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052415-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052415-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052415-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052415-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052415-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052415-10.jpg)
the hatch was pretty much over by 8:30, but I fished on till 9:00
picked up a few more
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052415-11.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 25, 2015, 20:09:11 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 25, 2015, 20:09:11 PM
'c;
Nice efforts and reports, fellers.
I'll be there. Soon. And again.
Nice efforts and reports, fellers.
I'll be there. Soon. And again.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on May 26, 2015, 06:53:46 AM
Post by: troutrus on May 26, 2015, 06:53:46 AM
Thanks for the reports. I've been missing that place.
If generation ends at 6 pm, may be able to squeeze in an hour or so some evening.
If generation ends at 6 pm, may be able to squeeze in an hour or so some evening.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: sanjuanwormhatch on May 26, 2015, 07:18:26 AM
Post by: sanjuanwormhatch on May 26, 2015, 07:18:26 AM
Al can I come to your cabin?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 26, 2015, 08:02:22 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 26, 2015, 08:02:22 AM
Quote from: troutrus on May 26, 2015, 06:53:46 AM
Thanks for the reports. I've been missing that place.
If generation ends at 6 pm, may be able to squeeze in an hour or so some evening.
That last hour of the day can be magic!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 27, 2015, 10:20:24 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 27, 2015, 10:20:24 AM
http://youtu.be/2Vou51-755I (http://youtu.be/2Vou51-755I)
Dead Shit Falling Out Of Trees!
I arrived at the parking lot, which was empty, at a quarter till six, fifteen minutes before the dam was to be shut off for the day. I thought about wet wading as the heat was oppressive and the thought of hiking a half mile across the field was not appealing. But I knew that come evening and the chill of the 44 degree water I would be glad that I was wearing them. Packed three ice cold Dale's into my vest and headed to the bend in the river.
The shade was a relief and I stepped into the water to cool down. Mid-thigh deep I felt the cold water work it's way into the pin holes in the waders that Simms had failed to find and seal. Six o'clock and the water was just beginning to come down from the staggered generation shut-down. I sat on the bank and popped the top on a Dale's. A
I ventured out into the stiff current and swung the muddler for a while, attracting nothing, I went back to the bank for another Dale's. It was a full two hours before the water dropped, for some reason I was thinking it would only take an hour. Glad I brought three beers! The sun was low and the shadows were long and still I waited, eight o'clock, nothing! Eight fifteen, nothing. I'm rigged and ready, still waiting for a rise, when I hear a crash in the tree across the river and then a big splash as a dead unidentified bloated possum sized animal plops down into the run. Never seen anything like that before, snapped a pic, circled the UDSFK in red. Eight thirty, a rise. I turn and cast. Good drift and bam! Got 'em! Had to use forceps to remove the fly, mangled, I had to tie on another one in the fading light. Another fish rose. I cast and hooked up again. Caught a third riser and managed to mess up the 6.5x tippet, too dark to tie, so I called it quits, and went to Papa's for a slice of pizza before the 90 minute drive home.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052615-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052615-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052615-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052615-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052615-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052615-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052615-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052615-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052615-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052615-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052615-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052615-12.jpg)
150 miles
3 Dale's
2 flies
3 trouts
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on May 27, 2015, 11:02:31 AM
Post by: NCsporksman on May 27, 2015, 11:02:31 AM
.....and a half pack of depends
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: rbphoto on May 27, 2015, 11:53:58 AM
Post by: rbphoto on May 27, 2015, 11:53:58 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on May 27, 2015, 10:20:24 AM
A little moth kept me company as I waited for the water to drop to the point where I could wade out and swing a muddler. I played around with the microscope mode on the TG-3, capturing some close-ups of the moth.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052615-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/052615-4.jpg)
3 Dale's
2 flies
3 trouts
Butterfly - Azure (Spring/Summer - can't ID without microscope) species. Cool that it would sit on your hand.
One of these days I'm gonna take a week off and fish this river and surrounding areas.
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 27, 2015, 12:43:55 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 27, 2015, 12:43:55 PM
@rbphoto , I was going to say butterfly, 50/50 chance I'd be wrong
It would only sit on my right hand, so the pics are lefty shot!
It would only sit on my right hand, so the pics are lefty shot!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JMiller on May 27, 2015, 13:42:41 PM
Post by: JMiller on May 27, 2015, 13:42:41 PM
Dragonfly's a Gray Petaltail.
Nice pics.
Nice pics.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on May 27, 2015, 14:59:12 PM
Post by: driver on May 27, 2015, 14:59:12 PM
What's with animals falling out of the trees dead, this week?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 27, 2015, 16:35:24 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 27, 2015, 16:35:24 PM
Quote from: driver on May 27, 2015, 14:59:12 PM
What's with animals falling out of the trees dead, this week?
What? Who else has had dead shit fall out of a tree?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on May 27, 2015, 20:20:28 PM
Post by: driver on May 27, 2015, 20:20:28 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on May 27, 2015, 16:35:24 PMQuote from: driver on May 27, 2015, 14:59:12 PM
What's with animals falling out of the trees dead, this week?
What? Who else has had dead shit fall out of a tree?
http://www.brfff.com/forum/index.php/topic,13207.0.html (http://www.brfff.com/forum/index.php/topic,13207.0.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 27, 2015, 20:28:55 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 27, 2015, 20:28:55 PM
Go WB!
Speaking of dead aminals.......
I spent way too much time on the highways the past 6 days.
Are the deer suicidal right now? Ho Le Fuk, every half mile across three states they have hurtled themselves into internal combustion vehicles.
Oh, the deermanity.
Speaking of dead aminals.......
I spent way too much time on the highways the past 6 days.
Are the deer suicidal right now? Ho Le Fuk, every half mile across three states they have hurtled themselves into internal combustion vehicles.
Oh, the deermanity.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 27, 2015, 20:32:25 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 27, 2015, 20:32:25 PM
@driver, I read that post... just forgot...
@Dougfish , I've seen too many deer getting ready to jump, scary thought in any vehicle, but especially so in a Miata...
@Dougfish , I've seen too many deer getting ready to jump, scary thought in any vehicle, but especially so in a Miata...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on May 28, 2015, 20:11:36 PM
Post by: driver on May 28, 2015, 20:11:36 PM
What size are those sulfurs that have been coming off?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 28, 2015, 20:19:05 PM
Post by: Al on May 28, 2015, 20:19:05 PM
Size 14 worked for me.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 28, 2015, 20:20:32 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 28, 2015, 20:20:32 PM
14-!8, IMHO.
Bring emergers, comparaduns, spinners.
A buddy got skunked last night. A good fisherman. b';
Bring emergers, comparaduns, spinners.
A buddy got skunked last night. A good fisherman. b';
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 28, 2015, 20:20:46 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 28, 2015, 20:20:46 PM
I've been fishing #16 and #18 puff daddy's and comparaduns cdc and elk with and without trailing shucks
I used to fish 7x but have switched to trout hunters 6.5x and because of those esn competitive assholes I am now using a 14' leader
I used to fish 7x but have switched to trout hunters 6.5x and because of those esn competitive assholes I am now using a 14' leader
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 28, 2015, 20:24:16 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 28, 2015, 20:24:16 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on May 28, 2015, 20:20:32 PM
14-!8, IMHO.
Bring emergers, comparaduns, spinners.
A buddy got skunked last night. A good fisherman. b';
That hatch after the 6 pm generation wasn't much to speak of on Monday evening.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on May 28, 2015, 20:32:18 PM
Post by: driver on May 28, 2015, 20:32:18 PM
Thanks for the info. Since im sitting at the bench now, i figured id knock a few out. I might give it a whirl tomorrow or Saturday.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 28, 2015, 20:33:40 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 28, 2015, 20:33:40 PM
The evenings have been, meh.
I'm going morning next week to switch shit up.
I'm going morning next week to switch shit up.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 28, 2015, 20:46:47 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 28, 2015, 20:46:47 PM
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/28/6afe63e54709343549e8950e06ab7261.jpg)
I tied some up this evening, would advise against the Friday evening as they don't cut the water off till six
I tied some up this evening, would advise against the Friday evening as they don't cut the water off till six
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on May 28, 2015, 21:23:15 PM
Post by: driver on May 28, 2015, 21:23:15 PM
Good to know
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on May 29, 2015, 18:11:56 PM
Post by: driver on May 29, 2015, 18:11:56 PM
thinking of hitting it in the morning if anyone is interested.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 29, 2015, 19:32:15 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 29, 2015, 19:32:15 PM
Shane will be there. 8)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 30, 2015, 22:24:54 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 30, 2015, 22:24:54 PM
The smith is a cruel bitch, that is all!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on May 30, 2015, 22:40:53 PM
Post by: driver on May 30, 2015, 22:40:53 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on May 30, 2015, 22:24:54 PM
The smith is a cruel bitch, that is all!
Agreed!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on May 31, 2015, 11:42:33 AM
Post by: driver on May 31, 2015, 11:42:33 AM
Quote from: driver on May 31, 2015, 11:40:37 AMWell. I tried to see if I could get in on a morning hatch. Saw 3 bugs. So I fished around the hatch area for a few hours. Took a few nymphs to determine what they wanted. But once I had the right one I was surprised when I didn't catch a fish out of a run. I forgot my camera so i didn't take many pictures for not wanting to take my new phone out over the water.
Best fish up there
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/31/d76ab7ab079eb2fa4aa5b9389e045251.jpg)
after this I hit some other areas, took a brake. Then I decided to stay for the evening hatch. I was out of beer at this point, so I stopped and resupplied and headed back up river. And waited..
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/31/1d893dfed922dd03721aedc5eb144da6.jpg)
Rather slow hatch.. Had lots of fish rising, but they didn't want anything to do with the 8 different flies I tried. I guess until next year.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 31, 2015, 12:31:11 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 31, 2015, 12:31:11 PM
Hoping for an evening hatch / spinner fall we headed up the road and arrived at the mirror plant around six o'clock. I looked and sounded like there were doing some work on the Townes Creek bridge and the sound of the compressor droned on down the river to the end of Philpott's field intruding into the otherwise peaceful solitude that the river offers. After hiking in waders the 1/3 of a mile across the mowed and tilled field we waded waste deep into the cold waters to cool off! Nothing much was happening on the river, so we drank a beer and waited. I gave some basic casting lesson and let my friend give it a try while we waited for the hatch and rising fish. I thought that if there was high volume of bugs, like previous night, there was a good chance that she would get into a fish or two. Unfortunately, the steady risers were either across the river, too far for her to cast, or in the slick of the run were they are extremely picky. She took off and targeted one steady riser at the tail of the pool while I caught a few in the foam line running along the far bank. As dark approached the activity picked up a little and it one little spot there were five or six fish feeding actively, surely, with a lucky cast she could hook one of them, I thought. Tangled lines and snagged hooks ensued, and then she took off after another riser, she did manage to slip, trip and fall into the river. Laughing, she headed to shore to recover, I thought she was done for the day, but after a short time she rejoined me in our futile attempts to catch another fish before dark.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/053015-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/053015-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/5/053015-3.jpg)
Not sure, but I think the best of the 2015 sulphur hatch is behind us now...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 31, 2015, 15:25:52 PM
Post by: Al on May 31, 2015, 15:25:52 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on May 31, 2015, 12:31:11 PM
Not sure, but I think the best of the 2015 sulphur hatch is behind us now...
Gezzzz, I hope so. Now we can get down to real fishing :P
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 31, 2015, 15:42:44 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 31, 2015, 15:42:44 PM
Quote from: Al on May 31, 2015, 15:25:52 PMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on May 31, 2015, 12:31:11 PM
Not sure, but I think the best of the 2015 sulphur hatch is behind us now...
Gezzzz, I hope so. Now we can get down to real fishing :P
allieworms? -0-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 31, 2015, 15:54:56 PM
Post by: Al on May 31, 2015, 15:54:56 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on May 31, 2015, 15:42:44 PMQuote from: Al on May 31, 2015, 15:25:52 PMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on May 31, 2015, 12:31:11 PM
Not sure, but I think the best of the 2015 sulphur hatch is behind us now...
Gezzzz, I hope so. Now we can get down to real fishing :P
allieworms? -0-
Whatever it takes :o Seriously - I've caught more fish this year on a midge dropped off the curve of the hook of my allieworm or some other dark colored nymph. I suspect beetles, ants and hoppers will come into their own before long.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on May 31, 2015, 19:23:10 PM
Post by: driver on May 31, 2015, 19:23:10 PM
Quote from: Al on May 31, 2015, 15:25:52 PMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on May 31, 2015, 12:31:11 PM
Not sure, but I think the best of the 2015 sulphur hatch is behind us now...
Gezzzz, I hope so. Now we can get down to real fishing :P
Yep! As hot as it has been, I hope to not put my waders on until November...
It's time to catch fish measured in pounds, not inches!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 01, 2015, 09:55:36 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 01, 2015, 09:55:36 AM
I am now officially done with the lower river until fall!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on June 01, 2015, 10:04:19 AM
Post by: Fin on June 01, 2015, 10:04:19 AM
Quoteallieworms? -0-
Make fun if you want but the allieworm was the truth this Saturday on the small carp. Two pound carp on a 3 weight glass rod is a blast. Only problem I had was the damn hook kept straightening out; not a problem I encounter with mild mannered trout.
[attach=1]
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on June 01, 2015, 15:46:06 PM
Post by: Fin on June 01, 2015, 15:46:06 PM
Quotecarp. Al and I hit a hole two weeks ago that had a bunch of em on the bottom; just hanging out
Just to be clear, the carp was not from the Smith. I was only pointing out the crossover appeal of the great allieworm. /'/
Fished the Smith my whole life but have never seen a carp; suckers, now that's another story.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on June 01, 2015, 15:57:42 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on June 01, 2015, 15:57:42 PM
Fin hijacking the smith thread like a boss. Carp on a 3 weight like a damned nihilist
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 01, 2015, 16:08:00 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 01, 2015, 16:08:00 PM
[size=150]Dead trees falling into the water![/size]
Being the responsible person that I am, I took off early this morning and hit the lower river for an hour or so. Slung articulated streamers, but either nobody was home or the just weren't interested. The far bank was in deep morning shade, and I would have thought I'd get an eat. I'm ready to blow this section of water until the fall anyway.
Hiking in the trail was crisscrossed with spider webs, this Garden Spiders web caught my eye and I took some pics before destroying its work. The I hear the loud snapping of limbs as a large dead tree gave up part of itself to the river. What was so strange was that there wasn't any breeze at all. Just flat calm. So, when the tree falls, it does make a noise.
Have a good week y'all!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/6/060115-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/6/060115-2.jpg)
Being the responsible person that I am, I took off early this morning and hit the lower river for an hour or so. Slung articulated streamers, but either nobody was home or the just weren't interested. The far bank was in deep morning shade, and I would have thought I'd get an eat. I'm ready to blow this section of water until the fall anyway.
Hiking in the trail was crisscrossed with spider webs, this Garden Spiders web caught my eye and I took some pics before destroying its work. The I hear the loud snapping of limbs as a large dead tree gave up part of itself to the river. What was so strange was that there wasn't any breeze at all. Just flat calm. So, when the tree falls, it does make a noise.
Have a good week y'all!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/6/060115-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/6/060115-2.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 01, 2015, 16:08:54 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 01, 2015, 16:08:54 PM
Quote from: troutfanatic on June 01, 2015, 15:00:02 PMQuotelower river
May I recommend some streamers that look like any of the 5,500 fingerling dink food competitors they stocked down there?
they put those triploid browns in??? n!n n!n n!n
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 01, 2015, 16:38:05 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 01, 2015, 16:38:05 PM
Yep.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on June 01, 2015, 19:18:53 PM
Post by: driver on June 01, 2015, 19:18:53 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on June 01, 2015, 16:08:54 PM?? When did they do this?Quote from: troutfanatic on June 01, 2015, 15:00:02 PMQuotelower river
May I recommend some streamers that look like any of the 5,500 fingerling dink food competitors they stocked down there?
they put those triploid browns in??? n!n n!n n!n
I caught a bow in the lower section Saturday. Plus 4 clippers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on June 01, 2015, 19:25:04 PM
Post by: Onslow on June 01, 2015, 19:25:04 PM
Quote from: driver on June 01, 2015, 19:18:53 PMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on June 01, 2015, 16:08:54 PM?? When did they do this?Quote from: troutfanatic on June 01, 2015, 15:00:02 PMQuotelower river
May I recommend some streamers that look like any of the 5,500 fingerling dink food competitors they stocked down there?
they put those triploid browns in??? n!n n!n n!n
I caught a bow in the lower section Saturday. Plus 4 clippers
Rainbows wander. I caught a DH bow 20 miles downstream of point of stocking while bass fishing this past week. Oddly enough the fish was very acrobatic despite the water temps being in the mid-upper 70s.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on June 01, 2015, 19:29:35 PM
Post by: driver on June 01, 2015, 19:29:35 PM
It was a gnarly looking stocker, no gill plates. It was either stocked or went over the dam.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: BRFFF on June 01, 2015, 21:22:59 PM
Post by: BRFFF on June 01, 2015, 21:22:59 PM
Quote from: driver on June 01, 2015, 19:29:35 PMSurely you must mean the Maxillary (part of the mouth) and not the gill plate ?
It was a gnarly looking stocker, no gill plates. It was either stocked or went over the dam.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on June 01, 2015, 21:38:50 PM
Post by: driver on June 01, 2015, 21:38:50 PM
It was it gill plates. Gills on both sides were exposed.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: BRFFF on June 01, 2015, 22:42:46 PM
Post by: BRFFF on June 01, 2015, 22:42:46 PM
Quote from: driver on June 01, 2015, 21:38:50 PMDamn I can't imagine it living long that way
It was it gill plates. Gills on both sides were exposed.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Shane on June 02, 2015, 09:35:16 AM
Post by: Shane on June 02, 2015, 09:35:16 AM
Fished upper Sunday night. Saw a handful of dead trout in the water - weird. Smattering of bugs. One streamborn rainbow about 14 inches. He gave good fight
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Shane on June 03, 2015, 10:04:55 AM
Post by: Shane on June 03, 2015, 10:04:55 AM
Quote from: troutfanatic on June 02, 2015, 15:00:30 PM
Any ideas on the cause of said dead trout?
All Browns. All about 5-6 inches. I wonder if they dumped some of those triploids up there and these were bridge dump fatalities
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on June 09, 2015, 13:36:07 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on June 09, 2015, 13:36:07 PM
Fished Saturday afternoon for the first time in a couple of months. I fished one spot for a little while and caught 3 or 4 including one decent one. Went on upstream and for another hour and caught about another 10. That hour was strong. Most of them were in the slot. I was some kind of glad to be back and not have to throw midges.
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/obcrouch001/Smith%206-5-15%20003_zpsj6iuim5n.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/obcrouch001/Smith%206-5-15%20003_zpsj6iuim5n.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/obcrouch001/Smith%206-5-15%20005_zps8bdwqq9r.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/obcrouch001/Smith%206-5-15%20005_zps8bdwqq9r.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/obcrouch001/Smith%206-5-15%20008_zps3sjsygdf.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/obcrouch001/Smith%206-5-15%20008_zps3sjsygdf.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/obcrouch001/Smith%206-5-15%20010_zpsfbsllfee.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/obcrouch001/Smith%206-5-15%20010_zpsfbsllfee.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/obcrouch001/Smith%206-5-15%20003_zpsj6iuim5n.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/obcrouch001/Smith%206-5-15%20003_zpsj6iuim5n.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/obcrouch001/Smith%206-5-15%20005_zps8bdwqq9r.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/obcrouch001/Smith%206-5-15%20005_zps8bdwqq9r.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/obcrouch001/Smith%206-5-15%20008_zps3sjsygdf.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/obcrouch001/Smith%206-5-15%20008_zps3sjsygdf.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/obcrouch001/Smith%206-5-15%20010_zpsfbsllfee.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/obcrouch001/Smith%206-5-15%20010_zpsfbsllfee.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on June 09, 2015, 16:21:04 PM
Post by: Al on June 09, 2015, 16:21:04 PM
Glad to see ya back Ben. I missed that silver watch band. :D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 09, 2015, 16:46:22 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 09, 2015, 16:46:22 PM
Good on ya, Ben!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 29, 2015, 18:02:41 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 29, 2015, 18:02:41 PM
http://youtu.be/DKftiJS30Cs (http://youtu.be/DKftiJS30Cs)
R.I.P. Chris Squire... at 67...
I finally got a few hours to myself and put off fixing the turn signals on the Miataa (wiring problems) and headed up to the closest cold water not expecting much but surprised to see a succession of rising fish. It wasn't exactly on fire but I did mange to catch bunch of pune brown trouts. If they showed themselves I could, eventually, catch them on the puff daddy. When the hatch slowed down I tied on a soft hackle and caught a few more. I would have stayed late, but I had dinner plans, so I left just after five, and go going back up the hill... Oh, shit, what's that noise, and shaking? Crap, a friggin flat! Damnation, that road hazard that I couldn't avoid had punctured the tire. I unloaded the trunk and tried my best to bust those lug nuts free with the standard (way too friggin short to do any good) wrench. After a while another Miata passed by and then stopped to offer assistance, a real 18" breaker bar. Now we're dealing, or so I thought, the damn spare (doughnut) didn't have enough air and I rode it on down the mountain to a stop-an-rob, picked up a can of 'fix-a-flat" and put the tire back on... Hot and stinky, I was way late for dinner as I dropped the car off at the tire store, time for a new set for the Miata... Destroying the spare was the worst of the whole thing...
Here's the usual dink / pune Smiff River brooon trouts...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/6/062815-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/6/062815-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/6/062815-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/6/062815-5.jpg)
Here's one for Doug, what kind of tree is that with the blooming tassels?
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/6/062815-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/6/062815-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/6/062815-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/6/062815-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/6/062815-10.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 29, 2015, 18:46:49 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 29, 2015, 18:46:49 PM
Sourwood, boss. Oxydendron arboreum.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on June 29, 2015, 19:57:14 PM
Post by: Onslow on June 29, 2015, 19:57:14 PM
Having not spent meaningful time on the water in at least a month, I would be down for tailwater, punes, anything but work.
Now I understand why you spend so much time at the smitty....48 degree beer 'c;
Now I understand why you spend so much time at the smitty....48 degree beer 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: TylerDurden on June 29, 2015, 20:01:10 PM
Post by: TylerDurden on June 29, 2015, 20:01:10 PM
Great stuff Woolly
Those smith river browns are beauts. Been thinking about picking up a Va fishing lic and hitting the smith seeing as its only an hour away from me...
Those smith river browns are beauts. Been thinking about picking up a Va fishing lic and hitting the smith seeing as its only an hour away from me...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 29, 2015, 21:13:27 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 29, 2015, 21:13:27 PM
Quote from: Phallus in Wonderland on June 29, 2015, 19:57:14 PM
Having not spent meaningful time on the water in at least a month, I would be down for tailwater, punes, anything but work.
Now I understand why you spend so much time at the smitty....48 degree beer 'c;
Fishing Friday, dingleberry.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on June 30, 2015, 04:56:37 AM
Post by: Onslow on June 30, 2015, 04:56:37 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on June 29, 2015, 21:13:27 PMQuote from: Phallus in Wonderland on June 29, 2015, 19:57:14 PM
Having not spent meaningful time on the water in at least a month, I would be down for tailwater, punes, anything but work.
Now I understand why you spend so much time at the smitty....48 degree beer 'c;
Fishing Friday, dingleberry.
Good fer you.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 01, 2015, 16:02:30 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 01, 2015, 16:02:30 PM
http://youtu.be/dBN86y30Ufc (http://youtu.be/dBN86y30Ufc)
I hit the road this morning to check this river out for the first time. I was forced to get a considerably late start due to getting the child ready for baby school while the mother got primped for her workday.
Good looking river. Always a little confusing when you don't know where the hell you're going. I had some assistance from some of the regulars here, much obliged.
I don't know what the hell the deal was, kept losing fish. Lost several while nymphing and several on dries as well, just came off half way through the fight. Fishing shall be fishing, still pissed me off.
Sad, ashamed and somewhat embarrassed I tucked my tail when time came to head home. The generation was scheduled for noon but it must take a little while before it's evident downriver, I fished until about 2:00.
I guess this fat ass rainbow would have to suffice today. At least I landed something. I'll definitely be back with an adjusted game plan now that I've somewhat felt this water out. Time well spent, you know, learning curve.
I couldn't really even see what I was doing when I first got in. Oh yea, that water's cold.
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/P7010043_zpsnicu2eic.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/P7010043_zpsnicu2eic.jpg.html)
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/P7010044_zpssrnf1kvx.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/P7010044_zpssrnf1kvx.jpg.html)
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/P7010045_zpsgtdwo3i3.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/P7010045_zpsgtdwo3i3.jpg.html)
I caught this bow on a streamer. The one hit wonder:
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/P7010048_zpsln3qf2bp.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/P7010048_zpsln3qf2bp.jpg.html)
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/P7010049_zpsgxyevngk.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/P7010049_zpsgxyevngk.jpg.html)
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/P7010050_zpsgbyqdgog.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/P7010050_zpsgbyqdgog.jpg.html)
One of you drunk fucktards get too ripped to get your boots back on?
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/P7010051_zpsqounfyib.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/P7010051_zpsqounfyib.jpg.html)
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/P7010052_zpsjnxkkkg3.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/P7010052_zpsjnxkkkg3.jpg.html)
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/P7010053_zpsisckxpx2.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/P7010053_zpsisckxpx2.jpg.html)
Until next time..... n!n
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: apache1973 on July 01, 2015, 16:13:57 PM
Post by: apache1973 on July 01, 2015, 16:13:57 PM
As I am new to the Forum I am looking for ares in Southern VA to explore and fish. I am somewhat familiar with the Smith but not where to really try and wade and fish. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: revfox on July 01, 2015, 16:29:28 PM
Post by: revfox on July 01, 2015, 16:29:28 PM
TF is such a nice guy.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 01, 2015, 16:38:44 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 01, 2015, 16:38:44 PM
Good job, Wade. A swift kick in the nuts from the Smiff is not a new thing.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on July 01, 2015, 17:09:52 PM
Post by: driver on July 01, 2015, 17:09:52 PM
Must have not got the rain like we did last night. Water looked pretty clean.
The Smitty has sent home with less than that many times.
The Smitty has sent home with less than that many times.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 01, 2015, 19:32:09 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 01, 2015, 19:32:09 PM
Quote from: apache1973 on July 01, 2015, 16:13:57 PM
As I am new to the Forum I am looking for ares in Southern VA to explore and fish. I am somewhat familiar with the Smith but not where to really try and wade and fish. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks
Get in your vehicle and put some footwork in. You can ask and ask (I have) but until your ass is in the water you ain't gonna catch shit.
Quote from: Dougfish on July 01, 2015, 16:38:44 PM
Good job, Wade. A swift kick in the nuts from the Smiff is not a new thing.
Quote from: driver on July 01, 2015, 17:09:52 PM
Must have not got the rain like we did last night. Water looked pretty clean.
The Smitty has sent home with less than that many times.
I'll be honest. I was happy to have fooled the several on top and nymphing, but the bastards coming unfastened on the way in got old real quick. About made me lose my religion several times.
http://youtu.be/xmxjOIoGXbs (http://youtu.be/xmxjOIoGXbs)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: apache1973 on July 01, 2015, 19:58:02 PM
Post by: apache1973 on July 01, 2015, 19:58:02 PM
I have been up behind the dam at Philpott and through Bassett in that area. Did not really know if i can go further down into Fieldale and Martinsville as I see the river but again don't know areas to park and wade. Sorry maybe I should be a little more specific.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 01, 2015, 20:07:43 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 01, 2015, 20:07:43 PM
Dude, do an intro. Take your lumps, then contribute a TR or two before you ask for a handout.
Or suffer the wrath.
And, if it ain't posted and there aren't Rottweilers chewing on your calves, it's good access.
Or suffer the wrath.
And, if it ain't posted and there aren't Rottweilers chewing on your calves, it's good access.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: apache1973 on July 01, 2015, 20:11:57 PM
Post by: apache1973 on July 01, 2015, 20:11:57 PM
My humblest apologies. I am scrolling through the damn app trying to figure out how or where to do an introduction.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: benben reincarnated on July 01, 2015, 20:15:10 PM
Post by: benben reincarnated on July 01, 2015, 20:15:10 PM
Quote from: apache1973 on July 01, 2015, 20:11:57 PM
My humblest apologies. I am scrolling through the damn app trying to figure out how or where to do an introduction.
Just give up now, trust me.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 01, 2015, 20:15:46 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 01, 2015, 20:15:46 PM
I thought I was going to be doing the Rottweiler thing but the bastard never got off it's lazy ass. Just barking. All mouth.
Some bald dude was watering his flowers and I talked to him. Polite fella. Let me park in his grass. Much obliged.
Some bald dude was watering his flowers and I talked to him. Polite fella. Let me park in his grass. Much obliged.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: apache1973 on July 01, 2015, 20:21:09 PM
Post by: apache1973 on July 01, 2015, 20:21:09 PM
Intro done and I deserve what I get.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: revfox on July 03, 2015, 16:48:01 PM
Post by: revfox on July 03, 2015, 16:48:01 PM
Went up to the Smith yesterday to learn and explore. It was my first time and my dad was tagging along. He had a tough time moving around in the water and was worried about falling over (claims he is too old for this). He did alright with the casting but seeing as I wasn't catching anything new he decided to call it quits early, enjoy the scenery and nap in the car.
Started off up top and got skunked, but really enjoyed to the beauty of the river. Never seen such clear still water in a river.
Plenty of fog too to complicate things.
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/03/afc44859ed28728c59b28908192a2af6.jpg)
Finally got the skunk off with the first hares ear my wife tied.
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/03/48972b9f21b043c22a9b275e7f35e0aa.jpg)
Worked hard all day and it paid off finally
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/03/b5201813674d9603be9cd1c25adb2a26.jpg)
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/03/fe8232e334406c5788c8086158885ec9.jpg)
I missed one about 20 inches that broke me off but at least I have a reason to go back.
Some tough fishing and some cold ass water.
Rain hit so we cut the day off a bit early
Probably needed to get home anyway.
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/03/eb1838113dcc4f55a15fb48d076fa479.jpg)
Started off up top and got skunked, but really enjoyed to the beauty of the river. Never seen such clear still water in a river.
Plenty of fog too to complicate things.
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/03/afc44859ed28728c59b28908192a2af6.jpg)
Finally got the skunk off with the first hares ear my wife tied.
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/03/48972b9f21b043c22a9b275e7f35e0aa.jpg)
Worked hard all day and it paid off finally
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/03/b5201813674d9603be9cd1c25adb2a26.jpg)
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/03/fe8232e334406c5788c8086158885ec9.jpg)
I missed one about 20 inches that broke me off but at least I have a reason to go back.
Some tough fishing and some cold ass water.
Rain hit so we cut the day off a bit early
Probably needed to get home anyway.
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/03/eb1838113dcc4f55a15fb48d076fa479.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: TylerDurden on July 03, 2015, 16:57:49 PM
Post by: TylerDurden on July 03, 2015, 16:57:49 PM
Check out the big brown on Brett.
Nice stuff bro. Im headed up that way next week for the first time too.
ps hope someone catches that reference
Nice stuff bro. Im headed up that way next week for the first time too.
ps hope someone catches that reference
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 03, 2015, 16:57:53 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 03, 2015, 16:57:53 PM
Nice job dude.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 03, 2015, 17:19:09 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 03, 2015, 17:19:09 PM
Sweet.
The Sniff nets another.
The Sniff nets another.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on July 03, 2015, 17:52:53 PM
Post by: Onslow on July 03, 2015, 17:52:53 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on July 03, 2015, 17:19:09 PM
Sweet.
The Sniff nets another.
That bitch won't ever net me.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Michael Toris on July 03, 2015, 18:25:52 PM
Post by: Michael Toris on July 03, 2015, 18:25:52 PM
Quote from: TylerDurden on July 03, 2015, 16:57:49 PMPulp Fiction
Check out the big brown on Brett.
Nice stuff bro. Im headed up that way next week for the first time too.
ps hope someone catches that reference
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: TylerDurden on July 03, 2015, 18:27:31 PM
Post by: TylerDurden on July 03, 2015, 18:27:31 PM
Quote from: wildmttrout on July 03, 2015, 18:25:52 PMQuote from: TylerDurden on July 03, 2015, 16:57:49 PMPulp Fiction
Check out the big brown on Brett.
Nice stuff bro. Im headed up that way next week for the first time too.
ps hope someone catches that reference
(http://images.rapgenius.com/a0fw7gppl3vf89k4ncfuoj34d.552x464x1.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: revfox on July 03, 2015, 18:40:16 PM
Post by: revfox on July 03, 2015, 18:40:16 PM
Quote from: troutfanatic on July 03, 2015, 16:51:05 PM
Victory!
How'd your dad like the rod?
He found it pretty easy to cast. Real test will be what the father in law thinks since it's his now. Hope to take him up there in a few weeks when I get back from Seattle.
Hope to post some pictures of Steelhead and King Salmon soon!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 05, 2015, 15:46:36 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 05, 2015, 15:46:36 PM
http://youtu.be/oGQvKU8Iaz4 (http://youtu.be/oGQvKU8Iaz4)
I headed back to the river this morning with hopes that the rain we received at home last night hadn't screwed the river up in VA. It looked as if rain had taken place but all was well.
Got into quite a few browns and a couple bows and seen a few nice sucker fish. As always, I lost far more than I landed. I don't know what I've changed to bring this on.
I left right before a hellacious rain arrived. Glad to have gotten out today.
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/P7050054_zpsjqwyexjn.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/P7050054_zpsjqwyexjn.jpg.html)
Hercules Beetle.....I think.
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/P7050055_zpsui917su9.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/P7050055_zpsui917su9.jpg.html)
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/P7050056_zpsc6fncmku.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/P7050056_zpsc6fncmku.jpg.html)
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/P7050060_zpsan8vd39l.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/P7050060_zpsan8vd39l.jpg.html)
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/P7050061_zpsmlswj3oa.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/P7050061_zpsmlswj3oa.jpg.html)
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/P7050062_zpspgjvvvj3.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/P7050062_zpspgjvvvj3.jpg.html)
I'll be back. n!n
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 05, 2015, 15:54:38 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 05, 2015, 15:54:38 PM
Bet that Heron in pic 4 caught his limit. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 05, 2015, 15:56:34 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 05, 2015, 15:56:34 PM
Bet so. I thought the damned thing was going to take my head off before it put the brakes on.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 06, 2015, 08:39:17 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 06, 2015, 08:39:17 AM
http://youtu.be/9AB4hg2mbCs (http://youtu.be/9AB4hg2mbCs)
After a lazy Sunday morning I headed over to the Weatherspoon to revisit Tom Burckhardt: FULL STOP art installation... and create a Microsoft Photosynth "Walk" Check it out!
(https://photosynth.net/preview/view/3ab02138-7ea8-43af-9d82-04aab2ab5fda?startat=0)
After lunch I headed up the road to the river and after waiting out a thunderstorm I hit water. Sulfurs were a popping and fish were rising. I caught a dozen or more before the next storm blew me off the river. I forgot my "powder" and the fish would only hit a "high floating" fly, so I was constantly changing out flies as once they were slimed and dunked they had no appeal to the trouts....
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/070515-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/070515-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/070515-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/070515-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/070515-5.jpg)
'
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 06, 2015, 09:47:32 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 06, 2015, 09:47:32 AM
I like the "outline" Woolly.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 07, 2015, 04:53:40 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 07, 2015, 04:53:40 AM
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/07/87b81285ac7c5c48f55513f90e6f4df3.jpg)
All those smith river and soho trips add up
All those smith river and soho trips add up
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 07, 2015, 08:19:02 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 07, 2015, 08:19:02 AM
When I got rid of my last truck almost a year ago it had just a few thousand miles shy of 300,000 on the odometer. n!n
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 07, 2015, 08:43:19 AM
Post by: Al on July 07, 2015, 08:43:19 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on July 07, 2015, 04:53:40 AM
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/07/87b81285ac7c5c48f55513f90e6f4df3.jpg)
All those smith river and soho trips add up
Yep, tell me about it! My 2011 Tacoma has 79K and most of that is running back and forth to the Smith. I also put a lot on it during deer season. This is my first "rice burner" but it is holding together much better then all my previous "made in USA" vehicles.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 07, 2015, 08:55:11 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 07, 2015, 08:55:11 AM
The aforementioned 300K vehicle was a Ford Ranger, miss that truck. Had more crazy fuckin' times in that bitch than I will in every vehicle I'll ever own combined, most likely. Good times.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on July 09, 2015, 20:45:44 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on July 09, 2015, 20:45:44 PM
Wooly don't call no mo..... :(
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: BRFFF on July 09, 2015, 21:59:28 PM
Post by: BRFFF on July 09, 2015, 21:59:28 PM
Quote from: NCsporksman on July 09, 2015, 20:45:44 PMfeesin tomorrow - holler
Wooly don't call no mo..... :(
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Da Heisenberg on July 09, 2015, 22:01:29 PM
Post by: Da Heisenberg on July 09, 2015, 22:01:29 PM
This is a pretty cool thread- 50 pages. A lot of nice browns.
I never fished it, but I haven't fished many tailwaters other than the Holston.
I never fished it, but I haven't fished many tailwaters other than the Holston.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Michael Toris on July 09, 2015, 22:36:51 PM
Post by: Michael Toris on July 09, 2015, 22:36:51 PM
Quote from: the_sculpinator on July 09, 2015, 22:01:29 PM
I never fished it, but I haven't fished many tailwaters other than the Holston.
Cool story bro
Title: Re: Smith-Continued Hot Friday Edition
Post by: Dougfish on July 10, 2015, 14:34:30 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 10, 2015, 14:34:30 PM
http://youtu.be/mmALL-V74Po (http://youtu.be/mmALL-V74Po)
Wore that album out. y;
I'm headed out for four days of work in Buckeye land tomorrow. You bet I'm wearing VT garb. n!n
Fishing fix was needed. Smith called.
But she really just wanted a tickle fight. I bailed after a few hours for some domestic duties.
Small fish were caught, a nice fish was lost at the net, it was hotter than two rats fucking in a wool sock, and blah, blah, blah.
I did have fun with a old rig. 7' 6" Berkley Parametric and J. C. Higgins reel. 6 wt. Pounded out some righteous casts.
(http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/KbguUrFMB__R35PVkcKcpWPE0WaapzIQYz_O6KFcmVJ3=w840-h630-no)
(http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/N7A6wZUn-VZY2-uXYwmeqVTUNLAJaNlg23p5d28v7VJx=w840-h630-no)
(http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/BW3okl2kNJrZ8kzI_2gGb4H6uBFs4eNehAc9q5bNud-8=w840-h630-no)
(http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ac6NVblwIoSN2KN9kB1aMMp87EVnMrKNK4nzUwI2Ku3t=w879-h630-no)
New beers via BIL visit last weekend.
(http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ggaGi_ACaF5gW5gxhRfd2cR8iNhlrA0iIznHeHVP9AQ4=w840-h630-no)
(http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/z8YGku-Y6ytnxhvaEZPwg3lZw09Or2UlgI_-ODyhDOUN=w840-h630-no)
(http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/YolA4ost8VC5__6OZUnhoEIg7ExIDg6J6HItxXpDlLBI=w840-h630-no)
Perhaps the sorriest corn field. Ever.
(http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gxznd7BfSR-l6ev3bJ51vUeSjuAOCBSLuTCtwzQO4tYI=w840-h630-no)
I wondered who was camped out in the usual spot just upstream. Bossman arrived after me. I tricked his ride out.
(http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/73l6oeyIvS2g7jHfv7yeB5rHJzWt13bDI4Dy8-krDxAt=w840-h630-no)
Thanks for the swag, WB.
(http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/JnCzyPnAHyLl0-yVyJO0YK2a5nQ49PRBYZACsnQ_37UU=w840-h630-no)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 10, 2015, 15:29:16 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 10, 2015, 15:29:16 PM
Glad you got out. Good shit.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on July 10, 2015, 15:52:21 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on July 10, 2015, 15:52:21 PM
Good on ya doug..... did your lady friend not wanna take another tour? #wheresmynewstickersbrah
Title: Re: Smith-Continued Hot Friday Edition
Post by: driver on July 10, 2015, 15:54:33 PM
Post by: driver on July 10, 2015, 15:54:33 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on July 10, 2015, 14:34:30 PM
Small fish were caught, a nice fish was lost at the net, it was hotter that two rats fucking in a wool sock, and blah, blah, blah.
I prefer, "Hotter than a half fucked fox in a forest fire"
I was hoping to go there this weekend.. Gotta go to DC instead.. b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Da Heisenberg on July 10, 2015, 17:15:50 PM
Post by: Da Heisenberg on July 10, 2015, 17:15:50 PM
Nice. I'm liking that wonderod. It looks brand new. I have my dad's. It does not look brand new. There is something about vintage glass.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 10, 2015, 17:32:29 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 10, 2015, 17:32:29 PM
Quote from: the_sculpinator on July 10, 2015, 17:15:50 PM
Nice. I'm liking that wonderod. It looks brand new. I have my dad's. It does not look brand new. There is something about vintage glass.
Failing at reading comprehension, newb. Berkley, not Shakespeare. 70's.
I do have many Wonderods, though.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Da Heisenberg on July 10, 2015, 17:36:03 PM
Post by: Da Heisenberg on July 10, 2015, 17:36:03 PM
Lol, that makes sense. My wonderod is a translucent puke green; but I swear I have seen white ones on eBay.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on July 10, 2015, 18:05:33 PM
Post by: Onslow on July 10, 2015, 18:05:33 PM
Quoteit was hotter that two rats fucking in a wool sock,
Uh, serves you right for sticking your wanker in some low altitude touron tailwater n!n Were you wearing waders ?:P
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 10, 2015, 18:06:45 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 10, 2015, 18:06:45 PM
I've been working and wankin in a cube on the 14th floor of the concrete bunker for the last month. The project is nearing completion, so when they said no work to be done on Friday, I headed up the road for some trout time. Two peckerheads were in the parking lot when I arrived, so I tagged 'em with a sticker! Walked across the field, hotter than a half-fucked fox in a forest fire! <-;: Got to my spot and dumped my vest and tried to cool off in the muggy shade. Some dude was standing in the tail of my pool. I moved on up and whacked a few before low holing him. The fish stopped rising for a while and I moved around a bit before approaching the pool from a different angle. That angle proved to be effective and I caught fish after fish while standing balls deep in the cold water. Smith on fire.... at least for a little bit. Left the river around two, just before the water arrived.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071015a-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071015-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071015-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071015-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071015-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071015-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071015-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071015-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071015-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071015-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071015-10.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/133195535 (https://vimeo.com/133195535)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 10, 2015, 19:05:05 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 10, 2015, 19:05:05 PM
He arrived before me. That dude lost his fly box and was working his way down to find it.
His box floated almost to me in my honey hole and got hung up just upstream. I retrieved it.
And we fished unwittingly towards each other for the exchange.
He was a happy guy. His ties were awesome.
Got a few reward flies. V:;
Reminded me to put my name and # on ALL my boxes.
His box floated almost to me in my honey hole and got hung up just upstream. I retrieved it.
And we fished unwittingly towards each other for the exchange.
He was a happy guy. His ties were awesome.
Got a few reward flies. V:;
Reminded me to put my name and # on ALL my boxes.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 10, 2015, 19:19:46 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 10, 2015, 19:19:46 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on July 10, 2015, 19:05:05 PM
That dude lost his fly box and was working his way down to find it.
His ties were awesome.
Got a few reward flies. V:;
Might be nice ties, but he wasn't catching too many of dem smiff brownz -- he complained about losing $300 worth of flies as he headed on down. Good on you for collecting 'em...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 10, 2015, 19:33:28 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 10, 2015, 19:33:28 PM
Nobody tops the Bugger. bd;0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on July 10, 2015, 19:39:45 PM
Post by: Big J on July 10, 2015, 19:39:45 PM
Hey Doug, where is my list of poisons for the war this weekend?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 10, 2015, 19:59:09 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 10, 2015, 19:59:09 PM
Oh shit. b'; PM.
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 11, 2015, 21:51:27 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 11, 2015, 21:51:27 PM
Had some time to kill, went back for more Pune punishment. This time I brought some beerz.
Ran into a couple of fellows from Roanoke, they knew of Mundflap and the younger one told me how Muddy had given him a fly on the Smith and told him "not to leave it in his fly box" so he was fishing that fly, a comparadun he also had some luck with beetles.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071115-1.jpg)
As I'm taking to this fellow as he's munching on a sandwich, he says that his best fish of the day was 13 and a half inches. Pretty accurate for a streamside measureguesstimate. So, I show him the above picture of the 12" (maybe twelve and a half) brown that I had just caught. He was amazed and said, "Wow, what a beautiful fish, that's a great brown." which left me to believe his measurement must have be in dick inches.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071115-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071115-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071115-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071115-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071115-6.jpg)
Some visitors on the river...
https://vimeo.com/133274800 (https://vimeo.com/133274800)
Things slowed way down after 4 o'clock. Couldn't get a trout to rise, so I did a little streamside meditation and drank a beer or two.
Around seven, the other fishermen left the stream and shortly later, more bugs started popping off, sulfurs, bwos, and a few yellow drakes. I don't remember the sulfur hatch lasting this late in the year and was a bit puzzled by bwos. The bugs were collecting in some of the back eddies and the trouts began munching on the surface once again. It was a great way to end the day.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071115-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071115-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/7/071115-9.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 12, 2015, 05:56:03 AM
Post by: Al on July 12, 2015, 05:56:03 AM
Phone or camera you're doing good Woolly. --- I remember way back when I first started posting about the Smith you told me there were no fish there and I should drive 100 miles more to the Holston :o. Bigger fish maybe, but it will be awhile yet before we have to "take a number" to get a spot to fish our favorite run.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 12, 2015, 10:02:46 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 12, 2015, 10:02:46 AM
@Al, if you read the unedited report with all of the autocorrect words you would understand what I meant by "should not post from phone"
All good now, I hope.... I half expect to run into you up there...
All good now, I hope.... I half expect to run into you up there...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 12, 2015, 10:24:37 AM
Post by: Al on July 12, 2015, 10:24:37 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on July 12, 2015, 10:02:46 AM
@Al, if you read the unedited report with all of the autocorrect words you would understand what I meant by "should not post from phone"
All good now, I hope.... I half expect to run into you up there...
Hope to head up on Thursday. Going to see if any of those we sampled a couple weeks ago will fall for a bigger version of the Allieworm. :o If not I have a couple other secrets in my arsenal.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 12, 2015, 18:57:16 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 12, 2015, 18:57:16 PM
Looking good Woolly. I had a couple kayakers come by me the last time I hit that river.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 19, 2015, 15:29:36 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 19, 2015, 15:29:36 PM
Pull up a chair. Get a beverage. Hey, I'm buying.
Now let Uncle Dougfish tell you a story. A life lesson really.
You wanna fish a tailwater river? Well, you see, they have theses websites and phone numbers you can use to see when they do and when they don't let biblical amounts of water out into the river downstream. Do as I say, not as I do. CALL THE FUCKING NUMBER!
I knew they were going to do some "mini" releases for the paddle folks on the weekends. Hell, they did it two weeks ago, I checked.
Today? No check. I get there at a few minutes before 8, suit up and head for the river. There is one vehicle in the lot w/NC tags. I head downstream looking for him(s) and locate him above the trestle pool.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/DD5z-TK-ZH2DCv5bv9TejsysDbl__tv3BRB77D14mbP9=w840-h630-no)
I am sneaking by and he spots me. Turns out to be the fellow I fished with back in May. (We had a slooow day then, bad omen)
I headed down further and tied on the winner. Three casts, fish. 103 casts later, another small fish. 303 casts later (and fourteen fly changes) another small fish. I lost track of the dude around the bend. Waded in to take a piss and left my shit on a big rock. Finished my bidnesss, turned around and thought "The water is coming up?". I gathered my shit, pulled out a sammie and brew and headed upstream. Fuck, it really is coming up. I get up to where I can see him about 100 yds. upstream and standing in waist deep water. I yelled, he heard, and with deft hand signals I advised him to get the fuck out of the river. We hit the tracks back to the cars. 6 dinks between us. Dial the number, 10-2 releases, Sat. and Sun. Fuck me.
He went home, I headed down below Bassett to take some more lashes. Missed a couple, then broke off the would-be brownie of the summer.
Guess who forgot to cut off his 6x. b';
Drank a couple of solace beers and headed home.
At least I have bodacious leftovers for dinner.
Flowers and reptile. That's all I got.
Phlox
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rNEOQvKPpJSrCfxXFTaqjcJAyfKvuHmpQukednpUcWOT=w840-h630-no)
Bearsfoot
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gDEOJOAYOs5A8NLGer4hsRAvEp0uxM3swdlCuukylAhn=w840-h630-no)
Trumpetvine
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wGeY5WfPjk-Tg1EKpTkYILaJbUdXhVYfFdVhIA0sM-TK=w840-h630-no)
Turtle of the box. Orange version.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/bDfqlrjUo-Ho_za9WYG37CUfkjDG_q-Qq36O-nUwWg91=w840-h630-no)
Tools, '50's vintage
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZceP_Wyt5WX1FU7Z4GmvZkziO6JQE_xMFgeSsr004-Ve=w473-h630-no)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jqqssUrV3m6huKKSvW_M-HrbT5IQdjtbUzrQe_XOgn7Y=w473-h630-no)
Fuck me.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 19, 2015, 19:35:10 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 19, 2015, 19:35:10 PM
Sweet. At least you, and the other dude didn't have to swim.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 19, 2015, 19:44:17 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 19, 2015, 19:44:17 PM
You shoulda swung a streamer in that rec flow, jis say'in
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on July 19, 2015, 19:57:28 PM
Post by: driver on July 19, 2015, 19:57:28 PM
Me and Franzen went up Sat. We got there about 8am. I had to leave early to go to a horrible party. So we were off the water by 2pm. Not a banner day but we held our own. We did notice the water pulse as well. We were able to avoid it. Will be calling the number myself before next time.
New Toy
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/06Qpquojc1bgZCJXv4fW21bgcMiXSjaSDoQvtfrLNAA=w640-h480-no)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/RgqmvYEhoJVZdUIQ3Bg5ZlSSe8B6PLwYN4C5KefKxrk=w640-h480-no)
Anyone ID this. Either wolf or fishing spider
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/OHfOFhAXVsce5f7yqqB8ga-H_woUcwZGVQAygiL5LpU=w640-h480-no)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HcsmzyiIuuYhNm9PwXfXYvDiBr8xQPknyi4JteNWa3k=w640-h480-no)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ahl5MxYKMZ2HpESo3wZ8dh-iZXabwykHg4Yi2ue6RQU=w640-h480-no)
New Toy
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/06Qpquojc1bgZCJXv4fW21bgcMiXSjaSDoQvtfrLNAA=w640-h480-no)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/RgqmvYEhoJVZdUIQ3Bg5ZlSSe8B6PLwYN4C5KefKxrk=w640-h480-no)
Anyone ID this. Either wolf or fishing spider
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/OHfOFhAXVsce5f7yqqB8ga-H_woUcwZGVQAygiL5LpU=w640-h480-no)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HcsmzyiIuuYhNm9PwXfXYvDiBr8xQPknyi4JteNWa3k=w640-h480-no)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ahl5MxYKMZ2HpESo3wZ8dh-iZXabwykHg4Yi2ue6RQU=w640-h480-no)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 19, 2015, 20:04:25 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 19, 2015, 20:04:25 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on July 19, 2015, 19:44:17 PM
You shoulda swung a streamer in that rec flow, jis say'in
Thought about it. But, I had a bitchy attitude.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 19, 2015, 20:36:07 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 19, 2015, 20:36:07 PM
That there is a "Big assed brown spider"
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 19, 2015, 20:43:48 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 19, 2015, 20:43:48 PM
Nice fish, Driver. Well done.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ptfranze on July 19, 2015, 21:51:39 PM
Post by: ptfranze on July 19, 2015, 21:51:39 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on July 19, 2015, 20:36:07 PM
That there is a "Big assed brown spider"
Thanks for that spot on ID woolly. I was heading over and he was in my way, I went and told Jason there is a god damned tarantula on this tree. It was not scared of us at all even let Jason pick up one of its legs with a stick before it finally moved and ran away
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on July 20, 2015, 07:37:15 AM
Post by: NCsporksman on July 20, 2015, 07:37:15 AM
How'd that two hander do for ya? Flinging meat w it? I wants one
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: sanjuanwormhatch on July 20, 2015, 07:54:20 AM
Post by: sanjuanwormhatch on July 20, 2015, 07:54:20 AM
what two hander did you get?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on July 20, 2015, 16:06:58 PM
Post by: driver on July 20, 2015, 16:06:58 PM
Its a Cabelas TLR 11ft 6wt. Picked it up for $50.
Actually it was a pain in the ass. I didn't have a switch line on it so that didn't help. And that reel weighs a ton. So my arm would get tired from high sticking. New line should be here soon and I'll put it on a different reel and we'll see how its does.
Actually it was a pain in the ass. I didn't have a switch line on it so that didn't help. And that reel weighs a ton. So my arm would get tired from high sticking. New line should be here soon and I'll put it on a different reel and we'll see how its does.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: CaddisMan on July 22, 2015, 06:51:28 AM
Post by: CaddisMan on July 22, 2015, 06:51:28 AM
Greetings to the Smith-continued regulars. Hope everyone is keeping cool from summer heat by enjoying the Smith as regular as possible. Me... well I get up from Raleigh occasionally for a day trip fix when I can't string together a few days for the NC Blue Ridge.
I came up yesterday arriving at dawn up at the dam. I fished several points from the dam to down say a quarter of a mile. I DIDN'T SEE A SINGLE FISH! ...staying until 10 am casting nymphs and dry droppers along the far bank. If they were there, they were hunkered to within 5 feet of the bank. The mist wast heavy and the water around 48F had me shivering... in July?!... an odd experience.
Anyway, moved down to Basset... same deal. Finally located a few rising down Fieldale way around noon but difficult wading prevented me presenting them properly. Did manage one nine inch brown on a hopper 20 minutes before I had to bug out to ward off the skunk.
In the 7 or so trips I have made to the Smith over the last couple of years, I've never seen less fish-sign than yesterday. I was wondering if the regulars could provide some insight on the above. So my gas money will be better spent next time.
For the beer lovers, ya'll give White Street Brewing a try. They are out of Wake Forest, NC and make a delicious Kolsch and the Hoptimist IPA may be the best this side of Asheville. Any recommended local beers I should track down next time I'm up your way?
Best, guys and thanks,
CaddisMan
I came up yesterday arriving at dawn up at the dam. I fished several points from the dam to down say a quarter of a mile. I DIDN'T SEE A SINGLE FISH! ...staying until 10 am casting nymphs and dry droppers along the far bank. If they were there, they were hunkered to within 5 feet of the bank. The mist wast heavy and the water around 48F had me shivering... in July?!... an odd experience.
Anyway, moved down to Basset... same deal. Finally located a few rising down Fieldale way around noon but difficult wading prevented me presenting them properly. Did manage one nine inch brown on a hopper 20 minutes before I had to bug out to ward off the skunk.
In the 7 or so trips I have made to the Smith over the last couple of years, I've never seen less fish-sign than yesterday. I was wondering if the regulars could provide some insight on the above. So my gas money will be better spent next time.
For the beer lovers, ya'll give White Street Brewing a try. They are out of Wake Forest, NC and make a delicious Kolsch and the Hoptimist IPA may be the best this side of Asheville. Any recommended local beers I should track down next time I'm up your way?
Best, guys and thanks,
CaddisMan
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 22, 2015, 07:24:19 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 22, 2015, 07:24:19 AM
Snort.
From SRTU website, reporting on annual VDGIF sampling:
"Following comments are from Philpott to Martinsville Dam:
* they samples 8 sites above the Martinsville dam. All together, they totaled about 8000 feet of river sampled.
*2300 fish were collected. 70% were Brown Trout, 2 % were Rainbows, 13% Darters, 5.5% Chub. and the other 9.5% were other baitfish, bass, sunfish, etc. They estimate that they only collect about half of the fish in the sampled areas using the barge technique employed on the upper river.
*They have collected an average of 11 trout/10 meters over the last ten years. Last five years have trended higher.
*The average fish size above Martinsville dam was 8.3″. This is also trending higher.
*Higher numbers of trout were collected from the Mirror Plant to the Philpott Dam. Numbers collected fell of dramatically below Bassett. But baitfish numbers were reversed. The waters below Bassett become harder to sample and the sampled areas were smaller, but is something else going on?
From SRTU website, reporting on annual VDGIF sampling:
"Following comments are from Philpott to Martinsville Dam:
* they samples 8 sites above the Martinsville dam. All together, they totaled about 8000 feet of river sampled.
*2300 fish were collected. 70% were Brown Trout, 2 % were Rainbows, 13% Darters, 5.5% Chub. and the other 9.5% were other baitfish, bass, sunfish, etc. They estimate that they only collect about half of the fish in the sampled areas using the barge technique employed on the upper river.
*They have collected an average of 11 trout/10 meters over the last ten years. Last five years have trended higher.
*The average fish size above Martinsville dam was 8.3″. This is also trending higher.
*Higher numbers of trout were collected from the Mirror Plant to the Philpott Dam. Numbers collected fell of dramatically below Bassett. But baitfish numbers were reversed. The waters below Bassett become harder to sample and the sampled areas were smaller, but is something else going on?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: CaddisMan on July 22, 2015, 12:57:21 PM
Post by: CaddisMan on July 22, 2015, 12:57:21 PM
Just to be clear, not meaning to dis the fishery or suggest dwindling trout population. Just wondering if there was something about time of year, time of day, conditions, or something related to water release that had them hunkered down. Hell, maybe I just got lucky the other half dozen or so trips. The Smith just seemed uncharacteristically stingy yesterday. But no worries, as the governator says, 'I'll be bach'...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on July 22, 2015, 12:59:11 PM
Post by: driver on July 22, 2015, 12:59:11 PM
It's the Smith... when its on, its on. When its off.. you won't catch jack
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 22, 2015, 13:22:42 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 22, 2015, 13:22:42 PM
Quote from: driver on July 22, 2015, 12:59:11 PM
It's the Smith... when its on, its on. When its off.. you won't catch jack
This.^
My post was meant to show that there are gobs of fish. You may not see them, but they see you. They are there.
And when they turn off......
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Aka on July 22, 2015, 13:27:31 PM
Post by: Aka on July 22, 2015, 13:27:31 PM
Quit being a dick, Doug. Tell us how to catch fish on the Smith.
jk ;D
jk ;D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 22, 2015, 14:08:05 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 22, 2015, 14:08:05 PM
Twenty years ago, when I started fly fishing, I could hardly catch a fish in the Smith, things haven't changed much over the years ;-)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gamatt53 on July 22, 2015, 16:07:53 PM
Post by: gamatt53 on July 22, 2015, 16:07:53 PM
The river can be a fickle bitch - especially when the sun is up high and nothing is hatching.
This time of year it's all about the beetle and fishing early or late. Beetles on the bank early AM with mist on the river is super fun.
This time of year it's all about the beetle and fishing early or late. Beetles on the bank early AM with mist on the river is super fun.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 02, 2015, 14:29:57 PM
Post by: Al on August 02, 2015, 14:29:57 PM
Good report and great photos. Did you see what I meant about not wading when they are generating full bore?
How about the kayak hatch - any of that going on?
How about the kayak hatch - any of that going on?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 02, 2015, 16:58:28 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 02, 2015, 16:58:28 PM
Despite the rec release, I went up to fish with the fanatic. We did have to spend some time counting kayaks and wait for the water to fall.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/8/080115-1.jpg)
Brian standing in the stiff current swinging flies.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/8/080115-2.jpg)
While I had eight strikes on the streamer, they failed to hook themselves.
So I played around with the camera settings.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/8/080115-3.jpg)
still waiting for the hatch to take off.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/8/080115-4.jpg)
One skunk remover!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/8/080115-5.jpg)
beauty shot...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 02, 2015, 19:34:47 PM
Post by: Al on August 02, 2015, 19:34:47 PM
I know a lot of you wonder about what keeps pulling Woolly and the rest of us back to the Smith. Wonder no longer. Here is your chance to see that the "Smiff", as TF and several others call it, does indeed hold more brown trout then most streams within easy driving distance. The fish are there but they are not easy pickings like on "bluelines" or delayed harvest streams. Pay your dues, learn what works and what doesn't and you can puff out your chest and likely catch trout anywhere. For sure it will make you a better fisherman.
Don't forget it also holds a lot of Rainbows during stocking season.
VDGIF will conduct their annual multi-location sampling of the Smith River Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, August 11-13. This is a wading sample and requires a large crew. Volunteers are always appreciated. If you don't feel comfortable wading there are several land based tasks you can assist with. You're also welcome to just come by to observe - VDGIF Biologists welcome your questions.
Here is the projected schedule - GPS locations are close to the actual locations.
Day 1: August 11, 2015
1. Meet at sampling site at 10 AM, Yellow Stairs 36 47' 38" N by 80 01' 03 " W (This is up the road going to the base of the dam - just before road turns to gravel)
2. Travel to next sampling site (lunch) Bassett Library 36 45' 45" N by 79 59' 45" W
3. Travel to next sampling site, Shady view Road 36 44' 15" N by 79 56' 24" W (Site of the old church at dead end road on downstream side of 220 Bypass)
Day 2: August 12, 2015
1. Meet at sampling site 9:00 AM, Bassett Mirror Plant 36 47' 14" N by 79 59" 51" W (travel to the back side of the plant, through the field to the far left corner to the sampling site) sample and then have lunch (this will be a 3-pass depletion - During the 2014 sample we moved the fish collected from this site to below MV Dam so it will be interesting to see if this site replenished itself)
2. Travel to next sampling site, Derelict Bridge 36 44' 15" N by 79 57' 26" W (Stanleytown Bridge - near CVS)
4. Travel to next sampling site, Sewage Plant 36 41' 35" N by 79 55' 32" W
Day 3: August 13, 2015
1. Meet at sampling site 9:00 AM, Dam site 36 47' 37" N by 80 01' 34" W (same road as Yellow Stairs - this site is just before big pool called Lemon's Hole - steep concrete steps to small cabin on right of road/stream - During the 2014 sample we also moved the fish collected from this site to below MV Dam so it will be interesting to see if this site replenished itself)
Contact Al Kittredge email aakitt@earthlink.net or cell phone 910-624-3457 for up-to-date information as to time and location.
Don't forget it also holds a lot of Rainbows during stocking season.
VDGIF will conduct their annual multi-location sampling of the Smith River Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, August 11-13. This is a wading sample and requires a large crew. Volunteers are always appreciated. If you don't feel comfortable wading there are several land based tasks you can assist with. You're also welcome to just come by to observe - VDGIF Biologists welcome your questions.
Here is the projected schedule - GPS locations are close to the actual locations.
Day 1: August 11, 2015
1. Meet at sampling site at 10 AM, Yellow Stairs 36 47' 38" N by 80 01' 03 " W (This is up the road going to the base of the dam - just before road turns to gravel)
2. Travel to next sampling site (lunch) Bassett Library 36 45' 45" N by 79 59' 45" W
3. Travel to next sampling site, Shady view Road 36 44' 15" N by 79 56' 24" W (Site of the old church at dead end road on downstream side of 220 Bypass)
Day 2: August 12, 2015
1. Meet at sampling site 9:00 AM, Bassett Mirror Plant 36 47' 14" N by 79 59" 51" W (travel to the back side of the plant, through the field to the far left corner to the sampling site) sample and then have lunch (this will be a 3-pass depletion - During the 2014 sample we moved the fish collected from this site to below MV Dam so it will be interesting to see if this site replenished itself)
2. Travel to next sampling site, Derelict Bridge 36 44' 15" N by 79 57' 26" W (Stanleytown Bridge - near CVS)
4. Travel to next sampling site, Sewage Plant 36 41' 35" N by 79 55' 32" W
Day 3: August 13, 2015
1. Meet at sampling site 9:00 AM, Dam site 36 47' 37" N by 80 01' 34" W (same road as Yellow Stairs - this site is just before big pool called Lemon's Hole - steep concrete steps to small cabin on right of road/stream - During the 2014 sample we also moved the fish collected from this site to below MV Dam so it will be interesting to see if this site replenished itself)
Contact Al Kittredge email aakitt@earthlink.net or cell phone 910-624-3457 for up-to-date information as to time and location.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 02, 2015, 19:52:49 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 02, 2015, 19:52:49 PM
You boys done good! 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on August 02, 2015, 20:10:42 PM
Post by: Onslow on August 02, 2015, 20:10:42 PM
You've represented the Smith very well there, Brian.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Yallerhammer on August 03, 2015, 07:00:43 AM
Post by: Yallerhammer on August 03, 2015, 07:00:43 AM
Those are some nice, solid fish, especially for this time of year. y;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on August 31, 2015, 14:55:20 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on August 31, 2015, 14:55:20 PM
Fished it Saturday afternoon for a little bit and Sunday morning for an hour or so. Not a lot of fish, but they were decent sized for the upper Smith.
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-30-15%20006_zps0t8iinuj.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-30-15%20006_zps0t8iinuj.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-30-15%20001_zps4lipo6ah.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-30-15%20001_zps4lipo6ah.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-30-15%20005_zpsmn8sn7g6.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-30-15%20005_zpsmn8sn7g6.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-30-15%20004_zpskaj8hnzp.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-30-15%20004_zpskaj8hnzp.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-30-15%20003_zpssey6hhqn.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-30-15%20003_zpssey6hhqn.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-30-15%20006_zps0t8iinuj.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-30-15%20006_zps0t8iinuj.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-30-15%20001_zps4lipo6ah.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-30-15%20001_zps4lipo6ah.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-30-15%20005_zpsmn8sn7g6.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-30-15%20005_zpsmn8sn7g6.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-30-15%20004_zpskaj8hnzp.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-30-15%20004_zpskaj8hnzp.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-8-30-15%20003_zpssey6hhqn.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-8-30-15%20003_zpssey6hhqn.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 31, 2015, 15:11:18 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 31, 2015, 15:11:18 PM
Nice catching, Ben! Hope the generations did not mess you up.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 31, 2015, 15:18:13 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 31, 2015, 15:18:13 PM
Beetle boy bags big browns, nice going
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 31, 2015, 16:29:24 PM
Post by: Al on August 31, 2015, 16:29:24 PM
Nice going Ben 'c; 'c; 'c;
I was there for a little fishing on Friday and Saturday - did it below the other dam. Still have not figured how to catch them big ones but did catch several of the ones we fin clipped during the recent sampling. They looked healthy so no worse for wear from being transported. Also caught several 4-5 inch fingerlings which were likely some of the 1200 they stocked down there in early spring.
I was there for a little fishing on Friday and Saturday - did it below the other dam. Still have not figured how to catch them big ones but did catch several of the ones we fin clipped during the recent sampling. They looked healthy so no worse for wear from being transported. Also caught several 4-5 inch fingerlings which were likely some of the 1200 they stocked down there in early spring.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on September 02, 2015, 15:16:44 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on September 02, 2015, 15:16:44 PM
Doug, the generation was a pain to fish around.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on September 02, 2015, 16:09:12 PM
Post by: Al on September 02, 2015, 16:09:12 PM
Quote from: 5xTippett on September 02, 2015, 15:16:44 PM
Doug, the generation was a pain to fish around when you sleep in and don't get on the water until 10:30 or later in the morning.
Fixed ;D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 08, 2015, 10:15:25 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 08, 2015, 10:15:25 AM
As ya'll know they broke the generator(s) at the Philpott dam, so with no generation rec generation scheduled for Saturday I hit the river for a couple of hours...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/9/090415-1.jpg)
Train Wrecker Mushrooms (Edible???)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/9/090415-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/9/090415-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/9/090415-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/9/090415-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/9/090415-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/9/090415-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/9/090415-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/9/090415-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/9/090415-10.jpg)
Doug will know what this is???
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/9/090415-11.jpg)
Fall's coming!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/9/090415-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/9/090415-13.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015/9/090415-14.jpg)
Not the lowest in VA but mo better than NC prices!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Yallerhammer on September 08, 2015, 13:03:45 PM
Post by: Yallerhammer on September 08, 2015, 13:03:45 PM
Great pics, nice browns! The mystery plant is developing seedheads of Clematis virginiana, virgin's bower.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on September 08, 2015, 13:09:40 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on September 08, 2015, 13:09:40 PM
Is anyone culling those little pan fryers? I need to do some technical dry fishing soon...nm I'll prolly just chuck dishrags at trannys gars
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 08, 2015, 13:16:53 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 08, 2015, 13:16:53 PM
Better call, they are going to dump all the water they've been saving up starting Friday if not Thursday....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 08, 2015, 14:36:20 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 08, 2015, 14:36:20 PM
I dunno if they are going to generate on Saturday, might save it till Monday, jus call on Friday to be sure
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 08, 2015, 19:33:10 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 08, 2015, 19:33:10 PM
'c;
Definitely call.
$1.93 at Basset Flats last week.
Definitely call.
$1.93 at Basset Flats last week.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on September 08, 2015, 20:48:50 PM
Post by: Big J on September 08, 2015, 20:48:50 PM
Filled up for $1.84 last week in Lynchburg. -0-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 20, 2015, 14:26:45 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 20, 2015, 14:26:45 PM
forgot the camera
used the gopro
caught a major hatch
lunch was the highlight
shoulda stayed home and tied flies
http://vimeo.com/139852594 (http://vimeo.com/139852594)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015//9/091915-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2015//9/091915-2.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JWJ on September 21, 2015, 09:05:36 AM
Post by: JWJ on September 21, 2015, 09:05:36 AM
Nice Woolly. Making me home sick.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on September 21, 2015, 14:13:29 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on September 21, 2015, 14:13:29 PM
Fished a couple of hours Saturday afternoon and a couple of hours Sunday morning. It was nothing special but I did catch one pushing 15 inches Saturday afternoon.
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-%209-19%2020%202015%20002_zpsvdl37e4k.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-%209-19%2020%202015%20002_zpsvdl37e4k.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-%209-19%2020%202015%20003_zpsdbfxuggt.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-%209-19%2020%202015%20003_zpsdbfxuggt.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-%209-19%2020%202015%20005_zpsxowvg7ru.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-%209-19%2020%202015%20005_zpsxowvg7ru.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-%209-19%2020%202015%20002_zpsvdl37e4k.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-%209-19%2020%202015%20002_zpsvdl37e4k.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-%209-19%2020%202015%20003_zpsdbfxuggt.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-%209-19%2020%202015%20003_zpsdbfxuggt.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith-%209-19%2020%202015%20005_zpsxowvg7ru.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith-%209-19%2020%202015%20005_zpsxowvg7ru.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 21, 2015, 19:52:50 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 21, 2015, 19:52:50 PM
Go Ben! 'c;
I might fish the bitch next week. I'm overdue.
I might fish the bitch next week. I'm overdue.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 22, 2015, 14:47:33 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 22, 2015, 14:47:33 PM
if they fix that damn dam and get some regular flows going I may fish it again
Thurs and Friday of this week are suppose to be 12am - 7am and 6pm - 12pm, sending lots of cold water down river. d:b
That schedule looks like this.. V:;
[attach=1]
Thurs and Friday of this week are suppose to be 12am - 7am and 6pm - 12pm, sending lots of cold water down river. d:b
That schedule looks like this.. V:;
[attach=1]
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 24, 2015, 13:42:33 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 24, 2015, 13:42:33 PM
Too damn nice not to go fishing
first cast caught a dink
drank some beers
bakers dozen
fished till dark
https://vimeo.com/140338336
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on September 24, 2015, 17:38:14 PM
Post by: driver on September 24, 2015, 17:38:14 PM
So you drank a bakers dozen of beers!! <-;: And caught some dinks!!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: RiverbumCO on September 24, 2015, 19:57:07 PM
Post by: RiverbumCO on September 24, 2015, 19:57:07 PM
Video was gay...vett brothers.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: BRFFF on September 24, 2015, 20:18:45 PM
Post by: BRFFF on September 24, 2015, 20:18:45 PM
Quote from: driver on September 24, 2015, 17:38:14 PM
So you drank a bakers dozen of beers!! <-;: And caught some dinks!!
Pretty much
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: DRIFTS on September 25, 2015, 05:08:32 AM
Post by: DRIFTS on September 25, 2015, 05:08:32 AM
kill'n me man, kill'n me /'/
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: BRFFF on September 25, 2015, 08:27:02 AM
Post by: BRFFF on September 25, 2015, 08:27:02 AM
Quote from: DRIFTS on September 25, 2015, 05:08:32 AM
kill'n me man, kill'n me /'/
Well they're back to generating so a lower river float is possible
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 26, 2015, 12:25:53 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 26, 2015, 12:25:53 PM
Quote from: RiverbumCO on September 24, 2015, 19:57:07 PM
Video was gay...vett brothers.
I had not even look at that, now 17 page, post... p;-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 15, 2016, 10:28:07 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 15, 2016, 10:28:07 AM
While daydreaming at the office, I thought I'd run up to the Smith and see
if I could steal some of Doug's beers, but he was missing in action, so I tied
on an ultrasmall black slumpbuster and hit the river while the water was down.
Might shoulda changed over to nymphing, but refused 'c;
I may have arrived a tad to late and missed the falling water bite, but I still
caught a few pune brows, and a stocker rainbow, which, by the way, is the first
bow that I've caught in this section. Almost threw it up on the bank. Maybe they'll
keep the water off on the weekend and we can get a whole day up there
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/01/011416-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/01/011416-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/01/011416-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/01/011416-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/01/011416-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/01/011416-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/01/011416-13.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/01/011416-14.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/01/011416-15.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/01/011416-16.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: revfox on January 15, 2016, 20:51:54 PM
Post by: revfox on January 15, 2016, 20:51:54 PM
This is beautiful. I'm so ready to get back up there. My first and only trip was successful and hopefully the water subsiding will correlate with my work schedule some day.
Thx for sharing Wooly
Thx for sharing Wooly
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on January 15, 2016, 21:33:07 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on January 15, 2016, 21:33:07 PM
W.B. - Glad you got to hit it. I know you been missin' that river. So, we can still fish it while not generating as usual, but there's just not much time that they're not generating.....correct?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 15, 2016, 21:43:42 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 15, 2016, 21:43:42 PM
That's it, it's always a bitch in the winter, and with the crazy generation schedule, you got to ask yourself is it worth the drive for a couple of hours
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 15, 2016, 21:47:43 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 15, 2016, 21:47:43 PM
After months of work, broken generators and high water, I finally got on the Smiff for 2 whole hours. In the cold rain.
Bammer messaged me and we met up and got to work. Streamers were the choice of the day.
We caught the water on it's last 6 inches of fall and started in. I had one roll on the fly on the second cast, a tug on the 4th and 5th cast and a decent fish on the 7th.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TaTuTgz5gxh5AsmKqzU3halHTbvB6v1YKX4Si_IbIOLX0x4e-cDAhPnWj2D_t1agjARbjVAsJceSjzBLqWWqLP2r7DEwlV68BP7Guf5zISGefaDLIL9-2QhrmZ85mc6pG8DvnWY9qVoY1lxrZLI2rGhnsELiYelT9VpK58P3oz8cbMQo0MxBAYEqSl6d0ROfbX_qCJuYbP5-7mJ3NSLXETEb8R6HzxGI19v-C5c3VXui-5h_eSawVs_eLw-sdf9rTk6YxVTZ8CA_ehk_jGMXIoQOz6xKSXUSuPoDhBGyZ-_NNeA3AAu4M9_NKqLmxyqeiYcRi8bQj6rd90zlXDTAoUDRwTraOBL7J5OGx-_nO-D5R95o4nWOdsdE9ov2SAKJf9i0-0203WR_WIM_wWWwFEDMJ_RwhDkac5cbHWdVigltj9qz0qcAelLA9SQJJF48R-mw83sZyJaoEq-M3qiOaPYgLoZbZgbxrshvn3AdWKyZEUsz8NRW5DdMIwGW5KkDjUP1exdvw6TviiTS-e7gUe3WnXUpBd58p-IcWJJf1WmQgeHagtoznhc6Nuli030l_UbKlg=w814-h610-no)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/iuly_fYcyFSCFjyF0gKl3AoCwgdW09JS4L5aYa-K7f2oso-ZVZwkLvGG_J3NXaPJN1h2_a55-m66fEacDo6_EJc2Wwoic75fY7fyRJYntag5cTswckhhkHukYFmWV2ewsXtRgBz4RM_rMC49BcdPJtNPLhvg_yI1c4g2g066ELWT4bz_aqp0f8DRqFcPHLMM44dByn1nijAHLNkOrXdT3_JQX8Vb9hcfkR6CoGNGoIsAzN0OTYcoCaSr_wrB51mAeWp99XN1x2hEP6dbZ8clmZ9YFSSIc_EmYRU7v6XQXYNNJtAvjQkwU2CkfJOLS0HmoyjUyFRkNwVOzr96tBq1R0nU-JdbXxsYYJ5cd5AyIRz4_P4pkaTINSleHJAhIifrKKEQXgpRpLoozHjHUMKoCizYspCp7iHRBhN6i3iFDwmc4WhigDV5bPw06_SM9DZ9kJbjrv-WC9w5KBwGf1deiWCq5Yp6tnKmBabP-sLMtAZRADrqLJ4yab0rgcpaxh6c9CHUHJA3rPaPoHg_H1GAsF5wlMu_vdaxDtrwUR3F9kqk5Vkv2i8mTqWuAgcvj1qRMWvQXA=w814-h610-no)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/B3xYyQc-BEExItQAAG0iPOdm_sNFANbUWDD-HUbNmwTaJul8nqtEp7qsEa-wT-D1IuHDTUxbobOsJMVUpF58X0wd_L15bSMq0B_u3aHFMBMbA3iCh86S6XgodVVC9ElJVksGQu8KEUK1P0KPXw1mCtb-YA4gsr1lKATvR4_AGPh87GTZXJoqH0561HJ4Miwh7D4Crb2ERTr_YiLsdVs7g382ZseQDwtRzyJsrh232TCqMGZcRMeoXRCtI_p4o7ZUbt8REz-GswWp6LjdtrZG8Y2RC_WuN0mI9-kc4sVDiZ6OXK8iZC_HRXXc0U3BKwxFO1C25HZzMPdy0wrVG-jCs6gVkSfFPAHumhnvvFq5VOWnTSomcsX-ZljFbYWCa6aQfqPqAPQuoxcgY_SXRbXLCASYFJFg8n5z1AGcIWUKM2AYsSls5jgruFGDWdJvWBW-NrRw8uYwRohSGaDNewqsYJCIEpjTCcO7dpF8bQuTnnK2Zci-Mn4xYIK2UuIzzI-NTT5Fu2ji9SCRQz6VjBl7qDfelS5ZCC1q46tEM275C2eBPvyPnX8UgzFzx0FCRfTm4M3k1A=w814-h610-no)
After that, we grinded on with little success. Bama had some bumps, I rolled a couple more and had some more tugs. One small fish with a big appetite was my only other catch. We had a scotch break and climbed out as the water rose again. Try, try again.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/AyhXyJRX-OcPJOcfvz52qvYcbBW-Fk_pivWxVhz1CGkGO0twQQwQqzH0cUWQnxGL2NzFn8pZmA9ahXNRboChATozpldOS0FAtA0QyuOV14TKeYrIez3gdCqc-v-rMrIQh799CMffM4GH8_KyBnB4wDUe_kCXgbSfl9dAsypX5dnIErtl8mCVXQqN4nM3yIQO-Epl8wsmk8l6dUMTEWxiJz0Yg1CgSn41_YA9FgxP3SEyH-vVnkXOQ-OHDYcDjqVcG81PqdXzEGuluyRDUKnqs-d6LxF68UrbddZF9j9E5DTVeLHZdhHfl5N6VbPz07dV3dmgDVp_1l9GcZPMGF7CHYX2fev0UO5fyk49vs4oCDhEo_ukMbUVDNOeqR8Psw4hA9KZpP7LWfNU_dqBBYahe48NpkxofDPFrEAeTA3NM3yNJhvhkp5S3z6GSYKVWEVTEKMZu4gsDDB-09j1wUt_YkkKrmikTn50N9zZMxNkdOakSIgvpOuHaLPAxF3cE4dEXS91qIII_QA-OmkWHbKZZ56YS4dWgj9bsKkvU4MxYi4waEajPkoCVFLWSfPe8Q7njISWuQ=w458-h610-no)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kYI9VG07nhH8ywKBNRqyapBspTBY0bTly2jitd7oLtXn2nt7cPMO5Qe-GIwp61_fg5yNW7W8kTet7Kty6BL2ZyYEfKVwMb2DJ_iyr1U5pD6zDv_CP84NdMXeulPrs5kMyoxbGGDBKf5tLB6b3FdCHmmV1Ab-6ts2A0aOSBtd0HQkKUMd0EGOGQehKNSkcx7tT02x2GmZz76x_eZGcyTLpeL5t5SLidCmvwDl0yOmFGI91NkB375vXVR8yLm5TLfztGVF3SlTWuYy9s_vEsmvv_3RZsekkMNuyUtAJVSoueClisGdBzJCgb4rVNDHi26caZevVt3ug6qee6qfnFAlNFnnU6DCDfDeiZ4crS0CRj8aSeOY8W18IMID1G0eW0qpaqLob570MuxfHVPj6FMeb4yg8eKmppEbAE-zoNUZNYrN4LiBU6ufFSfkGMqhQZ_02scqeBfGH3jHVMVp-jx2-Q85wEV7nYinl8Z29B501_cW7q0Zx0geP6qzxwNd6LHTnEd3gfvPrArT-msVvj4T3l5SlTmrV4XWR2BA1JjdZ16lozsOK1pIpFJNWXZCAXReRwCrxA=w1026-h610-no)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XIizm-CC5fypb-3n42-P8Th7ZsS71GzjCvxPCYqaROgPL_1654e8O2oJ76fITALd1aKb_4AKud8jSNglCpJrYRpapRMxFKJcpryDgqRLNNCoLUcozaAZwpGw_ATra5WZ9dT075CZzI9gVwehCnVAl_LzLkxUZd3aWqkmCzBD7I9dOxGTbY0ph8mEfyTxwInHu5Bz4UnOn_INpC96F1z0538-fxpnvnwbdIxRavouTDWWGz82yMYoVE1XCZT1qDZbgIc8X8Nus5XcDxpGadk1gYXCbTlQoeN01FLk0XDMPXSD2p2fEP8RzvDWyzH0moXAKAUOefVsdrsrURzqe8ZXHC_2Kl44dHinOFQ2oCd8mFzHLFTTas4FFIFx0hn0nc-aTaSsV35YhsJw8rvxQTKMw6L0wQ4FPT22eKqewKoq5jsjRRR8xNhHuZCUROzY7OFFoAJ3z5w8xLF7h05pWVk_gFNcgnKE7QUPPN5TVcNLO-_IjvHqQFoY397LTU8jQi0QKM9eGnrQNCGjSH2HxSDJqp87vCjLt-FpaKqDeeZKYt-9aZEW3mJucLJbVjnNjdZZDsUgTA=w814-h610-no)
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 15, 2016, 21:51:54 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 15, 2016, 21:51:54 PM
Awe heck, I woulda drove on up for some Scotch!
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on January 15, 2016, 22:21:10 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on January 15, 2016, 22:21:10 PM
WB - I've done far worse than a little drive to scratch the itch.
Dougfresh - Nicely done.
Who's Bammer? The new dude? No fishes for him?
Dougfresh - Nicely done.
Who's Bammer? The new dude? No fishes for him?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: bamafisher on January 16, 2016, 06:12:21 AM
Post by: bamafisher on January 16, 2016, 06:12:21 AM
Yeah, got my skunk on. First time in a while, left a bitter taste but the scotch helped with that
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on January 16, 2016, 06:49:47 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on January 16, 2016, 06:49:47 AM
I enjoy that river. It could be more scenic, that's for sure, but I like the challenge. At least you have to actually fish there instead of just throwing any random fly into a small creek and having the natives go to town on it (I enjoy this as well). I haven't been skunked there yet, but maybe I'm jinxing myself now. In my opinion, those bigger waters, with more pressure, and more water to contend with, will make you a better fisherman, and that's what I'm shooting for nowadays.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 16, 2016, 08:24:56 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 16, 2016, 08:24:56 AM
Quote from: wademaster on January 16, 2016, 06:49:47 AM
It could be more scenic.
That's why I like the old special regs section, not a fan of fishing in town (Bassett) even though good fish are caught through there.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on January 16, 2016, 09:03:10 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on January 16, 2016, 09:03:10 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on January 16, 2016, 08:24:56 AMQuote from: wademaster on January 16, 2016, 06:49:47 AM
It could be more scenic.
That's why I like the old special regs section, not a fan of fishing in town (Bassett) even though good fish are caught through there.
Indeed. I need to spend a little more time down that way.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 07, 2016, 07:13:01 AM
Post by: Dougfish on March 07, 2016, 07:13:01 AM
Maneuvered around the generation.
Slung big stuff with old glass on old and new stretches.
Hung with some Carolina guys.
Drank.
Enjoyed a black caddis hatch.
And stuck a few meh fish.
Slung big stuff with old glass on old and new stretches.
Hung with some Carolina guys.
Drank.
Enjoyed a black caddis hatch.
And stuck a few meh fish.
(http://i.imgur.com/5QwCpXS.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/tYdOAwl.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/1tZtoBy.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/vKRC5dp.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/f1FmpPl.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/e8p0b0C.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/lBXHQzU.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ptfranze on March 07, 2016, 09:38:12 AM
Post by: ptfranze on March 07, 2016, 09:38:12 AM
(http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c252/ptfranze/F79208DA-02B7-4174-B80C-FD0FCAC3F7AB_zps21d1rcdn.jpg) (http://s29.photobucket.com/user/ptfranze/media/F79208DA-02B7-4174-B80C-FD0FCAC3F7AB_zps21d1rcdn.jpg.html)
These guys were coming off the water like crazy yesterday but only saw one fish rise about 3 times. A little disappointing but fun to see the hatch.
Best fish of the day caught a couple others smaller than this
(http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c252/ptfranze/CB0AE64E-1579-4E14-A182-741AD017B151_zpsdcuw83t1.jpg) (http://s29.photobucket.com/user/ptfranze/media/CB0AE64E-1579-4E14-A182-741AD017B151_zpsdcuw83t1.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on March 07, 2016, 09:53:58 AM
Post by: NCsporksman on March 07, 2016, 09:53:58 AM
Woolly has all my pics hopefully he can compel Satan out of my SD card
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 07, 2016, 11:27:36 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 07, 2016, 11:27:36 AM
Quote from: NCsporksman on March 07, 2016, 09:53:58 AM
Woolly has all my pics hopefully he can compel Satan out of my SD card
all yer chit is uploaded to google driver, i sent a link to yer email... <-;:
i'm convinced that operator error was involved in your problems....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JWJ on March 07, 2016, 12:37:17 PM
Post by: JWJ on March 07, 2016, 12:37:17 PM
The Smith, finally able to get a little love. Nice work.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on March 07, 2016, 12:48:27 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on March 07, 2016, 12:48:27 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on March 07, 2016, 11:27:36 AMKeep talking that shit old man.....u jellyQuote from: NCsporksman on March 07, 2016, 09:53:58 AM
Woolly has all my pics hopefully he can compel Satan out of my SD card
all yer chit is uploaded to google driver, i sent a link to yer email... <-;:
i'm convinced that operator error was involved in your problems....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 02, 2016, 08:44:35 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 02, 2016, 08:44:35 AM
2016-27
https://youtu.be/nxFJ44gPE3M (https://youtu.be/nxFJ44gPE3M)
With news of a fire at the Philpott dam and a weekday minimum flow, I took off and hit the old special regs section hoping for a sulfur hatch and some dry fly action. Another angler, a local TU member who knows Al, but who's name I've forgotten, had the same idea to take advantage of the break in generation. We found black caddis working in the riffles, but the fish weren't rising. The old timer, was doing well with a soft hackle pheasant tail by using a twitch retrieve, "They can't stand it," he in formed my when I asked about his fly and method. I sat down and drank a beer and watched for risers. When they hit the surface I was ready and in quick order brought three to hand. Then the water began to rise and I headed out.
Since I left the Oly TG at home I tried to use the iPhone and GoPro to capture the events of the day.
https://vimeo.com/161287620 (https://vimeo.com/161287620)
Rotating the GoPro, I captured an interesting perspective of catch and release, but tried to "fix it in post."
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/03/033016-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/03/033016-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/03/033016-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/03/033016-9.jpg)
Now that they restored power to the sluice gates and are dumping 500+ cfs, I'll need to get a boat to fish that bitch!
I sure hope the fish like the steady high flow!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 19, 2016, 21:44:58 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 19, 2016, 21:44:58 PM
The COE dropped the sluice down to 100-150 cfs about 5 this afternoon. I could not stay away. Neither could Woowie. Since la grand sluicing will pick up again about 5 pm Friday, this could be the last evening sulfur hatch to be fished for the year.
And it was.........not epic. Very meh. But the little fish were turned on and full of spunk. So we caught them. A pune-a-rama for 2 1/2 hours until it was too dark to tie on a fly.
I was down a little early to do some work. After that I suited up and watched the water. Fish were rising at 500 cfs. Encouraging.
(http://i.imgur.com/tc6x91C.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/O3NyhVN.jpg)
And I watched the water some more.
(http://i.imgur.com/uhGEhZw.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/QuspJGl.jpg)
Finally, I decided it was starting to recede. Waded in, looked up river and the bossman was ready to step in, too.
Three quick fish. Then the switch was off. That's the way it was all the way through.
(http://i.imgur.com/aIZXrSc.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/RF5GsEC.jpg)
Realized I was still thirsty, so I waded in, grabbed my pack and little cooler bag and walked up stream to the master.
It's going to be another stellar corn crop.
(http://i.imgur.com/Rpmdtjy.jpg)
We drank a few beers, bullshitted about the rest of you assholes, caught some fish and enjoyed the beautiful river.
(http://i.imgur.com/iNzXYv3.jpg)
And then we stumbled out and hit the road. He south, me north. 9:00 pm.
0:0 to the Smiff.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on May 20, 2016, 08:09:05 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on May 20, 2016, 08:09:05 AM
I respect the commitment you guys make with that flow. Righteous.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 20, 2016, 08:41:30 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 20, 2016, 08:41:30 AM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on May 20, 2016, 08:09:05 AMI has its appeal, and the sulfur hatch is one of them!
I respect the commitment you guys make with that flow. Righteous.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on May 20, 2016, 08:51:34 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on May 20, 2016, 08:51:34 AM
I've enjoyed it the few times I've fished it. Personally, I think if you can catch fish there, you can catch fish most places. The challenge is what I like about the river.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 20, 2016, 13:27:50 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 20, 2016, 13:27:50 PM
Only One Day to Wade
TU national is meeting in Roanoke this weekend and some of the local guys managed to convince the COE to cut the flow for Friday so those gathering at the meeting could experience the Smith in favorable conditions. So they cut the flow for 24 hours, starting at 5:00 PM Thursday evening, giving us the only opportunity this year to fish the evening sulfur hatch, which can be specular. I got to the river just past 6:30 and caught the falling water. There were a few bugs sailing and it took a while to spy a rising fish. A few cast later and I watched my target miss my fly. I switched up patterns to give him a different look and bam! A nice, for the upper Smith, brown trout with hugs spots and a butter belly. Of course I had forgotten my camera, but I did attempt to use the GoPro, but the fish got away before I could get a shot. Worked on my technique and managed to video a few of the dozen trout that I caught. The hatch never really came on strong, but the fish showed interest in the few that were floating on down the feeding lanes. Pretty location, some good beer and conversation with a fellow fisherman.
https://vimeo.com/167463962
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 20, 2016, 18:48:46 PM
Post by: Al on May 20, 2016, 18:48:46 PM
I got out today. Had an order for some skillet Rainbows from my better half so fished the lower river down through Bassett. Didn't take long to fill that order. That gave me time to mow the lawn at my cabin before going back down for some catch and release fun.
BTW - talked with three local fishermen who are ticked at the weekend releases. Urged them to make the June 9th meeting which will be last chance to weigh in.
BTW - talked with three local fishermen who are ticked at the weekend releases. Urged them to make the June 9th meeting which will be last chance to weigh in.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: RiverbumCO on May 21, 2016, 10:47:48 AM
Post by: RiverbumCO on May 21, 2016, 10:47:48 AM
Git'n it
Keef what was the song in the vid.
Keef what was the song in the vid.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 21, 2016, 21:30:42 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 21, 2016, 21:30:42 PM
Quote from: RiverbumCO on May 21, 2016, 10:47:48 AM
Git'n it
Keef what was the song in the vid.
Doc Watson, The Old Man Below off of the Home Again! album. I downloaded it off of Archive.org, but can't find that listing anymore....
Send PM if you want more info...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 08, 2016, 20:37:54 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 08, 2016, 20:37:54 PM
I did a little work on the Sulfur Hatch hook set video from the other day, a little zoom and slo mo and music... :banana011: :banana026: /'/ -0- -0-
Sadly I may have misplaced / lost the GoPro Hero 4 Silver... I thought I put it in the car when I went off to fish with B.R.A. but, despite tearing apart the car, I've not found it....
:embarassed: :banana072: b';
first run at normal, second 1/2 speed on the hook set, fish jumps...
http://vimeo.com/169947470
Sadly I may have misplaced / lost the GoPro Hero 4 Silver... I thought I put it in the car when I went off to fish with B.R.A. but, despite tearing apart the car, I've not found it....
:embarassed: :banana072: b';
first run at normal, second 1/2 speed on the hook set, fish jumps...
http://vimeo.com/169947470
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 08, 2016, 21:40:57 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 08, 2016, 21:40:57 PM
Ha, just found the bitch!!! -0- V:;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Michael Toris on June 08, 2016, 21:41:37 PM
Post by: Michael Toris on June 08, 2016, 21:41:37 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on June 08, 2016, 21:40:57 PMDam. I was about to head down there and pick me up a new GoBro
Ha, just found the bitch!!! -0- V:;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 14, 2016, 12:35:29 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 14, 2016, 12:35:29 PM
2016-50,51
Now that the river is wadable and there are still some sulphurs around I headed up Sunday and Monday evenings. Forgot the TG-3, so strapped on the GoPro. Hiked in across the field, which felt like a desert in the heat of the afternoon. Fish were rising, might have done better with a soft hackle, but stuck with a dry fly. I relished the solitude of the quite evening, and watched the color of the water, was it blue, black, or golden yellow? Perhaps all of those colors and a million more all at the same time as it reflected the trees, sky and the clouds which were now tinted by the colors of the setting sun.
Sunday, two cars it the lot! Damn, crowds! Repeat of the day before. I fished on downstream, watched the two anglers come on up and behind me where they settled in to "see if we could learn anything" by watching me. Turns out it was Benny and his friend Roy(?) who have fished together for 30 years. They were glad to see the lower flows, but had told me that they had fished the higher flows too. Benny had wacked about 40 of the little peckerheads, he fishes a flymph, down and across and then stripping it in....
Looking at the video you would think this river would hold a lot of good sized trout. But it's running at six times it's normal flow as they continue to work of the dam. Here are a few pics and another video....
https://vimeo.com/170646390
Hottest day of the year so far...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061216-1.jpg)
Typical pune...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061216-2.jpg)
Fish till dusk...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061216-3.jpg)
Go back the next day, if you can, just because it looks like this...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061316-1.jpg)
Catching these diminutive beauties doesn't hurt...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061316-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061316-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061316-4.jpg)
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on June 14, 2016, 12:43:44 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on June 14, 2016, 12:43:44 PM
Hell yea, Woolly. I enjoyed the vid.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Yallerhammer on June 14, 2016, 13:10:31 PM
Post by: Yallerhammer on June 14, 2016, 13:10:31 PM
Good stuff! Liked the vid, too. Those may be punes in the river, but would be solid fish in a smaller creek.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on June 14, 2016, 13:41:34 PM
Post by: Al on June 14, 2016, 13:41:34 PM
Good stuff Woolly. We are going to sample below MV on Wed and Thurs. I'll probably have some photos but may not post too many out here on public side. I will let everyone know what my impression is of the flows though.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on June 17, 2016, 19:56:35 PM
Post by: Al on June 17, 2016, 19:56:35 PM
Quote from: Al on June 14, 2016, 13:41:34 PM
Good stuff Woolly. We are going to sample below MV on Wed and Thurs. I'll probably have some photos but may not post too many out here on public side. I will let everyone know what my impression is of the flows though.
Flows are still too much for my taste - if you are in shallow water in areas where it is fairly wide you have no problem but you should be aware that the water is about a foot higher then normal all over so wading even in the easy spots is limited.
Here's the only photo you are going to get from me here in the public side from our recent samplinging
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 18, 2016, 11:06:08 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 18, 2016, 11:06:08 AM
2016 - 52
i could go to the place a million times and never get tired of it...
i may even go back again today...
0:0
https://vimeo.com/171215157
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on June 18, 2016, 12:21:11 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on June 18, 2016, 12:21:11 PM
Rock on, Mr. Smith.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: swervinmervin on June 18, 2016, 22:26:35 PM
Post by: swervinmervin on June 18, 2016, 22:26:35 PM
Good work, Bossman.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 19, 2016, 06:03:17 AM
Post by: Dougfish on June 19, 2016, 06:03:17 AM
I share your opinion of that place.
Nice... V:; 0:0
Nice... V:; 0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 19, 2016, 09:18:17 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 19, 2016, 09:18:17 AM
2016 – 53
While most of you fuckers were off catching bid azz carps on the surface, I had to settle for the smith river punes... n!n I was surprised that nobody else was fishing in this location. There were plenty of paddlers on the lower river thou. I see that DARBA now has a drone... WTF? :;![/rant]
Having my morning coffee downtown, watching the world go by (yoga pants) and editing the video from yesterday, nothing else on the schedule. Some friends are chasing the cicada hatch, catching carp on the surface. I'm trying to get in on some of that action, but for the moment, I'm stuck on the local pune brown trout stream.
I made sure that I packed the camera today and left the gopro behind. Yeah!!
Inspiration
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816a-4.jpg)
Across the street for a snad and some beerz, oh yeah!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816a-1.jpg)
Mosaic lives up to the promise!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816a-2.jpg)
Twisted up a few streamside
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816a-3.jpg)
Keep 'em cool; water running at 46 degrees
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-13.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-14.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-15.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-16.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-17.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-18.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-19.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-20.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-21.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/06/061816-22.jpg)
I had intended to stay till half past dark, but the river just plain shut down after seven, and I was out of beer.
I wish the river would run at this level year round... I think that the river is wadable, tough in spots, but other places its really not a problem. I think it's 9 or 10 inches above the normal low flow.. I does however look like the diddymo is loving all the cool water and the rock snot is covering up the rocks. I don't know if this has any impact on the bugs or not.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 19, 2016, 09:30:36 AM
Post by: Dougfish on June 19, 2016, 09:30:36 AM
Most excellent carpage alternative. -0-
That beer is too hoppy for me. :o Slipped some into Aaaaron's cooler to rid myself of them.
That beer is too hoppy for me. :o Slipped some into Aaaaron's cooler to rid myself of them.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: jwgnc on June 19, 2016, 10:36:08 AM
Post by: jwgnc on June 19, 2016, 10:36:08 AM
0:0 Thanks - I needed that
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on June 19, 2016, 10:39:06 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on June 19, 2016, 10:39:06 AM
More Smith goodness.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Yallerhammer on June 20, 2016, 05:29:33 AM
Post by: Yallerhammer on June 20, 2016, 05:29:33 AM
Good stuff! 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: rford on June 20, 2016, 07:18:15 AM
Post by: rford on June 20, 2016, 07:18:15 AM
Flows are still too much for my taste - if you are in shallow water in areas where it is fairly wide you have no problem but you should be aware that the water is about a foot higher then normal all over so wading even in the easy spots is limited.
I agree. I tried it last week and had to use caution. Wading upstream is tough.
I agree. I tried it last week and had to use caution. Wading upstream is tough.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 22, 2016, 15:28:45 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 22, 2016, 15:28:45 PM
If anybody want to tag along on one of my jaunts, just holler, I'm kind of a pansy wader, so you shouldn't have a problem wading where I fish, jis say'in
I'll be back on the smith after the 4th of July!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I'll be back on the smith after the 4th of July!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 22, 2016, 15:34:01 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 22, 2016, 15:34:01 PM
I'll be there when I'm done with the goldfish. ;D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 13, 2016, 12:27:48 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 13, 2016, 12:27:48 PM
2016 - 62
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216.jpg)
Sitting at the bar chatting with the server and getting nowhere, I decided that it was time for me to get back on the river. Headed up north with an eighth of a tank, hoping to get into some cheap Virginia gas. Filled up and picked up a sixer of NB citradelic, a snad and a powerball ticket. Lunch on the river = winning!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-1.jpg)
Back to the local and the unofficial greeting committee. They had to dump some water, so the river hasn't been fishable for the last several week, now it's ratcheted down to where wading isn't a problem and I went to see what bugs would be showing up despite the forecast for afternoon thunder storms. It was a hot and humid walk in waders, but the 48 degree water temps made them necessary.
Going old school, 4 wt RPL+ and the CFO
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-2.jpg)
On the way in I spied a new crop of Train Wreckers, planned to harvest on the way out.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-4.jpg)
After the hike it I popped a bottle and waded waist deep into the cold water, the dogs laid in the shallows. I sat and watched the water, while sharing my snad with my companions.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-9.jpg)
Just a few bugs on the water, and no fish rising, so for the fun of it I tied on a mutuka, but nobody was interested. Finally spied a few rising fish and switched to a dry.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-5.jpg)
It was nice to catch these pune browns on a Tuesday afternoon as the sky darkened behind the ridge and thunder rumbled.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-6.jpg)
A light rain began to fall but I didn't feel like I was getting any wetter as the humidity was at least 70%. Raindrops spotted the river but not enough to curtail dry fly activities. It lasted about an hour, then the sun came back out and I continued to fish.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-11.jpg)
Taking a beer / photo beak from time to time. I only brought 4 beers with me, an attempt at self limits.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-13.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-14.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-15.jpg)
The fog began to roll down the river and out of the mist paddlers appeared.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-16.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-17.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-18.jpg)
There was a little sulfur hatch between 6 and 8 and I continued to catch the Smith River Punes.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-19.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-20.jpg)
I opened the last Critridelic, took a healthy swig and stashed it in a vest pocket. Moving around and casting, to horrors the bottle fell into the river spewing precious beer into the river. It was ruined. So when the river shut down around 7:30 I bailed.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-21.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-22.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071216-23.jpg)
Good to be back on the home waters, and as I post this at lunch, I'm thinking about skipping out and doing it again.
:banana026:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Yallerhammer on July 13, 2016, 17:20:02 PM
Post by: Yallerhammer on July 13, 2016, 17:20:02 PM
Good stuff!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 14, 2016, 06:25:09 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 14, 2016, 06:25:09 AM
'c; 'c; 'c;
Hell yeah!
I almost came down yesterday. Went high instead.
Next week....... -0-
Hell yeah!
I almost came down yesterday. Went high instead.
Next week....... -0-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 14, 2016, 12:01:42 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 14, 2016, 12:01:42 PM
2016 63
Finished up work at 2 o'clock, (well not actually finished, but enough done that I could put the rest off till today), and was up on the water 4:30. Checked the radar, looked good to me.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071316-1.jpg)
Picked up a sixer in cans, I like cans, but this Blowing rock IPA actually blows and not in a good way. I had to force myself to drink the second, the third was tolerable, and the fourth tasted okay, I guess. The shower had passed and the skies were clearing, but the fog on the river was thick.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071316-2.jpg)
Shoulda stuck with the Citradelic, this swill was not good, IMHO
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071316-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071316-6.jpg)
shoulda stuck with Citridelic, but cans recycle and pack better!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071316-3.jpg)
Forgot the TG-3, had to use the cell phone, only got one fish pic, a stocked rainbow, one of two caught last evening and only the 3rd that I've caught in the wild brown water. Landed about a ten pune, but colorful browns.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071316-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071316-8.jpg)
The hatch was mixed with midges, sulfurs, and bwos. I tried 4 different patterns, in 3 sizes and got refused by more fish than I caught, I could get 'em to rise, just not to eat. So a big FU goes out to the fog and finicky fish tonight.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071316-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071316-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071316-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071316-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/071316-13.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 14, 2016, 12:08:23 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 14, 2016, 12:08:23 PM
I only take sure thing beer when fishing. Often, the fish aren't a sure thing. 'c; -+;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on July 14, 2016, 17:06:47 PM
Post by: creakycane on July 14, 2016, 17:06:47 PM
Nice pics. On tues, they were taking a little pheasant tail dropper better than the dun. 18.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 14, 2016, 17:34:46 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 14, 2016, 17:34:46 PM
Nice. How long will the water be at normal levels?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 14, 2016, 17:58:04 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 14, 2016, 17:58:04 PM
I thought about tying on a trailer but was convinced I would get enough on the dry, the trouble was the fog as everything past 12 feet was pretty fuzzy
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 14, 2016, 19:58:05 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 14, 2016, 19:58:05 PM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on July 14, 2016, 17:34:46 PM
Nice. How long will the water be at normal levels?
/quote]
The new normal? For the see able future. Fish on!
I'll be there next week. V:;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 14, 2016, 20:16:15 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 14, 2016, 20:16:15 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on July 14, 2016, 19:58:05 PMQuote from: Dee-Vo on July 14, 2016, 17:34:46 PM
Nice. How long will the water be at normal levels?
/quote]
The new normal? For the see able future. Fish on!
I'll be there next week. V:;
Gracias, amigo.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on July 14, 2016, 20:25:59 PM
Post by: creakycane on July 14, 2016, 20:25:59 PM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on July 14, 2016, 17:34:46 PM
Nice. How long will the water be at normal levels?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
It is still quite high compared to normal July levels w/o generation.....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 14, 2016, 20:46:53 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 14, 2016, 20:46:53 PM
You youngsters might want to take a wading staff or wait for your balls to drop.
The wading isn't difficult at all especially compared to the waters in Montana, they would just laugh at the smith even at 400!
The wading isn't difficult at all especially compared to the waters in Montana, they would just laugh at the smith even at 400!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on July 23, 2016, 09:57:58 AM
Post by: creakycane on July 23, 2016, 09:57:58 AM
Sat 10 July 23 10 AM. Looks like Philpott is letting some water go (now up to 530 CFS). on the tape, no indication. Maybe for canoe/kayaks?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 23, 2016, 10:11:30 AM
Post by: Al on July 23, 2016, 10:11:30 AM
Yes, Brian Williams has Orchestrated a photo op for today to show how many paddlers are using the river. Trying to get a crowd of paddlers passing behind historical society in Bassett. Expect you will see big write up complete with photos in newspaper tomorrow.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on July 23, 2016, 11:07:16 AM
Post by: troutfanatic on July 23, 2016, 11:07:16 AM
Well shit.
Al you should have said something. We could have staged some shit too.
I know a 10 y/o who can turn the tears off and on at will. Imagine the media effect of a little girl who rode 160 miles to fish only to see a river too fast to wade.
Al you should have said something. We could have staged some shit too.
I know a 10 y/o who can turn the tears off and on at will. Imagine the media effect of a little girl who rode 160 miles to fish only to see a river too fast to wade.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 23, 2016, 11:21:51 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 23, 2016, 11:21:51 AM
Fucker, I was going to go today
Glad I saw this!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Glad I saw this!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 23, 2016, 11:29:51 AM
Post by: Al on July 23, 2016, 11:29:51 AM
I only found out about it last evening. Think they kept it close hold until last minute.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on July 23, 2016, 11:32:39 AM
Post by: troutfanatic on July 23, 2016, 11:32:39 AM
I got bored kids asking to fish.
Their PA trout smallmouth trip did not feed the need
Their PA trout smallmouth trip did not feed the need
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 23, 2016, 15:03:30 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 23, 2016, 15:03:30 PM
Any idea how long its going to run at 500?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on July 23, 2016, 15:07:00 PM
Post by: IFStultz on July 23, 2016, 15:07:00 PM
How does that guy have the COE in his pocket like that?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: VaTrout on July 23, 2016, 15:12:31 PM
Post by: VaTrout on July 23, 2016, 15:12:31 PM
Quote from: IFStultz on July 23, 2016, 15:07:00 PM
How does that guy have the COE in his pocket like that?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Call your congressman and complain. Seems like to me that the Federal Government is assisting one sole proprietor instead of following their mission statement. Today was Smith River Outfitters Grand Opening in Bassett.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on July 23, 2016, 15:22:34 PM
Post by: IFStultz on July 23, 2016, 15:22:34 PM
So he opened an actual shop? Probably gonna sell fishing gear too. We are all boycotting right?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: VaTrout on July 23, 2016, 15:27:07 PM
Post by: VaTrout on July 23, 2016, 15:27:07 PM
Quote from: IFStultz on July 23, 2016, 15:22:34 PM
So he opened an actual shop? Probably gonna sell fishing gear too. We are all boycotting right?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
He's in that old gas station next to the post office. At the corner of Fairystone Park Hwy and Bullocks Dr.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: VaTrout on July 23, 2016, 15:29:40 PM
Post by: VaTrout on July 23, 2016, 15:29:40 PM
Here:
[attachment id=0 msg=143349]
[attachment id=0 msg=143349]
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on July 23, 2016, 15:48:59 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on July 23, 2016, 15:48:59 PM
Brilliant
That's some serious bullshit.
That's some serious bullshit.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: VaTrout on July 23, 2016, 15:59:20 PM
Post by: VaTrout on July 23, 2016, 15:59:20 PM
Quote from: IFStultz on July 23, 2016, 15:22:34 PM
Probably gonna sell fishing gear too.
I hear he will have a full selection of powerbait and whole kernel corn.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 23, 2016, 16:18:39 PM
Post by: Al on July 23, 2016, 16:18:39 PM
Quote from: VaTrout on July 23, 2016, 15:12:31 PMQuote from: IFStultz on July 23, 2016, 15:07:00 PM
How does that guy have the COE in his pocket like that?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Call your congressman and complain. Seems like to me that the Federal Government is assisting one sole proprietor instead of following their mission statement. Today was Smith River Outfitters Grand Opening in Bassett.
I absolutely have not problem with him opening a shop or running a canoe livery but if they use it as justification for weekend water on both days I have a problem with that. Only time will tell but even the DRBA directors and folks who live in the area should be able to see behind that as well.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 23, 2016, 17:21:56 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 23, 2016, 17:21:56 PM
Hottest day of the year below Martinsville dam
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160723/f83d77bffcdd16b5c269610e792e393a.png)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160723/f83d77bffcdd16b5c269610e792e393a.png)
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on July 23, 2016, 17:27:35 PM
Post by: Onslow on July 23, 2016, 17:27:35 PM
AW doesn't have a dog in this fight, but they've been fighting on the behalf of whitewater kayakers successfully for years. TU could learn a few things from the AW. The AW is always involved in hydro dam relicensing if it affects whitewater paddleing. At some point, Philpott will need to be relicensed by the FERC. It may be worth it for TU to open a line of communication with these folk. I believe if TU were to make a cogent case about the disruptive nature of the weekend releases, perhaps the FERC will consider the facts and force the dam operators to be more inclusive to potential beneficiaries of the dam.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on July 23, 2016, 18:41:06 PM
Post by: Onslow on July 23, 2016, 18:41:06 PM
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160723/0c76507122769e44caac17ef0f71082a.jpg)
I believe this part of the Yadkin holds trout. A trib(Stony Fork) of the Yadkin that has a larger watershed w/lower altitude holds wild browns. The trout at Stony Fork do not benefit from deep pools as they would at the Smith. I doubt any die off will materialize.
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160723/899afd976fa643c7b4b21e70b7f9fe8f.jpg)
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I believe this part of the Yadkin holds trout. A trib(Stony Fork) of the Yadkin that has a larger watershed w/lower altitude holds wild browns. The trout at Stony Fork do not benefit from deep pools as they would at the Smith. I doubt any die off will materialize.
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160723/899afd976fa643c7b4b21e70b7f9fe8f.jpg)
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on July 23, 2016, 18:49:51 PM
Post by: 22midge on July 23, 2016, 18:49:51 PM
came thru there today and the river was full of boats from Pappa's Pizza down river. Guess they got a lot of pictures for the grand opening and the newspaper articles. Guess the COE for sure has an asshole in its pocket.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on July 23, 2016, 18:59:11 PM
Post by: IFStultz on July 23, 2016, 18:59:11 PM
Ideally the guy will compromise on the weekend generation schedule and we won't have to hate each other. However up until this point it seems like he has friends in the right places and is using it for his own personal interest/ gain. We'll see. Maybe next year will be a drought year and the core will put the lake first and it won't matter.
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Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on July 23, 2016, 22:51:04 PM
Post by: IFStultz on July 23, 2016, 22:51:04 PM
Just a heads up if anyone had their fishing plans ruined by the increased flow today, I got in around 5:30 and the water came back down while I was floating so tomorrow should be good to wade. It was a bit stained but it'll probably clear up tomorrow.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on July 24, 2016, 07:46:39 AM
Post by: Big J on July 24, 2016, 07:46:39 AM
I would pay good money to see Brian Williams as he reads these comments. Bet you he calls up the redhead and she is yelling at you all through the computer screen.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on July 24, 2016, 10:35:59 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on July 24, 2016, 10:35:59 AM
Quote from: Big J on July 24, 2016, 07:46:39 AM
I would pay good money to see Brian Williams as he reads these comments. Bet you he calls up the redhead and she is yelling at you all through the computer screen.
You really think BW and Cricket look at this site?
If not, someone needs to have BW review his DRBA Staff bio. If you search Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, Georgia, there is no mention on the availability of a degree in Wildlife Biology.
Remember, there's nothing nastier than a bag full of crickets.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 25, 2016, 09:46:07 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 25, 2016, 09:46:07 AM
2016 - 64
"Don't get old," that's what dad says all the time. He'll be 92 in a couple of weeks. The other morning, he got up and feeling a bit restless, went for a walk. On the way back he fell. Mom found him at 7:15 while looking out the kitchen window. He had been there for some time. 911, fire – rescue arrived shortly and dad was transported to the hospital with a broken elbow. Knocked the wind out of his sails. Two screws and a cable, put it back together again. A week later we moved him to a rehab facility to get him back up on his feet. So going, maybe he'll get to go home in a couple of weeks. I've been running shuttle, transporting mom and the grandkids. I finally took the afternoon off and went fishing.
Stopped in at the snad shop and the guy ask what's up, when I told him I was going fishing, he looked at me like I was crazy and replied, " In this heat?" "Gotta go when you can, and it'll be cool standing it the cold water," I explained. It was 95 with high humidity. Nobody else was at the parking, I geared up and toted the cooler down across the field to the river. The first third of the way was in the sun and miserable. As I turned the corner I came into the cooler shade, the late afternoon was low and cast a shadow from the river bank trees. A bit more sun and then I was down the bank and into the coolness of the river. I shucked the cooler, my vest and waded out balls deep to cool off some more with a left over beer.
Iced down, the blow IPA was half tolerable.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072416-2.jpg)
Fished steamers for an hour, just a couple of blow ups, and when the sulfurs showed up I switched to dries. Caught a bunch of punes.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072416-3.jpg)
And a few better fish too.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072416-4.jpg)
The catching was pretty steady. The fog came off the river around 7 and got thicker as the evening wore on.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072416-5.jpg)
Beer and snad break.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072416-6.jpg)
Then back to catching...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072416-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072416-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072416-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072416-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072416-11.jpg)
It was getting late, but I could still see the fly through the fog and creeping darkness
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072416-12.jpg)
This guy had a close encounter of the bird kind. Just before catching this fish I heard kayaks bumping their way down the river. As they passed behind me I commented that it was a nice way to cool off. There was no reply, strange, then I realized that they would be paddling in the dark as they had a ways to go to the take out....
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072416-13.jpg)
Last fish of the evening....
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072416-14.jpg)
Up the bank into the field for the walk back to the car. It was 85 at 9 PM.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072416-15.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 25, 2016, 15:34:57 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 25, 2016, 15:34:57 PM
Nice. :banana-fu:
I'll join you late next week.
I'll join you late next week.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 28, 2016, 16:59:46 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 28, 2016, 16:59:46 PM
2016 - 65
With dad in rehab, I've been visiting two or three times a day, but lately I've been trying to get back into a more normal routine and I've been jonesing for form streamtime. I came up with a plan to pack in the stove, a frying pan and some cured bacon to cook up a brace of 9" brown trout streamside! The days have been brutally hot, so after stopping in for breakfast with pops, I headed over to the GFs to mow her lawn, and no that's not a euphuism like "filling the growler" has become. Small lawn only took 40 minutes and I was finished by 10 and the clouds had help keep the temps from climbing above 80. Still sweat poured down my back, there were four Little Sumpins (7.5% ABV) in the fridge and I downed two before hitting the shower. I worked until three and then headed up to the river. Just out of town I pulled into a Stop n Rob for ice and noticed I forgot the TG-3, almost turned back, the phone will have to do. I got ready to hike to the river packing up all the gear and little cooler with the rest of the Lagunitas along with a Citradelic and a few random cans of IPA. But before I hit the trail, thunder boomed and the sky over the ridge lit up. I waited for a bit and drank a beer, later a check of the radar indicated that there was a chance that the storm would stay to the north and miss the river. So I picked up and headed down to the river, I only got about 50 feet when BAM, BAM, BAM, BAM, four lighting strikes so close that I jumped with each thunder clap. I went back to the car and drank another beer. Now confident that the worst was over I went out one more time and make it to the river in the now cool air. I waded out into the river and was tying on a dry fly, when it started to rain, I retreated to the bank, donned my rain jacked and opened another beer. I sat down on the bank and waited, waited about an hour and consumed another beer or two before the rain stopped. As soon at the raindrops stopped hitting the water fish began to rise. First cast brought a trout from four feet down up to smash the fly. Then I spotted another riser and got it a few cast later, this one was destined for the frying pan I told myself. I was stripping in line when a gaggle of Canada Geese took off and flew upstream, one of them catching my fly line and breaking off the fish. Motherfucker! I caught a few more punes, not quite pan sized, and then the river began to rise with the storm water coming in all muddy from a feeder creek and the fish turned off. I cooked the bacon and drank the last of the IPAs before heading out to Papa's Pizza and the drive home...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072716-2.jpg)
10:00 AM beer after mowing the lawn
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072716-3.jpg)
I drove an hour and thirty minutes for this
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072716-4.jpg)
Waiting for the rain to stop
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072716-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072716-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072716-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/072716-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Michael Toris on July 29, 2016, 13:31:14 PM
Post by: Michael Toris on July 29, 2016, 13:31:14 PM
Fuck a goose
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on July 29, 2016, 15:24:06 PM
Post by: driver on July 29, 2016, 15:24:06 PM
Good reminder to get duck stamp. Only a month away until total goose destruction.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Michael Toris on July 29, 2016, 15:35:07 PM
Post by: Michael Toris on July 29, 2016, 15:35:07 PM
Quote from: driver on July 29, 2016, 15:24:06 PMFuck em up
Good reminder to get duck stamp. Only a month away until total goose destruction.
Sent from my SM-G920V using Tapatalk
VA has a 15/person limit for residential geese in Sept
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on July 29, 2016, 15:43:08 PM
Post by: driver on July 29, 2016, 15:43:08 PM
Same as NC. Unplugged guns and electronic calls FTW
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Michael Toris on July 29, 2016, 15:45:28 PM
Post by: Michael Toris on July 29, 2016, 15:45:28 PM
Quote from: driver on July 29, 2016, 15:43:08 PMHells yeah
Same as NC. Unplugged guns and electronic calls FTW
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Yallerhammer on July 30, 2016, 07:32:09 AM
Post by: Yallerhammer on July 30, 2016, 07:32:09 AM
Good stuff as usual, Woolley! I hate a damn resident Canada goose. Flying rats they are.
I fear I have been either a bad or good influence on the forum with my heathen trout devouring ways. :D
I fear I have been either a bad or good influence on the forum with my heathen trout devouring ways. :D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 01, 2016, 10:20:34 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 01, 2016, 10:20:34 AM
2016 - 66
http://youtu.be/nqwPyYRxLHA
Back to the river to fulfill the plan, stopped by the shop to pick up an unreasonably expensive cooler, I told the clerk, who gave me a discount, that I must be crazy. Iced down a coupled of sixers and made the drive up after looking at the radar. Just got to the other side of the fence when a pick-up pulls in blowing the horn. I turn and wait for the driver to get out, it's DRIVER!! I tell him to catch two trout for dinner after reminding him of the 10" – 24" protected slot on the browns. I hit the water and cool off with a Lagunitas. There is a small number of sulfurs on the water and I spy a fish or two rising sporadically. The first two fish that I caught measured a little over eleven inches, so they went back, then I culled a little one and one around nine inches. Cleaned 'em up and went back to drinking and catching until Driver wades up declaring, "I've got enough for two," as he holds up a fat rainbow. Cooked 'em up with some cured bacon and chased with another beer. Fished until darkish and then headed home. Got caught in a violent thunderstorm, missed the turn for the short way home and had to drive an extra 5 miles in the deluge.
Peer pressure
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/073116-1.jpg)
This has to be one of my all-time favorites
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/073116-2.jpg)
A tad too big for the frying pan
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/073116-3.jpg)
A little on the small side but it was tasty
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/073116-4.jpg)
Especially when washed down with this ipa
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/073116-5.jpg)
Shore dinner
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/073116-6.jpg)
Damn, that smells good
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/073116-7.jpg)
Cooked just right
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/073116-8.jpg)
Last ditch to get the Driver a brown trout on a dry
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/07/073116-9.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 01, 2016, 17:06:03 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 01, 2016, 17:06:03 PM
Look at you two. 0:0
Another hipster succumbs to the lure of the Yeti.
And Jason going wet wading in the Smiff. :o
Another hipster succumbs to the lure of the Yeti.
And Jason going wet wading in the Smiff. :o
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on August 01, 2016, 19:06:59 PM
Post by: driver on August 01, 2016, 19:06:59 PM
It felt sooo good. Wading socks make a world of difference. But a little cool on the nuggets though..
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 01, 2016, 21:13:02 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 01, 2016, 21:13:02 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on August 01, 2016, 17:06:03 PMJust tired of warm beerz
Look at you two. 0:0
Another hipster succumbs to the lure of the Yeti.
And Jason going wet wading in the Smiff. :o
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Yallerhammer on August 02, 2016, 07:28:47 AM
Post by: Yallerhammer on August 02, 2016, 07:28:47 AM
Good stuff! -0- -0- -0-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on August 02, 2016, 08:23:07 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on August 02, 2016, 08:23:07 AM
Good stuff.
Yeti? Ha. When I still partook in alcoholic beverages I liked mine room temperature, maybe a little cooler.
Trouts look tasty.
Yeti? Ha. When I still partook in alcoholic beverages I liked mine room temperature, maybe a little cooler.
Trouts look tasty.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 02, 2016, 10:40:25 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 02, 2016, 10:40:25 AM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on August 02, 2016, 08:23:07 AMsome of those odd crafty beerz need to be ice cold, the ipas, warm up on the way to the river...
Good stuff.
Yeti? Ha. When I still partook in alcoholic beverages I liked mine room temperature, maybe a little cooler.
Trouts look tasty.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Yallerhammer on August 02, 2016, 19:58:29 PM
Post by: Yallerhammer on August 02, 2016, 19:58:29 PM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on August 02, 2016, 08:23:07 AM
Good stuff.
Yeti? Ha. When I still partook in alcoholic beverages I liked mine room temperature, maybe a little cooler.
Trouts look tasty.
I like ice-cold beer, but I like warm likker.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 03, 2016, 09:39:23 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 03, 2016, 09:39:23 AM
2016 - 67
I needed some time on the river. Dad's improving and we're bringing him home of Saturday. This will bring a new set of challenges, I hope all goes well with that. Stopped in at City Beverage and picked up a case of the low rider for $24 bucks and topped off the Yeti. The air was thick with humidity and as I rolled into the parking lot the skies looked threatening. Packed the rain jacket and headed on down to the river. That was a miserably hot and sticky walk, but I had a cold one along the way. Once again as soon as I stepped in the river the rain started. I loaded up the rod with a sinking line and tied on a slump buster which had worked well on this stretch before. I resisted putting on the rain jacket because the humidity was so high that it didn't feel like I was getting any wetter in the rain. It came and went for a while and as the bugs started I gave up on the streamer and switched reels and began tossing to the few risers that were looking up. Then the rain set in and I thought about putting that jacket on but it was really too late as I was soaked through. By seven I bailed and headed home. This is the first skunk that I've included in my TRs, there was one other this year, but I'd rather not talk about it.
I have no regrets...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-1.jpg)
Looks like trouble..
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-2.jpg)
Tasty
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-3.jpg)
Number 2
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-4.jpg)
slice
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-5.jpg)
Slump not busted
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-6.jpg)
Foggiest ever
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-8.jpg)
Number 3
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-12.jpg)
6x to 6.5x blood knot
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-13.jpg)
Number 4
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-14.jpg)
I needed some time on the river. Dad's improving and we're bringing him home of Saturday. This will bring a new set of challenges, I hope all goes well with that. Stopped in at City Beverage and picked up a case of the low rider for $24 bucks and topped off the Yeti. The air was thick with humidity and as I rolled into the parking lot the skies looked threatening. Packed the rain jacket and headed on down to the river. That was a miserably hot and sticky walk, but I had a cold one along the way. Once again as soon as I stepped in the river the rain started. I loaded up the rod with a sinking line and tied on a slump buster which had worked well on this stretch before. I resisted putting on the rain jacket because the humidity was so high that it didn't feel like I was getting any wetter in the rain. It came and went for a while and as the bugs started I gave up on the streamer and switched reels and began tossing to the few risers that were looking up. Then the rain set in and I thought about putting that jacket on but it was really too late as I was soaked through. By seven I bailed and headed home. This is the first skunk that I've included in my TRs, there was one other this year, but I'd rather not talk about it.
I have no regrets...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-1.jpg)
Looks like trouble..
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-2.jpg)
Tasty
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-3.jpg)
Number 2
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-4.jpg)
slice
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-5.jpg)
Slump not busted
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-6.jpg)
Foggiest ever
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-8.jpg)
Number 3
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-12.jpg)
6x to 6.5x blood knot
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-13.jpg)
Number 4
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/080216-14.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: benben reincarnated on August 03, 2016, 13:54:31 PM
Post by: benben reincarnated on August 03, 2016, 13:54:31 PM
Damn Keith, in AVL New Belgium 12 packs go for $14.99 on average, and that's not if you get them at the brewery.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 03, 2016, 14:51:17 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 03, 2016, 14:51:17 PM
Quote from: benben reincarnated on August 03, 2016, 13:54:31 PMCity beverage picks up overstocks and sells em at a discount. A dollar a bottle isn't too bad, some of the more pricy beers have a deeper percentage discount
Damn Keith, in AVL New Belgium 12 packs go for $14.99 on average, and that's not if you get them at the brewery.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Yallerhammer on August 03, 2016, 17:23:53 PM
Post by: Yallerhammer on August 03, 2016, 17:23:53 PM
Sometimes skunks aren't a bad thing-they just reset our perception of reality. If it was always easy, it wouldn't be addictive. And we got some damn good photos out of this one.
Glad your dad is doing better. We have been having all kinds of stuff going on with my 83-year-old mother, and my wife's mom died last week, with an overdose of stupid family drama involved. My brain is fried. I need to go wade a creek.
Glad your dad is doing better. We have been having all kinds of stuff going on with my 83-year-old mother, and my wife's mom died last week, with an overdose of stupid family drama involved. My brain is fried. I need to go wade a creek.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 03, 2016, 17:35:42 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 03, 2016, 17:35:42 PM
A Smiff skunk is a badge of honor. I've worn it. Will wear it again, I'm sure.
Glad Dad is improving.
Sorry about your mom-in-law Yaller. We juggle our 78-86 yro parents. I'd rather deal with their needs than bury them.
Glad Dad is improving.
Sorry about your mom-in-law Yaller. We juggle our 78-86 yro parents. I'd rather deal with their needs than bury them.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on August 05, 2016, 11:07:46 AM
Post by: NCsporksman on August 05, 2016, 11:07:46 AM
Woolly got a yeti? Where u at guy let's smiff
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Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on August 05, 2016, 13:32:35 PM
Post by: driver on August 05, 2016, 13:32:35 PM
Almost called you last weekend. But i decided i needed some "me" time.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 05, 2016, 13:54:16 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 05, 2016, 13:54:16 PM
Quote from: NCsporksman on August 05, 2016, 11:07:46 AMCould smifff soon holler
Woolly got a yeti? Where u at guy let's smiff
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Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 05, 2016, 13:58:13 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 05, 2016, 13:58:13 PM
Quote from: NCsporksman on August 05, 2016, 11:07:46 AMCould smifff soon holler
Woolly got a yeti? Where u at guy let's smiff
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on August 10, 2016, 15:39:35 PM
Post by: creakycane on August 10, 2016, 15:39:35 PM
They just jumped it up to 600 CFS.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 10, 2016, 17:08:10 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 10, 2016, 17:08:10 PM
Quote from: creakycane on August 10, 2016, 15:39:35 PM
They just jumped it up to 600 CFS.
Fuckers, all thay rain, I guess its really a good thing, Brian just creamed his jeans!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 10, 2016, 17:10:55 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 10, 2016, 17:10:55 PM
Lake is 1.7' above the guide curve. I expected this last week.
River Fest is Saturday. Even if they drop it back to 300ish before then, there will be a 4+ hour pulse Saturday early am.
River Fest is Saturday. Even if they drop it back to 300ish before then, there will be a 4+ hour pulse Saturday early am.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: swervinmervin on August 10, 2016, 19:44:10 PM
Post by: swervinmervin on August 10, 2016, 19:44:10 PM
That blows. I had the day off and permission from my wife to make the drive down tomorrow. Have a new baby, so opportunities are super limited. Will have to make alternate plans I suppose.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: revfox on August 10, 2016, 19:45:32 PM
Post by: revfox on August 10, 2016, 19:45:32 PM
Anybody want to kayaking?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: revfox on August 10, 2016, 19:50:43 PM
Post by: revfox on August 10, 2016, 19:50:43 PM
Quote from: swervinmervin on August 10, 2016, 19:44:10 PM
That blows. I had the day off and permission from my wife to make the drive down tomorrow. Have a new baby, so opportunities are super limited. Will have to make alternate plans I suppose.
Congrats on the new baby. We got a 7 week old and ya...pretty much never gonna go fishing again. I did get out last week thankfully though. Missed a two big browns but only came up with punes.
My brother-in-law's dog had a good time though
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160811/a80910ef49b84948876b625fdcff9e9b.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 10, 2016, 20:15:34 PM
Post by: Al on August 10, 2016, 20:15:34 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on August 10, 2016, 17:10:55 PM
Lake is 1.7' above the guide curve. I expected this last week.
River Fest is Saturday. Even if they drop it back to 300ish before then, there will be a 4+ hour pulse Saturday early am.
Bad for the fishing but good for the fish. With no regular generation pulses the water was getting close to dangerous temperatures. This increased flow will help cool things down a bit.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 10, 2016, 21:16:37 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 10, 2016, 21:16:37 PM
Quote from: swervinmervin on August 10, 2016, 19:44:10 PM
That blows. I had the day off and permission from my wife to make the drive down tomorrow. Have a new baby, so opportunities are super limited. Will have to make alternate plans I suppose.
I was getting ready to go, but I kinda was keeping an eye on the gauge cause of all the rain!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on August 11, 2016, 05:38:36 AM
Post by: Onslow on August 11, 2016, 05:38:36 AM
You all need to expand your stream portfolios.
Crossed the Smith many times this year, and not once did i stop.
Buffalo Mt VA is where its at. Ample ripe forbidden fruit behind the fences waiting for those daring enough to partake.
Crossed the Smith many times this year, and not once did i stop.
Buffalo Mt VA is where its at. Ample ripe forbidden fruit behind the fences waiting for those daring enough to partake.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on August 11, 2016, 08:26:16 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on August 11, 2016, 08:26:16 AM
Quote from: Onslow on August 11, 2016, 05:38:36 AM
You all need to expand your stream portfolios.
Crossed the Smith many times this year, and not once did i stop.
Buffalo Mt VA is where its at. Ample ripe forbidden fruit behind the fences waiting for those daring enough to partake.
I'm interested. You game?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on August 11, 2016, 10:35:55 AM
Post by: NCsporksman on August 11, 2016, 10:35:55 AM
I'll be out saturday. Looks like my smiff box will stay home
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on August 11, 2016, 11:26:35 AM
Post by: Onslow on August 11, 2016, 11:26:35 AM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on August 11, 2016, 08:26:16 AMQuote from: Onslow on August 11, 2016, 05:38:36 AM
You all need to expand your stream portfolios.
Crossed the Smith many times this year, and not once did i stop.
Buffalo Mt VA is where its at. Ample ripe forbidden fruit behind the fences waiting for those daring enough to partake.
I'm interested. You game?
Sure, when time avails itself. Too damn busy at the moment. Still have 20 hours of weekend mentoring to bust out before the year is out, and scouting, as well as everything else.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on August 11, 2016, 13:33:36 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on August 11, 2016, 13:33:36 PM
Quote from: Onslow on August 11, 2016, 11:26:35 AMQuote from: Dee-Vo on August 11, 2016, 08:26:16 AMQuote from: Onslow on August 11, 2016, 05:38:36 AM
You all need to expand your stream portfolios.
Crossed the Smith many times this year, and not once did i stop.
Buffalo Mt VA is where its at. Ample ripe forbidden fruit behind the fences waiting for those daring enough to partake.
I'm interested. You game?
Sure, when time avails itself. Too damn busy at the moment. Still have 20 hours of weekend mentoring to bust out before the year is out, and scouting, as well as everything else.
I know the feeling. My workload has multiplied times a billion over the last month or two. I've officially taken full-responsibility at the store as Store Manager. Free-time has been necked-down terribly. Nature of the beast.
I'd like to locate some off-the-grid shit that sees very little to no traffic. I'm in for that tough shit. You know, the type of place that you have to plan out, and the type that makes you wonder why the hell you're there once you finally get there.....
Headwaters we've mentioned in the past still haunt me. I'm looking forward to it. I may have scored more access (legally), but I'm failing to remember if I've mentioned it to you.
I hope all you assholes go fishing soon. I'm feeling the strain.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on August 11, 2016, 15:53:32 PM
Post by: driver on August 11, 2016, 15:53:32 PM
Quote from: NCsporksman on August 11, 2016, 10:35:55 AMLet's go carpin.
I'll be out saturday. Looks like my smiff box will stay home
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on August 11, 2016, 16:16:49 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on August 11, 2016, 16:16:49 PM
Where's at?
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on August 11, 2016, 16:35:06 PM
Post by: driver on August 11, 2016, 16:35:06 PM
Anywhere the water is not dirty
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on August 11, 2016, 16:35:46 PM
Post by: driver on August 11, 2016, 16:35:46 PM
Which rules the triangle and east out
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on August 16, 2016, 21:50:11 PM
Post by: driver on August 16, 2016, 21:50:11 PM
http://www.meetup.com/triangleflyfishers/events/232896708/?rv=ea2 (http://www.meetup.com/triangleflyfishers/events/232896708/?rv=ea2)
to many shit shows in one place
to many shit shows in one place
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: revfox on August 16, 2016, 23:09:06 PM
Post by: revfox on August 16, 2016, 23:09:06 PM
Quote from: driver on August 16, 2016, 21:50:11 PM
http://www.meetup.com/triangleflyfishers/events/232896708/?rv=ea2 (http://www.meetup.com/triangleflyfishers/events/232896708/?rv=ea2)
to many shit shows in one place
Wow...never been to one of these meetings but this might be a good one to start. I guess he is just advertising? Did he miss the turn for the Triangle Paddling Club?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on August 17, 2016, 04:21:26 AM
Post by: Onslow on August 17, 2016, 04:21:26 AM
Quote from: driver on August 16, 2016, 21:50:11 PM
http://www.meetup.com/triangleflyfishers/events/232896708/?rv=ea2 (http://www.meetup.com/triangleflyfishers/events/232896708/?rv=ea2)
to many shit shows in one place
You failed to mention your best friend is coordinating this cluster
http://www.brfff.com/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=2840
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 17, 2016, 06:43:55 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 17, 2016, 06:43:55 AM
They are clueless. p;-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: AAGoldsmith on August 17, 2016, 08:04:49 AM
Post by: AAGoldsmith on August 17, 2016, 08:04:49 AM
Yes, I joined a fly fishing club a few years back as I was newer to the sport, then volunteered to help out some. Good find sir.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on August 17, 2016, 08:20:44 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on August 17, 2016, 08:20:44 AM
Quote from: Onslow on August 17, 2016, 04:21:26 AMQuote from: driver on August 16, 2016, 21:50:11 PM
http://www.meetup.com/triangleflyfishers/events/232896708/?rv=ea2 (http://www.meetup.com/triangleflyfishers/events/232896708/?rv=ea2)
to many shit shows in one place
You failed to mention your best friend is coordinating this cluster
http://www.brfff.com/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=2840
It is possible that Goldie likes pasty, bony redheads. One man's cluster fuck can be another man's Les Misérables on Broadway.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on August 17, 2016, 08:54:06 AM
Post by: troutfanatic on August 17, 2016, 08:54:06 AM
Or perhaps he's just a webmaster for the TFF site and has nothing to do with planning meetings, speakers or events?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: AAGoldsmith on August 17, 2016, 08:58:10 AM
Post by: AAGoldsmith on August 17, 2016, 08:58:10 AM
Mud, you must be smokin some good shit. The only thing I have to do with TFF is updating the meetup page. I don't organize or ask for any speakers, but since you clearly have so much to say, maybe you want to come and give a snore inducing speech about flowers or something?
You guys can fight your own battles with the Smith River, considering your local TU can't get anything done, and half of you just shoot the shit on a forum instead of fighting to get something done.
Whitewater kayaking on the Smith is starting to sound mighty nice.
You guys can fight your own battles with the Smith River, considering your local TU can't get anything done, and half of you just shoot the shit on a forum instead of fighting to get something done.
Whitewater kayaking on the Smith is starting to sound mighty nice.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on August 17, 2016, 08:59:41 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on August 17, 2016, 08:59:41 AM
Muddy does bugs.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: AAGoldsmith on August 17, 2016, 09:05:08 AM
Post by: AAGoldsmith on August 17, 2016, 09:05:08 AM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on August 17, 2016, 08:59:41 AM
Muddy does bugs.
I hope he at least uses bug-friendly lube.
Entomology presentations are boring too
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 17, 2016, 09:16:31 AM
Post by: Al on August 17, 2016, 09:16:31 AM
Simmer down boys - I just hope someone asks them about their working relationship with VDGIF and Smith River TU.
I have told both individuals before and it applies here as well - "We are or should be in this together. Together we can accomplish a lot, separately not so much"
I have told both individuals before and it applies here as well - "We are or should be in this together. Together we can accomplish a lot, separately not so much"
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on August 17, 2016, 09:23:50 AM
Post by: Big J on August 17, 2016, 09:23:50 AM
Quote from: Al on August 17, 2016, 09:16:31 AM
Simmer down boys - I just hope someone asks them about their working relationship with VDGIF and Smith River TU.
I have told both individuals before and it applies here as well - "We are or should be in this together. Together we can accomplish a lot, separately not so much"
According to Brian, it is great. He is a Smith River TU member he says. And VDGIF was in on the meeting about the weekend release.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 17, 2016, 09:43:28 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 17, 2016, 09:43:28 AM
The only sure thing about all of this is that if Brian's lips are moving, he's lying.
Those are only two of countless ones he's spouted.
Those are only two of countless ones he's spouted.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on August 17, 2016, 10:00:02 AM
Post by: troutfanatic on August 17, 2016, 10:00:02 AM
I've spoken to a couple people and I'm texting with others. A plan may be in the works. I am not a TFF member anymore. I relocated to PA last year.
However, if the speaker remains Williams, perhaps a few of our PHWFF members from the local chapter will be willing to drive up to the meeting and thank him for making the river so easily wadable for older fishermen and disabled folks. I'll know tomorrow evening as we have our meeting.
However, if the speaker remains Williams, perhaps a few of our PHWFF members from the local chapter will be willing to drive up to the meeting and thank him for making the river so easily wadable for older fishermen and disabled folks. I'll know tomorrow evening as we have our meeting.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on August 17, 2016, 11:29:35 AM
Post by: Onslow on August 17, 2016, 11:29:35 AM
Quote from: troutfanatic on August 17, 2016, 10:00:02 AM
I've spoken to a couple people and I'm texting with others. A plan may be in the works. I am not a TFF member anymore. I relocated to PA last year.
However, if the speaker remains Williams, perhaps a few of our PHWFF members from the local chapter will be willing to drive up to the meeting and thank him for making the river so easily wadable for older fishermen and disabled folks. I'll know tomorrow evening as we have our meeting.
At a minimum, perhaps desirable flows could be scored at the behest of the PHWFF during Veterans Day and Memorial Day. Of course Brain would take.credit for such a thoughtful move.
While on the subject of handicap accessable water, WTL is developed for those who are mobility challenged at the hatchery section.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on August 17, 2016, 13:09:17 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on August 17, 2016, 13:09:17 PM
It's a novel idea (for him) but some political types were contacted this spring. If that achieves anything, I'm sure the elected will take credit.
Keep dropping the 94.00 comment. I am but one nonresident who has not bought a license this year. I did pay 16.00 to fish the two times I went this year.
The money saved, paid for licenses in two other states.
Keep dropping the 94.00 comment. I am but one nonresident who has not bought a license this year. I did pay 16.00 to fish the two times I went this year.
The money saved, paid for licenses in two other states.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on August 17, 2016, 13:56:19 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on August 17, 2016, 13:56:19 PM
Quote from: AAGoldsmith on August 17, 2016, 09:05:08 AMQuote from: Dee-Vo on August 17, 2016, 08:59:41 AM
Muddy does bugs.
I hope he at least uses bug-friendly lube.
Entomology presentations are boring too
My bug talks were not boring --- well maybe they were, but I am no longer in the game. I've presented my last critter talk.
Now I am on the fried chicken tour giving speeches on "why men should never wear skinny jeans" and "a woman as president equals fewer wars."
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: swervinmervin on August 17, 2016, 14:59:13 PM
Post by: swervinmervin on August 17, 2016, 14:59:13 PM
Back to the regularly scheduled programming . . .
Made it out yesterday morning, as I parted ways with the job place ten days ago. Unemployment certainly suits my fishing schedule. This was my first time on the Smith- I wanted to see if it lives up to the hype.
(http://i1113.photobucket.com/albums/k511/jakelawrencevb/55B2C60A-B13D-43F3-9B3E-E0420468EC33.jpg)
Should really spend more time in Floyd.
(http://i1113.photobucket.com/albums/k511/jakelawrencevb/6D505F47-9620-4101-B151-5269876623B4.jpg)
(http://i1113.photobucket.com/albums/k511/jakelawrencevb/E2A5C895-F198-43CD-84E7-13EBB6F361A6.jpg)
Fish were plentiful and mostly punes.
(http://i1113.photobucket.com/albums/k511/jakelawrencevb/77085B08-25EA-4004-AF69-2A6E7E574693.jpg)
(http://i1113.photobucket.com/albums/k511/jakelawrencevb/6F8D3C96-D41C-4F65-AA1B-92E86C9ABD77.jpg)
(http://i1113.photobucket.com/albums/k511/jakelawrencevb/74F958EF-CACF-4F74-81EA-3D32F936C850.jpg)
(http://i1113.photobucket.com/albums/k511/jakelawrencevb/993CA9EB-1A3B-4CBA-8B5B-54C076440619.jpg)
(http://i1113.photobucket.com/albums/k511/jakelawrencevb/6C45EAD7-FD4F-49BD-9638-7C385A90ED16.jpg)
Last fish was the best fish. Almost everything was on dries, though I had a big hit on a streamer at one point.
(http://i1113.photobucket.com/albums/k511/jakelawrencevb/8CB2AC81-ADE0-4584-8B27-C82CBA06A44D.jpg)
Got out of there as it heated up around lunchtime. Beautiful day on the water. Back home to the wife, dog, and new baby.
(http://i1113.photobucket.com/albums/k511/jakelawrencevb/B82C09C6-A1FF-43F8-94DA-1DED3B4B232C.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 17, 2016, 15:07:56 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 17, 2016, 15:07:56 PM
That's getting it done. y;
Between jobs, or just say fuck it, I'll live off Doug, Mud, Woolly and the boys?
Between jobs, or just say fuck it, I'll live off Doug, Mud, Woolly and the boys?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 17, 2016, 16:24:36 PM
Post by: Al on August 17, 2016, 16:24:36 PM
Good job Mervin - How was the water flow? Seems like you found it wadeable.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: swervinmervin on August 17, 2016, 21:59:58 PM
Post by: swervinmervin on August 17, 2016, 21:59:58 PM
Between jobs. Last boss and I couldn't come to an agreement on terms, paying my previous contract, etc. Frustrating, but a guy has to eat. In the meantime, lots of fishing and baby time.
Flows were quite reasonable, I thought. Gauges were st 300 cfs.
Flows were quite reasonable, I thought. Gauges were st 300 cfs.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 18, 2016, 06:59:29 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 18, 2016, 06:59:29 AM
Holler next time you are planning to go , love / hate that water
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 18, 2016, 11:28:56 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 18, 2016, 11:28:56 AM
I was sitting at the bar with my third gimlet in hand listening to what I can only assume was some kind of tinder date. They were both spouting off their resume of education, jobs and goals. Then they started talking about how people don't notice change or ask why things were the way they are. I could talk about change, they were both too young to have observed any real change. They both grew up with the Internet. I remember when the main drag in town ended to a two lane flanked with farms where we would drive down the dirt roads and smoke dope, drink and screw while listening to 8-track tapes of Jefferson Starship and Led Zepplin. They know this area as Hanes Mall, the shopping mecca of Forsyth County. I was drinking while I was waiting for a friend to arrive home from an overnight visit to the hospital because of a stress induced cardiac event. A couple day prior, I had unrelenting neck and chest pains and after consulting WebMD, I checked myself into that very same ER. EKG, enzyme and other blood test ruled out anything serious and they chalked it up to a musculoskeletal issue. I had to cough up a $500 obamacare copay for that shit. But at least I know the ole ticker is keeping time and no nasty clots are threatening to lodge in my lungs or brain. These kids were really starting to get on my nerves as they drank iced coffee as if they needed any caffeine in the first place. A couple of shots of tequila might have served them better. The women was especially brilliant in her "we are all slaves to capitalism", as this was an original thought. On and on they went, even touching on white privilege, I had enough and as I left I assign them a history lesson, to watch Famine to Freedom (https://youtu.be/6jIVOgvZ6Ig) on YouTube, just for some perspective.
But this is a trip report, I was on a roll the first half of the year, hoping to hit over 100 days this year, but as you may or may not have noticed, things have slowed down dramatically the last couple of weeks since dad broke his elbow and I've been staying close to home. He's improving and getting around the house about as good as can be expected, so I slipped out of town for a couple of hours. Added some beer and ice to the cooler and made the drive up the road to the closest trout waters. Hell, I might even cook up a couple of them pune bitches! As I hiked on down to the my spot on the river, old man Philpot drove on past me in his old pickup, damn, I wish he'd of offered me a ride, it was bejezzies hot and humid, pushing the feels like temps to Fucking HOT! By the time I got down to the corner, he was driving back and stopped to let me know that there was a bear laying down in the back corner of the corn field. I said thanks and headed off out into the cool water while drinking a beer. I few bugs were floating on by, a couple of yellow drakes, some sulfurs, bwos and midgets. Tied on a dry and went to work. Damit it! I forgot to but the memory card back in the camera! Fuck, I can only take 4 photos with the built in memory. Why the hell they can't put in 8, 16, or 32 GB of memory is beyond me! Well hell, one fish photo and one beer photo is all you're gonna get for today's report.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/081616-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/081616-2.jpg)
Well it took a while to post this up, cause while I was at work yesterday, dad had another fall, passed out on the bathroom floor, mom called 911 and they transported him to the ER. Spent the day having him checked out and bringing him back home, he's pretty much back to his old self. When the splint comes off in two weeks, I'm headed up on a spring creek road trip with the Spork and Translywader...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on August 18, 2016, 11:42:22 AM
Post by: Big J on August 18, 2016, 11:42:22 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on August 18, 2016, 11:28:56 AM
When the splint comes off in two weeks, I'm headed up on a spring creek road trip with the Spork and Translywader...
He's on speaking terms with you again? Lucky! I'm no longer FB friends with him :'(
P.S. young people are stupid
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 18, 2016, 12:15:34 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 18, 2016, 12:15:34 PM
Quote from: Big J on August 18, 2016, 11:42:22 AMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on August 18, 2016, 11:28:56 AM
When the splint comes off in two weeks, I'm headed up on a spring creek road trip with the Spork and Translywader...
He's on speaking terms with you again? Lucky! I'm no longer FB friends with him :'(
P.S. young people are stupid
Spork brokered the powwow
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 18, 2016, 19:03:14 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 18, 2016, 19:03:14 PM
What the hell is this shit? A damn downpour I'm the morning, fucked my plans!
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160819/79bca845b0a58b46130272a983a396ab.jpg)
On another note., the downstream temps don't look good at all
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160819/4a6148e25e5c23e96da262334e0f2289.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160819/79bca845b0a58b46130272a983a396ab.jpg)
On another note., the downstream temps don't look good at all
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160819/4a6148e25e5c23e96da262334e0f2289.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 21, 2016, 09:42:58 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 21, 2016, 09:42:58 AM
2016 - 69
Swervinmervin said he was going to hit the Smith on Saturday, so I thought I would join him for a morning of fishing. I attended a memorial service for a friend and previous co-worker who took her own life at the age of 60. The large church was filled to capacity, the service and witnessing was sad and moving. A bunch of old friends and co-workers decided to head to a tavern for an extended wake and that was a good time catching up with old friends. It did however have an impact on my attempt to get to the river early.
When I arrived I noticed that some jerk with VA tags had parked across the drive but fortunately left just enough room to pass. I left a note! Since there was another NC car parked in a proper spot and I figured that was the Swervinmervin's car.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-2.jpg)
Despite the coolest day in quite a while I wet waded the chilly waters and drank a couple of beers while waiting for something to happen on the river. It was still stained from the rains and the fog was thick, there only a few bugs in the air, mostly tiny BW0s, and no risers to speak of. The sun came out and the fog lifted momentarily, I spied the Mervin up stream and even saw him hook up with a pune. I worked the water, determined to force a rise. Managed to pick off a couple of punes, but the better fish weren't interested in dodgey dry flies. The Mervin popped up down river and I waded on down to meet and chat with him as it was about time to head on back to the ranch to give dad his Saturday bath. We did the meet and great and I offered him a semi-cold brew, which he gladly accepted. I told him about the car blocking the drive, it was his! We walked back to the cars and he went home to his wife and two month old child. I retrieved my phone from the back and noticed a bunch of missed calls. Fuk, dad was back in the ER! With the road construction it was a two hour drive. You know that every time someone comes in to draw blood or administer medicine they ask the patient for their birthday! Well it was dad's birthday, so he kept getting birthday wishes form all eh doctors, nurses and staff.... They are keeping him for a couple of night for observation and here I thought he was making some good progress with rehab and all, still in a splint, but that comes off in another week.
One fucked up week after another....
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-10.jpg)
Swervinmervin said he was going to hit the Smith on Saturday, so I thought I would join him for a morning of fishing. I attended a memorial service for a friend and previous co-worker who took her own life at the age of 60. The large church was filled to capacity, the service and witnessing was sad and moving. A bunch of old friends and co-workers decided to head to a tavern for an extended wake and that was a good time catching up with old friends. It did however have an impact on my attempt to get to the river early.
When I arrived I noticed that some jerk with VA tags had parked across the drive but fortunately left just enough room to pass. I left a note! Since there was another NC car parked in a proper spot and I figured that was the Swervinmervin's car.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-2.jpg)
Despite the coolest day in quite a while I wet waded the chilly waters and drank a couple of beers while waiting for something to happen on the river. It was still stained from the rains and the fog was thick, there only a few bugs in the air, mostly tiny BW0s, and no risers to speak of. The sun came out and the fog lifted momentarily, I spied the Mervin up stream and even saw him hook up with a pune. I worked the water, determined to force a rise. Managed to pick off a couple of punes, but the better fish weren't interested in dodgey dry flies. The Mervin popped up down river and I waded on down to meet and chat with him as it was about time to head on back to the ranch to give dad his Saturday bath. We did the meet and great and I offered him a semi-cold brew, which he gladly accepted. I told him about the car blocking the drive, it was his! We walked back to the cars and he went home to his wife and two month old child. I retrieved my phone from the back and noticed a bunch of missed calls. Fuk, dad was back in the ER! With the road construction it was a two hour drive. You know that every time someone comes in to draw blood or administer medicine they ask the patient for their birthday! Well it was dad's birthday, so he kept getting birthday wishes form all eh doctors, nurses and staff.... They are keeping him for a couple of night for observation and here I thought he was making some good progress with rehab and all, still in a splint, but that comes off in another week.
One fucked up week after another....
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082016-10.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on August 21, 2016, 09:46:10 AM
Post by: Onslow on August 21, 2016, 09:46:10 AM
Damn. The clouds will eventually depart. Hate the fishing was rather deficient.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on August 21, 2016, 10:51:10 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on August 21, 2016, 10:51:10 AM
I like the note.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: swervinmervin on August 21, 2016, 13:13:58 PM
Post by: swervinmervin on August 21, 2016, 13:13:58 PM
Fog was really heavy all morning and, as he said, very few fish rising. Hooked up with this fella almost immediately. I had left the streamer in the water when I went to grab something from my bag. If it weren't for dumb luck, not sure I'd have any luck at all.
(http://i1113.photobucket.com/albums/k511/jakelawrencevb/EE6B5B63-4B19-49A9-BCAA-11A6B58E252C.jpg)
Had a few fish rising downstream, and a few punes were brought to hand. Most were camera-shy. Almost blew my knee out stepping in between two boulders at one point, so that was fun.
Met the Woolly Bugger! Makes me feel like I almost belong with you shady characters. I believe his second sentence to me was, "Hey did you see the asshole who blocked the drive this morning?" I happily informed him that I was that asshole. Beautiful day, hope for more like it this fall.
(http://i1113.photobucket.com/albums/k511/jakelawrencevb/87C2CAD2-5819-433C-9857-7EF1027D627A.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on August 21, 2016, 16:20:04 PM
Post by: driver on August 21, 2016, 16:20:04 PM
WTF. Where did you learn to park?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on August 23, 2016, 15:44:20 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on August 23, 2016, 15:44:20 PM
Fished it for an hour or so Saturday afternoon. The water was high and cloudy. Managed to catch a grand total of three and with the water being messed up I was glad to get them. All were in the slot. First time I've been up there this summer due to all kind of stuff. Fished for about 30 minutes Sunday morning and caught one. Loaded my wife in the car and headed home.
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith%208-20-16%20003_zpsxgbvjn5j.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith%208-20-16%20003_zpsxgbvjn5j.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith%208-20-16%20002_zpsikh9y67e.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith%208-20-16%20002_zpsikh9y67e.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith%208-20-16%20003_zpsxgbvjn5j.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith%208-20-16%20003_zpsxgbvjn5j.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/Smith%208-20-16%20002_zpsikh9y67e.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/Smith%208-20-16%20002_zpsikh9y67e.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 25, 2016, 08:33:25 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 25, 2016, 08:33:25 AM
Good stuff, fellers.
Ben - sorry the bitch has been so uncooperative
Merv - it's all in the swing (streamers that is)
Woowie - Sunken City beer? They suck. Great note and pix.
Ben - sorry the bitch has been so uncooperative
Merv - it's all in the swing (streamers that is)
Woowie - Sunken City beer? They suck. Great note and pix.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on August 25, 2016, 11:04:20 AM
Post by: Big J on August 25, 2016, 11:04:20 AM
(http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwisweb/data/img/USGS.02073000.147588.00060..20160818.20160825.log.0.p50.gif)
Looks like they bumped the water good today. Looks like the water temps are pretty good too. All this rain was a saving grace for lower smith it seems.
Looks like they bumped the water good today. Looks like the water temps are pretty good too. All this rain was a saving grace for lower smith it seems.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JWJ on August 25, 2016, 12:06:00 PM
Post by: JWJ on August 25, 2016, 12:06:00 PM
The Smith gettin some love
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 26, 2016, 08:17:50 AM
Post by: Al on August 26, 2016, 08:17:50 AM
I put my hands on several like this yesterday...............
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm081/160825_015421_3_zpse30k9z2o.jpeg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm081/160825_015421_3_zpse30k9z2o.jpeg.html)
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y92/Allieworm/Allieworm081/160825_015421_3_zpse30k9z2o.jpeg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/Allieworm/media/Allieworm081/160825_015421_3_zpse30k9z2o.jpeg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on August 26, 2016, 09:46:29 AM
Post by: driver on August 26, 2016, 09:46:29 AM
You guys get a water temp reading down there?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 26, 2016, 11:09:35 AM
Post by: Al on August 26, 2016, 11:09:35 AM
Quote from: driver on August 26, 2016, 09:46:29 AM
You guys get a water temp reading down there?
Consistent 15c all the way from where we started to the end.
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 30, 2016, 16:23:10 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 30, 2016, 16:23:10 PM
2016 - 70
Well thing are looking up in a way, the old man got his splint off and his elbow has mended up well according to the doctors. Now we will fight the battle of getting him to use that arm and rehab it to regain strength and range of motion. Lots of doctors' visits scheduled. Sundowners continues to be a problem and a bit worrisome as we are afraid he'll attempt to wander out in the night. Dementia is a strange animal. I sure as hell don't want to ever be in his condition, but it creeps up on you year by year.
Drove up to the river in the middle of the day and fished for a bit, I think it was Sunday, but am now not sure. Hot and humid as hell, water stained as the releases pull more and more detritus from the bottom of the lake. No updates on the damn dam repairs, still hoping it will get done by the end of the year. Lower river temperature spikes are worrisome, but there is not much that can be done.
Very few bugs on the water, a couple of midges here and there, an occasional sulfur, an odd mayfly from time to time, tried to catch one for an ID, something dark and size 10. Oh, there was a rise..... worked that spot for a while, the fish never rose again, but I kept working it and finally got the pune to take the fly.
Paddlers! Two groups of six and nine kayaks interrupted the afternoon. Moved on down a ways and spied a few more risers. Drank the beers that I had brought. It was great to get out on the water even when the fishing is so damn slow.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082816-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082816-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082816-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082816-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082816-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082816-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082816-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082816-8.jpg)
Finished up the evening at Papa's Pizza before the ride home.
Well thing are looking up in a way, the old man got his splint off and his elbow has mended up well according to the doctors. Now we will fight the battle of getting him to use that arm and rehab it to regain strength and range of motion. Lots of doctors' visits scheduled. Sundowners continues to be a problem and a bit worrisome as we are afraid he'll attempt to wander out in the night. Dementia is a strange animal. I sure as hell don't want to ever be in his condition, but it creeps up on you year by year.
Drove up to the river in the middle of the day and fished for a bit, I think it was Sunday, but am now not sure. Hot and humid as hell, water stained as the releases pull more and more detritus from the bottom of the lake. No updates on the damn dam repairs, still hoping it will get done by the end of the year. Lower river temperature spikes are worrisome, but there is not much that can be done.
Very few bugs on the water, a couple of midges here and there, an occasional sulfur, an odd mayfly from time to time, tried to catch one for an ID, something dark and size 10. Oh, there was a rise..... worked that spot for a while, the fish never rose again, but I kept working it and finally got the pune to take the fly.
Paddlers! Two groups of six and nine kayaks interrupted the afternoon. Moved on down a ways and spied a few more risers. Drank the beers that I had brought. It was great to get out on the water even when the fishing is so damn slow.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082816-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082816-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082816-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082816-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082816-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082816-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082816-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/08/082816-8.jpg)
Finished up the evening at Papa's Pizza before the ride home.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on August 30, 2016, 17:16:59 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on August 30, 2016, 17:16:59 PM
Good to hear your dad is doing better.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on August 30, 2016, 20:43:55 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on August 30, 2016, 20:43:55 PM
Hell yes
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Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 31, 2016, 07:00:04 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 31, 2016, 07:00:04 AM
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160831/173e36ca29f0d27f49a2b5a1ad1d9c10.jpg)
Temps are holding steady over the past three days, have we hit the peak?
Anybody got an update on the damn dam repairs ?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Temps are holding steady over the past three days, have we hit the peak?
Anybody got an update on the damn dam repairs ?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on August 31, 2016, 08:42:23 AM
Post by: 22midge on August 31, 2016, 08:42:23 AM
from what I hear after the new year is our best bet
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 04, 2016, 09:07:02 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 04, 2016, 09:07:02 AM
2016 – 71
Finally got the old man in the shower! Whew... one day at a time...
Spork was rumbling about fishing the high country and we're planning a spring creek trip. Decided to take Kayaks up to the local and float a middle section. Beerz and streamers. This was a first time float, so we didn't really know how long it was going to take or how many wadable spots there would be. Just past the put in Spork had a hit, we were thinking this might be good. But hour after hour passed without any luck Casting from the kayak isn't a lot of fun, but we pressed on through the frog water and stopped here and there while banging the banks on the way down. The last two miles were stillwater, backed up from the dam. Now we understand why Fin paddles back upstream.... Learned a little about the river and have made tentative plans to return with a little different float. Really need a two man raft..
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/09/090316-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/09/090316-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/09/090316-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/09/090316-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/09/090316-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/09/090316-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/09/090316-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/09/090316-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/09/090316-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/09/090316-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/09/090316-11.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 04, 2016, 09:53:08 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 04, 2016, 09:53:08 AM
Nice attempt, dudes.
@Ncsporksman -- I hope the vise is serving you well.
@Ncsporksman -- I hope the vise is serving you well.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on September 04, 2016, 13:12:28 PM
Post by: IFStultz on September 04, 2016, 13:12:28 PM
You need a trolling motor as well. There is pretty much 0 flow once you get down there. That water needs to cool off a bit too. We tried floating it at night in my raft a few weeks ago. Couldn't see shit in the fog and my glasses kept fogging up to make things worse. LED headlamps do not work worth a shit in fog either. Trials and Errors I guess.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 04, 2016, 14:55:20 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 04, 2016, 14:55:20 PM
Will not be taking out at the damn dam again! Matt and I talked about mousing at night, didn't think about the fog!
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Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on September 04, 2016, 22:24:03 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on September 04, 2016, 22:24:03 PM
It's very mousy. Maybe when it.cools off the fog will also and we can dredge up leroy
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Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Yallerhammer on September 06, 2016, 08:33:20 AM
Post by: Yallerhammer on September 06, 2016, 08:33:20 AM
Is that an old Willys jeep in the water?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 06, 2016, 10:45:16 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 06, 2016, 10:45:16 AM
Quote from: Yallerhammer on September 06, 2016, 08:33:20 AM
Is that an old Willys jeep in the water?
Childs toy truck
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on September 06, 2016, 13:44:11 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on September 06, 2016, 13:44:11 PM
Fished for a little over an hour Saturday afternoon and about an hour Sunday morning. The fish were were they are supposed to be for this time of the year if you can get to them!
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20007_zpsz6z7p0mm.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20007_zpsz6z7p0mm.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20003_zps2hkx90nx.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20003_zps2hkx90nx.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20002_zpsxxabm7ij.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20002_zpsxxabm7ij.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20001_zpscuokswri.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20001_zpscuokswri.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20006_zps3diombfk.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20006_zps3diombfk.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20007_zpsz6z7p0mm.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20007_zpsz6z7p0mm.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20003_zps2hkx90nx.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20003_zps2hkx90nx.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20002_zpsxxabm7ij.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20002_zpsxxabm7ij.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20001_zpscuokswri.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20001_zpscuokswri.jpg.html)
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag80/obcrouch/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20006_zps3diombfk.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/obcrouch/media/obcrouch001/Smith%209-3-16%20006_zps3diombfk.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on September 13, 2016, 07:44:58 AM
Post by: NCsporksman on September 13, 2016, 07:44:58 AM
Worked in overdrive all morning so I could play hooky all afternoon.... tied up some micro crawdads and sculps, stole the bossman's Yak and returned to some promising waters. Punes rising to emergers all over but the new 6 weight and line needed to stretch. Scouted a stretch, transmitted the rest of my orders and got in the drink around 4. I hate fishing from a yak, but now I hate it a little less.
(http://i.imgur.com/3RmEmfb.jpg) (http://imgur.com/3RmEmfb)
(http://i.imgur.com/UU5Ijh3.jpg) (http://imgur.com/UU5Ijh3)
(http://i.imgur.com/42stnAC.jpg) (http://imgur.com/42stnAC)
(http://i.imgur.com/QUkWzLS.jpg) (http://imgur.com/QUkWzLS)
(http://i.imgur.com/VzIB7C0.jpg) (http://imgur.com/VzIB7C0)
native meth head
(http://i.imgur.com/RMAhRMl.jpg) (http://imgur.com/RMAhRMl)
non-native meth monster
n!n
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 13, 2016, 07:52:36 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 13, 2016, 07:52:36 AM
Nicely done, Meth Monster.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on September 13, 2016, 10:53:05 AM
Post by: driver on September 13, 2016, 10:53:05 AM
Dood! Holla
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 13, 2016, 10:58:22 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 13, 2016, 10:58:22 AM
Kayak thief, meth much? My phone didn't ring, I was mowing a lawn - and drinking Dales!
Ps, I have another one of those dink kayaks!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Ps, I have another one of those dink kayaks!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 16, 2016, 20:49:02 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 16, 2016, 20:49:02 PM
Been too long. b';
Headed down after cleaning up Cleveland show. (Kicked ass, btw. Mo money.)
Good to see the girl. Camped with two rods and beer in Wowie's hole and ranged from there.
Water was up to 300cfs ish. And milky. Is the lake turning over? the streams coming in are clear.
Nuthin much coming off. For hours you see a sulfur here and there.
Decided to throw meat. Started with terrestrials. Cheeseburgers.
(http://i.imgur.com/i8RqeN6.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/RJVsgXy.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/quoPM6D.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/1detqLF.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/8HpPAx9.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/LXBp2Cd.jpg)
Chucked some psuedoslumpbusters with the old glass 6 wt. and got a solid bump but no hook up.
Cracked another beer, saw a few more sulfurs popping off. Went back to the 4 wt. Score.
(http://i.imgur.com/jsK5X4H.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/vXl636v.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/SDP9NiN.jpg)
Spicebush getting jiggy.
(http://i.imgur.com/JJ9EyHN.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/j4hp3G6.jpg)
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 16, 2016, 21:09:40 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 16, 2016, 21:09:40 PM
The slumpbuster generally kicks ass.
Good showing.
Good showing.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 16, 2016, 21:20:57 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 16, 2016, 21:20:57 PM
The shitiest cornfield known to mankind.
But thank you Mr. Philpott for letting us walk it. bd;0
For those of you contemplating sending an action alert response, the access on the Smith is really incredible.
The resident trespassers would be disappointed for most of it's miles. -0-
But thank you Mr. Philpott for letting us walk it. bd;0
For those of you contemplating sending an action alert response, the access on the Smith is really incredible.
The resident trespassers would be disappointed for most of it's miles. -0-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on September 16, 2016, 22:37:21 PM
Post by: driver on September 16, 2016, 22:37:21 PM
I think those fish are getting bigger.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 16, 2016, 23:12:28 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 16, 2016, 23:12:28 PM
They displayed great vigor!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on September 17, 2016, 08:03:38 AM
Post by: creakycane on September 17, 2016, 08:03:38 AM
The water they are letting through seems to have gotten a bit more milking in the past month or so. They'll probably have to cut the flows some more, unless there is considerable rain in the next few weeks.....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on September 17, 2016, 20:20:07 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on September 17, 2016, 20:20:07 PM
It's milky indeed. Not bad for fishing most parts tho
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Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 18, 2016, 09:31:11 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 18, 2016, 09:31:11 AM
Spork and Driver were planning a floaty trip down the Smith, despite hating fishing out of the kayak, I invited myself along. My plans were to start off with streamers on a sinking line, with a floaty line and dry flies and nymphs for plan "B". Spork started hooking up with stones right off, when I went to switch lines, I realized that I left the other reel in the car. Struggled with streamers the rest of the day, with Driver catching a few on beetles and black caddis. I had a couple of tugs and one blow up, but I did manage to consume my share of beer.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/09/091716-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/09/091716-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/09/091716-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/09/091716-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/09/091716-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/09/091716-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/09/091716-7.jpg)
Da sporkster harvested a bow an a brown.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on September 18, 2016, 12:15:49 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on September 18, 2016, 12:15:49 PM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on September 04, 2016, 09:53:08 AM
Nice attempt, dudes.
@NCsporksman -- I hope the vise is serving you well.
loving it, caught many fishes on flies tied, its got good mojo
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: RiverbumCO on September 18, 2016, 21:04:03 PM
Post by: RiverbumCO on September 18, 2016, 21:04:03 PM
Doug did I see a pull behind combine? Very 1990.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 18, 2016, 21:50:46 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 18, 2016, 21:50:46 PM
Pretty sure I seen one in town a few days ago. May have been the first one I've ever seen.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 19, 2016, 06:21:04 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 19, 2016, 06:21:04 AM
Quote from: RiverbumCO on September 18, 2016, 21:04:03 PM
Doug did I see a pull behind combine? Very 1990.
Two rows at a time, homie. :banana011:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on September 19, 2016, 06:51:03 AM
Post by: Onslow on September 19, 2016, 06:51:03 AM
Silage cutter, not a combine.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 19, 2016, 07:51:15 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 19, 2016, 07:51:15 AM
Correct, sir. It was collecting as much grass and other weeds as corn.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Yallerhammer on September 20, 2016, 07:43:28 AM
Post by: Yallerhammer on September 20, 2016, 07:43:28 AM
Spent many days in my teenage years driving an old raggedy-ass 2-ton truck in circles around a cornfield beside a silage chopper, then off to the pit silo to dump. Hot, loud, dusty, and paid about threefiddy an hour.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 22, 2016, 20:00:16 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 22, 2016, 20:00:16 PM
Another Thursday end o'day trip.
Got up way early and finished my drive back from Indy. O-H-I-O. F-i-x y-o-u-r r-o-a-d-s.
OK, you're not as bad as PA.
Still had some bidness to deal with, the phone kept ringing and I finally got loaded up and gone late. b';
The ambassadors were waiting.
(http://i.imgur.com/1jaMPnc.jpg)
Water is extra milky. The lake has to be turning over. Thankfully the temps are not rising along with the color change.
(http://i.imgur.com/eAk4WJv.jpg)
Fishing was sloooow. No rises.
Threw the right dry with a soft hackle dropper. Nuttin. Let it swig. Nuttin.
Went the terrestrial route. Crackleback with inchworm. Nuttin. Crackleback with pink san juan worm. Nuttin.
Streamers? Swung a Mickey Finn. And a Fish Hawk. Nuttin.
Drank another beer and had an early dinner/late lunch.
(http://i.imgur.com/4RLmeLH.jpg)
I was not amused.
(http://i.imgur.com/Fo6UdK0.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/E5f5jhE.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/BBTYKvH.jpg)
The sun was fading fast. Tied on a Rusty Comparadun and waded out. Nuttin happening in the run. THE RUN.
Waded down to the next one. Hey. Fish rising here and there.
Especially in the far scum line. With five different currents between me and it.
Waded out in the high milky water as far as I could shuffle and cast.
Some lousy drifts, some ok. Some small fish missed it, finally bought one little 6-7"er to hand. Bye skunk.
10-15 casts later brought a decent fish.
(http://i.imgur.com/I4mtD9i.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/jTYy4RJ.jpg)
Decided to head out after that.
7:00. Almost back to the car.
(http://i.imgur.com/8TA6tNx.jpg)
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on September 22, 2016, 21:02:03 PM
Post by: driver on September 22, 2016, 21:02:03 PM
they should rename that filter the "red finger filter" sure did make that fish look pretty, though.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 22, 2016, 21:12:23 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 22, 2016, 21:12:23 PM
Quote from: driver on September 22, 2016, 21:02:03 PM
they should rename that filter the "red finger filter" sure did make that fish look pretty, though.
Just a little shadow and saturation, holmes. The light conditions changed so much in a couple hours.
The ol' Tg-1 is was it is.
Would you prefer Lomo-ish? And yes, the Smiff browns are beauts.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 22, 2016, 21:14:32 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 22, 2016, 21:14:32 PM
I know those dogs
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Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on September 22, 2016, 21:14:44 PM
Post by: Al on September 22, 2016, 21:14:44 PM
Better days are coming. Might give it a try myself once they get the flows adjusted back to where us old men can stay on our feet.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 22, 2016, 23:07:26 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 22, 2016, 23:07:26 PM
I just want clear water and bugs , I hope there will be a bumper crop of sulfurs next year.
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Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on September 23, 2016, 04:44:19 AM
Post by: Onslow on September 23, 2016, 04:44:19 AM
Quote from: driver on September 22, 2016, 21:02:03 PM
they should rename that filter the "red finger filter" sure did make that fish look pretty, though.
Iphoto on the ole desktop doesn't give ya red fingers.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 23, 2016, 08:37:31 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 23, 2016, 08:37:31 AM
~1~ Ohio roads do suck. I agree. So do their strip clubs.....
~2~ Is that a Fishpond thermometer on your vest? If so, I just ordered and received one in a different color. The statements made by @Big J and @Onslow on my sucky creek report influenced me to keep a thermometer with me from now on for stream temperatures.
~3~ We'll hit that river at least once next week. I'm looking forward to it. Fishing a river like that will make anyone a better fisherman.
~4~ @Dougfish -- How was that the right dry if no fish took it? Unless, of course, it was the same fly that eventually attracted a take, just without the dropper.
~5~ I'm glad you caught a couple, @Dougfish.
~2~ Is that a Fishpond thermometer on your vest? If so, I just ordered and received one in a different color. The statements made by @Big J and @Onslow on my sucky creek report influenced me to keep a thermometer with me from now on for stream temperatures.
~3~ We'll hit that river at least once next week. I'm looking forward to it. Fishing a river like that will make anyone a better fisherman.
~4~ @Dougfish -- How was that the right dry if no fish took it? Unless, of course, it was the same fly that eventually attracted a take, just without the dropper.
~5~ I'm glad you caught a couple, @Dougfish.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 23, 2016, 08:46:12 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 23, 2016, 08:46:12 AM
It's their keeper. But I do have the thermometer, too. Use it a lot. Ben always wants to know the temp. :laugh:
56 yesterday, BTW.
The right fly is only the right fly for a moment, grasshopper.
But some parachute adams, sulfurs, and puff daddies in 16-18 increase the odds.
PT and hares ear soft hackle. 16.
56 yesterday, BTW.
The right fly is only the right fly for a moment, grasshopper.
But some parachute adams, sulfurs, and puff daddies in 16-18 increase the odds.
PT and hares ear soft hackle. 16.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 23, 2016, 08:54:36 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 23, 2016, 08:54:36 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on September 23, 2016, 08:46:12 AM
It's their keeper. But I do have the thermometer, too. Use it a lot. Ben always wants to know the temp. :laugh:
56 yesterday, BTW.
The right fly is only the right fly for a moment, grasshopper.
But some parachute adams, sulfurs, and puff daddies in 16-18 increase the odds.
PT and hares ear soft hackle. 16.
I've fished the Smith a few times now. Several hookups took place while fishing dries (can't remember what fly), more took place while nymphing (hare's ear or pheasant tail most likely)-(sometimes single sometimes as a dropper or tandem). One lonely fish fell to a small streamer (woolly bugger or slumpbuster).
True stats.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 25, 2016, 08:05:53 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 25, 2016, 08:05:53 AM
Any of you boys fishing the Smith today?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 25, 2016, 08:10:30 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 25, 2016, 08:10:30 AM
Won't be back for a week. b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: swervinmervin on September 25, 2016, 12:39:41 PM
Post by: swervinmervin on September 25, 2016, 12:39:41 PM
Made it out for a few hours Saturday morning. I've been stay-at-home dad for two weeks now, so a forgiving wife let me out of the house to fish. Good morning, caught them on everything from dries to a woolly bugger. Best one of the day came on a zebra midge. Seven or eight were brought to hand.
(http://i1113.photobucket.com/albums/k511/jakelawrencevb/886B42F1-7D58-495C-9BE7-4753D729696F.jpg)
(http://i1113.photobucket.com/albums/k511/jakelawrencevb/245CA442-ACA5-48FE-B7A8-9A5BC9DF4716.jpg)
(http://i1113.photobucket.com/albums/k511/jakelawrencevb/4C15FFEB-D887-4308-AFDF-F085A310CDAD.jpg)
(http://i1113.photobucket.com/albums/k511/jakelawrencevb/7B30A246-E252-4344-A608-766B77D63663.jpg)
(http://i1113.photobucket.com/albums/k511/jakelawrencevb/31684594-69FE-4CC5-A126-8C51E5216DF9.jpg)
This guy just smashed the nymph the second it hit the water. Never seen one do that before.
(http://i1113.photobucket.com/albums/k511/jakelawrencevb/00416376-2906-4935-9263-A4E5A9C7648E.jpg)
A delightful Saturday morning.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 25, 2016, 19:18:10 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 25, 2016, 19:18:10 PM
Headed to the Smith this afternoon. I've been wanting a little larger piece of water. I followed a Bentley a good ways to the river. Landed 2 little dudes and lost 4. I'll be back, but I'm fishing a different stretch next time.
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/FF32175F-3738-4F14-9BDD-AFA30297D8B2_zpsqcbrrd1m.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/FF32175F-3738-4F14-9BDD-AFA30297D8B2_zpsqcbrrd1m.jpg.html)
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/FB8DB43C-875C-405F-B7F6-317090803E54_zpsfyyjfmnr.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/FB8DB43C-875C-405F-B7F6-317090803E54_zpsfyyjfmnr.jpg.html)
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/C3393B22-A435-4D18-B14B-FB61A018083A_zps9kxvd1g6.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/C3393B22-A435-4D18-B14B-FB61A018083A_zps9kxvd1g6.jpg.html)
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/C94B3568-E3AF-45EB-8069-5F888EA4E7EC_zpsyzyqbedt.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/C94B3568-E3AF-45EB-8069-5F888EA4E7EC_zpsyzyqbedt.jpg.html)
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/A446871C-CD09-4E2A-8F23-D9BE6277BEB1_zpsn9nsxvt0.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/A446871C-CD09-4E2A-8F23-D9BE6277BEB1_zpsn9nsxvt0.jpg.html)
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p543/jasonpreslar/A02ECC11-43EA-4B79-A0A7-1D9D3B0CDFF1_zpsqwirqgmy.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/jasonpreslar/media/A02ECC11-43EA-4B79-A0A7-1D9D3B0CDFF1_zpsqwirqgmy.jpg.html)
n!n n!n n!n n!n n!n n!n
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 26, 2016, 04:30:39 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 26, 2016, 04:30:39 AM
Good stuff, Merv and Wade.
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Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Yallerhammer on September 26, 2016, 12:24:14 PM
Post by: Yallerhammer on September 26, 2016, 12:24:14 PM
Confucious say a day spent catching a few is better than a day spent looking at pictures of somebody else catching a lot. :D Good stuff.
Doug, you've done got me hooked on that damn Mexican yuppie beer now.
Doug, you've done got me hooked on that damn Mexican yuppie beer now.
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 01, 2016, 16:57:01 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 01, 2016, 16:57:01 PM
The smiff is fucked, dregs from the bottom of the lake are making the river too muddy to fish or wade IMHO!
https://vimeo.com/185208522 (https://vimeo.com/185208522)
But the Honda is getting great mpg !
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161001/bc4c9109f04f4121a4baade540953758.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
https://vimeo.com/185208522 (https://vimeo.com/185208522)
But the Honda is getting great mpg !
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161001/bc4c9109f04f4121a4baade540953758.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on October 16, 2016, 13:33:30 PM
Post by: creakycane on October 16, 2016, 13:33:30 PM
Back up to 500 CFS to clear out Matthew water and drop the lake.
Any news on the turbines/work on the dam? Wondering if they will be back to normal releases before year's end?
Thanks!
Any news on the turbines/work on the dam? Wondering if they will be back to normal releases before year's end?
Thanks!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 16, 2016, 17:37:14 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 16, 2016, 17:37:14 PM
Hope they get it fixed soon, but I wouldn't net that it'll be on time
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Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 20, 2016, 08:54:32 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 20, 2016, 08:54:32 AM
2016 – 78
https://youtu.be/oHowqKYSXNI
What the fuck was I thinking? I had been up to the river a couple of weeks ago, before Matthew dumped all that rain and the dam was pouring mud then. Why I thought that it would be any different after they raised the release to dump the storm water is beyond me. To be fair, they had clamped down of the flow to 250 cfs, so at least it was wadable. But Jesus, it is muddier now that ever. I can only imagine that the constant flow from the very bottom of the dam has created an underwater canyon eroded out of the decades of sediment at the bottom of the fucking lake. I swore off this river that last time I visited, but I must be suffering from some sort of delusional episode. The sad part is that I knew it was going to be fucked the moment I saw the river in Bassett, but no, I continued on up the road and then, while drinking the first of many ice cold Yeti cooled beers, I proceeded to don my waders in the 87 degree heat and then walk ¾ of a mile across the now harvested sun baked fields with the sun beating down on my back. Fuck, it's October, but it feels more like August. Anyway when I get to the water, it's a disaster, visibility is only about eight inches, and I know wading is going to be sketchy on this incredibly fucked up river bottom that is a bitch to wade in the best of conditions. I came prepared to throw small streamers on a sinking line, my back-up plan was some Sam Adams Rebel IPAs that I stashed in my vest, I also brought along a floating line and some dry flies in the off chance that there would be some risers on this fucked up muddy river. Well I hit seven or eight different runs, that almost always produce, with four different streamers before saying, "Fuck this shit!" and heading back to where I had stashed the beer. Cold and crisp the Sam Adams went down smoothly, especially well because I bought the twelver for 13 bucks.
I took some photos, drank another beer, watch the birds and even saw a bald eagle. I fished on some more, but my heart wasn't in it and I left before dusk.
Here is what the afternoon looked like!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-13.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-14.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-15.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-16.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-17.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-18.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-19.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-20.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-21.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-22.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-23.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-24.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-25.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-26.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-27.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/101916-28.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on October 20, 2016, 09:38:27 AM
Post by: Al on October 20, 2016, 09:38:27 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on October 16, 2016, 17:37:14 PM
Hope they get it fixed soon, but I wouldn'tnetbet that it'll be on time
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
The latest is we either need to buy a kayak, canoe or raft - it is going to be well into next year before they get the repairs done.
In the meantime they hope to lower the flows back to 100-150 as soon as they get the pool behind the dam a little below normal. Flows will increase anytime there is a significant rain.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 20, 2016, 10:13:28 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 20, 2016, 10:13:28 AM
Quote from: Al on October 20, 2016, 09:38:27 AMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on October 16, 2016, 17:37:14 PM
Hope they get it fixed soon, but I wouldn'tnetbet that it'll be on time
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
The latest is we either need to buy a kayak, canoe or raft - it is going to be well into next year before they get the repairs done.
In the meantime they hope to lower the flows back to 100-150 as soon as they get the pool behind the dam a little below normal. Flows will increase anytime there is a significant rain.
Flow reduction won't help the damn dam muddy water---gonna take a long long time for the river to get back to normal. We might even have a low reproduction this year if that mud covers the redds.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on October 20, 2016, 10:52:34 AM
Post by: IFStultz on October 20, 2016, 10:52:34 AM
Maybe we can get them to throw a shit ton of Mysis shrimp in there when they get everything else sorted out. That'll fatten those little bastards right up.
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Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on October 20, 2016, 11:21:22 AM
Post by: driver on October 20, 2016, 11:21:22 AM
Tjats would be badass if they could survive in the lake.
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Sent from my SM-G920V using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 31, 2016, 12:09:55 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 31, 2016, 12:09:55 PM
2016 - 79
Saturday morning at the coffee shop reading some Harrison, I came across this passage.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/102916-1.jpg)
Got me thinking about this election and I bailed, headed go the old local to check it out. Water temps are finally dropping back into safe range. Popped a beer while getting the gear ready. And hiked on down the trail. Stopped when I saw these mushrooms, oysters and honeys ...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/102916-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/102916-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/102916-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/102916-5.jpg)
Resumed hiking and in a moment of disbelief I realized that the tip of the rod was missing. Jesus! What the fuck? Damn it. I knew I should have strung the rod back at the car. I turned back and carefully retraced my steps a half mile back to the car. I went slow as I knew it would be difficult to see the brown rod tip among the leaves littering the trail. No luck! Got another rod out and hiked back in again looking for the missing rod section. Finally got to the river and took a beer break.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/102916-6.jpg)
Clear skies and cloudy water, proved that the fishing wasn't easy, as I only caught one middling trout.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/102916-7.jpg)
Here's how I felt about the day so far.
I needed another beer, so I headed back to the car. Once again keeping an eye out for the rod tip. I stopped to check my Instagram to see if Buddy had offered up an ID on the mushrooms and then I was getting ready to take a photo of the leaf strewn floor of the forest, when I noticed, right there in front of me was the Sage Response Tip! Hell Yeah!
Can you see it?
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/102916-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/102916-9.jpg)
Loaded up with a couple of high gravity IPAs and headed on to the upper reach of this section of the river.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/102916-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/102916-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/102916-12.jpg)
Caught another fish that blew up on a streamer, iphone remained in my pocket.
Found a pair of clippers and fished on back downstream. Did not move another fish.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/102916-13.jpg)
Called it a day and headed on home.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 31, 2016, 13:11:17 PM
Post by: Dougfish on October 31, 2016, 13:11:17 PM
:banana072: You drove right by us?
At least I didn't pick up any snooty beer cans.
At least I didn't pick up any snooty beer cans.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 31, 2016, 21:31:37 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 31, 2016, 21:31:37 PM
I saw no other cars
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on October 31, 2016, 22:48:05 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on October 31, 2016, 22:48:05 PM
What passage?
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ptfranze on November 01, 2016, 08:40:21 AM
Post by: ptfranze on November 01, 2016, 08:40:21 AM
Don't know how you found that rod tip, I don't think I would ever have seen that. Hell I can hardly see it in the picture
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 01, 2016, 10:23:42 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 01, 2016, 10:23:42 AM
Quote from: NCsporksman on October 31, 2016, 22:48:05 PM
What passage?
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/10/passage-1.jpg)
mybad.... left it out...
Quote from: ptfranze on November 01, 2016, 08:40:21 AM
Don't know how you found that rod tip, I don't think I would ever have seen that. Hell I can hardly see it in the picture
Wouldn't have found it if not for dumb luck!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on November 01, 2016, 10:55:46 AM
Post by: IFStultz on November 01, 2016, 10:55:46 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on October 20, 2016, 10:13:28 AMQuote from: Al on October 20, 2016, 09:38:27 AMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on October 16, 2016, 17:37:14 PM
Hope they get it fixed soon, but I wouldn'tnetbet that it'll be on time
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The latest is we either need to buy a kayak, canoe or raft - it is going to be well into next year before they get the repairs done.
In the meantime they hope to lower the flows back to 100-150 as soon as they get the pool behind the dam a little below normal. Flows will increase anytime there is a significant rain.
Flow reduction won't help the damn dam muddy water---gonna take a long long time for the river to get back to normal. We might even have a low reproduction this year if that mud covers the redds.
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A low reproduction year might be a good thing. Too many small fish in there already.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ptfranze on November 01, 2016, 10:56:53 AM
Post by: ptfranze on November 01, 2016, 10:56:53 AM
What was the id on the shroom? I asked my buddy who is a forager and chef/owner of a farm to table restaurant in charlotte. He said from the picture he couldn't tell 100% on it and would probably just leave it.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 01, 2016, 12:30:53 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 01, 2016, 12:30:53 PM
The light colored ones are oysters (100%) and the darker ones are honey (89%)
I didn't harvest either!
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I didn't harvest either!
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on November 01, 2016, 13:23:21 PM
Post by: creakycane on November 01, 2016, 13:23:21 PM
Immersion in the Legends novellas is a good place to wait out the political season and the murky water......
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 16, 2016, 17:42:54 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 16, 2016, 17:42:54 PM
#found #noyoucanthabethemback
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161116/99eb27b0481b534a0f9bb6673c72451b.jpg)
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(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161116/99eb27b0481b534a0f9bb6673c72451b.jpg)
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on November 17, 2016, 08:37:15 AM
Post by: troutfanatic on November 17, 2016, 08:37:15 AM
You need to fish the shit out of that sculpin helmet pattern. That time you and I fished the declining generation last Aug, they were what I was using. They work even better further down river of where we were.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 19, 2016, 11:32:19 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 19, 2016, 11:32:19 AM
https://youtu.be/VFHA15B8iNI
2016 - 84
Jesus! Can't these fuckers at the dam stick to a schedule! The water shouJD be falling by no, but fuck it still going full bore. Resigned to waiting I pulled out the laptop and took care of some business. Then I rigged up and tied on one of the streamers I had found the other day, and waded out into the run. After about twenty minutes the water began to fall and the fish began to attack the fly.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/11/111716-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/11/111716-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/11/111716-8.jpg)
GF "Well, I didn't hear from you about any plans so I accepted another offer..."
WB "Are you serious?, call me
GF " Yes, I'll call in a minute.."
She called and we made plans for Saturday night..
to be continued in the Albie thread....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on November 19, 2016, 15:02:38 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on November 19, 2016, 15:02:38 PM
Do I see a missing adipose fin on #3?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 19, 2016, 16:00:51 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 19, 2016, 16:00:51 PM
Quote from: troutfanatic on November 19, 2016, 15:02:38 PM
Do I see a missing adipose fin on #3?
that is what you don't see.... and I caught two of 'em
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on November 19, 2016, 17:22:27 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on November 19, 2016, 17:22:27 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on November 19, 2016, 16:00:51 PMQuote from: troutfanatic on November 19, 2016, 15:02:38 PM
Do I see a missing adipose fin on #3?
that is what you don't see.... and I caught two of 'em
Nice. Indications of success.
I got one a few weeks back and I had one that came unbuttoned that I would have loved to have got a look at.
I shall refocus my efforts after finals.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on November 20, 2016, 00:00:07 AM
Post by: IFStultz on November 20, 2016, 00:00:07 AM
Water still filthy?
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 20, 2016, 01:39:34 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 20, 2016, 01:39:34 AM
Quote from: IFStultz on November 20, 2016, 00:00:07 AM
Water still filthy?
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Yes, and it will be until they fix the damn dam
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: rford on November 20, 2016, 20:09:00 PM
Post by: rford on November 20, 2016, 20:09:00 PM
The dam or the generator will take until July according to a recent estimate.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 22, 2016, 13:24:41 PM
Post by: Dougfish on November 22, 2016, 13:24:41 PM
Did the lake turn over? Temp dropped and da river is supposedly clear in M-ville.
I'll eyeball it in the am. -0- With 6 wt. in hand.
I'll eyeball it in the am. -0- With 6 wt. in hand.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on November 22, 2016, 17:45:01 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on November 22, 2016, 17:45:01 PM
Please reporte
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on November 22, 2016, 17:57:13 PM
Post by: driver on November 22, 2016, 17:57:13 PM
Yinzer trout for me in the morning.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on November 22, 2016, 23:42:40 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on November 22, 2016, 23:42:40 PM
Gross bro
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on November 23, 2016, 08:48:30 AM
Post by: creakycane on November 23, 2016, 08:48:30 AM
Compared to the upper River, Mville down has looked fairly clear all fall.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 23, 2016, 09:12:57 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 23, 2016, 09:12:57 AM
Quote from: creakycane on November 23, 2016, 08:48:30 AM
Compared to the upper River, Mville down has looked fairly clear all fall.
Just think of all that mud settling out in the upper river
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on November 24, 2016, 09:57:19 AM
Post by: creakycane on November 24, 2016, 09:57:19 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on November 23, 2016, 09:12:57 AMQuote from: creakycane on November 23, 2016, 08:48:30 AM
Compared to the upper River, Mville down has looked fairly clear all fall.
Just think of all that mud settling out in the upper river
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Wandering around the upper river above mirror, there is certainly more silt along the edges than we are used to. Fluffy stuff.
Then the water stays pretty turbid all the way to martinsville reservoir (banks through bassett/fdale loaded with the fluffy stuff), and then pretty clear to mildly turbid below mville. I am hoping much of the silt is being left in Mville reservoir.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on November 27, 2016, 11:29:40 AM
Post by: ryguy on November 27, 2016, 11:29:40 AM
Friday we made the trek to Danville to celebrate Thanksgiving with my wife's family. With the great weather I made certain to pack my fishing gear. I always get up around 5:30, and while the rest of the family sleeps, I can get in a few hours fishing. This was the case this morning as I left at 6:30 for the Smith. I've fished here about 6 times a year over the past 4 years, and am by no means an expert. Usually I don't catch anything, but it's always fun. I really enjoy this river, and the various sections. I fished 2 spots below Martinsville, both were clear and not silted over. Wading did not stir up much silt either. Temps were in the 20s when I arrived, my guides iced over and I caught none at the first spot. Went upstream a few miles and caught 6 total. Largest was about 12", a personal best on this river.
2 fish I managed to photograph:
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161127/26797256d34f1f4c5400a04d8f3f033d.jpg)
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161127/6442411fa36765b375206a52fbe041cd.jpg)
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2 fish I managed to photograph:
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161127/26797256d34f1f4c5400a04d8f3f033d.jpg)
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161127/6442411fa36765b375206a52fbe041cd.jpg)
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 27, 2016, 11:38:08 AM
Post by: Dougfish on November 27, 2016, 11:38:08 AM
That'll work. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on November 27, 2016, 11:41:02 AM
Post by: Al on November 27, 2016, 11:41:02 AM
I crossed over the Smith in several places this morning and the water looks clear. Much better than the last time I looked about 2 weeks ago. Pulled into a couple spots for a closer look and if I'd had my rod I would have given it a try. Looked very wader friendly.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: VaTrout on November 28, 2016, 20:05:02 PM
Post by: VaTrout on November 28, 2016, 20:05:02 PM
Just left the river. It's finally CRYSTAL clear down low....and a low as I've seen it in quite some time.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on November 28, 2016, 20:29:25 PM
Post by: Al on November 28, 2016, 20:29:25 PM
All you folks who are wondering what is going on with the Smith River Fishery or repairs at Philpott Dam should make an effort to attend the SRTU meeting December 1st, 6:30pm @ Rainia's in uptown Martinsville. Check the club news section for details. http://www.brfff.com/forum/index.php/topic,14377.msg146345.html#new
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on November 29, 2016, 10:27:50 AM
Post by: ryguy on November 29, 2016, 10:27:50 AM
Hope the river stays clear for awhile. Visiting again over New Years, and will be fishing.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 14, 2016, 19:52:35 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 14, 2016, 19:52:35 PM
2016 – 95
I should just stop this nonsense, taking marginal trips is not the way to finish up the year, but I can't help myself. I didn't plan to fish today, but a Doug asked if I was going and we set some plans to fish upper smith stocked water that is strange to me. "Why not", I thought! The weather is going to get nasty tomorrow and I've got other plans for the weekend. Which is good, something normal, drinking, eating good food and canoodling, trumps cold weather fishing any day!
Crosstown rush hour traffic, all these poor sob's headed in to work. I'll just keep going out of town and down the road.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/12/121416-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/12/121416-2.jpg)
We were greeted by some free range hackle looking for a handout.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/12/121416-3.jpg)
Water was up a bit and stained enough to make you think streamers, why not? Go big or go home, right? WTF, punes attacking a streamer? Not making my day...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/12/121416-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/12/121416-6.jpg)
DSFK
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/12/121416-8.jpg)
River was pumping and I didn't stay too late...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/12/121416-9.jpg)
I should just stop this nonsense, taking marginal trips is not the way to finish up the year, but I can't help myself. I didn't plan to fish today, but a Doug asked if I was going and we set some plans to fish upper smith stocked water that is strange to me. "Why not", I thought! The weather is going to get nasty tomorrow and I've got other plans for the weekend. Which is good, something normal, drinking, eating good food and canoodling, trumps cold weather fishing any day!
Crosstown rush hour traffic, all these poor sob's headed in to work. I'll just keep going out of town and down the road.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/12/121416-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/12/121416-2.jpg)
We were greeted by some free range hackle looking for a handout.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/12/121416-3.jpg)
Water was up a bit and stained enough to make you think streamers, why not? Go big or go home, right? WTF, punes attacking a streamer? Not making my day...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/12/121416-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/12/121416-6.jpg)
DSFK
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/12/121416-8.jpg)
River was pumping and I didn't stay too late...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2016/12/121416-9.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 14, 2016, 21:26:26 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 14, 2016, 21:26:26 PM
I guess I'm marginal. n!n
I didn't want to battle the generation below Martinsville, so I talked WB into going upstream. Yeah, it's a stocked section, but that's not what we were targeting. Just dingy enough to make wading deep interesting. We stuck with streamers too long. Fucking hard heads. I finally switched to a big girdlebug and scored.
More DSFK.
(http://i.imgur.com/Nf2G5xU.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/D97kbrL.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/DJdXgIb.jpg)
We ended up lower after all. Scored a couple more. One off of a wet fly dropper. Both were triploid looking.
Then I bailed earlier than I wanted to. 5 days into a bad lower gut bug and no bueno.
Slunk off and ruined the KFC bathroom down the road before heading home.
Left the sketchy guy down there.
(http://i.imgur.com/Qb5Jqlp.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on December 14, 2016, 21:57:40 PM
Post by: driver on December 14, 2016, 21:57:40 PM
'c; Good Job guys. You both can kiss my ass. Fuckin work SUCKED today!
Wonder what the demise of the Red Winged Blackbird was?
Wonder what the demise of the Red Winged Blackbird was?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on December 15, 2016, 08:26:07 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on December 15, 2016, 08:26:07 AM
Yes, looks fun; I miss that river.
West Nile would be my guess on the bird killer.
West Nile would be my guess on the bird killer.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 15, 2016, 09:20:12 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 15, 2016, 09:20:12 AM
look at Dougie, posting up better feeesh and dead shit... y;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: bamafisher on December 19, 2016, 12:55:43 PM
Post by: bamafisher on December 19, 2016, 12:55:43 PM
Went out on Saturday morning, it's been a long while since I lasted chased trout (6 months) so I was fully prepared to get whooped.
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/e7e96e51482f7ef546a63a1c5a515813.jpg)
Fished my sweet 30 buck Eagle Claw glass for the heck of it.
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/d420463c28e0b12724ec75be84f16603.jpg)
Hit the water with a good friend from PHW.
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/cfb923b4d4d80d652f1b40ad9cb30001.jpg)
The fish were willing and cooperated for the most part.
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/1b6ca643faf8dde5ad8f0a5b718e2b9e.jpg)
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/5b26afbdf6b51ad96b36a2806cfd1a35.jpg)
Kyle getting some.
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/f1eb6c3efdd097f5f2c36e58c9f6acaf.jpg)
Grabbed the wrong wading boots and didn't realize till I got to the water. Luckily with owning horses there is always hay twine everywhere. Managed to make it through day. Def enjoyed the day on the water, it had been way way too long.
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(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/e7e96e51482f7ef546a63a1c5a515813.jpg)
Fished my sweet 30 buck Eagle Claw glass for the heck of it.
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/d420463c28e0b12724ec75be84f16603.jpg)
Hit the water with a good friend from PHW.
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/cfb923b4d4d80d652f1b40ad9cb30001.jpg)
The fish were willing and cooperated for the most part.
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/1b6ca643faf8dde5ad8f0a5b718e2b9e.jpg)
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/5b26afbdf6b51ad96b36a2806cfd1a35.jpg)
Kyle getting some.
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/f1eb6c3efdd097f5f2c36e58c9f6acaf.jpg)
Grabbed the wrong wading boots and didn't realize till I got to the water. Luckily with owning horses there is always hay twine everywhere. Managed to make it through day. Def enjoyed the day on the water, it had been way way too long.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on December 19, 2016, 13:23:37 PM
Post by: Big J on December 19, 2016, 13:23:37 PM
You haven't fished for trout for 6 months and you decide to fish the Smith? :o Your a brave man.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 19, 2016, 14:14:38 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 19, 2016, 14:14:38 PM
My man!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ptfranze on December 19, 2016, 14:30:06 PM
Post by: ptfranze on December 19, 2016, 14:30:06 PM
Love the blue cheek on the last fish picture 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on December 27, 2016, 21:50:11 PM
Post by: Fishbug on December 27, 2016, 21:50:11 PM
Caught a trout and broke my rod tip on a snag. Shit.
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161228/6bcc0a2186c2d9eca31a08ee451c83fc.jpg)
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161228/39a93e873ece49a0e08201e55da17f8d.jpg)
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(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161228/6bcc0a2186c2d9eca31a08ee451c83fc.jpg)
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161228/39a93e873ece49a0e08201e55da17f8d.jpg)
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on December 27, 2016, 23:42:40 PM
Post by: driver on December 27, 2016, 23:42:40 PM
Ho Lee Fuk. This reminds me. I think I went a whole year without breaking a rod.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 28, 2016, 02:14:02 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 28, 2016, 02:14:02 AM
Ouch
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: DRIFTS on December 28, 2016, 04:14:38 AM
Post by: DRIFTS on December 28, 2016, 04:14:38 AM
Rod breakage sux >:(
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: bamafisher on December 28, 2016, 08:00:19 AM
Post by: bamafisher on December 28, 2016, 08:00:19 AM
Don't worry duct tape will take care of that, it slows down the action but should be fine
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JWJ on December 29, 2016, 08:51:27 AM
Post by: JWJ on December 29, 2016, 08:51:27 AM
If anyone finds an old school Brodin Frying Pan Ghost net with a carabiner and magnetic net holder attached to the top on the Smith lemme know. Lost it a couple days ago fishing with my old man. Hoping maybe it got caught up in some debris downstream and someone will stumble upon it.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 29, 2016, 09:03:23 AM
Post by: Dougfish on December 29, 2016, 09:03:23 AM
Quote from: JWJ on December 29, 2016, 08:51:27 AM
If anyone finds an old school Brodin Frying Pan Ghost net with a carabiner and magnetic net holder attached to the top on the Smith lemme know. Lost it a couple days ago fishing with my old man. Hoping maybe it got caught up in some debris downstream and someone will stumble upon it.
More Smiff sukage. b';
Will keep my eye out for it manana. Where were you fishing?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 29, 2016, 18:42:25 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 29, 2016, 18:42:25 PM
I lost a Brodin Tailwater on the smifff last year , sux
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on December 29, 2016, 19:26:49 PM
Post by: ryguy on December 29, 2016, 19:26:49 PM
Heading there either tomorrow or Saturday. Will have an eye out. Have lost many an object on the water before. Most notably my favorite hat.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on December 30, 2016, 11:42:48 AM
Post by: troutfanatic on December 30, 2016, 11:42:48 AM
Things lost: a pair of Oakley Gascans with amber polarized lenses. Either lost at Eggleston or Riverside Chuch. Reward offered.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 30, 2016, 12:20:13 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 30, 2016, 12:20:13 PM
Got no booty.
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161230/b7cd5bd0200b33c74db3357c47295b3c.jpg)
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161230/b7cd5bd0200b33c74db3357c47295b3c.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 30, 2016, 15:33:48 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 30, 2016, 15:33:48 PM
well it looks clear...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 30, 2016, 16:22:53 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 30, 2016, 16:22:53 PM
I thought about going today , but the wind kept me away [emoji1]
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 30, 2016, 17:13:41 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 30, 2016, 17:13:41 PM
Smart call. It was brutal. Flogged until 2. Did the front put the bite down? Managed 3 early. Computer is acting up. Maybe pics later?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on December 30, 2016, 17:18:58 PM
Post by: ryguy on December 30, 2016, 17:18:58 PM
That's dedication. I'll be out that way tomorrow morning.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 30, 2016, 22:25:02 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 30, 2016, 22:25:02 PM
I almost didn't go this morning. Wind was howling at home and I could go Saturday instead.
Nah. I was
The welcoming committee.
(http://i.imgur.com/agkX4i4.jpg)
Started gearing up. When your assembled rod and reel almost blows off the roof of the car, you might have made a wrong decision. :o
Any of you guize lose the lube for your joint?
(http://i.imgur.com/Ao7L6wB.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/F9QVo3V.jpg)
Save a tree, eat a beaver.
(http://i.imgur.com/wqL6Qcg.jpg)
Conditions dictated the fishing. The wind was coming directly downstream OK, soft hackles and wet flies across and down.
(http://i.imgur.com/3KG7JtK.jpg)
Managed 2 small browns and a surprisingly nice stocker bow.
Then the wind really kicked up. n!n
No coffee.
(http://i.imgur.com/gx0SqJp.jpg)
The trees were creaking and swaying. Lots of small and medium branches and branchlets started hitting the water.
When one hit me, I packed it in.
(http://i.imgur.com/Q9cmHz6.jpg)
And 2016 is in the books.
Cheers, lads.
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on December 31, 2016, 10:45:05 AM
Post by: driver on December 31, 2016, 10:45:05 AM
Damn...I Might head up there manana
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 31, 2016, 18:11:55 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 31, 2016, 18:11:55 PM
Quote from: driver on December 31, 2016, 10:45:05 AM
Damn...I Might head up there manana
New Years Day Fish Fry on da Smifff.... 0:0 d:b <-;:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on December 31, 2016, 19:03:43 PM
Post by: driver on December 31, 2016, 19:03:43 PM
Holla
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 31, 2016, 20:14:26 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 31, 2016, 20:14:26 PM
If I do go it will be later In the day
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on December 31, 2016, 20:46:11 PM
Post by: Fishbug on December 31, 2016, 20:46:11 PM
Weather was good.
Stopped at a new for me spot---got skunked.
Went elsewhere---put on a streamer I tied.
Bam---my best fish of the year :
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170101/2cd842f9d9d6a6dcc844bdf5ccad5ddd.jpg)
Suprisingly he didnt fight that much---kinda just layed there like fuuuccck not again...
Saw a couple more fish, one rather large brown that was tailing the fly, practically sniffing it...but wouldn't commit
Welp a good end to the year...
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170101/ad1517b178834312b18ab632a94598ca.jpg)
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Stopped at a new for me spot---got skunked.
Went elsewhere---put on a streamer I tied.
Bam---my best fish of the year :
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170101/2cd842f9d9d6a6dcc844bdf5ccad5ddd.jpg)
Suprisingly he didnt fight that much---kinda just layed there like fuuuccck not again...
Saw a couple more fish, one rather large brown that was tailing the fly, practically sniffing it...but wouldn't commit
Welp a good end to the year...
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170101/ad1517b178834312b18ab632a94598ca.jpg)
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on December 31, 2016, 20:57:51 PM
Post by: Onslow on December 31, 2016, 20:57:51 PM
Sweet :banana011:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on December 31, 2016, 22:03:35 PM
Post by: ryguy on December 31, 2016, 22:03:35 PM
Damn nice fish. I fished it this morning, got skunked. And cold.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 01, 2017, 08:13:04 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 01, 2017, 08:13:04 AM
Nice end O year fish. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on January 01, 2017, 08:32:29 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on January 01, 2017, 08:32:29 AM
Pretty work.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 01, 2017, 10:31:58 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 01, 2017, 10:31:58 AM
Sweet!
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 02, 2017, 06:56:31 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 02, 2017, 06:56:31 AM
Sweet.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 12, 2017, 22:05:49 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 12, 2017, 22:05:49 PM
Jumped in the upper river for a couple of hours before a meeting. Pumping about 180-200 cfs. Just fast enough to slow down your wading and check your footing. There is more sediment on the flat rocks and the slippage is real. A little BWO action. A few caddis aloft. Alone on the river. And slow.
Netted four, missed about the same on splashy takes. First trout of 2017 a Smiff brown. A husky bow came out to play, too.
Lots of bugs under the rocks. Spring hatches could be real.
(http://i.imgur.com/3vHIiXb.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/R4cOWVB.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/VjZl9ly.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/N8N4vuA.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/nJh9B2k.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 12, 2017, 23:23:26 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 12, 2017, 23:23:26 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170113/fbcd132004a89265c0e5653ea8e416a0.jpg)
Tied up some puff daddies
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Tied up some puff daddies
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on January 12, 2017, 23:39:58 PM
Post by: driver on January 12, 2017, 23:39:58 PM
What was the water clarity like? Curious if the snow melt will stain it up.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: VaTrout on January 13, 2017, 05:14:54 AM
Post by: VaTrout on January 13, 2017, 05:14:54 AM
Quote from: driver on January 12, 2017, 23:39:58 PM(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170113/03994013a97c5c4af13e3314c2629b62.jpg)
What was the water clarity like? Curious if the snow melt will stain it up.
Clear.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 13, 2017, 07:27:27 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 13, 2017, 07:27:27 AM
Yep, pretty clear. /'/
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on January 13, 2017, 21:29:13 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on January 13, 2017, 21:29:13 PM
Damn Doug, those roachbows look like they have been there for awhile, and gone native. y;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 14, 2017, 07:47:31 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 14, 2017, 07:47:31 AM
I don't know about gone rogue and all, but the past few have been fat, fiesty and been there a while. Fins ,tails and color were excellent.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on January 15, 2017, 20:13:57 PM
Post by: IFStultz on January 15, 2017, 20:13:57 PM
Best winter fishing I can remember on the Smith. Wish it ran at 150cfs anytime they are not generating, but........
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 17, 2017, 10:58:32 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 17, 2017, 10:58:32 AM
https://youtu.be/dfo6SgtnnEk
Walked in across the field, barren now, every kernel of corn picked from the cobs, in silence waiting for the spring plow.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011517-106.jpg)
The old truck sits idle, resting on bald tires.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011517-107.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011517-108.jpg)
Stepped down to the river and realized that I just high holed some dude. Standing on the bank I rigged my rod with a small slumpbuster while keeping an eye on the angler. Ok, it looks like he's moving down stream. I waded up a bit and began working the water. A fish flashed on the streamer on the third cast, a good sign I hoped.
Pune on the buster of slumps
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011517-99.jpg)
Noticed that the guy was now working back upstream, maybe I stepped in on his water. Took another step and slipped, sat down to avoid a fall, but with wader pants on, I felt the cold water running in around my waist. Stood up quickly and removed my phone from the damp pants pocket. Whew, that was close and probably some sort of Karma revenge for my transgression.
He got out of the river and hiked on down a ways, I worked my favorite run and missed another fish, when I noticed a riser up close to the bank. There were a few BWOs in the air along with an assortment of miniscule midges, which reminded me why I dislike this stretch of the river in the winter. The fish rose a second time, hmmm, time to switch to a dry fly.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011517-100.jpg)
Fluffed up the #18 parachute BWO and worked this fish, on about the 20th cast (18 IMHO perfect drifts) the fish struck.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011517-101.jpg)
Now what? I hadn't seen another fish rise, so I just hit the usual runs, until the wind and my wet shirt and jacket made me think it was time for some dry clothes. Hiked on out after inspecting this recent beaver activity.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011517-103.jpg)
There was a new path down along the fallen tree where they gnawed all the bark that could be reached.
img width=800 height=451]http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011517-102.jpg[/img]
Moved on down river at dusk with an hour of sunlight left in the day, streamertime! Worked the close run and thought about wading across and up the far side but opted for the easier near side trail. Worked a run that has not produced for me since last winter. I worked it near and far, up and down thoroughly. Stopped and took a few photos in the fading light and was ready to move on down to the next run when I though I should cast one more time.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011517-110.jpg)
Worked the rest of this short section without seeing another fish, walked out in the quite of the evening, with only the fading sound of the river and the crunch of the fallen leaves.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011517-111.jpg)
Drove on back into town for some dinner, BEEF BURGER!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011517-112.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on January 17, 2017, 11:06:06 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on January 17, 2017, 11:06:06 AM
Hell yea, Woolly.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on January 17, 2017, 11:16:31 AM
Post by: Al on January 17, 2017, 11:16:31 AM
Good report / photos Woolly. Reminds me I need to start switching gears from deer hunting to fishing. Still have 2 months left of urban archery. I promised Damsel Fly I would shoot one for her but she would have to help drag it out and clean it. If the weather warms up I may give up on that idea and just give her some straight from the freezer.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gamatt53 on January 18, 2017, 10:49:59 AM
Post by: gamatt53 on January 18, 2017, 10:49:59 AM
I got up there monday for a couple hours in the afternoon. It had been awhile and I was rusty...had really lost the subtleness required to softly land a cast after bombing warmwater all summer but it started to come back. Wasted a good bit of time throwing a dry then eventually caved to nymphing and dialed them in on a little black stonefly trailed by a cream midge. Way more silt and didymo than I can remember below basset but the 150 flows were nice.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on January 19, 2017, 21:38:02 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on January 19, 2017, 21:38:02 PM
Sounds about right. I'm due to hit it again, preferably not in 420 CFS down low.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 23, 2017, 17:02:49 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 23, 2017, 17:02:49 PM
2017 – 6
I was finished I tell you, finished with that project, so when I took off in the afternoon to fish puneville I wasn't worried about streeling away a couple of hours from work. Made the drive up in an hour and change only to find the usually empty lot filled with four cars, WTF on a Thursday afternoon..., I thought about heading to another spot, but popped a beer as I wasn't in a hurry, put the reel on ass backwards, snapped a photo and posted it, only to realize my faux pas a bit later... A spin / corn dunker dude came off the river and we talked for a while. "How'd you do?' I enquired. "Didn't catch any," he replied. I asked what he was using and looked at his spinners and offered up some suggestion "Them other guys, wouldn't say anything and gave me the evil eye," he told me. "I got me a fly poll, but haven't figured it out yet," he continued. I told him to get in touch with the local TU and that there was a "Fishing with friends" event that might give him some pointers on fly fishing...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011917-100.jpg)
When I got to the water I realized that I had not only put the reel on assbackwards, but had posted up the pic... well at least I was drinking a beer at 1 o'clock.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011917-101.jpg)
Convinced that the stunted browns will still strike a streamer I tried on a small slumpbuster.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011917-102.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011917-103.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011917-104.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011917-105.jpg)
Worked the run and damn if I didn't get lowholed, so I changed directions and went up to the slough
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011917-106.jpg)
Caught a couple of streamer eating browns and a trespassing rainbow who moved down from the stocked waters.
Then the damn phone rang. "We need you to make a couple of changes on the show!" Fuckeity fuk fuk! Trudge back to the car and make the drive back to the office made the changes and got the file uploaded before five.
Jazz Night – beer, music, and fly tying...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011917-107.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/1-17/011917-108.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 23, 2017, 17:08:39 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 23, 2017, 17:08:39 PM
The reel was on the correct side, the line was wound on backwards. :banana072:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on January 23, 2017, 17:51:33 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on January 23, 2017, 17:51:33 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on January 23, 2017, 17:08:39 PM
The reel was on the correct side, the line was wound on backwards. :banana072:
No one, not even Dougie, I mean NO ONE casts rightie and switches hands to retrieve/wind the line with their right. Not even a professional title-holding wanker, who can switch hands in a single Planck length and not miss a rub, would employ such awkwardness when fly fishing!
Sorry, this has nothing to do with the Smith, but we/I can't let Doug spout BS.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 23, 2017, 18:24:08 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 23, 2017, 18:24:08 PM
Keep living under that Bath County rock, Steve-O.
When that bonefish takes me into the backing, I'll be cranking him back with my dominate hand.
Just the way I cranked those Carp in. You'll notice, I didn't have to go home at 1 for a nap.
Psst: J sets his up the same.
When that bonefish takes me into the backing, I'll be cranking him back with my dominate hand.
Just the way I cranked those Carp in. You'll notice, I didn't have to go home at 1 for a nap.
Psst: J sets his up the same.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 23, 2017, 18:35:20 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 23, 2017, 18:35:20 PM
LHR rules
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on January 23, 2017, 19:28:49 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on January 23, 2017, 19:28:49 PM
that's an awful lot of vehicles for that spot. I would have given him directions to where they stock the rainbows. They like them mepps n shit.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 23, 2017, 19:37:23 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 23, 2017, 19:37:23 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on January 23, 2017, 18:24:08 PM
When that bonefish takes me into the backing, I'll be cranking him back with my dominate hand.
Just the way I cranked those Carp in. You'll notice, I didn't have to go home at 1 for a nap.
Dominant hand is for jerking off and holding onto the rod!
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 23, 2017, 19:43:46 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 23, 2017, 19:43:46 PM
Agree on jerking off. I can hold the rod in my arm pit. If I could jerk off with my arm pit, I'd be famous. And rich.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on January 23, 2017, 21:23:17 PM
Post by: Big J on January 23, 2017, 21:23:17 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on January 23, 2017, 18:24:08 PM
Keep living under that Bath County rock, Steve-O.
When that bonefish takes me into the backing, I'll be cranking him back with my dominate hand.
Just the way I cranked those Carp in. You'll notice, I didn't have to go home at 1 for a nap.
Psst: J sets his up the same.
You leave me out of this you weirdo.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on January 23, 2017, 21:53:12 PM
Post by: driver on January 23, 2017, 21:53:12 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on January 23, 2017, 18:24:08 PMIf it works for you then, great!
Keep living under that Bath County rock, Steve-O.
When that bonefish takes me into the backing, I'll be cranking him back with my dominate hand.
Just the way I cranked those Carp in. You'll notice, I didn't have to go home at 1 for a nap.
Psst: J sets his up the same.
But I could not imagine fighting Albacore with my non-dominate arm. You don't need strength to reel in the fish, but strength to pull the fish in and then reel in the slack.
I'd have to agree with Muddy on this one.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on January 23, 2017, 21:57:17 PM
Post by: Big J on January 23, 2017, 21:57:17 PM
Quote from: driver on January 23, 2017, 21:53:12 PMQuote from: Dougfish on January 23, 2017, 18:24:08 PMIf it works for you then, great!
Keep living under that Bath County rock, Steve-O.
When that bonefish takes me into the backing, I'll be cranking him back with my dominate hand.
Just the way I cranked those Carp in. You'll notice, I didn't have to go home at 1 for a nap.
Psst: J sets his up the same.
But I could not imagine fighting Albacore with my non-dominate arm. You don't need strength to reel in the fish, but strength to pull the fish in and then reel in the slack.
I'd have to agree with Muddy on this one.
If your left arm is not strong enough to keep pressure on a frickin fish, then you may want to think about doing some curls for the girls.
#I'veneverfishedforalbies
#whereismyinvite
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on January 23, 2017, 23:03:33 PM
Post by: driver on January 23, 2017, 23:03:33 PM
Quote from: Big J on January 23, 2017, 21:57:17 PMQuote from: driver on January 23, 2017, 21:53:12 PMQuote from: Dougfish on January 23, 2017, 18:24:08 PMIf it works for you then, great!
Keep living under that Bath County rock, Steve-O.
When that bonefish takes me into the backing, I'll be cranking him back with my dominate hand.
Just the way I cranked those Carp in. You'll notice, I didn't have to go home at 1 for a nap.
Psst: J sets his up the same.
But I could not imagine fighting Albacore with my non-dominate arm. You don't need strength to reel in the fish, but strength to pull the fish in and then reel in the slack.
I'd have to agree with Muddy on this one.
If your left arm is not strong enough to keep pressure on a frickin fish, then you may want to think about doing some curls for the girls.
#I'veneverfishedforalbies
#whereismyinvite
So you're saying I should start drinking with my left hand?
by about the 5th albie I start holding the cork with my left and start pulling my rod with the right :;!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 24, 2017, 07:27:16 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 24, 2017, 07:27:16 AM
"But the choice is yours. Don't let anybody tell you there is a right or wrong way to reel."
http://www.orvis.com/s/fly-fishing-reeling-technique/2853 (http://www.orvis.com/s/fly-fishing-reeling-technique/2853)
http://www.orvis.com/s/fly-fishing-reeling-technique/2853 (http://www.orvis.com/s/fly-fishing-reeling-technique/2853)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 24, 2017, 09:47:33 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 24, 2017, 09:47:33 AM
Amphibians rule just ask Kermit it's good to be green!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170124/e0fdaa1c9fe64027e29224c8ffb49be6.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170124/e0fdaa1c9fe64027e29224c8ffb49be6.jpg)
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on January 24, 2017, 10:03:13 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on January 24, 2017, 10:03:13 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on January 24, 2017, 07:27:16 AM
"But the choice is yours. Don't let anybody tell you there is a right or wrong way to reel."
http://www.orvis.com/s/fly-fishing-reeling-technique/2853 (http://www.orvis.com/s/fly-fishing-reeling-technique/2853)
You failed to include the author of this profound proclamation. Tom Rosenbauer! Are you kidding me? I'm supposed to take the guidance of a man that couldn't hang on to Margot? If Tom can't gratify and retain a good looking gal, then I ain't listening to his angling decrees.
And earlier you mention our good pal, Big J. While I deeply admire (on some stuff) and adore the young man, he uses a pink weenie like it is the only pattern available. This misdirected dogmatic conduct on brookie waters leaves me numb and generates reservation when it comes to his angling aptitude.
You need to choose your referenced authorities carefully.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on January 24, 2017, 10:23:24 AM
Post by: Big J on January 24, 2017, 10:23:24 AM
You forgot to add that I like stainless steel.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on January 24, 2017, 20:31:06 PM
Post by: creakycane on January 24, 2017, 20:31:06 PM
As of 8:30 PM on tues 24th, flows show 330 at dam, but almost 900 in Bassett. How can this be?
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 24, 2017, 21:26:15 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 24, 2017, 21:26:15 PM
They got three or four inches of rain and the lake is full
They may be generating and the dam is still overtopping
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They may be generating and the dam is still overtopping
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 24, 2017, 21:32:36 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 24, 2017, 21:32:36 PM
They can't generate. The can open the gates more, though. Don't expect an announced release. Surfs up!
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 24, 2017, 21:34:59 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 24, 2017, 21:34:59 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on January 24, 2017, 21:32:36 PM
They can't generate. The can open the gates more, though. Don't expect an announced release. Surfs up!
I read that wrong! I was thinkerating about Martinsville . The additional flow is coming from town creek. 600 cfs of mud!
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: VaTrout on January 24, 2017, 21:56:00 PM
Post by: VaTrout on January 24, 2017, 21:56:00 PM
Quote from: creakycane on January 24, 2017, 20:31:06 PM
As of 8:30 PM on tues 24th, flows show 330 at dam, but almost 900 in Bassett. How can this be?
Towne Creek is rockin!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on January 25, 2017, 07:34:56 AM
Post by: creakycane on January 25, 2017, 07:34:56 AM
Wow, all that from Town Creek and the other little seepages down to Bassett.
Thanks for the info...
Thanks for the info...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: VaTrout on January 25, 2017, 07:57:45 AM
Post by: VaTrout on January 25, 2017, 07:57:45 AM
Quote from: creakycane on January 25, 2017, 07:34:56 AMLooked at the river this morning. Something's up with that gauge. It's not that high.
Wow, all that from Town Creek and the other little seepages down to Bassett.
Thanks for the info...
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Native Fisher on January 25, 2017, 11:08:43 AM
Post by: Native Fisher on January 25, 2017, 11:08:43 AM
(https://natwebsdww01.cr.usgs.gov/nwisweb/data/img/USGS.02072500.147583.00065..20170119.20170126..0..gif)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 25, 2017, 11:26:35 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 25, 2017, 11:26:35 AM
That gauge is fukkered.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on January 25, 2017, 17:32:36 PM
Post by: Fin on January 25, 2017, 17:32:36 PM
From Brian Williams:
Smith River report: In response to recent rains the Corps has increased the sluice gate release to 650 cfs. Expect this flow over the next few days then reducing back to 130 cfs. The good news is the increased flow seems to be helping clear out the sediment from the last 4 months of deposition from Philpot to Bassett.
Smith River report: In response to recent rains the Corps has increased the sluice gate release to 650 cfs. Expect this flow over the next few days then reducing back to 130 cfs. The good news is the increased flow seems to be helping clear out the sediment from the last 4 months of deposition from Philpot to Bassett.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 25, 2017, 17:36:12 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 25, 2017, 17:36:12 PM
Flushing the toilet is good.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on January 25, 2017, 18:10:50 PM
Post by: driver on January 25, 2017, 18:10:50 PM
650? There are running 350 now. Just want to make sure that wasn't a typo.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on January 25, 2017, 18:48:45 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on January 25, 2017, 18:48:45 PM
it's be interesting to know if that sediment will impact hatches this spring. That might be a Mudwall question.
last year I questioned what harm the free flow release or sluicing was doing.
last year I questioned what harm the free flow release or sluicing was doing.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 25, 2017, 18:59:42 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 25, 2017, 18:59:42 PM
Quote from: troutfanatic on January 25, 2017, 18:48:45 PM
it's be interesting to know if that sediment will impact hatches this spring. That might be a Mudwall question.
last year I questioned what harm the free flow release or sluicing was doing.
I've turned over a lot of rocks.
Game on in the next few months. -+;
Semi-epic.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on January 25, 2017, 19:51:45 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on January 25, 2017, 19:51:45 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on January 25, 2017, 18:59:42 PMQuote from: troutfanatic on January 25, 2017, 18:48:45 PM
it's be interesting to know if that sediment will impact hatches this spring. That might be a Mudwall question.
last year I questioned what harm the free flow release or sluicing was doing.
I've turned over a lot of rocks.
Game on in the next few months. -+;
Semi-epic.
You used "epic" and continue to reel like a girl. I ain't trusting anything you say!
"Most female anglers are forced to reel or wind with their dominant hand, while males are more disposed to use their non-dominant in any winding motion. ....................................
.......... While studying non-human primates in the laboratory, Dr. Jonathan Alexander noted the mixed-handedness (the change of hand preference between tasks) of male apes. Compelling study results and scientific curiosity impelled his research team to explore the handedness of humans in commonplace tasks."
Handedness in Human and Non-Human Primates, American Behavioral Scientist, June 2009.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 25, 2017, 19:58:51 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 25, 2017, 19:58:51 PM
You are so easily trolled. Epic.
But, for real, get your sorry entomologist ass down there and evaluate.
Take a fly rod, dick.
But, for real, get your sorry entomologist ass down there and evaluate.
Take a fly rod, dick.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on January 25, 2017, 20:07:07 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on January 25, 2017, 20:07:07 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on January 25, 2017, 19:58:51 PM
You are so easily trolled. Epic.
But, for real, get your sorry entomologist ass down there and evaluate.
Take a fly rod, dick.
I miss the Smith. Truth be known, I miss the free time I had when I was working at VT. The wife and her wondering-project-mind are killing my retirement! Fuck HGTV and Pinterest!!!!!
Fish on gentlemen.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: VaTrout on January 25, 2017, 20:15:10 PM
Post by: VaTrout on January 25, 2017, 20:15:10 PM
Quote from: driver on January 25, 2017, 18:10:50 PMI think that's the gauge with the issue.
650? There are running 350 now. Just want to make sure that wasn't a typo.
Sent from my Moto G (4) using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on January 25, 2017, 20:20:39 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on January 25, 2017, 20:20:39 PM
I'm somber because Mary Tyler Moore died today.
meanwhile, I have a bug net and specimen vials I want to put to good use this spring and summer.
meanwhile, I have a bug net and specimen vials I want to put to good use this spring and summer.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 26, 2017, 15:51:21 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 26, 2017, 15:51:21 PM
Looks like The Gauge has been fixed
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Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on January 26, 2017, 16:31:08 PM
Post by: driver on January 26, 2017, 16:31:08 PM
Must have spun the bearings off, from spinning so fast.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on January 26, 2017, 19:31:08 PM
Post by: Fishbug on January 26, 2017, 19:31:08 PM
That sediment should increase minerals-->increase bacteria-->increase bugs-->grow some punes
Agree?
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Agree?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 26, 2017, 19:44:33 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 26, 2017, 19:44:33 PM
Well...yet to be seen. Minerals are easy. Organic matter fuels the system. If it holds nutrients for the bugs, yes.
Not? No. Just one more hindrance for spawners.
Not? No. Just one more hindrance for spawners.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on January 26, 2017, 20:38:07 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on January 26, 2017, 20:38:07 PM
I'd say yes, but how smothered in sediment could a larva or nymph be before it dies?
segue: I know this crick... it's literally full of shit.
insect abundance and diversity is unbelievable.
last time I fished it there were Ephemerella spp., the green type, in huge abundance. Average size was comparable to a size 16, maybe 14 BWO.
Shit works
segue: I know this crick... it's literally full of shit.
insect abundance and diversity is unbelievable.
last time I fished it there were Ephemerella spp., the green type, in huge abundance. Average size was comparable to a size 16, maybe 14 BWO.
Shit works
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on January 27, 2017, 07:16:32 AM
Post by: IFStultz on January 27, 2017, 07:16:32 AM
A low producing spawn would be a good thing. Too many small fish up there and not enough food.
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Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on February 12, 2017, 18:34:06 PM
Post by: Fishbug on February 12, 2017, 18:34:06 PM
Where the Smith reports at? I saw tons of people out today basking in glorious weather....
Caught some damn stocker bows but the browns eluded us:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170212/cdabe0f61d3f82be659721c5c1bac0b3.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Caught some damn stocker bows but the browns eluded us:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170212/cdabe0f61d3f82be659721c5c1bac0b3.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on February 12, 2017, 18:34:35 PM
Post by: Fishbug on February 12, 2017, 18:34:35 PM
Where the Smith reports at? I saw tons of people out today basking in glorious weather....
Caught some damn stocker bows but the browns eluded us:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170212/cdabe0f61d3f82be659721c5c1bac0b3.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Caught some damn stocker bows but the browns eluded us:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170212/cdabe0f61d3f82be659721c5c1bac0b3.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on February 12, 2017, 19:05:38 PM
Post by: driver on February 12, 2017, 19:05:38 PM
It was a mad house out there today. Everywhere I went there was someone.
Fishing was slow only ended up with 4.
Fishing was slow only ended up with 4.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on February 13, 2017, 00:10:55 AM
Post by: NCsporksman on February 13, 2017, 00:10:55 AM
Tagged em on streamers late in the day, one with size...it was shoulder to shoulder if at all the access points, lots of Raleigh fucks
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Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ptfranze on February 13, 2017, 11:46:40 AM
Post by: ptfranze on February 13, 2017, 11:46:40 AM
Quote from: NCsporksman on February 13, 2017, 00:10:55 AM
Tagged em on streamers late in the day, one with size...it was shoulder to shoulder if at all the access points, lots of Raleigh fucks
Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk
Missed it this weekend but sounds like I should be glad. If I want to fish shoulder to shoulder with people I can go to the Davidson ....and I hate the Davidson :;! :;! :;!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on February 13, 2017, 19:48:59 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on February 13, 2017, 19:48:59 PM
too many fuckos figuring out the river. Soon enough. it shall be like shithorn any given saturday.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on February 13, 2017, 20:30:46 PM
Post by: Al on February 13, 2017, 20:30:46 PM
Quote from: troutfanatic on February 13, 2017, 19:48:59 PM
too many fuckos figuring out the river. Soon enough. it shall be like shithorn any given saturday.
Nothing new for this time of the year. It will remain that way in the stocked sections of the river on weekends until mid-June when they do the last stocking. After that you will have the river to yourself. I keep reminding myself not to fish the Smith on the weekends during the spring - still occasionally violate that rule but usually get frustrated and give it up.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on February 13, 2017, 20:55:01 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on February 13, 2017, 20:55:01 PM
uh yeah, we did that venture together once or twice. I didn't think the roaches were dumped until next month?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on February 13, 2017, 21:34:47 PM
Post by: 22midge on February 13, 2017, 21:34:47 PM
All the hero shots and sign post pictures of the river and parking areas is drawing a crowd.....used the fish all year and never see more then one or two people a month.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on February 13, 2017, 22:08:19 PM
Post by: Al on February 13, 2017, 22:08:19 PM
Quote from: troutfanatic on February 13, 2017, 20:55:01 PM
uh yeah, we did that venture together once or twice. I didn't think the roaches were dumped until next month?
Virginia stocks from October through June - With the flows messed up like they have been the past year I suspect there are a lot of Rainbows distributed throughout the system. Only time will tell what it has done to the Browns but the folks at VDGIF suspect it has been good for them. We will see once normal sampling gets going again.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on February 13, 2017, 22:22:59 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on February 13, 2017, 22:22:59 PM
I'm going to stock it with 1,000 emerald shiners. I am reading some old literature on the Smith from the 1970s. ( I bet you know where I got it). Huge trout were quite common. Something went wrong...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on February 13, 2017, 22:25:34 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on February 13, 2017, 22:25:34 PM
Quote from: 22midge on February 13, 2017, 21:34:47 PM
All the hero shots and sign post pictures of the river and parking areas is drawing a crowd.....used the fish all year and never see more then one or two people a month.
I know longer post pics of anything other than fish. I may have found a few spots via photo metadata.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 15, 2017, 07:36:07 AM
Post by: Dougfish on February 15, 2017, 07:36:07 AM
That bow has par marks. Jus sayin.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on February 15, 2017, 09:52:57 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on February 15, 2017, 09:52:57 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on February 15, 2017, 07:36:07 AM
That bow has par marks. Jus sayin.
My thoughts as well.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on February 15, 2017, 10:11:28 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on February 15, 2017, 10:11:28 AM
Quote from: troutfanatic on February 13, 2017, 22:22:59 PM
I'm going to stock it with 1,000 emerald shiners. I am reading some old literature on the Smith from the 1970s. ( I bet you know where I got it). Huge trout were quite common. Something went wrong...
*100,000* ;D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on February 15, 2017, 10:19:37 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on February 15, 2017, 10:19:37 AM
Quote from: Al on February 13, 2017, 22:08:19 PMQuote from: troutfanatic on February 13, 2017, 20:55:01 PM
uh yeah, we did that venture together once or twice. I didn't think the roaches were dumped until next month?
Virginia stocks from October through June - With the flows messed up like they have been the past year I suspect there are a lot of Rainbows distributed throughout the system. Only time will tell what it has done to the Browns but the folks at VDGIF suspect it has been good for them. We will see once normal sampling gets going again.
Speaking of being good for them..has there been any studies done on a similar size tailwater with 700cfs max(1 gen smith) that you know of? I often wonder if 1500 is just too damn fast for the forage to re-populate with good results. It was nice/eye opening how long the sulphurs lasted this year with lower water and no blasts of 1500..just a coincidence or correlation in your opinion?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on February 15, 2017, 11:17:22 AM
Post by: Fin on February 15, 2017, 11:17:22 AM
Speaking of the good ol'e days on the Smith (70's and 80's) here is a pic of what we all missed out on. I eat lunch with the guy pictured a couple times a week; talk about a character. He is in his 70's now and doesn't trout fish much anymore but still runs up and down mountains all day in search of grouse.
(//)
He still hasn't gotten over the fact it is now considered to be the "historical state record". He raised hell to the powers that be over that designation to no avail.
(//)
He still hasn't gotten over the fact it is now considered to be the "historical state record". He raised hell to the powers that be over that designation to no avail.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on February 15, 2017, 11:23:38 AM
Post by: Onslow on February 15, 2017, 11:23:38 AM
I do recall a very knowledgeable person mentioning a barrier of sorts was installed some time ago to prevent fish from being sucked out of Philpot, and turned into bite sized morsels.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on February 15, 2017, 12:08:18 PM
Post by: Fin on February 15, 2017, 12:08:18 PM
Quotea barrier of sorts was installed some time ago to prevent fish from being sucked out of Philpot
VDGIF and the Corps have both said no such barrier exists. The biologists speculate that the alewife shad population declined dramatically due to a natural decrease in lake fertility that occurs as the impoundment ages and the rise of the lakes walleye population.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on February 15, 2017, 12:22:43 PM
Post by: Al on February 15, 2017, 12:22:43 PM
While I was typing this "Fin" pretty well answered a couple questions - here is what I know (or have heard)
Lots of theories on what happened - no one knows for sure. Probably a combination of causes.
Here is link to the most comprehensive study - it includes a lot of historical data as well http://www.fishwild.vt.edu/Smith_River/
No one is claiming knowledge of a screen placed in front of the intake to turbines - if it did take place it was many years ago and may have coincided with the introduction of walleyes in the reservoir. One thing we do know is the masses of shad and alewives are not longer present - they are still there but not in the numbers they used to be. Right now it appears the walleyes are experiencing the same fate as browns, ie they have eaten themselves out of house and home and most are topping out at 16-17 inches. To counter this trend VDGIF is reducing the amount of walleye fry being stocked by half. (Walleye do not spawn in Philpott - it is an artificial fishery)
Lots of theories on what happened - no one knows for sure. Probably a combination of causes.
Here is link to the most comprehensive study - it includes a lot of historical data as well http://www.fishwild.vt.edu/Smith_River/
No one is claiming knowledge of a screen placed in front of the intake to turbines - if it did take place it was many years ago and may have coincided with the introduction of walleyes in the reservoir. One thing we do know is the masses of shad and alewives are not longer present - they are still there but not in the numbers they used to be. Right now it appears the walleyes are experiencing the same fate as browns, ie they have eaten themselves out of house and home and most are topping out at 16-17 inches. To counter this trend VDGIF is reducing the amount of walleye fry being stocked by half. (Walleye do not spawn in Philpott - it is an artificial fishery)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on February 15, 2017, 18:20:35 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on February 15, 2017, 18:20:35 PM
Like him or hate him, Brian Williams told me that there are no such grates or screens, and he has dove the dam and seen the intakes with his very eyes. I'm not saying he's right or wrong, just putting it out there since he does make his living using the resource..
That is good to hear though Al about the walleyes. I like to walleye fish philpott for food in the summer. I know exactly what you're talking about the fish being 16-18in. 5 years ago, 2 keepers was a decent day. Now, you're lucky to catch one over 18". I haven't heard about reducing the stocking #'s. The game warden I talk to frequently said they may decrease the size limit to 16" at some point..maybe thats if reduction doesn't have the effects they want. A few old timers that use to take me walleye fishing do believe they spawn in the lake because "different species of walleye have been introduced" they claim..I have no idea, but those are the tales I've heard
That is good to hear though Al about the walleyes. I like to walleye fish philpott for food in the summer. I know exactly what you're talking about the fish being 16-18in. 5 years ago, 2 keepers was a decent day. Now, you're lucky to catch one over 18". I haven't heard about reducing the stocking #'s. The game warden I talk to frequently said they may decrease the size limit to 16" at some point..maybe thats if reduction doesn't have the effects they want. A few old timers that use to take me walleye fishing do believe they spawn in the lake because "different species of walleye have been introduced" they claim..I have no idea, but those are the tales I've heard
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on February 15, 2017, 18:40:27 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on February 15, 2017, 18:40:27 PM
Ain't but one species of Walleye, but there is Sauger. I don't know if they have Sauger in there or not. I've never fished the lake.
As I am reading these old articles from the 1950s, 60s, 70s, the 'what I don't know" only gets worse.
Did I read correctly that they tried brook trout at one time?
I recall one being obtained during that sampling two Augusts ago. Mudwall said it was probably a trout in the classroom release.
It is definitely a mystery of how this evolved and then sort of dis-evolved over a 60 year period.
As I am reading these old articles from the 1950s, 60s, 70s, the 'what I don't know" only gets worse.
Did I read correctly that they tried brook trout at one time?
I recall one being obtained during that sampling two Augusts ago. Mudwall said it was probably a trout in the classroom release.
It is definitely a mystery of how this evolved and then sort of dis-evolved over a 60 year period.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on February 15, 2017, 18:51:21 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on February 15, 2017, 18:51:21 PM
https://www.dgif.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/warmwater-2014-walleye-sauger.pdf (https://www.dgif.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/warmwater-2014-walleye-sauger.pdf)
Found it..Saugeye
Found it..Saugeye
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on February 15, 2017, 19:02:15 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on February 15, 2017, 19:02:15 PM
well, that would lead me to believe Sauger are there then :D
Damn good eating for a freshwater fish.
Damn good eating for a freshwater fish.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on February 15, 2017, 22:23:39 PM
Post by: Al on February 15, 2017, 22:23:39 PM
Quote from: troutfanatic on February 15, 2017, 19:02:15 PM
well, that would lead me to believe Sauger are there then :D
Damn good eating for a freshwater fish.
I helped sample the walleye/sauger about 2 months ago. Placed my hands on 110 total. Very few were determined to be sauger - George Palmer told me they are not longer stocking them and eventually all will be gone from the lake. e
Like I previously said - they are all topping out at 16-18 inches. Only 1 in 10 exceeded that. There is no plan to reduce the size limit - they hope by reducing the population the size will adjust itself upward. Like anything else that could change but as of right now it is only wishful thinking on the part of fishermen who are frustrated in not being able to catch a keeper size walleye.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on February 16, 2017, 10:47:32 AM
Post by: troutfanatic on February 16, 2017, 10:47:32 AM
In both cases, whether it's the river or the lake, it seems a prey species is diminished or absent. This is a consequence of introducing species that wouldn't normally be present and then having them share the same food sources.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on February 16, 2017, 20:19:17 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on February 16, 2017, 20:19:17 PM
A couple of October's ago when it flooded so bad, everything that was in the lake washed in the river. I talked to a man that caught a walleye in his flooded back yard with his bare hands. When the water dropped he said he found several more dead ones stuck in the mud. It is going to be interesting when the water gets normal and they can shock again. I also talked to a man who grew up in Bassett and he told me that before they built the sewage treatment plants in Fieldale that every house on the river had septic systems and the caddis were so thick you had to wear a face mask when they were hatching.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on February 16, 2017, 21:09:34 PM
Post by: 22midge on February 16, 2017, 21:09:34 PM
bet you had to wear a face mask when they were shitting also......
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on February 16, 2017, 22:45:49 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on February 16, 2017, 22:45:49 PM
Quote from: 22midge on February 16, 2017, 21:09:34 PM
bet you had to wear a face mask when they were shitting also......
BOOM! 0:0
- i know a crick...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on February 17, 2017, 05:33:14 AM
Post by: Onslow on February 17, 2017, 05:33:14 AM
Yes, and some of you all need to find another place to fish besides Stinkhorn. Done seen enough trip reports from there.
Brian, fish the last two miles of xxx. Beautiful creek, large watershed, and a heck of a lot closer. Takes a little imagination to get to the water. I suspect there 90 % chance is trout in there. When yer at the scenic overlook near the Bluestone river, what one can see there is not the Bluestone, but Camp.
Brian, fish the last two miles of xxx. Beautiful creek, large watershed, and a heck of a lot closer. Takes a little imagination to get to the water. I suspect there 90 % chance is trout in there. When yer at the scenic overlook near the Bluestone river, what one can see there is not the Bluestone, but Camp.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on February 17, 2017, 19:04:09 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on February 17, 2017, 19:04:09 PM
Quote from: Onslow on February 17, 2017, 05:33:14 AM
Yes, and some of you all need to find another place to fish besides Stinkhorn. Done seen enough trip reports from there.
Brian, fish the last two miles of Camp Creek. Beautiful creek, large watershed, and a heck of a lot closer. Takes a little imagination to get to the water. I suspect there 90 % chance is trout in there. When yer at the scenic overlook near the Bluestone river, what one can see there is not the Bluestone, but Camp.
brother I fished the nasty, 3 times in 2016 and not at all this year. I think you are confusing me with a crazy goon I sometimes fish with who blasts his stuff all over that gear chucker forum you guys linger on.
As for WV? I know plenty of water in the state. I just gained access to a motherlode of streams in central WV that is almost all private, but gets no fishing pressure. I also know the tributaries of the upper cheat very well, as I was once in the WV ARNG and drilled at Camp Dawson.
I
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 27, 2017, 17:29:10 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 27, 2017, 17:29:10 PM
2017 - 16
We got back early from a three day R&R trip to Wilmington, the one fly rod that I did pack was never unfurled. We stayed in the historic downtown. Surprised at the number of bars, coffee shops and restaurants and of course with the warm weather the place was hoppin'. Great food, loved the char-broiled oysters from the Bourbon Street bar. Fantastic sunset dinner on the Riverwalk at The George.
I didn't take many pics, but here are a few
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/2-17/022617-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/2-17/022617-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/2-17/022617-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/2-17/022617-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/2-17/022617-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/2-17/022617-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/2-17/022617-8.jpg)
Send a msg to a FB friend from grade school, we got together for lunch, haven't seen each other in over 50 years! Far out!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/2-17/022617-9.jpg)
The plan was to hit the local with the Spork for the evening rise that I had observed last week. He was waiting on some family thing and I headed up alone. I hiked in to the lower reach while keeping an eye on the water for caddis and risers. It was windy and about fifteen degrees cooler than last weekend and I was worried that there wouldn't be as many caddis around. I waded out to check some rocks were they had been congregating and saw a good number of them fluttering about but not in the huge number as before. I had rigged up at the car, a 12 foot six times leader and elk hair and was determined to catch fish on the surface. But with no risers I sight I thought about switching over, but I watched and waited, there were caddis dapping the surface laying eggs and I saw a few of them floating by, so I stripped off some line and cast up into some likely runs. A trout rose, I was encouraged and continued on. Moving around I spied a rise. I was on it, the first cast was a little short, cast again and watched the fly float on the rippled water, the fish rose, it nose came out of the water as it snatched the fly, I set the hook, it was perfect and I was amazed at the simple beauty of it as if it was the first time. It was a good fish, putting a good bend in the rod and then, nothing, broke off, fuckity fuck fuck! I regrouped and tied on another fly and cast again and got this pune to rise.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/2-17/022617-1.jpg)
I waited and waited and the sun set, the evening chill began to set in as the light left the water, if it was going to happen it was going to be soon. I waited and hoped and then cast blind hoping beyond hope to entice a fish to rise. It just didn't happen. I stayed fifteen minutes past sunset to no avail.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on February 27, 2017, 17:45:55 PM
Post by: Al on February 27, 2017, 17:45:55 PM
As usual great photos Woolly. 'c; bd;0 'c; bd;0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 27, 2017, 17:49:59 PM
Post by: Dougfish on February 27, 2017, 17:49:59 PM
Nice! Good times.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on February 27, 2017, 17:56:14 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on February 27, 2017, 17:56:14 PM
That's a fun area. Been a couple years since I was down there soaking it up.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: sanjuanwormhatch on February 28, 2017, 09:28:43 AM
Post by: sanjuanwormhatch on February 28, 2017, 09:28:43 AM
I haven't spent a ton of time in Wilmington but it reminded me of a smaller Savannah. Cool little spot.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 12, 2017, 11:32:03 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 12, 2017, 11:32:03 AM
https://youtu.be/ATDEtzAcTg0
2017 - 20
I should have known better, but work was done for the day and there was still time to get to the river for a couple of hours. I drove up past farms with freshly plowed earth that reminded my of a Grand Wood painting. I went up to check the conditions at puneville despite the 20 knot winds. The resident gods greeted me and I fed them a god biscuit while I ate some leftover Udon noodels with shiitake, kale and Andouille.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/031117-2.jpg)
A bluebird flew by and landed in a nearby tree, here is a crappy photo of it.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/031117-3.jpg)
On my last trip my RIO Avid Sink Tip line crapped out, I attempted a loop to loop repair and began tossing a small streamed on the line. Riverbum told me I would hate it and after casting and retrieving the connection through the guides, I came to the conclusion that in fact it did suk.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/031117-1.jpg)
I stumbled across a discount table at the grocery store and couldn't leave without getting a 5200 mha battery and a selfiestick for five bucks! So y'all will have to suffer.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/031117-4.jpg)
BWOs were popping off and a few fish were hitting the surface but I couldn't entice them so I drank a beer and waited.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/031117-5.jpg)
The wind really picked up and I called it quits after another hour of fruitless fishing. I think this is going to be a berry berry good year for bugs.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/031117-6.jpg)
The field is plowed, best time to look for artifacts... jis say'in.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 12, 2017, 11:43:46 AM
Post by: Dougfish on March 12, 2017, 11:43:46 AM
Things will start progressing after next week. I have some loop to loop sink tips. They suck, too.
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 23, 2017, 08:28:19 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 23, 2017, 08:28:19 AM
2017 – 24
https://youtu.be/kUtZkKAZg9Y
Happy Birthday to Dave Grisman!
Took a mid-week trip to punetown after taking care of some morning business. Step by step of the day. New leader, perfection knot loop to loop handshake, fine and far, blood knot with spit, Pitzen knot. Three were enough bwos flying about and a few fish were rising, so I tried the dry fly thing for a while.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/032217-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/032217-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/032217-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/032217-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/032217-5.jpg)
The fish weren't looking up so I took a lunch break with the last of the corned beef and cabbage.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/032217-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/032217-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/032217-8.jpg)
Worked the water and finally switch over to nymphing.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/032217-9.jpg)
Found some signs of spring.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/032217-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/032217-11.jpg)
Nymphing paid off with the usual suspects.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/032217-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/032217-13.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/032217-14.jpg)
The End.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/3-17/032217-15.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on March 23, 2017, 10:28:30 AM
Post by: driver on March 23, 2017, 10:28:30 AM
Punetastic
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 23, 2017, 11:20:34 AM
Post by: Dougfish on March 23, 2017, 11:20:34 AM
Go boss.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on March 23, 2017, 18:08:38 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on March 23, 2017, 18:08:38 PM
I liked the order....food, beer, then fish..good stuff all around.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on March 23, 2017, 19:28:02 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on March 23, 2017, 19:28:02 PM
Bring back those little ones next time, I'm on a smoked trout kick
Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk
Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: RiverbumCO on March 23, 2017, 21:41:35 PM
Post by: RiverbumCO on March 23, 2017, 21:41:35 PM
Give me that fucked line and I'll fix it.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 05, 2017, 15:38:47 PM
Post by: Dougfish on April 05, 2017, 15:38:47 PM
https://youtu.be/bCROkG4SKao
I hadn't visited the bitch in a while. I waited for some of the rain stain to come off and hit it for a few hours earlier today.
I pulled into the parking lot and Woolly, Al and TF were there suiting up. Wadda fuk? Ends up the two old farts were helping Brian with some stream bug study for his schooling. I walked in to fish and they drove higher on the river for their strange san juan worm hatch thingie.
The water still had a slight tinge to it and wildflowers were getting going in the woods and along the bank. Decided to throw small streamers/wets with a midge dropper. I had a fish slash on the streamer as I was stripping off line. That should have been a good sign. Right?
(http://i.imgur.com/gWaj9bt.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/lRykKzX.jpg)
Soundly high holed!
(http://i.imgur.com/f5vqMJ8.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/nmAUlOW.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/pSVVsCq.jpg)
I was getting hits on the slumpbuster, but the punes weren't getting the hook. Just whacking the rabbit strip?
Switched to a bugger and wet flies and a whispier midge. Started picking a few more fish, but it was far from a blistering pace.
Drank a beer, listened to the military burning fuel with numerous helicopter and Ospery flyovers.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZfrYdx2.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/U7AuQ0N.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/jbFRBR6.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/wkdSyYT.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/ESdqW8q.jpg)
I'll let TF give you the bug report. He might be another Mudwall in the making. :laugh:
Nothing of size. Missed a bunch, SDR'd a few, but thoroughly enjoyed myself.
Got back to the car and got out of the waders. The three amigos showed up to sample and fish where I left off.
Here's hoping those fish will looking up more, soon.
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: rbphoto on April 06, 2017, 06:58:14 AM
Post by: rbphoto on April 06, 2017, 06:58:14 AM
Time to tie up some articulated streamers, Doug?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on April 06, 2017, 08:18:51 AM
Post by: driver on April 06, 2017, 08:18:51 AM
U need one of deez.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170406/de629190d3420f790e51d575a7891078.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170406/de629190d3420f790e51d575a7891078.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 06, 2017, 08:31:44 AM
Post by: Dougfish on April 06, 2017, 08:31:44 AM
Stinger woulda worked.
Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on April 06, 2017, 08:53:26 AM
Post by: troutfanatic on April 06, 2017, 08:53:26 AM
It was a buggy, not so fishy sort of day. Diversity abounds, but I'm no entomologist by any stretch of the imagination. Got some great samples. Many thanks to Woolly and Al for the assistance. I have class now, so I'll toss some pics up later.
Greatest revelation?
Recently stocked rainbow trout eat didymo, tree bark, moss, rocks and leaf litter. I believe the phenomena is called search image, and they don't have it quite right, yet.
Greatest revelation?
Recently stocked rainbow trout eat didymo, tree bark, moss, rocks and leaf litter. I believe the phenomena is called search image, and they don't have it quite right, yet.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 06, 2017, 10:29:22 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 06, 2017, 10:29:22 AM
Quote from: driver on April 06, 2017, 08:18:51 AM
U need one of deez.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170406/de629190d3420f790e51d575a7891078.jpg)
Glad to see the Smith patrons revisit and embrace the beautiful application of using bait. I also have rediscovered the wonder and gratification of using something other than flies.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2017, 12:19:32 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2017, 12:19:32 PM
Drove on up to puneville to help TF do some kick sampling of the river. Al was there too.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-1.jpg)
TF taking water temperature and recording measurements
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-2.jpg)
Pickin off some bugs
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-3.jpg)
Odd creature here, any ideas?
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-4.jpg)
More didymo than bugs
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-5.jpg)
Recording observations while standing in the stream
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-6.jpg)
Documenting the collection of bugs
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-7.jpg)
stonflies
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-8.jpg)
caddisflies
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-9.jpg)
May apples
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-10.jpg)
Diptera?
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-11.jpg)
May apple blossom
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-12.jpg)
Busy bees, hey Dougfish, what kind of tree is this?
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-13.jpg)
caddisfly
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-14.jpg)
Having a lunch break at the homestead..
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-15.jpg)
Cheers!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-16.jpg)
After lunch we moved on down to another location and fished first before kicking up some samples.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-17.jpg)
I fished a dry, it was challenging but I managed 8 punes to hand...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-18.jpg)
Obligatory gear shot!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-19.jpg)
Stomach pump samples for research.. mostly nymphs, but the occasional sulfur dun.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-20.jpg)
Al went upstream and I took a beer break after catching sample subjects for TF
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-21.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-22.jpg)
Invasive or native, I don't have a clue...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-23.jpg)
But I do know that these bluebells are native.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-24.jpg)
More research
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-25.jpg)
Al enjoying the day...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-26.jpg)
And more punes to hand
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-27.jpg)
What a crew...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-28.jpg)
After splitting up I cooked up some dinner and drank beer and thought about making another trip to Alaska...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-29.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-30.jpg)
About 30 minutes out I lost a serpentine belt, and waited by the side of the road.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-31.jpg)
Turned out that the water pump had failed and will be repaired under warranty.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 06, 2017, 12:39:09 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 06, 2017, 12:39:09 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2017, 12:19:32 PM
Odd creature here, any ideas?
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-4.jpg)
Diptera?
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-11.jpg)
Asellidae = sow bug, cress bug - very cool and most excellent food item if in great numbers
Isoptera = termite w/ equal length wings
Plus you got mayflies in vial of stoneflies and other FUs but I give you all an
Good job guys; now do any of you have hints on digging worms and catching crickets?
Had to change your grade after seeing the stomach pump. Your group project grade would have been a solid A- IF you had kept the damned tiny browns (as recommended by biologists), gutted them, opened their stomachs, and recorded your findings.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 06, 2017, 14:42:31 PM
Post by: Dougfish on April 06, 2017, 14:42:31 PM
QuoteBusy bees, hey Dougfish, what kind of tree is this?
Eleagnus, invasive shrub. n!n
Little white flower was our native Foamflower, Tiarella.
I spy a mayfly in the caddis tube, also.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on April 06, 2017, 20:50:51 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on April 06, 2017, 20:50:51 PM
Yes the sample vials were all mixed by location. I sort them later when they go in isopropyl alcohol.
We got an eclectic mix of Plecoptera, Ephemeroptera, and Tricoptera. There were other sow bugs too. Unfamiliar with taxa on them though. Not going to deep here, just order-family level.
We got quite a few annelids too. I'm surprised they can tolerate that water.
No crawdads.
Also, this time there was no Megaloptera. I found one on a previous trip. Driver gets credit for the ID.
Midges were in the air, but we found very few in the seine.
I was also pretty sure the mystery "spinner" was Isoptera. They seem to be fairly abundant this time of year.
Yes my thermometer is IR, I also have a conventional one Mud. I was being lazy.
As for culling from the herd, that's coming. I dissected a few rainbows in the sink last night. I have to look at competition a bit. I'd say a diet of didymo, bark, rocks, leaf detritus and moss isn't much competition. Just checking a block. Most of my references on that matter say hatchery over wild is marginal competition at best.
One thing of interest was a beaut of a stonefly that Keith found. About 40mm long, a dark chocolate colored dorsal region with a nice golden belly and dark segmentation.
I'm still messing with pics and sorting bugs.
We got an eclectic mix of Plecoptera, Ephemeroptera, and Tricoptera. There were other sow bugs too. Unfamiliar with taxa on them though. Not going to deep here, just order-family level.
We got quite a few annelids too. I'm surprised they can tolerate that water.
No crawdads.
Also, this time there was no Megaloptera. I found one on a previous trip. Driver gets credit for the ID.
Midges were in the air, but we found very few in the seine.
I was also pretty sure the mystery "spinner" was Isoptera. They seem to be fairly abundant this time of year.
Yes my thermometer is IR, I also have a conventional one Mud. I was being lazy.
As for culling from the herd, that's coming. I dissected a few rainbows in the sink last night. I have to look at competition a bit. I'd say a diet of didymo, bark, rocks, leaf detritus and moss isn't much competition. Just checking a block. Most of my references on that matter say hatchery over wild is marginal competition at best.
One thing of interest was a beaut of a stonefly that Keith found. About 40mm long, a dark chocolate colored dorsal region with a nice golden belly and dark segmentation.
I'm still messing with pics and sorting bugs.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on April 07, 2017, 07:28:25 AM
Post by: Al on April 07, 2017, 07:28:25 AM
Here are a few of the better photos I took on our "bugging expedition"
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 07, 2017, 08:32:43 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 07, 2017, 08:32:43 AM
Quote from: troutfanatic on April 06, 2017, 20:50:51 PM
There were other sow bugs too. Unfamiliar with taxa on them though. Not going to deep here, just order-family .....
There are really only 2-3 genera of importance in the family of aquatic sow bugs, and they pretty much all look alike and serve the same ecological role – so don't sweat the genera.
If they are there in great numbers, or are increasing in numbers, then every Smith River angler should get a permanent erection. Honestly, I don't remember ever seeing a sow bug in the Smith, but I recently forgot my anniversary and likely will forget my wife's birthday, so cut me some slack on remembering shit. Purging the mind of worthless information has been awe-inspiring, but I've screwed the pooch multiple times on what info to purge.
Back to your boner -inducing critter. Sow bugs, along with Amphipods, were the life's blood of the SOHO years ago before the labyrinth dam – so abundant in the Fontinalis moss that we had a plan to transplant the moss with all the crustaceans, in aerated coolers of water, up to the Smith. Multiple state and federal laws would be broken. Bottom line is we did not have enough hair on our peaches to follow through.
I hope they have exploded, or will explode, in the Smith. You guys will be very happy.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 07, 2017, 08:39:09 AM
Post by: Dougfish on April 07, 2017, 08:39:09 AM
You will find scuds in my fly box. Been using them for years. Weighted, unweighted, different sizes.
But hey, they crush it on bluelines, too. Overlooked tie.
But hey, they crush it on bluelines, too. Overlooked tie.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 07, 2017, 08:59:28 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 07, 2017, 08:59:28 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on April 07, 2017, 08:39:09 AM
You will find scuds in my fly box. Been using them for years. Weighted, unweighted, different sizes.
But hey, they crush it on bluelines, too. Overlooked tie.
But, they are pink and orange and god-knows-what colors, and there's never been a pink or orange scud until you put it into the preservative. And the web photos, I bet my left nut, of the colored ones, are of preserved specimens.
Plus I bet most of yours has a fucking bead for a head – very natural – NOT!!!
You're fishing a glorified mini egg fly so deal with it.
Don't pull a Big J or a Cowboy on us and try to justify something like a green weenie as being natural. AND learn to reel with the correct hand!!
I still love you man!!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 07, 2017, 09:06:38 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 07, 2017, 09:06:38 AM
With all those fat caddis I'm tying up some green mop flies!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on April 07, 2017, 09:47:32 AM
Post by: Big J on April 07, 2017, 09:47:32 AM
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-9.jpg)
I see some green. :P
I see some green. :P
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 07, 2017, 10:41:19 AM
Post by: Dougfish on April 07, 2017, 10:41:19 AM
Quote from: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 07, 2017, 08:59:28 AM
But, they are pink and orange and god-knows-what colors, and there's never been a pink or orange scud until you put it into the preservative. And the web photos, I bet my left nut, of the colored ones, are of preserved specimens.
Plus I bet most of yours has a fucking bead for a head – very natural – NOT!!!
You're fishing a glorified mini egg fly so deal with it.
Don't pull a Big J or a Cowboy on us and try to justify something like a green weenie as being natural. AND learn to reel with the correct hand!!
I still love you man!!
Don't be a hater, spin/worm wizard. Think outside the canvas tent. -+;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 07, 2017, 11:02:28 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 07, 2017, 11:02:28 AM
Quote from: Big J on April 07, 2017, 09:47:32 AM
I see some green. :P
Yes, you see green. The caddis is even called the green rock worm, BUT it ain't this green!!! Don't attempt to bullshit a bullshitter. I've meticulously thrashed through the match the critter, match the hatch puzzle, to the point of making enemies, losing friends, and alienating family. Now, I am proud to say that my only interest in macroinvertebrates is their utility in disclosing the quality of waters -- tell me a story and nothing more.
I'm just jabbing you gents. Cold as hell here, area like being in a wind tunnel, and tomorrow is turkey day. Found my camo shirt and jeans, working on my calls, and hoping for a sunny, windless Saturday morning.
Peace, peckerwoods!!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 07, 2017, 11:25:16 AM
Post by: Dougfish on April 07, 2017, 11:25:16 AM
I hope she sewed you a pack for that cruiser frame before you forgot about the anniversary, Mudster. :laugh:
Wind blown and cold here, but not Mountain Grove cold. Peace, out. Gotta tie some more "inchworms" and scuds.
Wind blown and cold here, but not Mountain Grove cold. Peace, out. Gotta tie some more "inchworms" and scuds.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on April 08, 2017, 16:48:40 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on April 08, 2017, 16:48:40 PM
Hey Mud.
I need a better preservative recommendation. The school won't let me have Carosafe (EPA and OSHA issue). I'm currently using 70% isopropyl alcohol. This seems to denature the hell out of the internal proteins of my samples, pretty much leaving me with a chitin shuck that loses all color. Preferably looking for something I can easily and legally purchase.
I need a better preservative recommendation. The school won't let me have Carosafe (EPA and OSHA issue). I'm currently using 70% isopropyl alcohol. This seems to denature the hell out of the internal proteins of my samples, pretty much leaving me with a chitin shuck that loses all color. Preferably looking for something I can easily and legally purchase.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Michael Toris on April 08, 2017, 17:53:14 PM
Post by: Michael Toris on April 08, 2017, 17:53:14 PM
Formalin does wonders but it's toxic as hell.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Michael Toris on April 08, 2017, 17:53:46 PM
Post by: Michael Toris on April 08, 2017, 17:53:46 PM
95% ethly alcohol is also a pretty good alternative
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: The Dude on April 08, 2017, 17:58:57 PM
Post by: The Dude on April 08, 2017, 17:58:57 PM
Salt & Vinegar. [emoji6]
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on April 08, 2017, 19:47:40 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on April 08, 2017, 19:47:40 PM
Lol John... pickled nymphs.
G, can I even find Formalin easily? I considered it, but I thought the EPA was all over that.
G, can I even find Formalin easily? I considered it, but I thought the EPA was all over that.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Michael Toris on April 08, 2017, 20:08:38 PM
Post by: Michael Toris on April 08, 2017, 20:08:38 PM
Can you get it through the science department
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on April 08, 2017, 20:31:52 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on April 08, 2017, 20:31:52 PM
Nah, the department chair is real iffy about that stuff. I am pretty sure all specimens are kept in Carosafe (not sure what the hell it is, possibly formalin) but he won't let it out of school because of EPA and OSHA laws. 70% isopropyl is ruining the specimens though. I just gotta take better pics. I have more seine events on the horizon because I need lower river data and biomass.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 09, 2017, 09:19:42 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 09, 2017, 09:19:42 AM
Quote from: troutfanatic on April 08, 2017, 16:48:40 PM
Hey Mud.
I need a better preservative recommendation. The school won't let me have Carosafe (EPA and OSHA issue). I'm currently using 70% isopropyl alcohol. This seems to denature the hell out of the internal proteins of my samples, pretty much leaving me with a chitin shuck that loses all color. Preferably looking for something I can easily and legally purchase.
Boiling in water will fix the proteins, I've heard. Adding a drop or two of Glycerin to vial will preserve color temporarily they say.
I preserved everything in 70-75% ethanol. I was never concerned with internal structures or retaining color. These were bulk samples, which required removal of specimens from leaves, other woody debris, sand, etc. However, I was a bit more careful with individual specimens used for reference collection – fresh pickling when the body juices leeched from large individuals. Again, preserving color was not that important for the work that I did.
Addressing the proteins, I would not wish that gel-jockey shit (or whatever they're doing these days) on a broke dicked dog! I had one very brief experience many moons ago when I tried to distinguish several populations of the Isonychia mayflies from various locations through electrophoresis. It was for some damned worthless grade in some damned worthless insect physiology lab. I forgot all that crap as quickly as I could; it was a fill-and-flush class and the preservative used was flushed as well.
Good luck.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on April 09, 2017, 10:06:28 AM
Post by: troutfanatic on April 09, 2017, 10:06:28 AM
Holy shit :o
when you say electrophoresis, you mean you were using protein breakdowns to ID a species? Tell me that was grad school? I dig me some molecular biology, but not that much. I know VT has one hell of a molecular lab. My genetics professor (also micro for one of two semesters) went there, researched there and is still somewhat associated with them.
when you say electrophoresis, you mean you were using protein breakdowns to ID a species? Tell me that was grad school? I dig me some molecular biology, but not that much. I know VT has one hell of a molecular lab. My genetics professor (also micro for one of two semesters) went there, researched there and is still somewhat associated with them.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on April 09, 2017, 18:51:00 PM
Post by: Fishbug on April 09, 2017, 18:51:00 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on April 07, 2017, 09:06:38 AM
With all those fat caddis I'm tying up some green mop flies!
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Been there, done that...
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170409/4ce710820a7aedff6e0a7b58662cf9aa.jpg)
If you need some green, i can send you some mop hide.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on April 10, 2017, 18:13:52 PM
Post by: creakycane on April 10, 2017, 18:13:52 PM
I happened to look at the temp trace on USGS Smith R in Bassett, and noticed today it has peaked about 70F. Is this correct?
Seems kind of high for 205 CFS of water in Bassett (peaking at 70F) when 165 CFS is coming from Philpott at 49F.
Either the warm weather is really warming the water, or that is some mighty warm feeder water (Town Cr etc). Maybe this is how it always is?
Seems kind of high for 205 CFS of water in Bassett (peaking at 70F) when 165 CFS is coming from Philpott at 49F.
Either the warm weather is really warming the water, or that is some mighty warm feeder water (Town Cr etc). Maybe this is how it always is?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on April 10, 2017, 19:56:56 PM
Post by: driver on April 10, 2017, 19:56:56 PM
That gauge has had some issues in that past.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on April 11, 2017, 10:35:15 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on April 11, 2017, 10:35:15 AM
Quote from: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 06, 2017, 12:39:09 PMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2017, 12:19:32 PMFunny thing is I've been fishing a small green/brown scud for a number of years there with good success especially on some big stockers that allude others. Also have found that a small cress bug works as well. Many old timers refuse to partake because it was told to me "no scuds live here, so why fish one". Oh well, more for me i guess.
Odd creature here, any ideas?
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/040517-4.jpg)
Asellidae = sow bug, cress bug - very cool and most excellent food item if in great numbers
What was the deal back in the day with trying to transport some scuds from the soho? Why couldn't you just culture some..they are easy!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 12, 2017, 08:01:18 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 12, 2017, 08:01:18 AM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on April 11, 2017, 10:35:15 AM
What was the deal back in the day with trying to transport some scuds from the soho? Why couldn't you just culture some..they are easy!
There was no "deal" because I am sure there is a regulation that forbids introducing non-indigenous critters. Plus, there's likely another law prohibiting the transplant of aquatic vegetation and critters across state lines. None of this really amounts to much since both the Smith and the SOHO are human-made, managed ecosystems, and seem to be perfect candidates for such a scenario.
Probably the bottom line why there was no "deal' is the fact that all of us that discussed such an action were huge chicken shits.
Rear away, and then dump them in the Smith. Just make sure to start with hardy individuals of a species that might work in the Smith. If you get caught, simply tell them that you have permission from Brian Williams and Cricket.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on April 12, 2017, 09:46:56 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on April 12, 2017, 09:46:56 AM
Quote from: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 12, 2017, 08:01:18 AMQuote from: streamereater_101691 on April 11, 2017, 10:35:15 AM
What was the deal back in the day with trying to transport some scuds from the soho? Why couldn't you just culture some..they are easy!
There was no "deal" because I am sure there is a regulation that forbids introducing non-indigenous critters. Plus, there's likely another law prohibiting the transplant of aquatic vegetation and critters across state lines. None of this really amounts to much since both the Smith and the SOHO are human-made, managed ecosystems, and seem to be perfect candidates for such a scenario.
Probably the bottom line why there was no "deal' is the fact that all of us that discussed such an action were huge chicken shits.
Makes perfect sense. Its all fun and games until someone gets a felony.
Quote]Rear away, and then dump them in the Smith. Just make sure to start with hardy individuals of a species that might work in the Smith. If you get caught, simply tell them that you have permission from Brian Williams and Cricket.
I was thinking azteca's. I use to culture them for my dwarf frogs and salamanders. I think I have a buddy who has a starter clutch in fact. Any ideas about how many would need to be introduced before they get going?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 12, 2017, 10:44:44 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 12, 2017, 10:44:44 AM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on April 12, 2017, 09:46:56 AM
I was thinking azteca's. I use to culture them for my dwarf frogs and salamanders. I think I have a buddy who has a starter clutch in fact. Any ideas about how many would need to be introduced before they get going?
Hyalella azteca is certainly cosmopolitan, but if you're going to the effort and gamble the risk, then I'd shoot for one of the larger Gammarus species. Hyalella ain't that big.
Big scud = good scud
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on April 13, 2017, 10:48:23 AM
Post by: IFStultz on April 13, 2017, 10:48:23 AM
FWIW. Heard a rumor that the dam was fixed but they lost their contract to sell power. Supposedly they may sign a new one in October. You know how rumors go though. Could be BS.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on April 13, 2017, 11:49:31 AM
Post by: driver on April 13, 2017, 11:49:31 AM
I'd be ok if they left it like it has been.
Btw, when we going for a bote ride?
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Btw, when we going for a bote ride?
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Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on April 13, 2017, 12:11:10 PM
Post by: IFStultz on April 13, 2017, 12:11:10 PM
Quote from: driver on April 13, 2017, 11:49:31 AMYeah I wish they'd just use it to control lake levels and run about 180cfs all the time. May have an empty seat this weekend.
I'd be ok if they left it like it has been.
Btw, when we going for a bote ride?
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 13, 2017, 13:46:44 PM
Post by: Dougfish on April 13, 2017, 13:46:44 PM
Thats a very interesting rumor.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on April 13, 2017, 20:40:33 PM
Post by: Fishbug on April 13, 2017, 20:40:33 PM
Thursday trouts
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170414/195eb069fec75c8af297da368b694325.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170414/4301625b62c27a0fdc5472a603c2629b.jpg)
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(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170414/195eb069fec75c8af297da368b694325.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170414/4301625b62c27a0fdc5472a603c2629b.jpg)
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 15, 2017, 09:29:22 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 15, 2017, 09:29:22 AM
2017 – 36
I was asleep shortly after getting home from the shad trip, and up early the Friday morning and off to work. Got a good handle on the project by two in the afternoon and after taking care of a few other things headed off to the upper river to see what was up. I had a feeling that the sulfurs might be starting up.
There were a few fish rising and bwos, caddis and the occasional sulfur coming off. I changed patterns several times before deciding that twitching a puff daddy was the ticket. I had only two in the box, one got left in a tree and the other one finally just wore out, lost all its puff! They were watching that fly and when it twitched they would run it down moving a foot or more to catch it!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041417-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041417-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041417-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041417-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041417-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041417-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041417-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041417-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041417-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041417-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041417-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041417-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041417-14.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041417-13.jpg)
It was a peaceful and grand evening despite the mosquitoes, and it is only going to get better in the coming weeks.
If you go, be sure to have some puff daddies and magic powder stuff, jis say'in, oh an be sure to twitch it....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 16, 2017, 09:42:37 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 16, 2017, 09:42:37 AM
2017 – 37
Worked from 8 till 1, then planned to go fish, but first a stop to tie up some puff daddies.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-1.jpg)
The biologist want us to cull the punes on the river 'cause there are just too many fish and not enough food for them to grow at a respectable rate.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-2.jpg)
Flung the fly that was on the rod, first cast.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-3.jpg)
My happy place in 50 shades of green.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-21.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-13.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-14.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-15.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-16.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-17.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-18.jpg)
Hendricksons, sulfurs, and midges
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-19.jpg)
Whacked a couple and fried 'em up
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-20.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-22.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041517-23.jpg)
Coming into town, I hit Business 40 west, a.k.a. Salem Parkway or old I-40 and just after I got going down the hill just past the 5th street exit where there is a concrete wall dividing east and west lanes, I'm traveling in the right lane at about 65 mph and I see the car up ahead in the left lane veer suddenly into the right lane, and I see a car traveling the wrong direction on the shoulder next to the wall. Holy crap! I was getting ready to call 911 when all sorts of cops were headed down the east bound side ....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 16, 2017, 10:17:09 AM
Post by: Dougfish on April 16, 2017, 10:17:09 AM
Good stuff, Keif. And lovely nature shots, too. Wrong way drivers are one of my biggest fears. One of the reasons I watch whats happening far down the road on highways.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on April 17, 2017, 15:06:19 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on April 17, 2017, 15:06:19 PM
I may have to give you a photo credit for that stonefly. Driver already got one for the chub puking brown.
Finals are creeping, keep in the loop on what the picky little shits are eating.
Finals are creeping, keep in the loop on what the picky little shits are eating.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 17, 2017, 16:12:30 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 17, 2017, 16:12:30 PM
Kudos on keeping and eating a couple, and the grape seed oil.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on April 17, 2017, 16:32:21 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on April 17, 2017, 16:32:21 PM
I thought you might dig that old school stringer he's using.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 19, 2017, 09:49:06 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 19, 2017, 09:49:06 AM
The Bootleg Bootleg Podcast: That 70's Episode (https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/thebootlegbootlegpodcast/episodes/2015-11-07T21_05_54-08_00?utm_source=web-player&utm_medium=episode-link)
2017 – 38
Early call this morning for a Project Impact Annual Meeting. (http://www.projectimpact.ws/) got me up at 5:30 and the meeting was over by 10:30. I was on the road to my local pune filled river. I iced up the Yeti with plans to harvest a limit of 6 for da Spork's smoker. There were two cars in the lot when I arrived one guy came out as I was suiting up. "See any sulfurs?" I inquired as I continued to pull my waders on. "I don't know any bugs, I was fishing a Mr. Rapidan and a Pheasant Tail. Caught 4 on the top and one on the nymph. What's a sulfur?" he asked. I was shaking my head to myself while forming a reply, "Little yellow bugs!" I exclaimed. I stashed a few ice cold brews in my vest and headed off to the stream as I wished the other angler a good afternoon.
I was a bit cloudy and I was wondering if the bugs would come off this afternoon. I walked among the trees along the bank searching for morels among the may apples. None were to be found, and when I stepped into the water a bit above my favorite I saw another fisherman working my run. Awe crap, hmmm, he's moving on downstream, I'll just drink a beer and wait for him to get off of my water.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041817-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041817-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041817-3.jpg)
So I sat down and popped open a Ballast Point Grunion Pale Ale (91 BA Score) and watched the water for rising fish and bugs while keeping an eye on the other angler. I think he was swinging a nymph or soft hackle and I didn't see him land a fish. I rinsed the empty beer can with river water and stashed it in my vest as I waded out into stream. Worked the same fly that was still on my line from the other day. Got a fish to rise but it missed the fly and I worked from near to far. Dropped the fly in to the eddy up against the far bank and a trout turned and chased it down as I twitched it. It was about 3 o'clock and the sulfurs were starting to pop off in sparse numbers, but the trouts were apparently looking for them and they couldn't resist the twitched fly.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041817-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041817-5.jpg)
I just couldn't bring myself to kill these little jewels..
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041817-6.jpg)
Probably the best fish of the day...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041817-7.jpg)
Nice spot!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041817-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041817-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041817-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041817-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041817-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041817-13.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041817-14.jpg)
After catching close to three dozen of these punes I called it quits and headed on home for the trifecta.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041817-15.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041817-16.jpg)
I just love these old trees along the river bank.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/4-17/041817-17.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 19, 2017, 11:51:21 AM
Post by: Dougfish on April 19, 2017, 11:51:21 AM
Nice. Good on ya for hitting it before it muddies up. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on April 20, 2017, 22:59:36 PM
Post by: Fishbug on April 20, 2017, 22:59:36 PM
My second best Smith fish....not a heavily fished section, not a monster, but definitely out of poon class. Jaw started to kype a bit, but does not show well:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170421/ec244394eeaf73943ae84652730641d7.jpg)
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(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170421/ec244394eeaf73943ae84652730641d7.jpg)
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on April 21, 2017, 09:34:41 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on April 21, 2017, 09:34:41 AM
Quote from: IFStultz on April 13, 2017, 10:48:23 AM
FWIW. Heard a rumor that the dam was fixed but they lost their contract to sell power. Supposedly they may sign a new one in October. You know how rumors go though. Could be BS.
Just a rumor according to rocky. Looks like cold water may be back in july or august as of now.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on April 21, 2017, 11:44:17 AM
Post by: IFStultz on April 21, 2017, 11:44:17 AM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on April 21, 2017, 09:34:41 AMQuote from: IFStultz on April 13, 2017, 10:48:23 AM
FWIW. Heard a rumor that the dam was fixed but they lost their contract to sell power. Supposedly they may sign a new one in October. You know how rumors go though. Could be BS.
Just a rumor according to rocky. Looks like cold water may be back in july or august as of now.
What I'm most interested in is what kind of flows the lower will get during the weekends.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on April 21, 2017, 11:46:17 AM
Post by: driver on April 21, 2017, 11:46:17 AM
I think its going to be like it was before it broke. I think it was 250cfs from 10am-3pm Sat an Sun
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on April 21, 2017, 11:58:55 AM
Post by: IFStultz on April 21, 2017, 11:58:55 AM
Quote from: driver on April 21, 2017, 11:46:17 AM
I think its going to be like it was before it broke. I think it was 250cfs from 10am-3pm Sat an Sun
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Now I have to figure out what's the lowest flow you can float it on. I know I could get down the upper at 180cfs on my old boat.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on April 22, 2017, 08:22:02 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on April 22, 2017, 08:22:02 AM
Quote from: IFStultz on April 21, 2017, 11:44:17 AMQuote from: streamereater_101691 on April 21, 2017, 09:34:41 AMQuote from: IFStultz on April 13, 2017, 10:48:23 AM
FWIW. Heard a rumor that the dam was fixed but they lost their contract to sell power. Supposedly they may sign a new one in October. You know how rumors go though. Could be BS.
Just a rumor according to rocky. Looks like cold water may be back in july or august as of now.QuoteWhat I'm most interested in is what kind of flows the lower will get during the weekends.
Whatever the minimum flow is plus 450 when it catches the lower dam. It won't get there until at least 3:30-4 anyway..
The full moon night float from 6pm to 12 will be fun in the summer
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on April 22, 2017, 11:29:56 AM
Post by: IFStultz on April 22, 2017, 11:29:56 AM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on April 22, 2017, 08:22:02 AMQuote from: IFStultz on April 21, 2017, 11:44:17 AMQuote from: streamereater_101691 on April 21, 2017, 09:34:41 AMQuote from: IFStultz on April 13, 2017, 10:48:23 AM
FWIW. Heard a rumor that the dam was fixed but they lost their contract to sell power. Supposedly they may sign a new one in October. You know how rumors go though. Could be BS.
Just a rumor according to rocky. Looks like cold water may be back in july or august as of now.QuoteWhat I'm most interested in is what kind of flows the lower will get during the weekends.
Whatever the minimum flow is plus 450 when it catches the lower dam. It won't get there until at least 3:30-4 anyway..
The full moon night float from 6pm to 12 will be fun in the summer
Not if the Smith River fog is out. Learned that last summer.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 04, 2017, 09:36:37 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 04, 2017, 09:36:37 AM
1. Smith if running strong and clear at 700cfs
2. Sulfurs are popping off
3. Trouts are rising in some spots... mostly where you can't get to them
4. Wading isn't much fun right now
5. can't wait for the water to get back down to 160 or so...
2. Sulfurs are popping off
3. Trouts are rising in some spots... mostly where you can't get to them
4. Wading isn't much fun right now
5. can't wait for the water to get back down to 160 or so...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 04, 2017, 10:41:07 AM
Post by: Al on May 04, 2017, 10:41:07 AM
I sucked up and recently got on the list for advance notifications. Once they get back to normal this will give us a heads up 3-4 days prior to the announcement being updated. Right now it gives us notice a day or more before they make a change in the sluice gates.
Up to Woolly - I suggest a separate threat, or if you want I can just post it here on the "Smith - Continued" thread
Right now they are sluicing at 650cfs. Add a few cfs coming out of Town Creek and it is about 700cfs as reported by Woolly.
They indicated there would be a further reduction toward the end of this week if there were no significant weather events. I anticipate an email today or tomorrow with an update.
Up to Woolly - I suggest a separate threat, or if you want I can just post it here on the "Smith - Continued" thread
Right now they are sluicing at 650cfs. Add a few cfs coming out of Town Creek and it is about 700cfs as reported by Woolly.
They indicated there would be a further reduction toward the end of this week if there were no significant weather events. I anticipate an email today or tomorrow with an update.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Native Fisher on May 04, 2017, 12:03:09 PM
Post by: Native Fisher on May 04, 2017, 12:03:09 PM
1"+ of rain predicted for tonight and tomorrow. Is that significant?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 04, 2017, 12:18:12 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 04, 2017, 12:18:12 PM
Quote from: Native Fisher on May 04, 2017, 12:03:09 PMI'm heading up to the mtns the other side of you. 1.75" forecast. Plus showers. How dumb am I?
1"+ of rain predicted for tonight and tomorrow. Is that significant?
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on May 04, 2017, 12:42:50 PM
Post by: Big J on May 04, 2017, 12:42:50 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on May 04, 2017, 12:18:12 PMQuote from: Native Fisher on May 04, 2017, 12:03:09 PMI'm heading up to the mtns the other side of you. 1.75" forecast. Plus showers. How dumb am I?
1"+ of rain predicted for tonight and tomorrow. Is that significant?
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You are one step below a moron.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Native Fisher on May 04, 2017, 12:50:43 PM
Post by: Native Fisher on May 04, 2017, 12:50:43 PM
Quote from: Big J on May 04, 2017, 12:42:50 PM
I'm heading up to the mtns the other side of you. 1.75" forecast. Plus showers. How dumb am I?
You are one step below a moron.
[/quote]
That's being generous, J. Bro, you are -+;. But you deserve it because you fish too damn much.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 04, 2017, 18:27:43 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 04, 2017, 18:27:43 PM
Btw, fishing/camping with J. Lol.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on May 04, 2017, 18:39:03 PM
Post by: Onslow on May 04, 2017, 18:39:03 PM
I expect nothing less than a 14" Appalachian Char from the two of you. Hit it!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on May 05, 2017, 13:57:44 PM
Post by: troutrus on May 05, 2017, 13:57:44 PM
I heard them big ones will chase big streamers when the water gets up below Martinsville D. Go get 'em men.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 05, 2017, 19:47:49 PM
Post by: Al on May 05, 2017, 19:47:49 PM
Official update (Not that you need the official word if you have seen Troutrus photo)
680 cfs coming out of Philpott for next few days - maybe more depending on this crazy weather.
For those of you thinking about chasing stripers at Weldon - again depending on significant weather events here is the plan - they said they will have another update on Monday.
Sat 35k
Sun 35k
Mon 33k
Tue 33k
Wed 26k
Thu 16k
Fri 9k
680 cfs coming out of Philpott for next few days - maybe more depending on this crazy weather.
For those of you thinking about chasing stripers at Weldon - again depending on significant weather events here is the plan - they said they will have another update on Monday.
Sat 35k
Sun 35k
Mon 33k
Tue 33k
Wed 26k
Thu 16k
Fri 9k
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 05, 2017, 19:51:36 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 05, 2017, 19:51:36 PM
I think they already bumped Philpot to 12 or 1350...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on May 06, 2017, 07:23:33 AM
Post by: troutrus on May 06, 2017, 07:23:33 AM
Rollin, rollin, rollin.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 06, 2017, 08:09:50 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 06, 2017, 08:09:50 AM
When I was there the other day there was an old geezer standing in the current tossing lead and a worm! I expect he thought Leroy would be found, I didn't see him catch anything!
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 06, 2017, 08:18:42 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 06, 2017, 08:18:42 AM
When I was there the other day there was an old geezer standing in the current tossing lead and a worm! I expect he thought Leroy would be found, I didn't see him catch anything!
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 08, 2017, 09:44:36 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 08, 2017, 09:44:36 AM
No TR here, but wanted to give everyone a heads up on something. I went to philpott yesterday afternoon for a few hrs. There is more grass on the main lake points(15-30ft of water) than I've ever seen(Milfoil and pondweed mostly). The amounts that the old timers use to talk about growing in the lake. Hopefully this will help the overall fish population of the lake and therefore help the river below. I know recent rains have had to infiltrate the lake with nutrients(good). Just wanted to give everyone a heads up about maybe some good shit..
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on May 13, 2017, 17:53:53 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on May 13, 2017, 17:53:53 PM
Are you going to use Grateful Dead songs on everything you post?
Yeah, probably, maybe...
Tour starts next week and guess who don't have a real job? But I got a nice pension /'/
https://youtu.be/ZzlNWPVBcfk
Some work by Al, got me linked up with the VDGIF crew to help me out with my graduation research project. I am thankful for Al, George, Scott and Ty for their help on this. Not trying to reinvent the wheel, just do something cool, have some fun and graduate.
I was on a trip fishing with some friends (see TR elsewhere) when I got a text from George. Have no fear, help IS on the way. I hauled ass across 58 and we launched the boat.
(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f150/troutfanatic/DSCN4074_zpsi5x0f3zy.jpg) (http://s46.photobucket.com/user/troutfanatic/media/DSCN4074_zpsi5x0f3zy.jpg.html)
It wasn't long before we had a full live well.
(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f150/troutfanatic/DSCN4090_zpskuotlia1.jpg) (http://s46.photobucket.com/user/troutfanatic/media/DSCN4090_zpskuotlia1.jpg.html)
got lengths and weights.
(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f150/troutfanatic/length_zpsbpfucm7f.jpg) (http://s46.photobucket.com/user/troutfanatic/media/length_zpsbpfucm7f.jpg.html)
(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f150/troutfanatic/weight_zpsbkvamd7y.jpg) (http://s46.photobucket.com/user/troutfanatic/media/weight_zpsbkvamd7y.jpg.html)
Outliers?
(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f150/troutfanatic/outlier2_zpsfn6ej83f.jpg) (http://s46.photobucket.com/user/troutfanatic/media/outlier2_zpsfn6ej83f.jpg.html)
(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f150/troutfanatic/outlier_zpsqieqdsop.jpg) (http://s46.photobucket.com/user/troutfanatic/media/outlier_zpsqieqdsop.jpg.html)
Both hatchery queens were well past 20".
(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f150/troutfanatic/DSCN4094_zpsdvyfyvwm.jpg) (http://s46.photobucket.com/user/troutfanatic/media/DSCN4094_zpsdvyfyvwm.jpg.html)
(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f150/troutfanatic/DSCN4092_zpsczw2wzfq.jpg) (http://s46.photobucket.com/user/troutfanatic/media/DSCN4092_zpsczw2wzfq.jpg.html)
(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f150/troutfanatic/IMG_0681_zpsff9bqrt2.jpg) (http://s46.photobucket.com/user/troutfanatic/media/IMG_0681_zpsff9bqrt2.jpg.html)
(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f150/troutfanatic/DSCN4086_zpsc9yf0w1b.jpg) (http://s46.photobucket.com/user/troutfanatic/media/DSCN4086_zpsc9yf0w1b.jpg.html)
(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f150/troutfanatic/DSCN4076_zpsif6vamo9.jpg) (http://s46.photobucket.com/user/troutfanatic/media/DSCN4076_zpsif6vamo9.jpg.html)
straight up biomass.
(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f150/troutfanatic/IMG_0653_zpscxu2zdei.jpg) (http://s46.photobucket.com/user/troutfanatic/media/IMG_0653_zpscxu2zdei.jpg.html)
trash
(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f150/troutfanatic/DSCN4095_zpsn2j3hfsc.jpg) (http://s46.photobucket.com/user/troutfanatic/media/DSCN4095_zpsn2j3hfsc.jpg.html)
(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f150/troutfanatic/IMG_0689_zpszoip1xa5.jpg) (http://s46.photobucket.com/user/troutfanatic/media/IMG_0689_zpszoip1xa5.jpg.html)
(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f150/troutfanatic/DSCN4089_zpseoin6kjh.jpg) (http://s46.photobucket.com/user/troutfanatic/media/DSCN4089_zpseoin6kjh.jpg.html)
Hi flows...
Summary: 3 hours of sampling, a few hundred fish, ample forage in the sample too. One Bass and one bullhead, plus a bazillion suckers. at least 2 dozen browns were over 20", the biggest was around 25".
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 14, 2017, 19:24:22 PM
Post by: Al on May 14, 2017, 19:24:22 PM
Glad I was able to link TF up with these folks. They can always use an outside look and free labor. I suspect this run with the electric fly rod was an eye opener.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on May 16, 2017, 21:29:51 PM
Post by: Fishbug on May 16, 2017, 21:29:51 PM
Very cool stuff.
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Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on May 18, 2017, 10:58:01 AM
Post by: IFStultz on May 18, 2017, 10:58:01 AM
Floated from the 666 bridge to the Great rd. takeout yesterday afternoon. Sulphur hatch was on and caught a pile of fish. Good to see fish rising with the water up. Took my buddies daughter out with us for the first time. Fun day. Leaving for Henry's Fork and possibly a side trip to the Missouri Saturday morning.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on May 18, 2017, 11:10:38 AM
Post by: NCsporksman on May 18, 2017, 11:10:38 AM
Quote from: IFStultz on May 18, 2017, 10:58:01 AMAny mentionable specimens?
Floated from the 666 bridge to the Great rd. takeout yesterday afternoon. Sulphur hatch was on and caught a pile of fish. Good to see fish rising with the water up. Took my buddies daughter out with us for the first time. Fun day. Leaving for Henry's Fork and possibly a side trip to the Missouri Saturday morning.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on May 18, 2017, 11:37:07 AM
Post by: driver on May 18, 2017, 11:37:07 AM
I can't believe wooly is not there as we speak. He chose carp.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on May 18, 2017, 11:41:53 AM
Post by: IFStultz on May 18, 2017, 11:41:53 AM
Quote from: NCsporksman on May 18, 2017, 11:10:38 AMIt's the upper, so nothing huge but the fish look a little bigger then usual up there. The higher flows are improving the whole river. Gonna suck when it drops back to 35cfs for the minimal.Quote from: IFStultz on May 18, 2017, 10:58:01 AMAny mentionable specimens?
Floated from the 666 bridge to the Great rd. takeout yesterday afternoon. Sulphur hatch was on and caught a pile of fish. Good to see fish rising with the water up. Took my buddies daughter out with us for the first time. Fun day. Leaving for Henry's Fork and possibly a side trip to the Missouri Saturday morning.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on May 18, 2017, 11:45:00 AM
Post by: troutfanatic on May 18, 2017, 11:45:00 AM
Don't underestimate the upper river. Those sample pics were from above MV.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 18, 2017, 11:50:36 AM
Post by: Dougfish on May 18, 2017, 11:50:36 AM
Quote from: driver on May 18, 2017, 11:37:07 AMI'll be in his run later.
I can't believe wooly is not there as we speak. He chose carp.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on May 18, 2017, 16:06:20 PM
Post by: ryguy on May 18, 2017, 16:06:20 PM
Nice. I need to get back down there with the sulphur hatch. Supposed to be a great weekend!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 18, 2017, 21:43:30 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 18, 2017, 21:43:30 PM
Fishing tomorrow. This is a preview TR? Teaser?
Met a club member at the river at 4. Got down before the water started to fall and found a guy in THE run. Good on him for beating us. 'c;
Went through the jocularities and moved on. Not one of you assholes.
Went down below and got rigged up. E went low. I kept our boy in sight.
Sulfurs were coming off in small waves. Much activity, then nothing.
Fishing was mostly the same.
We got chased off early by rain accompanied by mucho thunder. Knowing that lighting fries humanoids holding attracting sticks, we retreated. b';
(http://i.imgur.com/PopYC3J.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/sn14TJV.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/HixkRan.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/pkZqOxx.jpg)
They are active and chunky. Bring emergers/soft hackles or go home sad.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on May 19, 2017, 15:30:06 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on May 19, 2017, 15:30:06 PM
Quote from: IFStultz on May 18, 2017, 11:41:53 AMQuote from: NCsporksman on May 18, 2017, 11:10:38 AMIt's the upper, so nothing huge but the fish look a little bigger then usual up there. The higher flows are improving the whole river. Gonna suck when it drops back to 35cfs for the minimal.Quote from: IFStultz on May 18, 2017, 10:58:01 AMAny mentionable specimens?
Floated from the 666 bridge to the Great rd. takeout yesterday afternoon. Sulphur hatch was on and caught a pile of fish. Good to see fish rising with the water up. Took my buddies daughter out with us for the first time. Fun day. Leaving for Henry's Fork and possibly a side trip to the Missouri Saturday morning.
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truf p;-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on May 19, 2017, 16:12:31 PM
Post by: creakycane on May 19, 2017, 16:12:31 PM
The flows have really helped the transplants to the lower river. Hope there is enough water to keep things going through the summer as the heat comes on. 2017 has been amazing.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 19, 2017, 21:19:24 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 19, 2017, 21:19:24 PM
RIP Chris.
https://youtu.be/exanYRNdzP4?list=RDexanYRNdzP4
Two back to back days on the bitch. Wish the weather was more cooperative.
Got run off early by a storm yesterday (should have stuck it out b';). Did not get to the end of day magic.
Stuck out three storm interruptions today. Chased to the bank and tree cover by lighting three times, drenched twice.
Could not stay late today, so of course a glorious sulfur hatch got cranked up at 5 when I had to leave. b'; again.
Martial bliss beats brown trout heaven.
The dump.
(http://i.imgur.com/qtvsd6j.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/oe5sJx3.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/9qXqQGT.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/eKyrH9C.jpg)
No lunkers, but the run of the mill are getting bigger and chunkier.
(http://i.imgur.com/fzxEVPr.jpg)
One of a few rain beers.
(http://i.imgur.com/c4SI8Rj.jpg)
Wet sock crashed the party.
(http://i.imgur.com/oPB0ID2.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/3X9hqzn.jpg)
Storm leaf hatch.
(http://i.imgur.com/8GXeuZo.jpg)
The most pitiful cornfield in the world has been planted.
(http://i.imgur.com/X4ly3tt.jpg)
Caught a bunch of smaller ones, too. FTG.
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: swervinmervin on June 04, 2017, 09:59:01 AM
Post by: swervinmervin on June 04, 2017, 09:59:01 AM
Was able to get down there (finally) yesterday morning. Some risers, but not much coming off the water. Gauge read 430+ cfs, so upstream wading was a chore.
Fish caught: 0
Kayakers: 40+
Beers drank: 2
Beats cutting the grass.
Fish caught: 0
Kayakers: 40+
Beers drank: 2
Beats cutting the grass.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 04, 2017, 10:59:57 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 04, 2017, 10:59:57 AM
Sulfurs come off in the afternoon, spinners at dusk
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 04, 2017, 11:17:30 AM
Post by: Dougfish on June 04, 2017, 11:17:30 AM
Mostly.
Kayak/nasty bikini hatch mid-day.
Definitely beats mowing.
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Kayak/nasty bikini hatch mid-day.
Definitely beats mowing.
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Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 09, 2017, 08:27:36 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 09, 2017, 08:27:36 AM
Gauge is 350 at Bassett, mo better for wading, got there about 4is, sulfurs were poppin and fish be rising. Had to bail at 6:30, caught about 20 punes, all on the surface. It was fun to target and connect. Will be going back this afternoon and staying late.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060817-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060817-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060817-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060817-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060817-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060817-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060817-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060817-8.jpg)
This one is pining for the fjords.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060817-9.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on June 09, 2017, 09:16:12 AM
Post by: troutfanatic on June 09, 2017, 09:16:12 AM
Al and I caught about 160 this week. ;D 8) 0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 09, 2017, 09:35:16 AM
Post by: Dougfish on June 09, 2017, 09:35:16 AM
Nice report, bugger. :;!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on June 09, 2017, 19:13:00 PM
Post by: Al on June 09, 2017, 19:13:00 PM
Quote from: troutfanatic on June 09, 2017, 09:16:12 AM
Al and I caught about 160 this week. ;D 8) 0:0
I am sure there is a way to rotate this photo but I can't figure it out - which is one reason I don't post many reports here anymore (Woolly are you listening - this site is not user friendly)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 09, 2017, 19:14:37 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 09, 2017, 19:14:37 PM
Lol.
And buffing it, too.
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And buffing it, too.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on June 09, 2017, 21:20:26 PM
Post by: driver on June 09, 2017, 21:20:26 PM
Just so everyone knows, that is the Trent Hill Bridge behind Al there. :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 09, 2017, 22:22:58 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 09, 2017, 22:22:58 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on June 09, 2017, 09:35:16 AMNowwith pictures!
Nice report, bugger. :;!
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on June 10, 2017, 05:43:49 AM
Post by: Onslow on June 10, 2017, 05:43:49 AM
Way to go Al!
Cmon Al, yer starting to sound like a Millennial. Any thing worth doing requires effort. I know you know the process, but I cannot resist being an asshole :laugh:
Connect camera to desktop
Edit pics using desktop software, not on the stupid photo hosting site.
Export edited pics to finished photo folder
Drag batch of photos from folder to Imgur. If you don't have an account, get one.
Post TR
Smartphones and fishing don't mix for a multitude of reasons.
Cmon Al, yer starting to sound like a Millennial. Any thing worth doing requires effort. I know you know the process, but I cannot resist being an asshole :laugh:
Connect camera to desktop
Edit pics using desktop software, not on the stupid photo hosting site.
Export edited pics to finished photo folder
Drag batch of photos from folder to Imgur. If you don't have an account, get one.
Post TR
Smartphones and fishing don't mix for a multitude of reasons.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 10, 2017, 08:41:27 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 10, 2017, 08:41:27 AM
Quote from: Al on June 09, 2017, 19:13:00 PMQuote from: troutfanatic on June 09, 2017, 09:16:12 AM
Al and I caught about 160 this week. ;D 8) 0:0
I am sure there is a way to rotate this photo but I can't figure it out - which is one reason I don't post many reports here anymore (Woolly are you listening - this site is not user friendly)
I just added an image resizer mod so you can up load original photos and the board will auto resize them for posting... not tested at this point but go ahead and give it a try... can't help with rotation at this point...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on June 10, 2017, 08:48:02 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on June 10, 2017, 08:48:02 AM
Quote from: Onslow on June 10, 2017, 05:43:49 AM
Any thing worth doing requires effort.
True, but is it worth it. Do any of us warrant beautiful photos and a Shakespearean interpretation of everyone's fishing expeditions? I have an excuse; I suck at taking photos and have absolutely no desire to learn to post aesthetic TRs. Now, if Katy Perry or Dorothy Hamill were members of this forum, I might deem such a fresh effort worthy. I have just enough testosterone swirling somewhere in my atrophying body to want to impress such shapely creatures, but I've seen most of you and there's not one Dot or Katy in the bunch!
I salute Al for 86ing anyone's request for a photo laden TR.
PM me if you would like a TR on my latest fishing adventures: catching stockers and red eyes on worms and Joe Flies, and eating them.
I love short hair on a figured gal!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 10, 2017, 09:14:10 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 10, 2017, 09:14:10 AM
2017 - 50
Back for the sulfurs, arrived just before 2:00 and there was a jeep and another car in the lot with two guys gearing up. Didn't want them to get to my spot so I suited up in my new Chesties for some deep wading in the slough, not too many bugs and fewer risers but they were lookin up and the dry fly cast in a likely spot would entice a strike. Did that until I was tired of catching 'em, moved on down to more difficult water and challenge my self to catch the little fuckers the were rising under the rhodo on the far bank, the games we play! Waited until dark, there was no spinner fall and it was over by 7:30ish.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-13.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-14.jpg)
What's wrong with this picture???
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-15.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-16.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-17.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-18.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-19.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-20.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/060917-21.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 12, 2017, 10:17:18 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 12, 2017, 10:17:18 AM
2017 – 51
I'm not going to talk about #51
https://youtu.be/SZ5TeeHEgZY?t=49m43s
Saw this group Saturday evening, worth a listen...
2017 - 52
Four cars in the lot, and a fifth pulled in as I was gearing up, I haven't seen this many anglers on the river in a long long time. As I walked along the path a pair of bluebirds tree hopped their way down to the river. I jumped in at my new "high water" spot and realized that I might have high holed a young dude, but the fish were rising in good numbers. I hooked a fish on my "first cast" and proceeded to catch fish after fish. Picking off the targeted risers one by one. I took a beer break and watched the dude downstream who was not having any luck and when he got close enough I shouted out "What are you fishing?" "A Mr. Rapidan, all I have is my brookie box." "Well come on over and I'll give you a sulfur." He waded over and I handed him a couple of comparaduns. Brett is from Roanoke and a transplant from Michigan. I finished my beer and got back to fishing working the risers until the hatch petered out. Then I went for a look see in the woods for mushrooms before sitting down on a riverside fallen tree trunk to drink another beer and listen to the birds and enjoy the moving water.
Then two buff wearing, streamer slinging, big net carrying, fast moving, loud talking, dudes move through the run, focused on the water they didn't even see me until they were past were I was sitting.
After they passed I got off my duff and whacked a few more fish before taking a lunch break back at the car. Off of the 50 degree water and out in the sun hiking across the corn field the heat of the day beat down and as I sat eating my snad I pondered calling it a day or heading back for the evening hatch.
Then the three dudes that I had met on the river came by and I looked at them, then at the only other car in the lot, a Fiat 500, then back at them, and said, "Did all of you ride in that?" "No", the two streamer slingers declared, "we parked up the road about a mile. Turns out they are from Richmond and fish down this way often.
I hiked back down to the river at the bend and sat on the bank waiting for the evening rise. I may have dozed off for a bit, some bugs started popping, not many, a few fish rose, not many. Caught a few, not many. It was pretty much over at 7:30, I stayed until 9:00 just in case...
Saw about a dozen kayakers, first batch was quiet, second batch where whooping and hollering spin fishermen playing loud god-awful rap music, motherf*&%er this and ni*&er that, which destroyed the tranquility of bird songs and flowing water. Then late in the day, two youngsters floated by in tubes! Holy crap! "Do you know how far it is to the take out?" I asked. "Is there someone behind you?" "Yes" they replied as they drifted around the bend. A canoe with two "adults" came into view? "Aren't those young'uns cold," I asked. "Yes, they've been complaining and we're going to get them," they said as they paddled by. I hope so, I though.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-2.jpg)
Tatted up dude with the wrong flies in the background
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-13.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-14.jpg)
streamer slinger #1
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-20.jpg)
streamer slinger #2
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-21.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-15.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-16.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-17.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-18.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061117-19.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 12, 2017, 10:27:12 AM
Post by: Dougfish on June 12, 2017, 10:27:12 AM
You attract quite the sort. Btw, seeing very little fruit set on paw paws.
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Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on June 12, 2017, 11:09:55 AM
Post by: troutfanatic on June 12, 2017, 11:09:55 AM
@Al, what happened to no pics? n!n
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on June 12, 2017, 13:05:46 PM
Post by: Al on June 12, 2017, 13:05:46 PM
Quote from: troutfanatic on June 12, 2017, 11:09:55 AM
@Al, what happened to no pics? n!n
Hey, I didn't post the photo of you almost drowning and trashing your new iPhone :laugh:
The reason I get invited on these little events is I document them for DGIF . You'll see the same or similar photos in upcoming DGIF publications and according to an email I just received from the headquarters in Richmond the entire story has been submitted "to our social media staff for consideration in posting on our social media sites, website or in the Outdoor Report".
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on June 12, 2017, 13:20:06 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on June 12, 2017, 13:20:06 PM
Quote from: Al on June 12, 2017, 13:05:46 PMQuote from: troutfanatic on June 12, 2017, 11:09:55 AM
@Al, what happened to no pics? n!n
Hey, I didn't post the photo of you almost drowning and trashing your new iPhone :laugh:
The reason I get invited on these little events is I document them for DGIF . You'll see the same or similar photos in upcoming DGIF publications and according to an email I just received from the headquarters in Richmond the entire story has been submitted "to our social media staff for consideration in posting on our social media sites, website or in the Outdoor Report".
I have an iPhone 7 now n!n
Don't make me start posting my pics. They aren't pretty and may start a riot.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 13, 2017, 09:32:11 AM
Post by: Dougfish on June 13, 2017, 09:32:11 AM
Report from da Corps. Cfs will drop later today to 140-150 for the undetermined future. Big rain events may force a change.
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Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on June 14, 2017, 09:37:59 AM
Post by: itieuglyflies on June 14, 2017, 09:37:59 AM
What crowds? .... Arrived from Richmond at the MP Monday afternoon around 3 pm...no cars, just me. I think this new retired life will be good in many ways.
Finally spotted a few corn sprouts in the "corn field" on the walk downstream, perhaps "weedy, lumpy and will I ever get to the end of it field" is a better description.
I found the higher flows interesting but not a problem. With no bugs showing I started off with nymphs and caught a couple. Then it started...a bug here and there followed by trout eager to eat my sulphur imitations. Make the right cast, get a good drift and fish on. This catching went on for a few wonderful hours ......just me on that beautiful river. It was so good I spent the night in Martinsville and returned for a few hours again yesterday morning.....again never saw another person. Just me and the trouts. Only caught six in the am before I had to leave but I left only wanting more. Off to the Soho country for a few days next week.
Finally spotted a few corn sprouts in the "corn field" on the walk downstream, perhaps "weedy, lumpy and will I ever get to the end of it field" is a better description.
I found the higher flows interesting but not a problem. With no bugs showing I started off with nymphs and caught a couple. Then it started...a bug here and there followed by trout eager to eat my sulphur imitations. Make the right cast, get a good drift and fish on. This catching went on for a few wonderful hours ......just me on that beautiful river. It was so good I spent the night in Martinsville and returned for a few hours again yesterday morning.....again never saw another person. Just me and the trouts. Only caught six in the am before I had to leave but I left only wanting more. Off to the Soho country for a few days next week.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 15, 2017, 12:50:26 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 15, 2017, 12:50:26 PM
@itieuglyflies, pm me your SoHo plans... might be able to get over there....
Back to the salt mines.
NO work scheduled for the day so I tied up some ugly sulfur comparisons and then decided to hit the Smith with the new lower flow to "check things out" for a while before heading on down to CTL to pick up my son who is returning from 10 weeks in Europe where his finished up his student teaching ESL in Karlsruhe and then traveling around for a while before ending up visiting relatives in Scotland. Now he's either gong into the peach corp (Zambia) or teaching science somewhere in the U.S.
It was the earliest I had been out, arriving before noon, and was disjointed by the lack of bugs, I did pick off a few risers before moving on downstream in search of the leroy that i heard splashdown after breaching the surface chasing bugs.
I was cooler in the moring with a good cloud cover which turned into blazing sun in the later afternoon.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061417-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061417-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061417-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061417-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061417-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061417-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061417-7.jpg)
Back to the salt mines.
NO work scheduled for the day so I tied up some ugly sulfur comparisons and then decided to hit the Smith with the new lower flow to "check things out" for a while before heading on down to CTL to pick up my son who is returning from 10 weeks in Europe where his finished up his student teaching ESL in Karlsruhe and then traveling around for a while before ending up visiting relatives in Scotland. Now he's either gong into the peach corp (Zambia) or teaching science somewhere in the U.S.
It was the earliest I had been out, arriving before noon, and was disjointed by the lack of bugs, I did pick off a few risers before moving on downstream in search of the leroy that i heard splashdown after breaching the surface chasing bugs.
I was cooler in the moring with a good cloud cover which turned into blazing sun in the later afternoon.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061417-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061417-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061417-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061417-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061417-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061417-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061417-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 19, 2017, 16:28:20 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 19, 2017, 16:28:20 PM
2017 – 54
Back to puneville on a hot Father's Day. Just me and some, oppps, 7% IPAs from Blue Mountain Brewery, the HopWork, orang-infused IPA; "Light crystal malt with a heavy hand of Simcoe, Cascade and Centennial hops complemented by natural orange flavoring."
Fished for a couple of hours, needed to get back for some evening events, caught a baker's dozen, two pushing 14, but one was a rainbow stogger.
My son brought me back some flies tied up by my Scottish riverkeeper relative who invented the Posh Tosh.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061817-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061817-2.jpg)
Things that arrive in the mail from Austria and other countries like Florida, Asheville and Oregon.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061817-3.jpg)
Sweet...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061817-4.jpg)
Story about the flies.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061817-5.jpg)
Iain on the River Tweed with an Atlantic from last week.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/061817-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 19, 2017, 19:40:46 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 19, 2017, 19:40:46 PM
Son done good. 'c;
Where's the pic of the pushing 14" with the tape measure? -0-
Where's the pic of the pushing 14" with the tape measure? -0-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 20, 2017, 10:34:17 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 20, 2017, 10:34:17 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on June 19, 2017, 19:40:46 PM
Son done good. 'c;
Where's the pic of the pushing 14" with the tape measure? -0-
conveniently I had no camera (other than the cell which was in pants pocket under waders and I don't whip it out whilst wading balls deep)
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 24, 2017, 18:07:45 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 24, 2017, 18:07:45 PM
Wait for the rise, whack a few punes, drink a beer, rinse and repeat.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170624/2efc40f7d1b00eac2483911a7ca36fde.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170624/0e35d8c0268a45c16dc58ee9597a0d1e.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170624/80239e46d037aa9fd010ef32a793dbf9.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170624/78d8d40f383c21c11188f729cff88b6a.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170624/02fc86d61229661a93ae3824612da908.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170624/04309408f4c0b6cb27cd31270b0ada63.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170624/e0bca9edc02cf34c47444ab71f2cccd1.jpg)
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on June 25, 2017, 09:12:49 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on June 25, 2017, 09:12:49 AM
Good photo of the Wheel Bug nymph.
Points deducted for the Columbia "super bonehead" label on the womanly plaid garment. I just hope your concubine was wearing it, but then you'd have additional penalties for taking a gal to the Smith.
Points deducted for the Columbia "super bonehead" label on the womanly plaid garment. I just hope your concubine was wearing it, but then you'd have additional penalties for taking a gal to the Smith.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on June 25, 2017, 11:20:45 AM
Post by: ryguy on June 25, 2017, 11:20:45 AM
Nice shot of the Osprey. That's a cool aircraft to watch.
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Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on June 26, 2017, 16:01:32 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on June 26, 2017, 16:01:32 PM
I really wanted a jump out of one of them V-22s before I ended jump status. I am very curious about them. They did seem to have some issues crashing when they first arrived in Afghanistan, so maybe I should be glad I never jumped out of one.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on June 27, 2017, 11:57:18 AM
Post by: ryguy on June 27, 2017, 11:57:18 AM
There were issues at first. Seem to be doing well now. I'll stick with the Black Hawk.. [emoji1303]
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 01, 2017, 11:22:33 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 01, 2017, 11:22:33 AM
2017 - 59
Worked didn't end until after 2, I figured I'd head to the river and fish till dark. Tire rotated, oil changed, still getting 32mpg. I listened to The Remains of Company D: A Story of the Great War Hardcover (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0312551002/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=bluridflyfiss-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0312551002&linkId=37e7e40c6bedcb270cb3120e6700bd75) by James Carl Nelson on the road. It's the story of the author's grandfather and his company in the first wave of American forces in that tragic war. All he had heard were a few sentenced that were passed down over the years. "I enlisted. I went over to France. I was wounded, and I came home." My uncle Bill, whom I'm named after at least my middle name, was in the British Calvary, and I know just about as much about his involvement in the war, just change wounded to gassed, and there you have it.
The author plays History Detective and tells the story in all too real prose. Here is a review that sums it up better than I could.
"Not since Flags of Our Fathers—no, make that, Not since Paul Fussell's The Great War and Modern Memory—no, make that, Not ever—has an American nonfiction writer reached into history and produced a testament of young men in terrible battle with the stateliness, the mastery of cadence, the truthfulness and the muted heartbreak of James Carl Nelson in The Remains of Company D. I wish I'd had the honor of working on this book with him. But then, he didn't need me."---Ron Powers, New York Timesbestselling coauthor of Flags of Our Fathers and author of Mark Twain: A Life
I arrived but sat in the car listening to the end of a chapter and then suited up in the humid afternoon sun. The cold waters of the river waited my after the walk across the stunted corn field Philphott's land. I still had a rod rigged from the smallie float and took that down with me, the wiggle minnow still attached to the leader. I waded deep out into the water, not to fish, but to cool off, there was a thick fog coming off the river that chilled the air and it felt good. There were fish rising and the birds were working the hatch along with the fish. Rig up dry flies ro what the heck, toss the willger on out into to the runs. Several fish blew up on it and I was encouraged by the activity but though I may have to tie up some on #10 hooks!
Finally I hooked an overachiever.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/063017-1.jpg)
I scrounged through the fly box looking for an acceptable sulfur, they were all half chewed up and looking ratty as hell. I drank a beer as I rebuilt the leader to a 6.5x tippet and tied on the best of the flies, maybe I should spend the weekend tying.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/063017-2.jpg)
They worked better that the wiggle minnow...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/063017-3.jpg)
This is a tasty brew from Sam Adams.. jis say'in
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/063017-4.jpg)
Around a quarter till six two dudes come floating by in a rubber dingy.
"You guys every float this before?" I asked as I was a bit concerned about the late hour and the fact that they had two and half miles more to float. "No!" this is our first time! Noticing their spinning rods, I told them, "Well, I wouldn't stop, you'll be taking out at dark."
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/063017-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/063017-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/063017-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/063017-8.jpg)
The hatch had peaked around 7. I waited to see if anything would happen at dusk. I few bugs continued to pop off and the Cedar Waxwings were snatching them out of the air and amazingly picking them off the water as they emerged.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/6-17/063017-9.jpg)
Have a happy and safe 4th!.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on July 01, 2017, 11:37:24 AM
Post by: driver on July 01, 2017, 11:37:24 AM
I wet waded last time. It was wonderful!
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 01, 2017, 12:08:04 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 01, 2017, 12:08:04 PM
Quote from: driver on July 01, 2017, 11:37:24 AMYeah, but you didn't stay till 9 o'clock.
I wet waded last time. It was wonderful!
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 01, 2017, 12:34:00 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 01, 2017, 12:34:00 PM
Cool last shot. 0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Michael Toris on July 01, 2017, 12:59:40 PM
Post by: Michael Toris on July 01, 2017, 12:59:40 PM
Cool wiggle minnow
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Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 01, 2017, 13:05:15 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 01, 2017, 13:05:15 PM
Quote from: DAYUMson on July 01, 2017, 12:59:40 PMI was reading that some add a stinger to them, might woulda caught a few more [emoji6]
Cool wiggle minnow
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Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 04, 2017, 08:40:17 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 04, 2017, 08:40:17 AM
2017 - 60
More smiffff... tied up some gurglers in the morning --- hit the river before 3, one guy was just coming off the water and reported that they were starting to hit the surface .. two other cars in the lot. Hiked on in -- drank a beer and watched the water.. no risers to be seen... waded around looking for active birds... built a cairn that Doug would approve of... ate summer sausage, cheese and an apple while waiting for the hatch... picky fuckers started to rise... refusal after refusal .... missed some better fish in difficult spots... caught the usual suspects... left at sunset...
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170704/8d506d5f5c4646d1ce6bfab1a082b256.jpg)
Unidentified DSFK
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170704/165eac4701950cefc354cca8c6007cb2.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170704/0c26f07abb3f7bfedfd63e79924c1986.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170704/a65f9c2cba17c4b277b71a7d900fa0f9.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170704/cd75fb6019d04f47143563a4fd7412a3.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170704/62be76a60f358a397e2c96a08b5c1df0.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170704/fe06d4b2ec8124faa2985eeee5a70790.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170704/41293aae4fb6137d0588a57fe2b89dd2.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170704/717616ae565bfc66900d3aff04522e5d.jpg)
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 04, 2017, 09:20:20 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 04, 2017, 09:20:20 AM
I approve. 'c; 0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on July 04, 2017, 13:42:08 PM
Post by: driver on July 04, 2017, 13:42:08 PM
Glad I opted out
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 08, 2017, 09:44:05 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 08, 2017, 09:44:05 AM
2017 – 61
Work done and no plans for dinner, I headed up to the local pune stream with plans to eat a trout streamside. Arrived around 4, two NC anglers were coming off the stream, driven off by the heat of the afternoon. They reported a good top water bite in the morning, but as I suspected that had ended many hours ago. I was hoping for some action during the evening rise. I spent some time finding and packing the pan, stove and fuel delaying the hike across the cornfield in the hot and humid afternoon. When I got to the river I unpacked and then stashed the beer in my underwater cairn, sat down and drank a beer and watched the water. The birds work lazily working the river, snatching an insect then resting on a branch while keeping an eye out for the next victim. Cedar waxwigs and an occasional cardinal were the insect feeders that I saw, but when walking out I startled a large bird in the brush which flew away in a panic rustling feathers and leaves and startling me!
Green drakes were coming off in small numbers and I tried the three patterns that I had, getting only one fish to strike. Back to sulfurs, they didn't really start hatching in any significant numbers unit after 6, so while waiting I cooked up a fish for dinner along with onion and garlic.
A dozen new sulfurs flies were left in the CR-V and I was forced to use the battered and ugly ones that were left stuck on my vest, but they were enough and got the job done. Note to self: tie up more puff daddies.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070717-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070717-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070717-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070717-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070717-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070717-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070717-7.jpg)
Work done and no plans for dinner, I headed up to the local pune stream with plans to eat a trout streamside. Arrived around 4, two NC anglers were coming off the stream, driven off by the heat of the afternoon. They reported a good top water bite in the morning, but as I suspected that had ended many hours ago. I was hoping for some action during the evening rise. I spent some time finding and packing the pan, stove and fuel delaying the hike across the cornfield in the hot and humid afternoon. When I got to the river I unpacked and then stashed the beer in my underwater cairn, sat down and drank a beer and watched the water. The birds work lazily working the river, snatching an insect then resting on a branch while keeping an eye out for the next victim. Cedar waxwigs and an occasional cardinal were the insect feeders that I saw, but when walking out I startled a large bird in the brush which flew away in a panic rustling feathers and leaves and startling me!
Green drakes were coming off in small numbers and I tried the three patterns that I had, getting only one fish to strike. Back to sulfurs, they didn't really start hatching in any significant numbers unit after 6, so while waiting I cooked up a fish for dinner along with onion and garlic.
A dozen new sulfurs flies were left in the CR-V and I was forced to use the battered and ugly ones that were left stuck on my vest, but they were enough and got the job done. Note to self: tie up more puff daddies.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070717-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070717-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070717-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070717-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070717-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070717-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070717-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on July 08, 2017, 18:10:49 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on July 08, 2017, 18:10:49 PM
You must not like fresh trout......onions!
One pat of butter, salt and pepper......medium heat to the pan, turn when skin is golden brown and the eye balls turn white! Goodness!
One pat of butter, salt and pepper......medium heat to the pan, turn when skin is golden brown and the eye balls turn white! Goodness!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 08, 2017, 22:20:12 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 08, 2017, 22:20:12 PM
Hadnt fished in 3 weeks or so....
Had some time this evening; wasnt too hot and partly cloudy. Glad it gets dark so late.
Highwayman played on pandora as I pulled up. No other cars:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170709/22b8cf510803389630e0eb59b9913468.jpg)
So far off to a good start.
Saw some sporadic rises, but fish were eager to rise to dries. Hatch picked up as well. Puff daddy in BWO coloration was the ticket.
Caught a dozen or so and took some crappy photos, lens must have been smudged.
Ranged from super tiny to decent fish but overall sizes were larger than this time last year. Here some of the better ones:
First fish w perty colors:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170709/3e9fabafbe94dbba77a1e911faaf991f.jpg)
Maybe my personal best dry fly brown from here:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170709/7d35411db0dea1ebc402d90a9431b397.jpg)
No corn yet:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170709/4335faa790b9d5e446eaee2f28b0764e.jpg)
Got back to car and put my bag in the trunk:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170709/fed48527d71e299cc27ec1b5d0e84642.jpg)
Fuk! No net.
Hiked back.....
Success!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170709/63be63757f5da0880644c67787b9554f.jpg)
Must have fallen off bushwhacking.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170709/5eaba7d9c335fe64e4473527a8814e16.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Had some time this evening; wasnt too hot and partly cloudy. Glad it gets dark so late.
Highwayman played on pandora as I pulled up. No other cars:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170709/22b8cf510803389630e0eb59b9913468.jpg)
So far off to a good start.
Saw some sporadic rises, but fish were eager to rise to dries. Hatch picked up as well. Puff daddy in BWO coloration was the ticket.
Caught a dozen or so and took some crappy photos, lens must have been smudged.
Ranged from super tiny to decent fish but overall sizes were larger than this time last year. Here some of the better ones:
First fish w perty colors:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170709/3e9fabafbe94dbba77a1e911faaf991f.jpg)
Maybe my personal best dry fly brown from here:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170709/7d35411db0dea1ebc402d90a9431b397.jpg)
No corn yet:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170709/4335faa790b9d5e446eaee2f28b0764e.jpg)
Got back to car and put my bag in the trunk:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170709/fed48527d71e299cc27ec1b5d0e84642.jpg)
Fuk! No net.
Hiked back.....
Success!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170709/63be63757f5da0880644c67787b9554f.jpg)
Must have fallen off bushwhacking.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170709/5eaba7d9c335fe64e4473527a8814e16.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 08, 2017, 23:01:52 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 08, 2017, 23:01:52 PM
nice! That section is getting absolutely pounded right now. Plenty of other good dry fly fishing water not far though.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 09, 2017, 07:15:00 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 09, 2017, 07:15:00 AM
I decided to go pound the local. :laugh:
I only had a few hours I could spare. Self imposed chores awaited.
Could not go late, so went early. The trouts were sleepy.
(http://i.imgur.com/cE9sXVj.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/cPXk1PX.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/F4baBr0.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/jqeKhRs.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/wV5mGhH.jpg)
Did more botanizing then catching. Saw more kayaks than risers. A few stray sulfurs were coming off.
Changed early and often. Top. Drop. Tiny. Large. Skated. Dead. Drank a beer. Aquatic. Terrestrial. Weighted. Unweighted.
Managed all of two little skunk breakers. Broke off a nice fish on 7x. b'; Lost a double rig shortly after that and said fuck it.
Walked out with another beer and checked out the fellow working upstream. None of you assholes? NC tags.
(http://i.imgur.com/PDqZIcr.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/csanEdW.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/Hq3dajA.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/jpyuExs.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/T7I15c5.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/Xo0e7IW.jpg)
Its funny that the bug mentioned losing his net. I got to the end of the shittiest cornfield ever and stepped onto the gravel.
I swung my rod around and the top two sections were gone. p;-
I had lost a couple of sections off a rod doing some bushwhacking about 7 years ago. Found them after a long hunt.
Ever since then, I string up before walking. No more lost sections! So I broke off and reeled up today. I knew I should have stayed home.
Back I went. Found them in one of the cut outs. A brier/branch/something grabbed a guide when I was poking in checking on NC.
(http://i.imgur.com/7w1mM0u.jpg)
Drank a beer, de-suited and slunk home.
Oh yeah, the fucking waders still leak.
But, boy that water felt good.
:banana072:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on July 09, 2017, 08:09:46 AM
Post by: Onslow on July 09, 2017, 08:09:46 AM
Doug, you need to move far way from Roanoke
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 09, 2017, 08:50:42 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 09, 2017, 08:50:42 AM
Nice work @Fishbug, but leave my fish alone,@Dougfish I'm not so worried about.... sorry y'all had to walk that ugly cornfield an extra time to retrieve your chit... the smith is a place to take a beer or two because you never know had fickle those fish and bugs will be...
I may end up there this evening frying up some punes and drinking some beers...
I may end up there this evening frying up some punes and drinking some beers...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 10, 2017, 10:42:28 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 10, 2017, 10:42:28 AM
https://soundcloud.com/user-959659004/death-of-a-tailwater
Damn Dam Issues on the Cumberland River in Kentucky is relevant to the Smith...
Damn Dam Issues on the Cumberland River in Kentucky is relevant to the Smith...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 10, 2017, 11:33:27 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 10, 2017, 11:33:27 AM
2017 - 63 #62 was the LMB at the pond the other day... I wasn't going to count it since it was only an hour at lunch... but my GF said I should so there you go...
Worked in the morning, worked out in the afternoon, back on the waterrower, and fishing in the evening. I'm zeroing in on the time I need to get on the river to play the dry fly game I left after four and started listening to The Lost City of Z by David Grann for the 90 minute drive. No need to get on the water before 6 and the real action doesn't start until 7 or 7:30 and last for about an hour stopping just before it's too dark to see.
After hiking in I waded out to cool off and there were fish rising in the flats above the run. Managed to get one to take the sulfur comparadun and then moved on down to the spot where I like to sit on the bank. Popped the top on a Founders All Day IPA and stashed to others in the river, which is flowing at the ideal
IPA serving temperature of 54 degrees.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070917-1.jpg)
Had a snad of Stilton Blue and summer sausage left over from Saturday Night Summer Sumer Concert Series @Barber Park, The Ends and Phil Cook were the scheduled acts. The Ends were fantastic but Phil ruled the evening, unfortunately cut short when lightening filled the air.
https://youtu.be/H_Q3ry5TKFM
https://youtu.be/6SFyNAUqqGM
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070917-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070917-3.jpg)
The bugs started to pop but the fish were reluctant to rise, picked off a few here and there.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070917-4.jpg)
What's up with the highlight yellow stripe on the chin?
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070917-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070917-6.jpg)
Time for another beer and take a few photos while waiting for the hatch to really take off...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070917-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070917-8.jpg)
Then back to catching more of the rising punes.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070917-9.jpg)
Fished on till a quarter till nine.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070917-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/070917-11.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 10, 2017, 12:04:48 PM
Post by: Al on July 10, 2017, 12:04:48 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on July 10, 2017, 10:42:28 AM
https://soundcloud.com/user-959659004/death-of-a-tailwater
Damn Dam Issues on the Cumberland River in Kentucky is relevant to the Smith...
Good post Woolly bd;0 'c; bd;0 'c; bd;0 'c;
Who knows at this stage - for the near term, ie next few years I think we will be fine. Current thinking is the constant flows we have seen since September of 2015 have been good for the fishery. We won't know for sure until they return to normal operation and DGIF is able to do a wading style sampling with a large crew of biologists and volunteers. George Palmer, the Smith River biologist, is hopeful he will be able to do that in September - if not it will have to wait until next summer.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 10, 2017, 12:45:50 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 10, 2017, 12:45:50 PM
That was a good listen. Man makes, man destroys. Rinse and repeat.
Keep fishing!
Keep fishing!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on July 10, 2017, 19:04:11 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on July 10, 2017, 19:04:11 PM
If we don't sample by 21 AUG, I need the guts from 40 upper river punes. I'll have to see if ol Brian will rent me two kayaks to run my gill net n!n.
Have flows back behind the cor been reasonable enough that my kids can wade it? I'm getting my balls busted here...
they wait to ask to go fishing until I have started pulling clinical time.
Have flows back behind the cor been reasonable enough that my kids can wade it? I'm getting my balls busted here...
they wait to ask to go fishing until I have started pulling clinical time.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 17, 2017, 10:07:53 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 17, 2017, 10:07:53 AM
2017 – 64
Lazy Sunday morning, thought about driving over to the SoHO but had some evening opportunities I couldn't be that far away from. Went to the coffee shop to watch the world go by and read a couple chapters.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/071717-1.jpg)
Well that was enough inspiration to get me going and I hit the road after taking care of some things around the house. I'm currently listening to the
The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1400078458/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1400078458&linkCode=as2&tag=bluridflyfiss-20&linkId=3ab5168b80d97281d09cd5e14874f36c) which is a fascinating story and now a motion picture....
The worst cornfield is no more, harvested for 12 bales of silage.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/071717-2.jpg)
But the punes are still there...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/071717-3.jpg)
The sulfur hatch is mostly over. There are more BWOs hatching now with the occasional sulfur and various drakes in small numbers along with midges.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/071717-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/071717-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/071717-6.jpg)
Lazy Sunday morning, thought about driving over to the SoHO but had some evening opportunities I couldn't be that far away from. Went to the coffee shop to watch the world go by and read a couple chapters.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/071717-1.jpg)
Well that was enough inspiration to get me going and I hit the road after taking care of some things around the house. I'm currently listening to the
The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1400078458/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1400078458&linkCode=as2&tag=bluridflyfiss-20&linkId=3ab5168b80d97281d09cd5e14874f36c) which is a fascinating story and now a motion picture....
The worst cornfield is no more, harvested for 12 bales of silage.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/071717-2.jpg)
But the punes are still there...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/071717-3.jpg)
The sulfur hatch is mostly over. There are more BWOs hatching now with the occasional sulfur and various drakes in small numbers along with midges.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/071717-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/071717-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/7-17/071717-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 17, 2017, 10:13:32 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 17, 2017, 10:13:32 AM
Thanks for posting that. I tarried far too long yesterday and only made a half-assed attempt at fishing. It wasn't pretty. Good shit, WB.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 17, 2017, 14:05:41 PM
Post by: Al on July 17, 2017, 14:05:41 PM
Heads up - here is latest. Got to give tip of the hat to COE & DGIF who are monitoring and working together to prevent a fish kill. Pray for rain or cooler temperatures guys because there is only so much water in the lake and we still have August ahead.
"We will be increasing releases this afternoon from Philpott. Currently releasing 150 cfs. Going to 250 cfs.
Water temperatures are rising in the Smith with our lower release. Temperatures are going to increase later in the week, with decreased chance for rain.
If we get some relief eventually with good rain or cooler temps then we will consider going back to the 150 cfs and being a little more conservative with our storage in the lake. Until then, we will need to maintain close to 250 cfs."
"We will be increasing releases this afternoon from Philpott. Currently releasing 150 cfs. Going to 250 cfs.
Water temperatures are rising in the Smith with our lower release. Temperatures are going to increase later in the week, with decreased chance for rain.
If we get some relief eventually with good rain or cooler temps then we will consider going back to the 150 cfs and being a little more conservative with our storage in the lake. Until then, we will need to maintain close to 250 cfs."
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 17, 2017, 15:13:58 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 17, 2017, 15:13:58 PM
Forgot to mention this was wet wading and it felt good -- a little shrinkage though
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 17, 2017, 15:25:09 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on July 17, 2017, 15:25:09 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on July 17, 2017, 15:13:58 PM
Forgot to mention this was wet wading and it felt good -- a little shrinkage though
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Things can only shrink so much when they're already shrunken.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on July 17, 2017, 16:48:14 PM
Post by: driver on July 17, 2017, 16:48:14 PM
I was going to wet wade tomorrow. But now that it's pumping 305. I think I will carry the waders. Note, "carry" as in to the edge of the river, before I put them on.
Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk
Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 17, 2017, 19:11:07 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 17, 2017, 19:11:07 PM
Made the same trip last night.
Three cars at the usual when I pulled up---didn't see anyone.
Saw that same shroom.
Not as cool as WB---used the leaky waders (insert best way to find hole thread here)
Lots of insect activity, little trout activity---watch prime ribs float down runs unscathed.
Managed a few of the usual---
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170718/aaaa7b12fb3871cd3367b70749601c2b.jpg)
Got some on nymphs-- I hate nymphing.
Waded upriver to some deep water. Saw a trout methodically feeding along the bank---big trout style none of that splashy pune stuff. Just as I approached saw a beaver swim towards me. We made eye contact, then it slapped its beav tail. No more trout.
Caught his bro nearby though after the wakes diminished:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170718/39014d9b5427407ce0bec21752b61a08.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Three cars at the usual when I pulled up---didn't see anyone.
Saw that same shroom.
Not as cool as WB---used the leaky waders (insert best way to find hole thread here)
Lots of insect activity, little trout activity---watch prime ribs float down runs unscathed.
Managed a few of the usual---
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170718/aaaa7b12fb3871cd3367b70749601c2b.jpg)
Got some on nymphs-- I hate nymphing.
Waded upriver to some deep water. Saw a trout methodically feeding along the bank---big trout style none of that splashy pune stuff. Just as I approached saw a beaver swim towards me. We made eye contact, then it slapped its beav tail. No more trout.
Caught his bro nearby though after the wakes diminished:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170718/39014d9b5427407ce0bec21752b61a08.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on July 18, 2017, 14:17:05 PM
Post by: creakycane on July 18, 2017, 14:17:05 PM
Looks like doubling the flow will keep the peak T in Bassett 60F rather than the 64F peaks they have been getting the past few days.
I guess the concern is the lower river, and the over 72F temps that we've already seen. It looks like after next monday, it will be mostly 80s air temp, and they can then drop the flow back to 100 or 150. The lake level is really dropping fast in Philpott......
There have been #16 caddis up and down the river, the odd, confused sulphur and localized hatches of 16/18 olives. This morning, the water was fairly dingy, but small fish were in the typical 300 cfs holding spots/seams....
Heavy hatches in the evening on the lower river.
I guess the concern is the lower river, and the over 72F temps that we've already seen. It looks like after next monday, it will be mostly 80s air temp, and they can then drop the flow back to 100 or 150. The lake level is really dropping fast in Philpott......
There have been #16 caddis up and down the river, the odd, confused sulphur and localized hatches of 16/18 olives. This morning, the water was fairly dingy, but small fish were in the typical 300 cfs holding spots/seams....
Heavy hatches in the evening on the lower river.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on July 20, 2017, 09:14:50 AM
Post by: IFStultz on July 20, 2017, 09:14:50 AM
I wish they would put hoot owl restrictions on the lower at the least. Wouldn't hurt to ban fishing down there until it cools off.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Yallerhammer on July 24, 2017, 09:23:53 AM
Post by: Yallerhammer on July 24, 2017, 09:23:53 AM
You can say that again.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: tomato can on July 24, 2017, 17:22:58 PM
Post by: tomato can on July 24, 2017, 17:22:58 PM
Quote from: Yallerhammer on July 24, 2017, 09:23:53 AM
You can say that again.
OMG Yallerhammer now that is funny! Bout spit my drink all over the computer.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 12, 2017, 09:35:11 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 12, 2017, 09:35:11 AM
2017 – 64
Friday. Work in the morning, actually finished up early, ran some errands, and then... well why not run up to the river and fish till dark, grabbed some food for the cooler and hit the road. Currently listening to Charlie Wilson's War, saw the movie but the book filled with decades of background history of all the players. I had been out the night before with a friend to see Monty Python and the Holy Grail on the big screen at the historic Carolina Theatre. The crowd was huge and responsive and I often caught myself in uncontrollable laughing fits. After movie drinks and then a trip to the boxcar arcade for some pinball.
When I arrived at the parking lot, there was one car there and I turned off the car, put the seat back and dozed off for a bit, last night was catching up with me. When awoke, the other fisherman was packing up his gear. I hopped out and asked him the usual questions, "Catch many? On the surface? BWOs or Sulfurs?" He replied that he only caught three punes, smaller than average at about 6", wished he could stay but had other obligations....
Suited up, packed in a few beers and walked in across the corn field, stopping to take a pic of some new fungi.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/8-17/081117-1.jpg)
Didn't see any risers and the flow at 260 was a bit much for the section I had targeted. Saw a few bugs coming off, and a trout rose. Tried a coupled of bwo patterns, switched to a puff daddy and wham!
This fish fought a hard for its size I would have thought it would have got 10 or 12 inches easily...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/8-17/081117-2.jpg)
Oh, crap, THUNDER, oh crap, it's coming over the ridge, oh crap, time to put the rain jacket on! Oh crap, now it's coming down hard!
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/8-17/081117-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/8-17/081117-4.jpg)
Drank a couple of beers slowly waiting to see if the storm would blow over..
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/8-17/081117-5.jpg)
Finally a break in the weather, but I couldn't get the fish to cooperate before the creek upsteam began to muddy up the water, I called it quits and headed on home
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/8-17/081117-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 13, 2017, 19:10:53 PM
Post by: Al on August 13, 2017, 19:10:53 PM
Went up of Friday to be there to help staff the SRTU booth at Smith River Fest the following day. Cabin lawn did not need mowing so I slipped on down to a nearby accessible hole on the Smith to see if I still remembered how to fish. Spent less then an hour - would have stayed longer but this particular spot is fairly deep and with increased flows comes about 6 more inches of water so I was stuck in one spot - turned out OK because I put my hands on a few and missed a few more.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: dhjunkie on August 18, 2017, 19:14:57 PM
Post by: dhjunkie on August 18, 2017, 19:14:57 PM
Pretty work gentlemen.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on August 20, 2017, 11:59:36 AM
Post by: troutfanatic on August 20, 2017, 11:59:36 AM
Ha ha ha Al, I bet I know where you fished. Kinda funny. Them rainbros are stacked in there like cord wood this late in the year.
Next time you gut them stockers, take some pics of the gut contents. Let's see if their hunting skills improved since April, when they were subsiding on rocks, tree bark, didymo, and leaf litter.
It's in the name of science.
Next time you gut them stockers, take some pics of the gut contents. Let's see if their hunting skills improved since April, when they were subsiding on rocks, tree bark, didymo, and leaf litter.
It's in the name of science.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued - Black Hole Sun Edition
Post by: Dougfish on August 21, 2017, 21:01:11 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 21, 2017, 21:01:11 PM
https://youtu.be/3mbBbFH9fAg
I have not fished for the elusive troots in forever. Low water, new job, garden work, blah, blah, blah.
Decided to fish the clipse. Boss this morning agreed that it would be a good science project. Loaded up and headed south after entering a few orders.
Life is a fickle bitch. A few minutes early, a few minutes late. How about a few seconds?
A few miles south of Boones Mill, I saw an oncoming car losing control. I hit the brakes and helped triggered the folks behind me to do the same.
As I rapidly slowed, my brain went through some quick trigonometry. Holy fuk.
The car crossed the grass median, missed a tractor trailer and smacked a car ahead of me, then barreled into the guard rail before bouncing off it. He headed toward me and then veered back into the median. After I breathed again, I pulled to the shoulder to check on the drivers. An hour and a half later, nobody died, I was still shook up, I had talked to the police, and I nervously drove on to the river.
Cracked a beer. And another. Suited up, hiked in, sweating my balls off.
(http://i.imgur.com/wOFYRqg.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/zhPpaWz.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/IVoIyLR.jpg)
Got into some pre-eclipse fish right away.
(http://i.imgur.com/mPc3HNm.jpg)
Caught some browns, lost some. Got a big girl bow, next.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZMM3Cro.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/7KnSK3r.jpg)
Coincidence or not, the bullshit 90% coverage, barely darkened the sky eclipse came, and the bite fell off.
I drank another beer, fished on, caught a couple more and headed home.
As dark as it got. Seriously. Seriously?
(http://i.imgur.com/m2ErKLT.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/Q8EKUsy.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/rIzO9UW.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/Gdb5zYt.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/HUgBA9a.jpg)
Had to clean up after an IPA litterer. p;-
(http://i.imgur.com/1qqwpKW.jpg)
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on August 21, 2017, 21:44:49 PM
Post by: driver on August 21, 2017, 21:44:49 PM
I was there yesterday briefly. Saw those cans, but forgot about em on the way out. Dirty high water, few bugs, wet waded and threw a small streamer. Managed one in an hour, then bailed. Thought about calling you on my way to a different stream, but decided I needed the solitude. Report to follow... tomorrow maybe.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on August 21, 2017, 23:10:46 PM
Post by: Big J on August 21, 2017, 23:10:46 PM
Did you use that headlamp you brought?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 22, 2017, 06:32:59 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 22, 2017, 06:32:59 AM
No headlight needed. 90.4% might as well have been 10%.
Yeah, the water was up a might and stained.
I got three fish and lost one on the dropper in the first 25 casts or so. Struggled to catch 2 more the next 1 1/2 hours. Gone at 4 pm.
Yeah, the water was up a might and stained.
I got three fish and lost one on the dropper in the first 25 casts or so. Struggled to catch 2 more the next 1 1/2 hours. Gone at 4 pm.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 22, 2017, 08:08:29 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 22, 2017, 08:08:29 AM
Ho lee crap! I've seen a lot of close calls, and aftermaths of wrecks. The way people drive I'm surprised there aren't more accidents!
Good job getting out -- I was stuck in meetings during the eclipse.
I can not lie, I left those cans there as a social experiment.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Good job getting out -- I was stuck in meetings during the eclipse.
I can not lie, I left those cans there as a social experiment.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on August 22, 2017, 08:33:19 AM
Post by: itieuglyflies on August 22, 2017, 08:33:19 AM
Please don't say that again
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 22, 2017, 08:34:43 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 22, 2017, 08:34:43 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on August 22, 2017, 08:03:26 AM
Hi lee crap! I've seen a lot of close calls, and aftermaths of wrecks. The way people drive I'm surprised there aren't more accidents!
Good job getting out -- I was stuck in meetings during the eclipse.
I can not lie, I left those cans there as a social experiment.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Nice tapatalk work, chief. :laugh:
You sir, are a social experiment.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on August 22, 2017, 08:59:05 AM
Post by: driver on August 22, 2017, 08:59:05 AM
Bossman trying to bump his post count.
Person that crashed was probably texting.
Person that crashed was probably texting.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on August 22, 2017, 09:55:35 AM
Post by: Phil on August 22, 2017, 09:55:35 AM
Henheheh. First good laughs of the day, fellers. Thanks. 0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 22, 2017, 10:25:26 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 22, 2017, 10:25:26 AM
Quote from: driver on August 22, 2017, 08:59:05 AM
Person that crashed was probably texting.
or wearing eclipse glasses....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on August 22, 2017, 12:29:44 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on August 22, 2017, 12:29:44 PM
or drinking beer
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on August 22, 2017, 15:34:37 PM
Post by: Fin on August 22, 2017, 15:34:37 PM
Quote from: driver on August 21, 2017, 21:44:49 PM
I was there yesterday briefly. Saw those cans, but forgot about em on the way out. Dirty high water, few bugs, wet waded and threw a small streamer. Managed one in an hour, then bailed. Thought about calling you on my way to a different stream, but decided I needed the solitude. Report to follow... tomorrow maybe.
So was that you resting on the shady bank, waiting for my family kayaking flotilla to pass? Sorry...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on August 22, 2017, 17:59:51 PM
Post by: driver on August 22, 2017, 17:59:51 PM
Yeah I thought that was you. I have are hard time recognizing you without the beard.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 22, 2017, 18:55:14 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 22, 2017, 18:55:14 PM
Were you chucking the Rapala, Neil? :P
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on August 22, 2017, 19:53:58 PM
Post by: Fin on August 22, 2017, 19:53:58 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on August 22, 2017, 18:55:14 PMNah, I'm forbidden now from bringing any fishing gear on family outings. They all get tired of waiting on me.
Were you chucking the Rapala, Neil? :P
Driver sorry I didn't say hello but I wasn't sure that was you either. I also figured after my crew had passed you probably felt like punching someone in the nose and I didn't want to volunteer. Sunday was my son's first solo paddling trip. He had a blast but you probably heard him a mile upstream beating the side of the boat with his paddle.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on August 22, 2017, 21:03:00 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on August 22, 2017, 21:03:00 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on August 22, 2017, 08:08:29 AM
Ho lee crap! I've seen a lot of close calls, and aftermaths of wrecks. The way people drive I'm surprised there aren't more accidents!
Good job getting out -- I was stuck in meetings during the eclipse.
I can not lie, I left those cans there as a social experiment.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKGvEF0NAy8
dude chill its a social experimt bruh!!!
from now on you are "Joey Salads"
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on August 22, 2017, 21:25:17 PM
Post by: driver on August 22, 2017, 21:25:17 PM
Quote from: Fin on August 22, 2017, 19:53:58 PMYou guys were quite compared to guys that came in behind you. I didn't see them but heard them whooping as I was walking back to the truck.Quote from: Dougfish on August 22, 2017, 18:55:14 PMNah, I'm forbidden now from bringing any fishing gear on family outings. They all get tired of waiting on me.
Were you chucking the Rapala, Neil? [emoji14]
Driver sorry I didn't say hello but I wasn't sure that was you either. I also figured after my crew had passed you probably felt like punching someone in the nose and I didn't want to volunteer. Sunday was my son's first solo paddling trip. He had a blast but you probably heard him a mile upstream beating the side of the boat with his paddle.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on August 23, 2017, 08:54:03 AM
Post by: troutfanatic on August 23, 2017, 08:54:03 AM
I gotta do some more bugging. If anyone's interested shoot me a message or text. Probably 2weeknds from now.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on September 11, 2017, 08:05:55 AM
Post by: ryguy on September 11, 2017, 08:05:55 AM
Spent the weekend in Danville with my inlaws, so Sunday went out for a few hours on the Smith. Water was a little higher than normal, and was murky. Saw a lot of bugs coming off the water, but only a few rises. No fish caught, did have 1 strike on a streamer. Nice day to be out, so I'll take it.
Tracks:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/ccd5aa4c9aa294329b06b354d38f4563.jpg)
Hitchhiker:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/54c09bc61e778e912da6e22852e8d848.jpg)
Water:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/a936d4485fe8b47498582dd7796497f1.jpg)
Found this guy soaking up some sun:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/079b876ba640c7b45a24e81db10f453f.jpg)
Craft beer trash cleanup:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/7935abe132ee2c7e77a450c88890831b.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Tracks:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/ccd5aa4c9aa294329b06b354d38f4563.jpg)
Hitchhiker:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/54c09bc61e778e912da6e22852e8d848.jpg)
Water:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/a936d4485fe8b47498582dd7796497f1.jpg)
Found this guy soaking up some sun:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/079b876ba640c7b45a24e81db10f453f.jpg)
Craft beer trash cleanup:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/7935abe132ee2c7e77a450c88890831b.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on September 11, 2017, 08:06:23 AM
Post by: ryguy on September 11, 2017, 08:06:23 AM
Spent the weekend in Danville with my inlaws, so Sunday went out for a few hours on the Smith. Water was a little higher than normal, and was murky. Saw a lot of bugs coming off the water, but only a few rises. No fish caught, did have 1 strike on a streamer. Nice day to be out, so I'll take it.
Tracks:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/ccd5aa4c9aa294329b06b354d38f4563.jpg)
Hitchhiker:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/54c09bc61e778e912da6e22852e8d848.jpg)
Water:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/a936d4485fe8b47498582dd7796497f1.jpg)
Found this guy soaking up some sun:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/079b876ba640c7b45a24e81db10f453f.jpg)
Craft beer trash cleanup:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/7935abe132ee2c7e77a450c88890831b.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Tracks:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/ccd5aa4c9aa294329b06b354d38f4563.jpg)
Hitchhiker:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/54c09bc61e778e912da6e22852e8d848.jpg)
Water:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/a936d4485fe8b47498582dd7796497f1.jpg)
Found this guy soaking up some sun:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/079b876ba640c7b45a24e81db10f453f.jpg)
Craft beer trash cleanup:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/7935abe132ee2c7e77a450c88890831b.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 11, 2017, 08:21:26 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 11, 2017, 08:21:26 AM
Good on ya! 0:0
BTW, the small "house" generator is up and running. Turbine one should be up and running within a week or so. Number two is FUBAR. Confirmed that they'll be running just one for the next 2-3 years. Then both will be down for ????? months as both are replaced by new, more efficient units. Look for longer generation times on one unit. But the lake is low. We'll see.
And we were told, wait for it.....no planned weekend generations. We will see about that, also.
BTW, the small "house" generator is up and running. Turbine one should be up and running within a week or so. Number two is FUBAR. Confirmed that they'll be running just one for the next 2-3 years. Then both will be down for ????? months as both are replaced by new, more efficient units. Look for longer generation times on one unit. But the lake is low. We'll see.
And we were told, wait for it.....no planned weekend generations. We will see about that, also.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 11, 2017, 08:38:47 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 11, 2017, 08:38:47 AM
At least you got out. Sounds like my venture yesterday. An outing, and no fish.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 11, 2017, 09:41:43 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 11, 2017, 09:41:43 AM
#notmybeer
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on September 11, 2017, 15:34:47 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on September 11, 2017, 15:34:47 PM
#bullfuggingshit
Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk
Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on September 11, 2017, 17:08:31 PM
Post by: Fishbug on September 11, 2017, 17:08:31 PM
Went out Sunday hopingg the pre storm front would turn the fishes on....
Not so.
The water seemed murkier than usual and flows higher than last trip. Lots of leaves kn the water.
Tried some new spots....last one required some mountain climbing and bush whacking.
Had a whack at a likely tailout then made contact second try---saw a big yellow/orange flash and though I had a new personal record brown....it swam to a log and line went loose. Rather then pull loose i waded to the snag and pulled the line off the tree---fish still on! Not a leroy though----
Holdover stocker probaly eating punes for breakfast:
Shitty pics:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/0668bd4c6bdbdf740fc5012eb1310143.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/280311e04ee32b2bc185ed4b63ca0457.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Not so.
The water seemed murkier than usual and flows higher than last trip. Lots of leaves kn the water.
Tried some new spots....last one required some mountain climbing and bush whacking.
Had a whack at a likely tailout then made contact second try---saw a big yellow/orange flash and though I had a new personal record brown....it swam to a log and line went loose. Rather then pull loose i waded to the snag and pulled the line off the tree---fish still on! Not a leroy though----
Holdover stocker probaly eating punes for breakfast:
Shitty pics:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/0668bd4c6bdbdf740fc5012eb1310143.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170911/280311e04ee32b2bc185ed4b63ca0457.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 12, 2017, 12:41:46 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 12, 2017, 12:41:46 PM
#nottooshabby
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 12, 2017, 13:59:40 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 12, 2017, 13:59:40 PM
2017 – 67
Good weekend flows and a chance with the cooler weather to explore with some streamers lead me to a cantankerous river. Threw a bunch of different streamer junk on the old streamer express but failed to entice a strike. But there were flowers and fungi to photograph.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/090317-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/090317-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/090317-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/090317-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/090317-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/090317-6.jpg)
Drove back over an hour, stopped for a half hour... did I leave my lights on? CR-V wouldn't start, jumped it and it's been doing fine since. Had the battery checked and she's ok, dunno what the hell happened...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/090317-7.jpg)
.
.
2017 – 68
Needed a tug, went for the sure thing. A couple of hours in the evening to relax, reflect, drink a couple of beers and catch a few fish.
Happy Place
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/090417-1.jpg)
Jr. Pune on a dry fly
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/090417-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/090417-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/090417-4.jpg)
The Corn Moon over my sholder, it was big and bright and almost full.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/090417-5.jpg)
.
.
2017 – 69
Back to puneville for an evening hatch. Goldfinches flew out of the brush at the edge of the field as I walked to the river. Cedar waxwings were having an evening snack of yellow drakes and blue winged olives, and dragonflies snatched emergers off the surface as they struggled in the film.
Bugs hatched, fish rose, beer drank, fish caught, pretty much in that order...
Poured a sip going in for all of those ravaged by the hurricanes of 2017.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/090917-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/090917-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/090917-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/090917-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/090917-5.jpg)
.
.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 12, 2017, 15:26:27 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 12, 2017, 15:26:27 PM
Woolly, one of these days there will be a statue of your ass on the banks of that river. Maybe nobody will knock it down in the future.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on September 12, 2017, 21:41:02 PM
Post by: driver on September 12, 2017, 21:41:02 PM
That CRV must be a lemon.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on September 13, 2017, 05:37:50 AM
Post by: ryguy on September 13, 2017, 05:37:50 AM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on September 12, 2017, 15:26:27 PM
Woolly, one of these days there will be a statue of your ass on the banks of that river. Maybe nobody will knock it down in the future.
Doubtful. Maybe a bronze Woolly and CRV combo. Beer can on the hood.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on September 13, 2017, 05:39:32 AM
Post by: Al on September 13, 2017, 05:39:32 AM
OK, time to pay back the water that has given so much to so many.................
We need your help Saturday, September 16th. Bring your family, bring your neighbor, bring a friend. We will place an empty trash bag in their hands and buy them lunch once they return it full. Bring your fly rod and fish afterwards. See below for details.
Smith River Clean Up – Sep 16: This clean up is just prior to the TU Annual Meeting being held in Roanoke. A lot of visiting TU members will be fishing the Smith River and we want to show her off in a favorable light. We will meet at the Trent Hill Canoe Ramp (behind to old burned out Chair Factory) at 8:30am and fan out from there. Depending on how many show up we hope to clean the road from the dam downstream to the end of the field behind the Mirror Plant (where he who shall not be named has been dumping all his empties), the parking lot at Rosemont and the horseshoe section from Trent Hill downstream to Papa's Pizza. We will have bags and drinking water – you should bring gloves, long pants, and sturdy walking shoes. We do not anticipate anyone getting into water but bring waders if you like. All trash will be consolidated at the Trent Hill Canoe Ramp. Al Kittredge aakitt@earthlink.net Cell 910-624-3457 is heading up this effort. Contact him if you have questions
We need your help Saturday, September 16th. Bring your family, bring your neighbor, bring a friend. We will place an empty trash bag in their hands and buy them lunch once they return it full. Bring your fly rod and fish afterwards. See below for details.
Smith River Clean Up – Sep 16: This clean up is just prior to the TU Annual Meeting being held in Roanoke. A lot of visiting TU members will be fishing the Smith River and we want to show her off in a favorable light. We will meet at the Trent Hill Canoe Ramp (behind to old burned out Chair Factory) at 8:30am and fan out from there. Depending on how many show up we hope to clean the road from the dam downstream to the end of the field behind the Mirror Plant (where he who shall not be named has been dumping all his empties), the parking lot at Rosemont and the horseshoe section from Trent Hill downstream to Papa's Pizza. We will have bags and drinking water – you should bring gloves, long pants, and sturdy walking shoes. We do not anticipate anyone getting into water but bring waders if you like. All trash will be consolidated at the Trent Hill Canoe Ramp. Al Kittredge aakitt@earthlink.net Cell 910-624-3457 is heading up this effort. Contact him if you have questions
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 13, 2017, 06:41:02 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 13, 2017, 06:41:02 AM
Quote from: ryguy on September 13, 2017, 05:37:50 AMQuote from: Dee-Vo on September 12, 2017, 15:26:27 PM
Woolly, one of these days there will be a statue of your ass on the banks of that river. Maybe nobody will knock it down in the future.
Doubtful. Maybe abronzetin Woolly andCRVMiata combo. Beer can on the hood.
Fixed.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 13, 2017, 16:07:04 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 13, 2017, 16:07:04 PM
Quote from: driver on September 12, 2017, 21:41:02 PM
That CRV must be a lemon.
Maybe, 72k and one water pump and one jump start [emoji33]
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on September 13, 2017, 22:41:41 PM
Post by: IFStultz on September 13, 2017, 22:41:41 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on September 13, 2017, 16:07:04 PM2010 Silverado 170,000 miles. 3 sets of tires and front brakes.Quote from: driver on September 12, 2017, 21:41:02 PM
That CRV must be a lemon.
Maybe, 72k and one water pump and one jump start [emoji33]
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 14, 2017, 05:16:24 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 14, 2017, 05:16:24 AM
Quote from: driver on September 12, 2017, 21:41:02 PM
That CRV must be a lemon.
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on September 13, 2017, 16:07:04 PMQuote from: driver on September 12, 2017, 21:41:02 PM
That CRV must be a lemon.
Maybe, 72k and one water pump and one jump start [emoji33]
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Man stranded in desert survives on crackers & beer
https://r.tapatalk.com/shareLink?share_fid=69390&share_tid=14887&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Ebrfff%2Ecom%2Fforum%2Findex%2Ephp%3Ftopic%3D14887&share_type=t
This fella likely thought the same.
I've never owned a Honda vehicle before, but thought their reputation was highly regarded in the durability category.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 14, 2017, 07:40:32 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 14, 2017, 07:40:32 AM
New Forester. Fuk Honda.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170914/3e0defe1e7f7469a04c6843dc524774b.jpg)
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Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 17, 2017, 09:45:41 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 17, 2017, 09:45:41 AM
2017 – 72
Saw Chuck Brodsky Friday night, a great story teller who had us laughing and crying as he describes events in his life that influenced his song writing. After a lazy start I got up to the river in the afternoon, sat down, and drank a beer and ate a snad before pulling on the waders and heading on down to the river.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/091617-1.jpg)
Puffball fungi...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/091617-2.jpg)
Ran into a friend, swaped stories and drank some beers, while waiting for a hatch.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/091617-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/091617-4.jpg)
4:00
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/091617-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/091617-6.jpg)
Beginning to see some fall colors as the trees begin to shed some leaves
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/091617-7.jpg)
not
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/091617-8.jpg)
trainwrecker
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/091617-9.jpg)
Accidental coolness..
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/091617-10.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 17, 2017, 10:26:07 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 17, 2017, 10:26:07 AM
We had a clean up on Saturday, so it was early to the river. SRTU cleaned three parking areas, the Trenthill river trail, Philpott Bridge, and the entire roadside/ditches from the damn dam to Philpott Rd. Al has the pics. After a group pizza throwdown at Papa's, I headed back to the Mirror Plant. Packed my shit up for the long walk through the field. Spent an hour or so on some trail work and talked to some guys from Roanoke who had put in some dubious hours on the river.
(https://i.imgur.com/a00bLms.jpg)
They hopped out, I slid on my waders and saw some guy upstream. In a minute I heard "Doug!". It was The Bugger holla'ng at those guys. I chuckled, finished gearing up and wandered up to him. Pleasantries aside, and nothing happening on the river, we sat in the shade and drank a couple. A little activity at 4pm got us off our asses and into a precious few fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/McTqyXh.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/F5udkim.jpg)
The cool nights have the Paw Paws dropping early. I'm always amazing how many are untouched by critters, here.
Some are over ripe, but I'm gonna do something with them.
(https://i.imgur.com/XUoiEBn.jpg)
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 17, 2017, 18:57:43 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 17, 2017, 18:57:43 PM
Nice work to the both of you.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on September 17, 2017, 19:22:23 PM
Post by: Onslow on September 17, 2017, 19:22:23 PM
I'm jealous of your paw paws. I have yet to see one in Carolina.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 17, 2017, 19:31:16 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 17, 2017, 19:31:16 PM
Had some straight. Most excellent.
A shot of brandy, even better.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170918/f815904a2a19dc606fee0236eb1a0f0b.jpg)
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A shot of brandy, even better.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170918/f815904a2a19dc606fee0236eb1a0f0b.jpg)
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: DRIFTS on September 18, 2017, 04:32:44 AM
Post by: DRIFTS on September 18, 2017, 04:32:44 AM
Yuck 0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 18, 2017, 09:26:30 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 18, 2017, 09:26:30 AM
Take shot of brandy, throw pawpaw out... jis say'in
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on September 18, 2017, 15:47:03 PM
Post by: Fishbug on September 18, 2017, 15:47:03 PM
Dogs and Poons
Saturday seemed like the perfect day to fish--overcast and all. Didn't have time; the river cleanup was then too---thought it was nxt weekend = double fail.
Did some am chores Sunday.
Let the dogs out before I left. They found something in that grass that was attacking them...snake?
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170918/ed724fb30cee97753e4b7b8de83b070e.jpg)
Closer view:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170918/a340fb094743b6369f3b8bac4b4080cb.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170918/43e07d0176e95bbf245cfe2bc3889bc0.jpg)
Hit the river:
5 cars at the usual. F it---i drove 45 min.
Didnt see anybody.
Got into some punes immediately.
All dry action.
Blurry pic---need to get a new waterproof case.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170918/204f7206808cc2607ee2b1d500de98e1.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Saturday seemed like the perfect day to fish--overcast and all. Didn't have time; the river cleanup was then too---thought it was nxt weekend = double fail.
Did some am chores Sunday.
Let the dogs out before I left. They found something in that grass that was attacking them...snake?
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170918/ed724fb30cee97753e4b7b8de83b070e.jpg)
Closer view:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170918/a340fb094743b6369f3b8bac4b4080cb.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170918/43e07d0176e95bbf245cfe2bc3889bc0.jpg)
Hit the river:
5 cars at the usual. F it---i drove 45 min.
Didnt see anybody.
Got into some punes immediately.
All dry action.
Blurry pic---need to get a new waterproof case.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170918/204f7206808cc2607ee2b1d500de98e1.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 23, 2017, 11:38:31 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 23, 2017, 11:38:31 AM
2017 – 73
Went back to see if there was going to be any evening action. Stayed until dark. Caught some fish. The damn dam work is still messing with the river clarity. Word is that they will be testing the one working generator this coming week. I can only hope that this will begin to flush out the system.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/091717-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/091717-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/091717-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/091717-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/091717-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/091717-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 24, 2017, 09:38:26 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 24, 2017, 09:38:26 AM
2017 – 75
I got up early and took care of some car maintenance, caught up on some billing and archived the jobs that were completed last week. I went to the coffee shop and processed the photos for the last trip report. After posting that I began thinking about spending a couple of hours up on the river, maybe even fry up a trout for dinner. On the way up I resumed listening to Mark Twain's Roughing It, the story of his planned three month vacation to the silver mines on Nevada that ended up in a seven year stay. It's as humorous as it is an informative history of the west.
So, before I go any further, let me back track to the S. Holston float trip, where I forgot to mention the crazy dry fly action that we encountered. As mentioned briefly back in the TR, the birds were going nuts, diving and swooping all around us, but early on we didn't see any risers, so we stuck with streamers. When we arrived at the big flats the fish were boiling all around us and we swithed to dries. The pattern? #16 Puff Daddy. We caught fish, but many times as the fly drifted, a bird would swoop down and pick it up off the water! They dropped it quickly enough that it continued on it's path. Sometimes two or even three different birds would pick it up one after the other. It was almost as if we were fishing for birds! One or two even grabbed it in the air before it settled upon the water. Fortunately no birds were caught and we got enough unmolested drifts that the trout had time to see the fly and eat it.
Back to yesterday, two cars in the lot, VA tags, a Subaru Forster and a Toyota Rav 4, I hoped they weren't in my run. A truck with a trailer full of canoes and kayaks pulled up outside the Mirror Plant gate. Another truck pulled up and opened the gate. "What the hell", I thought. As I was gearing up and stashing koozie wrapped beers in my vest, I fisherman and his wife (assumption on my part) walked up and I asked, "How'd you do?" "Lots of small browns and one large smallmouth," he replied as he held up his broken ultra-light spinning rod. "I fought that fish for 20 minutes and he broke my rod." "Wow, a smallmouth?", was all I could say. I continued getting ready and walked away shaking my head. Hmmmm, tailwater smallies, yeah right. Water temp is 58 degrees on a hot day.
Side note: I just called the South Holston Fly Shop to check on river conditions.
I hiked on in and met the owner of the Subaru, he reported frustrating dry fly action as he should me the fly he was using, looked a bit big to me. I continued on and saw that the canoe trailer belonged to a group of scouts, they had just completed their river trip and were getting ready to cook dinner. I spoke to them and asked if they knew Shane, they did, he wasn't along with them on this trip. I walked on down to my spot, the place with the gravel bar where I took Sally god for so many years. There is a bench of a bank where I've sat and waited, drank beers, ate snacks and fried up fish. As I walked the path I saw a scout down on the water, we exchanged greeting and he left and I stashed my beers on the bank. As I turned back to the water I caught of wiff of crap and looked down and there right on the gravel bar was a Franzian worthy load half covered with TP. WTF? Damn scouts! I moved my beer and relocated upstream and up wind. The scout came back down, "Looking for a lighter" he said. "Is that your crap," I inquired. "No, sir, I thing that was there yesterday." "It looks and smells to fresh to have been there very long," I scolded, knowing full well that this kid was lying and was the culprit. "I'll report it," he said as he left and walked back to camp.
I've fished this stretch of river for 25 years. I like it here because it's void of trash and is more remote than the stocked sections were most bait and spin fisherman go. I had a difficult time forgetting about this desecration. Fish rose and I changed flies a half dozen times before selecting the one they liked. I caught a few and then it was getting dark on the water.
As I walked out I stopped and talked to the adults who were stading about their campfire and told them about the crap on the gravel bar and the scout in the blue shorts with black hair and glasses. They responded with "We will make this a teaching moment!" and as I wished them a good night and walked off I heard him yell, "Reed, grab a shovel!"
Back at the car I had another beer and ate my snack of Stilton Blue and summer sausage. Packed up I began the drive home. A yearling doe darted out in front of the car, I slowed and checked the roadside from where it came, there was another one, it came out and stopped and then darted right in front of me. I hit the brakes, all the gear in the car went flying and I could have sworn that I hit it but as I glanced to the left I saw it bounding away after its sibling. I pulled into the Citgo just to check the front end. No damage, but that sure looks like deer hair! Maybe I should by a lottery ticket.
If I leave now, I can be on the S. Holston by one! See ya.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/092317-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/092317-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/092317-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/092317-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/092317-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/9-17/092317-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on September 24, 2017, 19:26:55 PM
Post by: Onslow on September 24, 2017, 19:26:55 PM
Sounds like the whole Troop needs to be lectured on Leave No Trace camping. The poopage issue is not the only matter of concern. Scorching the ground by building fires in undesignated areas is a huge no-no.
My eyes made love to your foliage pics.
My eyes made love to your foliage pics.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 24, 2017, 21:38:43 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 24, 2017, 21:38:43 PM
Quote from: Onslow on September 24, 2017, 19:26:55 PM
My eyes made love to your foliage pics.
Pervert!
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 24, 2017, 21:50:48 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 24, 2017, 21:50:48 PM
Karma shitting on you for leaving them beer cans a few weeks ago. -+;
The smelly brown troots.
The smelly brown troots.
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on September 25, 2017, 14:57:59 PM
Post by: Fishbug on September 25, 2017, 14:57:59 PM
Was kinda looking forward to a pic of that trophy brown on the bank....
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on October 05, 2017, 19:32:02 PM
Post by: Al on October 05, 2017, 19:32:02 PM
All you folks who have been wondering how Woolly and Doug catch all those fish on the Smith - Wonder no more. Show up on the 14th and they will show you.
SRTU will host "Fish With a Friend" on Saturday, Oct. 14th. This has become an annual event. We'll have fun, make new friends, tell some tales and catch a few fish. Don't worry about lunch because we will take a headcount and provide sandwich's, chips and drinks at about 1:00 pm.
We hope to see you at the Trent Hill Canoe Ramp (behind old burned out chair factory) at 8 am. Here is your chance to pair up with another angler who might know a section of the river better than you. Want to learn to nymph better? Dry fly techniques need some work? Want to peek into a bunch of fly boxes? Need some other fishing/casting/equipment tips? Come one, come all. Bring your friends, family. Fish in the morning, gather for lunch on SRTU, keep fishing as desired. See you there
SRTU will host "Fish With a Friend" on Saturday, Oct. 14th. This has become an annual event. We'll have fun, make new friends, tell some tales and catch a few fish. Don't worry about lunch because we will take a headcount and provide sandwich's, chips and drinks at about 1:00 pm.
We hope to see you at the Trent Hill Canoe Ramp (behind old burned out chair factory) at 8 am. Here is your chance to pair up with another angler who might know a section of the river better than you. Want to learn to nymph better? Dry fly techniques need some work? Want to peek into a bunch of fly boxes? Need some other fishing/casting/equipment tips? Come one, come all. Bring your friends, family. Fish in the morning, gather for lunch on SRTU, keep fishing as desired. See you there
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 05, 2017, 19:48:09 PM
Post by: Dougfish on October 05, 2017, 19:48:09 PM
I don't catch "all those fish". LOL.
But I will have a lot of brewskis that day. A lot.
And lies. A lot. Fake news, you know.
But I will have a lot of brewskis that day. A lot.
And lies. A lot. Fake news, you know.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: swervinmervin on October 07, 2017, 09:02:53 AM
Post by: swervinmervin on October 07, 2017, 09:02:53 AM
Damn. I just got assigned to work that day, otherwise I'd love to be there. Haven't had too many days on the water the last few months, and none on the Smith since May.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: dhjunkie on October 09, 2017, 11:11:44 AM
Post by: dhjunkie on October 09, 2017, 11:11:44 AM
I was looking forward to participating this year but I'm going to be out of town. Maybe next time. Fwiw if schedules allow I'm happy to help carry craft beer, I mean fishing gear through a certain corn field if anyone ever needs help with such things.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 15, 2017, 10:41:48 AM
Post by: Dougfish on October 15, 2017, 10:41:48 AM
Al should have more to add.
We had six of us fishing on Sat. Five members, one guest. Pretty sure all got into fish. Al and Bill did well. Al, really well.
I did just OK. I went up and fished ol' faithful runs in the AM. Slooow. Tried some different techniques and angles. A handful of sipping fish were cast to. Nada.
Ended up with 2, missed a couple.
Start drinking on the 8:45 hike in? Check.
(https://i.imgur.com/fLqpe7h.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/lm3dtBN.jpg)
94 cfs at Philpott.
(https://i.imgur.com/TTgbZw5.jpg/%5Bimg%5D%3Cbr%20/%3E%3Cbr%20/%3EIt%20seems%20like%20I%20catch%20a%20nice%20holdover%20bow%20every%20trip.%3Cbr%20/%3ETook%20the%20dry%20like%20a%20nuclear%20sub%20surfacing.%20%3Cbr%20/%3E%3Cbr%20/%3E%5Bimg%5Dhttps://i.imgur.com/jmJ4pgd.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/BRFTvit.jpg)
Number 2. Lots of leftover Sweetwater from the Nattie. Spread the wealth with the hommies. d:b
(https://i.imgur.com/pbeBic9.jpg)
Moved down after pizza at Pappa's and fished some slow water below Bill and Al, while they crushed it in the riffles.
Alternated between big stone and a slumpbuster. Missed a couple lurking in the shade. Caught this over achiever.
(https://i.imgur.com/YBib1m4.jpg)
I had developed a crushing headache and bailed at that point.
Nuts.
(https://i.imgur.com/aEsktpa.jpg)
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on October 15, 2017, 19:38:02 PM
Post by: Al on October 15, 2017, 19:38:02 PM
I linked up with a fellow I have been promising to show some of the Smith's secrets for quite some time. When he mentioned he owned 300 acres where no one hunted and he needed some help thinning the deer herd that cinched it :o
First thing he asked was what do you think I should put on? Hmmmmmm - Set him up with an Allieworm about 2 feet under an indicator and then dropped a zebra midge under that.
I let him have the prime water but he had a difficult time with the dead drift concept. I followed through the same water and started picking up fish. One fish put a serious bend in my rod and when I could finally see it I almost came unglued - it looked like one of the browns we shocked up while sampling the lower river. I was belly deep in water so a net was the only option. Made one pass at him and almost knocked him off - I was smart enough to give him slack when he made an evasive run and was finally able to turn him back around and got him in the net. I was so pleased I didn't want to harm him so just snapped a very poor photo without lifting him out of the water. My net is marked 16 inches at the longest opening and then again at 20. Without laying him out I'd guess he was a legitimate 18 and maybe a bit more. Definitely the biggest I have caught in that section of the river.
Wait, wait it gets better. About 10 minutes and 2-3 more fish later I cast to a shallow spot and saw a HUGE fish make a run at the splashdown of my two fly rig. I was off balance and casting with my left hand with a lot of slack in the line. Don't ask what happened next but I dropped the rod but had sense to give it enough swing to take the slack out - when I grabbed it back up the fish was still on and heading toward Philpott Dam. I got this one on the reel and once again became bug eyed to see one of the old breeder rainbows which DGIF occasionally puts in once they are no longer producing eggs. This one measured 22 inches with a circumference of a football. The photo does not do either fish justice but my fishing buddy was there to vouch for both. He started watching me closely along with listening to advice and started picking up fish as well.
After lunch we moved to a couple other spots and lady luck continued to favor us. Nothing else of significant size but they were all fun. We definitely have another Smith River convert.
Now when did you say we could go look at that deer hunting land? ;D
First thing he asked was what do you think I should put on? Hmmmmmm - Set him up with an Allieworm about 2 feet under an indicator and then dropped a zebra midge under that.
I let him have the prime water but he had a difficult time with the dead drift concept. I followed through the same water and started picking up fish. One fish put a serious bend in my rod and when I could finally see it I almost came unglued - it looked like one of the browns we shocked up while sampling the lower river. I was belly deep in water so a net was the only option. Made one pass at him and almost knocked him off - I was smart enough to give him slack when he made an evasive run and was finally able to turn him back around and got him in the net. I was so pleased I didn't want to harm him so just snapped a very poor photo without lifting him out of the water. My net is marked 16 inches at the longest opening and then again at 20. Without laying him out I'd guess he was a legitimate 18 and maybe a bit more. Definitely the biggest I have caught in that section of the river.
Wait, wait it gets better. About 10 minutes and 2-3 more fish later I cast to a shallow spot and saw a HUGE fish make a run at the splashdown of my two fly rig. I was off balance and casting with my left hand with a lot of slack in the line. Don't ask what happened next but I dropped the rod but had sense to give it enough swing to take the slack out - when I grabbed it back up the fish was still on and heading toward Philpott Dam. I got this one on the reel and once again became bug eyed to see one of the old breeder rainbows which DGIF occasionally puts in once they are no longer producing eggs. This one measured 22 inches with a circumference of a football. The photo does not do either fish justice but my fishing buddy was there to vouch for both. He started watching me closely along with listening to advice and started picking up fish as well.
After lunch we moved to a couple other spots and lady luck continued to favor us. Nothing else of significant size but they were all fun. We definitely have another Smith River convert.
Now when did you say we could go look at that deer hunting land? ;D
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on October 15, 2017, 21:21:10 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on October 15, 2017, 21:21:10 PM
Sweet. Pigs doin pig stuff
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on October 15, 2017, 22:11:04 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on October 15, 2017, 22:11:04 PM
I just have to wonder what Al would have caught if the guy had six hundred acres of hunting land!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on October 16, 2017, 07:03:27 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on October 16, 2017, 07:03:27 AM
Al is a boss.
Impressive!
Impressive!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 16, 2017, 15:45:05 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 16, 2017, 15:45:05 PM
way to to Al!!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on October 17, 2017, 14:22:17 PM
Post by: Fishbug on October 17, 2017, 14:22:17 PM
Always amazing such big trouts eat small bugs.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on October 17, 2017, 14:23:29 PM
Post by: Fishbug on October 17, 2017, 14:23:29 PM
Niiiiiiice
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Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: jwgnc on October 17, 2017, 15:02:25 PM
Post by: jwgnc on October 17, 2017, 15:02:25 PM
Great trip. Way to go !
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on October 18, 2017, 10:43:49 AM
Post by: Fishbug on October 18, 2017, 10:43:49 AM
Had some time off and made epic plans to hit the river at sunrise.
Was hoping to toss some streamers in the dark. Plans foiled and got there after sunrise.
Not much luck either. Hit spot #2 and got one of the usual suspects nymphing:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171018/2934ab59fdf750d9e42f391c34c4fe34.jpg)
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Was hoping to toss some streamers in the dark. Plans foiled and got there after sunrise.
Not much luck either. Hit spot #2 and got one of the usual suspects nymphing:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171018/2934ab59fdf750d9e42f391c34c4fe34.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on October 19, 2017, 08:45:26 AM
Post by: Al on October 19, 2017, 08:45:26 AM
I posted this same thing on another thread but will do same here so no one gets stuck standing on a big boulder in the middle of the stream :o
The latest - Surf will be up this afternoon. Looks like they are close to getting back to a normal schedule.
"Looks like we may be able to begin full load testing on unit 1 today. With that, expect more water on the Smith for longer period of time today.
With no specific schedule, we anticipate a few hours of close to 600 cfs this afternoon.
I will send another email out this afternoon by close of business to let you know what to expect tomorrow and the weekend (to be determined by the progress of the testing today)."
The latest - Surf will be up this afternoon. Looks like they are close to getting back to a normal schedule.
"Looks like we may be able to begin full load testing on unit 1 today. With that, expect more water on the Smith for longer period of time today.
With no specific schedule, we anticipate a few hours of close to 600 cfs this afternoon.
I will send another email out this afternoon by close of business to let you know what to expect tomorrow and the weekend (to be determined by the progress of the testing today)."
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 19, 2017, 09:05:00 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 19, 2017, 09:05:00 AM
thanks for keeping us in the loop Al, should be an(other) interesting year on the Smith
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 19, 2017, 13:01:19 PM
Post by: Dougfish on October 19, 2017, 13:01:19 PM
Water temps are dropping fast, also. Bassett and Martinsville have dropped 10+ degrees.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on October 19, 2017, 13:14:25 PM
Post by: Big J on October 19, 2017, 13:14:25 PM
Hey Doug, are the water temps dropping?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 19, 2017, 13:47:21 PM
Post by: Dougfish on October 19, 2017, 13:47:21 PM
Water temps are dropping fast, also. Bassett and Martinsville have dropped 10+ degrees.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: jwgnc on October 19, 2017, 16:11:59 PM
Post by: jwgnc on October 19, 2017, 16:11:59 PM
Wow - 30 degrees. It'll be frozen by dark
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 23, 2017, 11:52:44 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 23, 2017, 11:52:44 AM
2017 – 81
https://youtu.be/uSPe61_xpTs
Another funeral, mother of a friend and former business partner. She was a week shy of 90. Formal affair, the kind I don't do well at. Read a chapter of The Invention of Nature: Alexander von Humboldt's New World (http://amzn.to/2zwkDKd) by Andrea Wulf while drinking my morning coffee. This is a fascinating look at Humboldt's life and his amazing scientific mind. His documents were and still are treasures. Here is a sample of his Naturgemalde, where his documented all the different plants while climbing up the mountain.
(https://peterroehrich.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/img_20160108_153136.jpg)
And while planning out the rest of the day, I decided that a quick trip to the river would do me well, yeah I could do it. An hour up, two hours of streamer fishing, an hour back, shower and shave, go to the funeral then off to dinner with the GF before heading out to hear Paula Poundstone at the Carolina Theatre.
When I got to the river there were three dudes working my water, so I came up with a quick plan b which lead to a skunk but there was beer.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102117-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102117-1.jpg)
I was running a bit late to the church and when I got there the service had just started, I walked in and I saw a spot in a pew next to a women who I mistook for my ex! I hesitated for a moment and then moved in next to her, touching her shoulder, as she turned I realized my mistake and quickly explained myself, all the time being relieved that she wasn't her! The memorial was a great heartfelt recap of an extraordinary women and was filled with tears and laughter. Then there was a reception with the finger food and punch bowls, (nonalcoholic, which brought back memories of spiking them in the past, and I thought of the flask of scotch in the car). Give my regards to the family of six siblings and then split for the evening's activities.
Comedy was the medicine that I needed and Paula delivered for two hours with barely a break in the laugher and the time passed so very quickly!
.
.
2017 – 82
I thought about the SoHo, but I had some errands to run and by the time that was taken care of it was too late to make the drive worthwhile, so I headed up to puneville and entertained the idea of cooking up a couple for dinner, but decided not to haul in the stove and frying pan and instead stashed three beers in the vest and took the DSLR along for a change.
Miniscule midges were hatching in abundance along with an occasional assortment of larger bugs. Fish were rising and I caught a couple before they stopped and I took that as an indication that it was time for a beer.
Took some photos, caught more fish, lamented that the stove was back at the car.
It all looked something like this:
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102217-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102217-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102217-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102217-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102217-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102217-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102217-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102217-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102217-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102217-10.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102217-11.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102217-12.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102217-13.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102217-14.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102217-15.jpg)
Pants of shame II, I didn't know that RiverbumCo frequented these waters... or perhaps this was left over from the Boy Scouts?
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102217-16.jpg)
Headed over for some Jazz in the Park and a bite to eat.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102217-17.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102217-18.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on October 24, 2017, 07:55:02 AM
Post by: Big J on October 24, 2017, 07:55:02 AM
I know those three spot stealers.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 24, 2017, 08:39:57 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 24, 2017, 08:39:57 AM
Quote from: Big J on October 24, 2017, 07:55:02 AM
I know those three spot stealers.
they said they would tell you how they did....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on October 24, 2017, 09:56:14 AM
Post by: Big J on October 24, 2017, 09:56:14 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on October 24, 2017, 08:39:57 AMQuote from: Big J on October 24, 2017, 07:55:02 AM
I know those three spot stealers.
they said they would tell you how they did....
They said thanks for giving them your section. They tore it up.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 24, 2017, 10:11:10 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 24, 2017, 10:11:10 AM
Quote from: Big J on October 24, 2017, 09:56:14 AMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on October 24, 2017, 08:39:57 AMQuote from: Big J on October 24, 2017, 07:55:02 AM
I know those three spot stealers.
they said they would tell you how they did....
They said thanks for giving them your section. They tore it up.
I didn't give them anything... :;! n!n
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: dhjunkie on October 24, 2017, 17:32:32 PM
Post by: dhjunkie on October 24, 2017, 17:32:32 PM
Pretty work!!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 28, 2017, 13:42:12 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 28, 2017, 13:42:12 PM
2017 – 83
https://youtu.be/8MYCPB7a8ks
A little work, a little play, a couple of IPAs, Kingfishers chattering out their boundaries, dragonflies picking off midges, fish rising, rusty spinners, trout for dinner
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102717-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102717-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102717-3.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102717-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102717-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102717-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102717-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102717-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102717-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2017/10-17/102717-10.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on October 28, 2017, 15:24:27 PM
Post by: Phil on October 28, 2017, 15:24:27 PM
Tasty. 0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: croaker on October 28, 2017, 19:44:35 PM
Post by: croaker on October 28, 2017, 19:44:35 PM
Looks good except, fer wasting the roe...
It's very fine eating.
It's very fine eating.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 29, 2017, 08:00:53 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 29, 2017, 08:00:53 AM
Quote from: croaker on October 28, 2017, 19:44:35 PM
Looks good except, fer wasting the roe...
It's very fine eating.
Should I have fried it up or eaten it raw ?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on October 29, 2017, 10:00:08 AM
Post by: driver on October 29, 2017, 10:00:08 AM
Roe to me is alright by itself, raw or cooked. But thow it in with some eggs, raw or cooked it's excellent. I had smoked trout roe on crackers a few weeks ago, that was banging as well.
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Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on October 30, 2017, 18:01:26 PM
Post by: troutrus on October 30, 2017, 18:01:26 PM
Best option for roe.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/7cd385bd08e9b3370c649ad5b5f7e396.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/7cd385bd08e9b3370c649ad5b5f7e396.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: IFStultz on November 02, 2017, 19:07:16 PM
Post by: IFStultz on November 02, 2017, 19:07:16 PM
What do you guys think these flows are gonna do for the lower end spawn?
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/c6e090fff1ed96d20152ceffe2da48c4.png)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/189c7420576518ec570e1657384e7059.png)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/c6e090fff1ed96d20152ceffe2da48c4.png)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/189c7420576518ec570e1657384e7059.png)
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on November 02, 2017, 19:24:40 PM
Post by: driver on November 02, 2017, 19:24:40 PM
My understanding is the lower fish dont spawn.
My understanding is the lower fish dont spawn.
My understanding is the lower fish dont spawn.
My understanding is the lower fish dont spawn.
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My understanding is the lower fish dont spawn.
My understanding is the lower fish dont spawn.
My understanding is the lower fish dont spawn.
Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on November 02, 2017, 19:33:21 PM
Post by: Onslow on November 02, 2017, 19:33:21 PM
I've observed reproduction taking place in conditions that appeared to be less desirable than the lower Smith.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on November 02, 2017, 19:58:13 PM
Post by: 22midge on November 02, 2017, 19:58:13 PM
there is some spawning down river.......
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on November 03, 2017, 18:14:47 PM
Post by: Fishbug on November 03, 2017, 18:14:47 PM
The good and the bad...
Mother in law been in town which limits the fishing.
Having said that I usually work pretty late. Was looking like I could sneak out early. Headed straight to the Smith.
Talked w/ a co-worker and he recommended a different stretch to access. Good thing too---three cars at the go to.
Fall in full bloom:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/3eca479ba36c7d22be85b0a621be1eb0.jpg)
Flows were good:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/0a649ebd5a2fed4a8e1cc7a8a58e361e.jpg)
Fishing was good too. Caught Leroys of all sizes, mostly on dries:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/57b41fbd6bea94bd9e0bfc4dd6198a71.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/0f5c91b233769f01ee41bb213e4bc2ac.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/8b81dd87e7e0608ae425826791e40371.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/d4ec106b85da8a56beb4b010e1068adf.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/7d046c578bf160367ac39d943657d4c4.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/c712e5e8aa97e9c0eb76f039f09c871b.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/2cb130e9f266ae524544820baa971840.jpg)
Hiked back to the car. Went to put the rod away and noticed the tip section was missing....fuuuuuuck. Retraced the path three times with no luck. If anyone finds it give me a holler.
Would do it again though...
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Mother in law been in town which limits the fishing.
Having said that I usually work pretty late. Was looking like I could sneak out early. Headed straight to the Smith.
Talked w/ a co-worker and he recommended a different stretch to access. Good thing too---three cars at the go to.
Fall in full bloom:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/3eca479ba36c7d22be85b0a621be1eb0.jpg)
Flows were good:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/0a649ebd5a2fed4a8e1cc7a8a58e361e.jpg)
Fishing was good too. Caught Leroys of all sizes, mostly on dries:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/57b41fbd6bea94bd9e0bfc4dd6198a71.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/0f5c91b233769f01ee41bb213e4bc2ac.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/8b81dd87e7e0608ae425826791e40371.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/d4ec106b85da8a56beb4b010e1068adf.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/7d046c578bf160367ac39d943657d4c4.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/c712e5e8aa97e9c0eb76f039f09c871b.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171103/2cb130e9f266ae524544820baa971840.jpg)
Hiked back to the car. Went to put the rod away and noticed the tip section was missing....fuuuuuuck. Retraced the path three times with no luck. If anyone finds it give me a holler.
Would do it again though...
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on November 03, 2017, 18:31:09 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on November 03, 2017, 18:31:09 PM
Good report. Love the last two browns.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 03, 2017, 19:05:27 PM
Post by: Dougfish on November 03, 2017, 19:05:27 PM
"Hiked back to the car. Went to put the rod away and noticed the tip section was missing....fuuuuuuck. Retraced the path three times with no luck. If anyone finds it give me a holler."
Dude! That sucks.
Never un-rig until at the vehicle. Do what i say, not what I have f'd up and done! :laugh:
Good feesh.
Dude! That sucks.
Never un-rig until at the vehicle. Do what i say, not what I have f'd up and done! :laugh:
Good feesh.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on November 04, 2017, 18:28:05 PM
Post by: Fishbug on November 04, 2017, 18:28:05 PM
Doug ill add it to the list...
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Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on November 04, 2017, 18:34:45 PM
Post by: Fishbug on November 04, 2017, 18:34:45 PM
Went back today. Rainy, overcast skies said streamers.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171104/850b08f40ead0fef6f7e9e49cd749882.jpg)
Had a destination in mind but could not resist the urge to search for my missing rod tip.
No luck.
Found fish though.
Dusted off the backup:
7' fiberglass noodle
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171104/a243923da2033fea71bfb3626f832fc4.jpg)
Risers:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171104/7ceea7834f1bf37182d1214be9e2b2f2.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171104/0096c2ab61c56bfeaf73bc264b551c9f.jpg)
Tried to toss some meat:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171104/ac07bc4ff51ee61ea53f5c4dc22c5083.jpg)
Trouts in these parts aren't into that sort of thing. Never made it to the intended destination.
Cheers:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171104/8eaf8329bd8f751f747dc40af3887dc9.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171104/850b08f40ead0fef6f7e9e49cd749882.jpg)
Had a destination in mind but could not resist the urge to search for my missing rod tip.
No luck.
Found fish though.
Dusted off the backup:
7' fiberglass noodle
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171104/a243923da2033fea71bfb3626f832fc4.jpg)
Risers:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171104/7ceea7834f1bf37182d1214be9e2b2f2.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171104/0096c2ab61c56bfeaf73bc264b551c9f.jpg)
Tried to toss some meat:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171104/ac07bc4ff51ee61ea53f5c4dc22c5083.jpg)
Trouts in these parts aren't into that sort of thing. Never made it to the intended destination.
Cheers:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171104/8eaf8329bd8f751f747dc40af3887dc9.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 06, 2017, 22:07:02 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 06, 2017, 22:07:02 PM
Been there done that with the lost rod tip... but I found mine
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on December 05, 2017, 06:53:42 AM
Post by: Al on December 05, 2017, 06:53:42 AM
Want to know more about the Smith River Fishery - here is your change /'/
Smith River Trout Unlimited (SRTU) will host our end of year meeting on December 7, 2017, 6:30 p.m., at Rania's Restaurant, 147 Main St, Martinsville VA . This is the meeting where George Palmer, DGIF Fisheries Biologist gives his annual "Health of the Smith River Fishery" presentation. Water flows have been messed up due to work at Philpott Dam, however DGIF has been sampling as best they can. Some of us have helped out a few times on the lower river and this year we should know how long it is taking for fish to reach the 20 inch range. No one knows for sure what the prolonged flows and increased sediment has done to the fishery but George is optimistic and will share his thoughts on what 2018 may look like.
Smith River Trout Unlimited (SRTU) will host our end of year meeting on December 7, 2017, 6:30 p.m., at Rania's Restaurant, 147 Main St, Martinsville VA . This is the meeting where George Palmer, DGIF Fisheries Biologist gives his annual "Health of the Smith River Fishery" presentation. Water flows have been messed up due to work at Philpott Dam, however DGIF has been sampling as best they can. Some of us have helped out a few times on the lower river and this year we should know how long it is taking for fish to reach the 20 inch range. No one knows for sure what the prolonged flows and increased sediment has done to the fishery but George is optimistic and will share his thoughts on what 2018 may look like.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 05, 2017, 10:25:52 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 05, 2017, 10:25:52 AM
It's refreshing to see folks out fishing. I appreciate the reportage. I should be fishing right this moment.....but nooooo. p;-
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on December 28, 2017, 16:02:26 PM
Post by: Fishbug on December 28, 2017, 16:02:26 PM
I fished on a cold one after some post holiday cabin fever.
Cloudy skies.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171228/11a1a6c2983102893e2fd3e62b958ef3.jpg)
Low, clear water.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171228/966bec869fa3f00cb8ec4de1f94f3ab8.jpg)
Spooking punes here and there.
Drove around and looked at some deeper holes that are normally not as visible—-looked like a barren fishless wasteland. Really was nymphing conditions and i hate (interpret as 'suck at') nymphing. Downloaded that Modern Nymphing DVD. Perhaps Ill have to give that style a try one day.
No trout, no problem; was good to get out.
Saw this clown on way home:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171228/1d47f9ae3794c21b5f662ef75ecadc5e.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Cloudy skies.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171228/11a1a6c2983102893e2fd3e62b958ef3.jpg)
Low, clear water.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171228/966bec869fa3f00cb8ec4de1f94f3ab8.jpg)
Spooking punes here and there.
Drove around and looked at some deeper holes that are normally not as visible—-looked like a barren fishless wasteland. Really was nymphing conditions and i hate (interpret as 'suck at') nymphing. Downloaded that Modern Nymphing DVD. Perhaps Ill have to give that style a try one day.
No trout, no problem; was good to get out.
Saw this clown on way home:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171228/1d47f9ae3794c21b5f662ef75ecadc5e.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on December 28, 2017, 20:22:50 PM
Post by: driver on December 28, 2017, 20:22:50 PM
You know its cold when the Rhodo is wilting.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 03, 2018, 19:10:12 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 03, 2018, 19:10:12 PM
Anybody navigating/fishing these flows? Discuss. /"\
(https://i.imgur.com/oUN0CLX.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/oUN0CLX.png)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 03, 2018, 20:02:44 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 03, 2018, 20:02:44 PM
Not until it warms up
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 03, 2018, 20:38:10 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 03, 2018, 20:38:10 PM
Yep. Wood working projects, rod build to finish up, flies to tie, 30+ new customers I was assigned today, etc. -0-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on January 03, 2018, 20:52:34 PM
Post by: Onslow on January 03, 2018, 20:52:34 PM
That is one effed up hydro-graph. Screw that insanity. I would be much more content fishing the White Falls area, and yes, I can get there from here!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 03, 2018, 21:50:59 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 03, 2018, 21:50:59 PM
They are running a lot to keep up with demand during the cold
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on January 04, 2018, 05:28:56 AM
Post by: Onslow on January 04, 2018, 05:28:56 AM
I suspect that the 800 cfs pulse is going to be the norm just as the 1500/3000 cfs pulses is the norm on the Catawba. When water is limited, the pulses become shorter, and more irregular in timing.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 08, 2018, 00:46:49 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 08, 2018, 00:46:49 AM
[attachment id=0 msg=156279]
[attachment id=1 msg=156279]
[attachment id=2 msg=156279]
Current state of affairs
[attachment id=1 msg=156279]
[attachment id=2 msg=156279]
Current state of affairs
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Native Fisher on January 08, 2018, 08:59:00 AM
Post by: Native Fisher on January 08, 2018, 08:59:00 AM
The SF of the Shenandoah looks worse than that. I have never seen it this frozen in almost 18 years.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 08, 2018, 09:56:08 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 08, 2018, 09:56:08 AM
Quote from: Native Fisher on January 08, 2018, 08:59:00 AMAlmost completely frozen over at Harpers Ferry. Potomac, too.
The SF of the Shenandoah looks worse than that. I have never seen it this frozen in almost 18 years.
Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on January 08, 2018, 12:37:13 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on January 08, 2018, 12:37:13 PM
Woolly- does this mean you will be mostly fishing "dry flies" since it will be difficult to get them wet because of the hard top layer?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on January 08, 2018, 14:18:05 PM
Post by: ryguy on January 08, 2018, 14:18:05 PM
Quote from: itieuglyflies on January 08, 2018, 12:37:13 PM
Woolly- does this mean you will be mostly fishing "dry flies" since it will be difficult to get them wet because of the hard top layer?
Only the big fish can bust through the ice....
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on March 10, 2018, 20:36:28 PM
Post by: Fishbug on March 10, 2018, 20:36:28 PM
Free deer hair at the Smith!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180311/82b172b1f1e2fa4402133f17c811421c.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180311/82b172b1f1e2fa4402133f17c811421c.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on March 19, 2018, 12:21:26 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on March 19, 2018, 12:21:26 PM
I fished the Smith for the first time since last June. It was the first time I had been out of town overnight since my wife died last November. I did not see but one bug in the air and I only saw one fish rise more than once. I finally got to where I could get to him and I caught him. I will be back next month and there should be more going on fish wise. I only fished an hour or so, but it was good to be back.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 19, 2018, 14:20:17 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 19, 2018, 14:20:17 PM
Nice to have you back.
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Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 5xTippett on March 19, 2018, 15:53:29 PM
Post by: 5xTippett on March 19, 2018, 15:53:29 PM
Nice to be back. Thanks!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 19, 2018, 18:38:23 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 19, 2018, 18:38:23 PM
Very sorry for your loss 5x. I can't even imagine how difficult little things can be. Great to have you back in the game. The fishing will be busting wide open here soon. Bring on the dries! V:;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on March 20, 2018, 12:07:27 PM
Post by: Al on March 20, 2018, 12:07:27 PM
Welcome back buddy 'c; 'c; 'c;. We missed you.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on March 31, 2018, 21:32:42 PM
Post by: Fishbug on March 31, 2018, 21:32:42 PM
Anybody fishin?
The week started out w winter; ended w spring—a nice day at that.
Went to the Smith mid week and generation was full blast; guess thats a thing now; nabbed one:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/aa2b079df82190f8b7f70d3c00cad857.jpg)
Called the hotline and got an awful generation schedule for the remainder of the week—-turns out it wouldn't have mattered as there were mach 10 winds the past couple days.
Today however was nice...
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/be6a63ab0f7a2feb742e416aa55213ad.jpg)
Anybody lose some keys:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/205aff6f34fbbbfd84d82b6f70dbc320.jpg)
Found a new thingamabobber too:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/b440c13ccc91f460fcefdd33112678b5.jpg)
I suck at nymphing; in an effort to improve my skills I have been reading about fancy euro/czech/Yugoslavian nymphing. Bought a cheap 10' 3 wt to try it out. Used some fresh ties:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/58773d2caa42a6bfe3daf837872f6227.jpg)
The places - fast runs and ripples- i thought would be best didn't pan out. Did catch a sweet 50+ft piece of fishing line though in a slow deep area. Water was super clear. Lots of bugs hatching but min risers. Ended up finding some runs with a boatloads of trout hanging out. Thought they were all stockers at first:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/ef6daebd3d52dbdf93d7fb9d4b295ff3.jpg)
Then the browns showed:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/dff5d698e0919d254e1bd7cf3ed5c40a.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/86eb7b8cab96fc6edca9511dce6197b9.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/a9a902e3227cc64fd01f6bf8ba106438.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/bc9da28f07529773e7f2d9fc66d02a2f.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/093819098273730a58ca571d6d64027a.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/2ce7eacdeebc1d198246c37827d2270a.jpg)
Bigger than last year and sporting some sweet colors.
Not a bad time....
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/e42a3cb4d1eb9179517cb53f9b57d634.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
The week started out w winter; ended w spring—a nice day at that.
Went to the Smith mid week and generation was full blast; guess thats a thing now; nabbed one:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/aa2b079df82190f8b7f70d3c00cad857.jpg)
Called the hotline and got an awful generation schedule for the remainder of the week—-turns out it wouldn't have mattered as there were mach 10 winds the past couple days.
Today however was nice...
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/be6a63ab0f7a2feb742e416aa55213ad.jpg)
Anybody lose some keys:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/205aff6f34fbbbfd84d82b6f70dbc320.jpg)
Found a new thingamabobber too:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/b440c13ccc91f460fcefdd33112678b5.jpg)
I suck at nymphing; in an effort to improve my skills I have been reading about fancy euro/czech/Yugoslavian nymphing. Bought a cheap 10' 3 wt to try it out. Used some fresh ties:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/58773d2caa42a6bfe3daf837872f6227.jpg)
The places - fast runs and ripples- i thought would be best didn't pan out. Did catch a sweet 50+ft piece of fishing line though in a slow deep area. Water was super clear. Lots of bugs hatching but min risers. Ended up finding some runs with a boatloads of trout hanging out. Thought they were all stockers at first:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/ef6daebd3d52dbdf93d7fb9d4b295ff3.jpg)
Then the browns showed:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/dff5d698e0919d254e1bd7cf3ed5c40a.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/86eb7b8cab96fc6edca9511dce6197b9.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/a9a902e3227cc64fd01f6bf8ba106438.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/bc9da28f07529773e7f2d9fc66d02a2f.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/093819098273730a58ca571d6d64027a.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/2ce7eacdeebc1d198246c37827d2270a.jpg)
Bigger than last year and sporting some sweet colors.
Not a bad time....
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180401/e42a3cb4d1eb9179517cb53f9b57d634.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 01, 2018, 05:59:51 AM
Post by: Dougfish on April 01, 2018, 05:59:51 AM
Nice catching!
And one of my fav beers.
Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
And one of my fav beers.
Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on April 02, 2018, 20:23:01 PM
Post by: Fishbug on April 02, 2018, 20:23:01 PM
Its a good one!
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on April 03, 2018, 20:57:55 PM
Post by: Onslow on April 03, 2018, 20:57:55 PM
QuoteAnyone fishing?
Lacking the necessary ebullience here. Looks like you're having a good time.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on April 09, 2018, 12:54:57 PM
Post by: Fishbug on April 09, 2018, 12:54:57 PM
Got a few the other day. Lots of chubs too. One pic.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180409/e5490638b0cdf88d3fdbd38e840d1d3a.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180409/e5490638b0cdf88d3fdbd38e840d1d3a.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on April 20, 2018, 23:12:52 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on April 20, 2018, 23:12:52 PM
Got up to the upper section today. Caught a half dozen with none being picture worthy. Lots of bugs. Size 12-14 sulphurs everywhere and a few caddis jumping. Very few risers. 50 cfs is for the birds. I wish we could get some more flow. Everything is so skinny and the fish spook instantly, like the days of old.
Btw, Did you actually wade during generation fishbug? Euro nymphing is deadly for me, just dislike the whole process.
Btw, Did you actually wade during generation fishbug? Euro nymphing is deadly for me, just dislike the whole process.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 21, 2018, 09:01:52 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 21, 2018, 09:01:52 AM
Quote from: Fishbug on April 09, 2018, 12:54:57 PM
Got a few the other day. Lots of chubs too. One pic.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180409/e5490638b0cdf88d3fdbd38e840d1d3a.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
That fish has been caught a few times!
Glad to hear that the sulfurs are popping off! Try a puff daddy, you'll get them to rise [emoji15]
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on April 21, 2018, 20:51:35 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on April 21, 2018, 20:51:35 PM
0:0 Woolly, you know its bad when even the puff daddy doesn't get any love. It wont carry a dropper for me well to imitate emergers. I may have to break the euro rod out reluctantly.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on April 22, 2018, 16:11:24 PM
Post by: Fishbug on April 22, 2018, 16:11:24 PM
Got a whole stack of those puff daddies ready.
Streamereater—I hear you about the euro nymphing—-kinda a love/hate, but is pretty effective. I do like the sighter concept and the jig flies are legit. What rod you using?
Did wade up to knees during generation in select areas that I know. Generally its pretty hazardous, but was trying to salvage a trip. Most those fish above were caught in normal flows.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Streamereater—I hear you about the euro nymphing—-kinda a love/hate, but is pretty effective. I do like the sighter concept and the jig flies are legit. What rod you using?
Did wade up to knees during generation in select areas that I know. Generally its pretty hazardous, but was trying to salvage a trip. Most those fish above were caught in normal flows.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on April 22, 2018, 17:14:37 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on April 22, 2018, 17:14:37 PM
I was using a 10' 3wt hydrogen, but I sold it because the tiny grip made my hand lock up. My next stick is a 10' 3wt syndicate. I've also fished the cortland and its nice, but a tad heavy. I like to over line to a 4wt line. For me it really doubles as a good indicator rod too and will shoot some line with the little extra line weight.
I found a couple spots to wade at generation as well. Gonna try one day soon. Now that the sulphurs are going, the fish will be very vulnerable and stacked in those areas.
I found a couple spots to wade at generation as well. Gonna try one day soon. Now that the sulphurs are going, the fish will be very vulnerable and stacked in those areas.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on April 22, 2018, 19:21:27 PM
Post by: Onslow on April 22, 2018, 19:21:27 PM
French or Czech style leaders?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on April 22, 2018, 19:55:53 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on April 22, 2018, 19:55:53 PM
I think French is the style I had the most success with..
5ft of 20lb with perfection loop
5ft of 15lb
24in of 12lb hi vis yellow for sighter with tippet ring
~3-5ft of 5x tippet with blood knot dropper to anchor fly
16-24in to the trailing fly
5ft of 20lb with perfection loop
5ft of 15lb
24in of 12lb hi vis yellow for sighter with tippet ring
~3-5ft of 5x tippet with blood knot dropper to anchor fly
16-24in to the trailing fly
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on April 23, 2018, 12:12:51 PM
Post by: Fishbug on April 23, 2018, 12:12:51 PM
Thought about buying the cortland but wasn't sure if jumping into a 10'6" rod would be too hard having only fished 9' rods. Didn't want to invest too much in case it sucked so I bought an ebay knockoff that really isn't too bad.
If anyone wants to try the technique I'd recommend watching "Modern Nymphing" on vimeo.
I use a similar style leader to their video—-actually bought from Devin Olsens website
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
If anyone wants to try the technique I'd recommend watching "Modern Nymphing" on vimeo.
I use a similar style leader to their video—-actually bought from Devin Olsens website
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 23, 2018, 12:34:48 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 23, 2018, 12:34:48 PM
4/21/18
2018 -23
Reports and rumors of sulfurs hatching on the smith made me want to go check it out. Low and clear was the flow and the skies as I hiked into the end of the field to my favorite pools. No bugs were visible and no risers were observed but I tied on a puff daddy anyway. I cast all over with long delicate cast drifting flawlessly over prime feeding lanes, but nobody was looking up. If I had some beer I would have sat down and waited for something to happen. Then I noticed a rise and then another. I cast to the second fish brought an aggressive strike and the first fish of the day was netted. I enticed a few others to rise to the dry. Most were small, but it didn't matter. I was catching fish on the surface. Working a run under some rhodo I hooked a better fish but with too much pepper on the hook set I lost my best Puff Daddy. Its replacement wasn't in the best of shape but it too fooled a number of fish. The bugs never really came off in any number and by 3:00 I had had enough and headed back to WS and to go see dad at dinner time.
lost egg
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2018/4-18/042118-10.jpg)
lost key
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2018/4-18/042218-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2018/4-18/042218-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2018/4-18/042218-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2018/4-18/042218-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on April 23, 2018, 13:12:28 PM
Post by: Fishbug on April 23, 2018, 13:12:28 PM
Nice! Keys are right where I put em weeks ago....
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Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on April 25, 2018, 13:52:42 PM
Post by: Al on April 25, 2018, 13:52:42 PM
Heads up again guys - find someplace else to fish for at least all of next week. This just in from COE
"We are increasing this week's declaration again at Philpott, beginning 24-hr generation with one unit Friday. Anticipate extending 24/7 generation through end of next week.
Sluice releases will be needed also for a few days to manage lake levels."
"We are increasing this week's declaration again at Philpott, beginning 24-hr generation with one unit Friday. Anticipate extending 24/7 generation through end of next week.
Sluice releases will be needed also for a few days to manage lake levels."
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on May 05, 2018, 17:27:33 PM
Post by: Fishbug on May 05, 2018, 17:27:33 PM
Generating all week and weekend.....
Saw that they didnt start till 8am today, decided to wake up early to beat the flows. That didnt happen, slept in. Screw it, went anyway. Flow charts looked good, maybe they forgot to turn on the dam.
Saw one car at the usual. Good sign. Rigged up and walked down—-water looked ok. Got in and it was rising before my eyes. Bailed before waders flooded.
Plan B: headed farther down river. Found some wadeable water. Fish were fired up. Used a two fly euro rig. All on the same nymph—-regardless of where it was tied on, top or bottom fly.
Bigger than usual:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180505/732d936d8c860fc420b6e900a0ba3e98.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180505/cb95bc4dad0dd0055ceae05a15d40674.jpg)
Caught a big guy. While I was grabbing my camera my fly floated down river and got another.
Double!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180505/8f5fa716654affd13aa474e79fe4bf38.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180505/f2fe962c9d6c82307eaf371abb0bae69.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180505/157ef0e9c0c060274ca4a40f58e5681c.jpg)
Temps dropped about 10 degrees and like a light switch the fish were off.
Storms a coming.
Good stuff out a potentially shitty day.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Saw that they didnt start till 8am today, decided to wake up early to beat the flows. That didnt happen, slept in. Screw it, went anyway. Flow charts looked good, maybe they forgot to turn on the dam.
Saw one car at the usual. Good sign. Rigged up and walked down—-water looked ok. Got in and it was rising before my eyes. Bailed before waders flooded.
Plan B: headed farther down river. Found some wadeable water. Fish were fired up. Used a two fly euro rig. All on the same nymph—-regardless of where it was tied on, top or bottom fly.
Bigger than usual:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180505/732d936d8c860fc420b6e900a0ba3e98.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180505/cb95bc4dad0dd0055ceae05a15d40674.jpg)
Caught a big guy. While I was grabbing my camera my fly floated down river and got another.
Double!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180505/8f5fa716654affd13aa474e79fe4bf38.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180505/f2fe962c9d6c82307eaf371abb0bae69.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180505/157ef0e9c0c060274ca4a40f58e5681c.jpg)
Temps dropped about 10 degrees and like a light switch the fish were off.
Storms a coming.
Good stuff out a potentially shitty day.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 05, 2018, 21:27:37 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 05, 2018, 21:27:37 PM
Quote from: Fishbug on May 05, 2018, 17:27:33 PM
Generating all week and weekend.....
Saw that they didnt start till 8am today, decided to wake up early to beat the flows. That didnt happen, slept in. Screw it, went anyway. Flow charts looked good, maybe they forgot to turn on the dam.
Saw one car at the usual. Good sign. Rigged up and walked down—-water looked ok. Got in and it was rising before my eyes. Bailed before waders flooded.
Plan B: headed farther down river. Found some wadeable water. Fish were fired up. Used a two fly euro rig. All on the same nymph—-regardless of where it was tied on, top or bottom fly.
Bigger than usual:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180505/732d936d8c860fc420b6e900a0ba3e98.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180505/cb95bc4dad0dd0055ceae05a15d40674.jpg)
Caught a big guy. While I was grabbing my camera my fly floated down river and got another.
Double!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180505/8f5fa716654affd13aa474e79fe4bf38.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180505/f2fe962c9d6c82307eaf371abb0bae69.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180505/157ef0e9c0c060274ca4a40f58e5681c.jpg)
Temps dropped about 10 degrees and like a light switch the fish were off.
Storms a coming.
Good stuff out a potentially shitty day.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Well damn, I blew off the river cause of the flow, but it looks like your scored well!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 06, 2018, 17:17:24 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 06, 2018, 17:17:24 PM
Persistence pays off. High five!
Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: dhjunkie on May 06, 2018, 21:33:28 PM
Post by: dhjunkie on May 06, 2018, 21:33:28 PM
Pretty work fishbug.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on May 07, 2018, 07:37:32 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on May 07, 2018, 07:37:32 AM
Good work. You never know until you go. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on May 13, 2018, 13:29:33 PM
Post by: Fishbug on May 13, 2018, 13:29:33 PM
Short report.
Yep they are generating.
Found fishable spots.
Caught this bridge troll in a fast run hanging out with some stockers, whose pics were not taken.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180513/c77261c2496ea57b85447312083c96ec.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Yep they are generating.
Found fishable spots.
Caught this bridge troll in a fast run hanging out with some stockers, whose pics were not taken.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180513/c77261c2496ea57b85447312083c96ec.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on May 13, 2018, 14:40:15 PM
Post by: ryguy on May 13, 2018, 14:40:15 PM
Wow! Some nice fish have been caught in the Smith recently with the increased flows.
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Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: dhjunkie on May 13, 2018, 21:54:42 PM
Post by: dhjunkie on May 13, 2018, 21:54:42 PM
Pretty work
Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on May 14, 2018, 19:17:27 PM
Post by: Fishbug on May 14, 2018, 19:17:27 PM
Round 2:
Took advice to get some early morning time in before the flows came down river. Fished some newish water. Waded quite a bit.
Lots of holdover stockers here:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/1f1fa7f2d6c535c3467ba839d86c009a.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/f85aec0ad4a61fecff678457526fb6c1.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/72d15e570633661963cd587062c89079.jpg)
The usual browns; small but perty
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/6ce33731d1956812c295abd418889c34.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/4f60b9871ce1c803605344aaee111827.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/824d054e989b3c46b7c61d3a29d77dad.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/71dee9f0c5368d9f805fd38dedc5bcd2.jpg)
The smith is full of these spots that should hold 20" browns....noone home:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/4bc67743db2e7b161fa12a9708f2f974.jpg)
Waded downstream too far.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/7126eb9610b358485544c9883ef89fc3.jpg)
Water starting to rise so bushwhacked it up the bank.
Took the road back to the car. Is that a snake?! Yep, just ate too. Wasnt happy to be photographed:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/74c8e94d1b2f248126fa2d7081e9ebc0.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/91bcddcc27ec4dcf51688075bb64d8a6.jpg)
Lots of baby geese, turtles, birds—-good time to get out; enjoy it while you can.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Took advice to get some early morning time in before the flows came down river. Fished some newish water. Waded quite a bit.
Lots of holdover stockers here:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/1f1fa7f2d6c535c3467ba839d86c009a.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/f85aec0ad4a61fecff678457526fb6c1.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/72d15e570633661963cd587062c89079.jpg)
The usual browns; small but perty
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/6ce33731d1956812c295abd418889c34.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/4f60b9871ce1c803605344aaee111827.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/824d054e989b3c46b7c61d3a29d77dad.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/71dee9f0c5368d9f805fd38dedc5bcd2.jpg)
The smith is full of these spots that should hold 20" browns....noone home:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/4bc67743db2e7b161fa12a9708f2f974.jpg)
Waded downstream too far.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/7126eb9610b358485544c9883ef89fc3.jpg)
Water starting to rise so bushwhacked it up the bank.
Took the road back to the car. Is that a snake?! Yep, just ate too. Wasnt happy to be photographed:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/74c8e94d1b2f248126fa2d7081e9ebc0.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180515/91bcddcc27ec4dcf51688075bb64d8a6.jpg)
Lots of baby geese, turtles, birds—-good time to get out; enjoy it while you can.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 14, 2018, 19:32:03 PM
Post by: Al on May 14, 2018, 19:32:03 PM
Good show bd;0 'c; bd;0 'c;
Fingers crossed for better flows ahead. If the rain holds off and the lake starts dropping I would expect a short morning and late afternoon generation but that is purely speculation on my part - we will see.
Fingers crossed for better flows ahead. If the rain holds off and the lake starts dropping I would expect a short morning and late afternoon generation but that is purely speculation on my part - we will see.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: dhjunkie on May 14, 2018, 19:41:42 PM
Post by: dhjunkie on May 14, 2018, 19:41:42 PM
Pretty work fishbug.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on May 15, 2018, 11:20:15 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on May 15, 2018, 11:20:15 AM
Good to see somebody fishing. Nice work.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 16, 2018, 09:51:07 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 16, 2018, 09:51:07 AM
nice, i will fish that river again one day.... b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on May 18, 2018, 18:29:28 PM
Post by: Fishbug on May 18, 2018, 18:29:28 PM
Throwback earlier in the week, pre-rain:
Wish I caught the one that tried to eat this guy:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180518/89d19a0009f4ba25d6c3230ebfc97132.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180518/380ed1b456d2b619678fed3b269cf998.jpg)
Streamer conditions for weeks to come...
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Wish I caught the one that tried to eat this guy:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180518/89d19a0009f4ba25d6c3230ebfc97132.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180518/380ed1b456d2b619678fed3b269cf998.jpg)
Streamer conditions for weeks to come...
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on May 20, 2018, 20:42:39 PM
Post by: troutrus on May 20, 2018, 20:42:39 PM
Streamer time.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180521/e2c0ff01620b304f9063bded2e3e1373.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180521/e2c0ff01620b304f9063bded2e3e1373.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on May 20, 2018, 22:31:03 PM
Post by: driver on May 20, 2018, 22:31:03 PM
Quote from: troutrus on May 20, 2018, 20:42:39 PMHo Lee bat fuks
Streamer time.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180521/e2c0ff01620b304f9063bded2e3e1373.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on May 21, 2018, 07:56:38 AM
Post by: Big J on May 21, 2018, 07:56:38 AM
Hey Doug, want to test out your boat?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on May 21, 2018, 08:29:10 AM
Post by: ryguy on May 21, 2018, 08:29:10 AM
Be a quick trip!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on May 21, 2018, 09:50:00 AM
Post by: troutfanatic on May 21, 2018, 09:50:00 AM
This could be a good thing
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 21, 2018, 09:55:42 AM
Post by: Al on May 21, 2018, 09:55:42 AM
Well it could have been worse - Here is the latest...............
"The last week has produced a tremendous amount of rain, pushing river flows above flood stage and resulting in inflows into Kerr over 80,000 cfs for most of Saturday and Sunday. Dan and Roanoke River flows, and thus inflows into Kerr, have peaked, but there is still plenty of water being stored in the lake.
The headwaters of Philpott were spared, relatively speaking, so inflows are falling off fairly quickly. Philpott currently 975.5 ft and falling; releasing ~630 cfs through single unit generation. Anticipate modest sluice releases this week, targeting elevation 974 ft by Friday".
"The last week has produced a tremendous amount of rain, pushing river flows above flood stage and resulting in inflows into Kerr over 80,000 cfs for most of Saturday and Sunday. Dan and Roanoke River flows, and thus inflows into Kerr, have peaked, but there is still plenty of water being stored in the lake.
The headwaters of Philpott were spared, relatively speaking, so inflows are falling off fairly quickly. Philpott currently 975.5 ft and falling; releasing ~630 cfs through single unit generation. Anticipate modest sluice releases this week, targeting elevation 974 ft by Friday".
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutfanatic on May 21, 2018, 18:49:50 PM
Post by: troutfanatic on May 21, 2018, 18:49:50 PM
Move out that sediment.
I wonder how bad the remaining sulfur hatch will be
I wonder how bad the remaining sulfur hatch will be
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on May 26, 2018, 13:35:07 PM
Post by: Fishbug on May 26, 2018, 13:35:07 PM
Forecast for memorial wknd is shit.
Everything is near blown out or just settling down. Generation sched is crap.
But alas there is a window....took the opportunity. Know some "wadeable" water, granted Ive gotten more adventurous and probably go in water others would not.
High, fast, and stained was the name of the game. The fish were clearly eating; stomachs were full and one "love to hate" fly was king—
Started off good, in running for my personal best:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/a3dcf35cdb6874865f03b115def0d79c.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/755efc0e7dd2f6c54a024c8a3ffd86d0.jpg)
Did some treacherous spelunking to where I thought troutzilla would be—-a large, deep pool in a back eddy that is too deep to wade and only fishable a foot off the bank due to trees and a rock wall. Threw a streamer and and got hit on first cast.....
Unlikely victim:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/78482d18d60b28092fc6eca349323ebc.jpg)
No other streamer love.
Headed back down river and continuously caught above avg browns. Stomachs were plump.
Insert photo dump:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/19141f7d16b4d6b581bced7b1316c298.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/a166458d402b7783749ad7d49e73c7e7.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/f0072ad616eeb70efc38a7357fdf6a81.jpg)
What fly? Hint, hint:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/1354ed88b0c84da30cea73d38e662f33.jpg)
Just about to leave, when I hooked into my new best Smith Leroy Brown,in a heavily hit area at that...
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/bf94d8b01e2a39ffb8d81b1fae2e1ac4.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/663e2c1138bf3bb1fcdf7ad8441e005c.jpg)
Feisty guy:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/b578a5872d9beeebd05bd374b83de3de.jpg)
Later!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/b2c4877de84df10f8452a8f8a1835014.jpg)
Left as MORE rain started
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/91bc1861c87fa3ffef221dc0e3c130e7.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/0b200bfab2cc6cb8531614c9be2c934b.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Everything is near blown out or just settling down. Generation sched is crap.
But alas there is a window....took the opportunity. Know some "wadeable" water, granted Ive gotten more adventurous and probably go in water others would not.
High, fast, and stained was the name of the game. The fish were clearly eating; stomachs were full and one "love to hate" fly was king—
Started off good, in running for my personal best:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/a3dcf35cdb6874865f03b115def0d79c.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/755efc0e7dd2f6c54a024c8a3ffd86d0.jpg)
Did some treacherous spelunking to where I thought troutzilla would be—-a large, deep pool in a back eddy that is too deep to wade and only fishable a foot off the bank due to trees and a rock wall. Threw a streamer and and got hit on first cast.....
Unlikely victim:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/78482d18d60b28092fc6eca349323ebc.jpg)
No other streamer love.
Headed back down river and continuously caught above avg browns. Stomachs were plump.
Insert photo dump:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/19141f7d16b4d6b581bced7b1316c298.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/a166458d402b7783749ad7d49e73c7e7.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/f0072ad616eeb70efc38a7357fdf6a81.jpg)
What fly? Hint, hint:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/1354ed88b0c84da30cea73d38e662f33.jpg)
Just about to leave, when I hooked into my new best Smith Leroy Brown,in a heavily hit area at that...
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/bf94d8b01e2a39ffb8d81b1fae2e1ac4.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/663e2c1138bf3bb1fcdf7ad8441e005c.jpg)
Feisty guy:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/b578a5872d9beeebd05bd374b83de3de.jpg)
Later!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/b2c4877de84df10f8452a8f8a1835014.jpg)
Left as MORE rain started
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/91bc1861c87fa3ffef221dc0e3c130e7.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/0b200bfab2cc6cb8531614c9be2c934b.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on May 26, 2018, 15:15:54 PM
Post by: Onslow on May 26, 2018, 15:15:54 PM
Dayum dog, your're setting the Smith on fire
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 26, 2018, 17:05:40 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 26, 2018, 17:05:40 PM
Bravo. You are on fire. San Juan fire.
I had too much responsibility on my plate this am to head down.
Fuk me.
Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
I had too much responsibility on my plate this am to head down.
Fuk me.
Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on May 26, 2018, 19:30:05 PM
Post by: driver on May 26, 2018, 19:30:05 PM
I'm more impressed by the Bahn Mi. There is no way you got that in MV.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on May 26, 2018, 19:37:39 PM
Post by: Fishbug on May 26, 2018, 19:37:39 PM
Quote from: driver on May 26, 2018, 19:30:05 PM
I'm more impressed by the Bahn Mi. There is no way you got that in MV.
There are places to eat in MV?
This is from Roanoke.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on May 26, 2018, 19:40:20 PM
Post by: Fishbug on May 26, 2018, 19:40:20 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on May 26, 2018, 17:05:40 PM
Bravo. You are on fire. San Juan fire.
I had too much responsibility on my plate this am to head down.
Fuk me.
Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
You may have luck tomorrow/Monday pending the rain
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 27, 2018, 06:23:21 AM
Post by: Dougfish on May 27, 2018, 06:23:21 AM
Quote from: Fishbug on May 26, 2018, 19:37:39 PMQuote from: driver on May 26, 2018, 19:30:05 PM
I'm more impressed by the Bahn Mi. There is no way you got that in MV.
This is from Roanoke.
Williamson Rd., perhaps? -0-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on May 28, 2018, 18:59:51 PM
Post by: Fishbug on May 28, 2018, 18:59:51 PM
[/quote]
Williamson Rd., perhaps? -0-
[/quote]
Indeed
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 02, 2018, 15:42:58 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 02, 2018, 15:42:58 PM
Generation was to start at noon on Saturday. Lets do this.
Loaded everything last night. Checked everything this am. Not forgetting important things like flies again? b';
Parking lot by 7, boots wet by 7:30. Fish fish at 7:31.
(https://i.imgur.com/7PUGUeY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/nNq0eBr.jpg)
Foggy river, foggy glasses. Stained water with very little buggy happenings.
But they hit the dry of choice, so I kept feeding it to them.
Caught the usual suspects, but caught a better percentage of 12"+ fish, also.
Solid, well fed browns.
(https://i.imgur.com/3uUsnko.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/kOD7Boe.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/m2n571j.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/JTNcVnH.jpg)
If you start early, you start drinking early. Hey, blackberries! It's like a juice.
(https://i.imgur.com/4qFUmV6.jpg)
Picked my way up and around some new debris. Including a big ass tree across most off the river.
Spotted what looked like another fisherman at the head off the next long, slow pool.
(https://i.imgur.com/pOpL4u9.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1Yh2xs9.jpg)
Looked like he was fishing down, so I hopped out and walked up to just past.
Exchanged pleasantries and asked if I could re-start just above him. Yes, and yes.
I proceeded to catch a nice brown. I'm an asshole. :laugh:
(https://i.imgur.com/ooFNmJz.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Of25L0n.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/lQAXCFG.jpg)
Hit some more slack water and hopped out to see if the bossman was in his usual spot.
(https://i.imgur.com/iNlmENM.jpg)
He was not home. So i caught some of "his" fish.
Including a pig of a rainbow. I am sure I caught this dude last year. He fought pretty good then.
Packed on a couple more inches and serious ounces since then. Fought like a champ. 'c;
(https://i.imgur.com/LnuhfgK.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/EBD77WX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/spU6ReS.jpg)
The dude below me had just started by and I flagged him down for the walk out.
Turns out he lives about 6 blocks from me. New fishing buddy? BigJ's replacement? -0-
I treated him to a beer and we agreed to keep in touch.
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on June 02, 2018, 18:41:35 PM
Post by: Phil on June 02, 2018, 18:41:35 PM
Those browns are colored up pretty. Sweet! At least somebody has fishable water.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: dhjunkie on June 02, 2018, 19:56:41 PM
Post by: dhjunkie on June 02, 2018, 19:56:41 PM
Pretty work.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on June 02, 2018, 20:30:09 PM
Post by: Al on June 02, 2018, 20:30:09 PM
I also fished today. Fished lower than Doug. Did real well. More Browns than Rainbows. Very healthy looking. Kept some Rainbows for the skillet
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on June 03, 2018, 07:57:05 AM
Post by: Fishbug on June 03, 2018, 07:57:05 AM
Good stuff Doug.
Some fat fish—must be gorging w increased flows.
Pic #5 is the best.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Some fat fish—must be gorging w increased flows.
Pic #5 is the best.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on June 03, 2018, 07:57:13 AM
Post by: Fishbug on June 03, 2018, 07:57:13 AM
Good stuff Doug.
Some fat fish—must be gorging w increased flows.
Pic #5 is the best.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Some fat fish—must be gorging w increased flows.
Pic #5 is the best.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: dhjunkie on June 03, 2018, 10:10:20 AM
Post by: dhjunkie on June 03, 2018, 10:10:20 AM
Pretty work Al.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on June 16, 2018, 22:14:03 PM
Post by: Fishbug on June 16, 2018, 22:14:03 PM
Bugs, bugs everywhere—-some primo dry sulphur action going on midmorning. Had to switch rods mid trip cause I was rigged w the nymph stick.
Fooled some browns and rainbows.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/0ad3aa42bfd8918885beef95136f0b4f.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/fa73bc53dbfc31572994ae8a2b4bc961.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/7db3c4fe0e43a68824b671c214fb71d6.jpg)
All the times I've been to the smith, Ive never gone to Papas Pizza. How foolish. Best catch of the day:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/2f117fc7968a40e142df5f4bfcf141c7.jpg)
Hit up one more spot and got some more. Saw a familiar face—-caught this guy 4-8 weeks ago, same spot, same fly. Thumbs up for catch and release.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/d412a4f0250fb4347a4d518f47ee3b4f.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/4af5f470cef0afd154a7a2172c68e307.jpg)
[emoji482]
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Fooled some browns and rainbows.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/0ad3aa42bfd8918885beef95136f0b4f.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/fa73bc53dbfc31572994ae8a2b4bc961.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/7db3c4fe0e43a68824b671c214fb71d6.jpg)
All the times I've been to the smith, Ive never gone to Papas Pizza. How foolish. Best catch of the day:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/2f117fc7968a40e142df5f4bfcf141c7.jpg)
Hit up one more spot and got some more. Saw a familiar face—-caught this guy 4-8 weeks ago, same spot, same fly. Thumbs up for catch and release.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/d412a4f0250fb4347a4d518f47ee3b4f.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/4af5f470cef0afd154a7a2172c68e307.jpg)
[emoji482]
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on June 16, 2018, 22:14:30 PM
Post by: Fishbug on June 16, 2018, 22:14:30 PM
Bugs, bugs everywhere—-some primo dry sulphur action going on midmorning. Had to switch rods mid trip cause I was rigged w the nymph stick.
Fooled some browns and rainbows.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/0ad3aa42bfd8918885beef95136f0b4f.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/fa73bc53dbfc31572994ae8a2b4bc961.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/7db3c4fe0e43a68824b671c214fb71d6.jpg)
All the times I've been to the smith, Ive never gone to Papas Pizza. How foolish. Best catch of the day:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/2f117fc7968a40e142df5f4bfcf141c7.jpg)
Hit up one more spot and got some more. Saw a familiar face—-caught this guy 4-8 weeks ago, same spot, same fly. Thumbs up for catch and release.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/d412a4f0250fb4347a4d518f47ee3b4f.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/4af5f470cef0afd154a7a2172c68e307.jpg)
[emoji482]
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Fooled some browns and rainbows.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/0ad3aa42bfd8918885beef95136f0b4f.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/fa73bc53dbfc31572994ae8a2b4bc961.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/7db3c4fe0e43a68824b671c214fb71d6.jpg)
All the times I've been to the smith, Ive never gone to Papas Pizza. How foolish. Best catch of the day:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/2f117fc7968a40e142df5f4bfcf141c7.jpg)
Hit up one more spot and got some more. Saw a familiar face—-caught this guy 4-8 weeks ago, same spot, same fly. Thumbs up for catch and release.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/d412a4f0250fb4347a4d518f47ee3b4f.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180617/4af5f470cef0afd154a7a2172c68e307.jpg)
[emoji482]
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on June 16, 2018, 23:10:19 PM
Post by: driver on June 16, 2018, 23:10:19 PM
Nice job. I went this evening. Report later.
If anyone finds a pair of sunglasses around the mirror plant section, let me know.
If anyone finds a pair of sunglasses around the mirror plant section, let me know.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on June 18, 2018, 11:28:04 AM
Post by: Fishbug on June 18, 2018, 11:28:04 AM
Went back Sunday. Started too late in morning. Got hot as balls. Caught a handful. Trout were super feisty.
Select pics:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180618/92943a1eb80e861c9c3838237fbd1aec.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180618/d4343282cb4bbfa1aa40255f58335eef.jpg)
Bait; love the red fins though:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180618/c7d739f8a49b39b8c8b6126024204573.jpg)
Was fishing some fast water near a bank and swear i caught a 4-5" native brook trout. Pulled the line in haphazard cause I thought it was a chub or small brown...it flopped itself off the barbless hook. Was dark and had very the very distinctive brook spots....but pics or it didn't happen right? Anybody truth to this?!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Select pics:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180618/92943a1eb80e861c9c3838237fbd1aec.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180618/d4343282cb4bbfa1aa40255f58335eef.jpg)
Bait; love the red fins though:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180618/c7d739f8a49b39b8c8b6126024204573.jpg)
Was fishing some fast water near a bank and swear i caught a 4-5" native brook trout. Pulled the line in haphazard cause I thought it was a chub or small brown...it flopped itself off the barbless hook. Was dark and had very the very distinctive brook spots....but pics or it didn't happen right? Anybody truth to this?!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 18, 2018, 11:41:43 AM
Post by: Dougfish on June 18, 2018, 11:41:43 AM
Good stuff, bug. High five.
You might have seen spots from too much alkehaul and the heat?
Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
You might have seen spots from too much alkehaul and the heat?
Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on June 18, 2018, 15:27:40 PM
Post by: Fishbug on June 18, 2018, 15:27:40 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on June 18, 2018, 11:41:43 AM
Good stuff, bug. High five.
You might have seen spots from too much alkehaul and the heat?
Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
Maybe heat, but sans alcohol.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on June 19, 2018, 11:00:48 AM
Post by: Fin on June 19, 2018, 11:00:48 AM
Quoteswear i caught a 4-5" native brook trout
I think the Trout in the Classroom program has been raising/releasing a few brookies. There is a chance....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on June 19, 2018, 12:37:33 PM
Post by: driver on June 19, 2018, 12:37:33 PM
There are stocker brookies in there. I think they get mixed in at the hatchery. I saw Spork catch a 18inch brookie there once.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on June 19, 2018, 15:37:30 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on June 19, 2018, 15:37:30 PM
Quote from: driver on June 19, 2018, 12:37:33 PMIt was a bull trout or gtfo
There are stocker brookies in there. I think they get mixed in at the hatchery. I saw Spork catch a 18inch brookie there once.
Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on July 06, 2018, 08:27:39 AM
Post by: Big J on July 06, 2018, 08:27:39 AM
(https://i.imgur.com/bmOmIN9.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/rxEISGh.jpg)
This sums up my typical Smith experience.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 06, 2018, 11:21:44 AM
Post by: Al on July 06, 2018, 11:21:44 AM
Ref the small brook trout fishbug almost caught, Dgif had over production of brookies so they put them in the Smith with the assumption 99. 9 percent would end up as food for the Browns. They also did the same in Philpott as food for the walleyes
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 06, 2018, 12:38:19 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 06, 2018, 12:38:19 PM
Quote from: Big J on July 06, 2018, 08:27:39 AM
(https://i.imgur.com/bmOmIN9.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/rxEISGh.jpg)
This sums up my typical Smith experience.
You are doing it wrong!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 08, 2018, 22:36:55 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 08, 2018, 22:36:55 PM
You mean you didn't catch any native brooks?! [emoji23]
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Title: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 08, 2018, 22:41:19 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 08, 2018, 22:41:19 PM
Didn't throw any japanese beetle imitations did you?
Rumor has it trouts love beetles—-I've never had much luck w it though. Anyone got a good japanese beetle pattern?
Rumor has it trouts love beetles—-I've never had much luck w it though. Anyone got a good japanese beetle pattern?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on July 09, 2018, 08:48:56 AM
Post by: Big J on July 09, 2018, 08:48:56 AM
It was hot as balls that day. I think the fish were sulking down where I was.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 09, 2018, 16:30:10 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 09, 2018, 16:30:10 PM
Made a quick short trip and fished an easy access section.
Caught some bows; colored up quite a bit and much healthier appearing than the usual stocker fare.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180709/da740687e4a0a106e3ff6dc3bfc8de50.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180709/2a853494cd3d4f80c797a5bae190ceff.jpg)
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Caught some bows; colored up quite a bit and much healthier appearing than the usual stocker fare.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180709/da740687e4a0a106e3ff6dc3bfc8de50.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180709/2a853494cd3d4f80c797a5bae190ceff.jpg)
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 09, 2018, 17:08:20 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 09, 2018, 17:08:20 PM
Man, you caught three times as many bows as I expected. LOL.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 10, 2018, 12:52:04 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 10, 2018, 12:52:04 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on July 09, 2018, 17:08:20 PM
Man, you caught three times as many bows as I expected. LOL.
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Hahaha
Damn crapatalk—-told me the original didnt even post, so I gave up on it.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on July 10, 2018, 15:53:06 PM
Post by: driver on July 10, 2018, 15:53:06 PM
Btw still a few yellow bugs around. GDs are coming off too.
Fast and furious 30 min of fishing.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180710/ef63b839df2a6a5f3bcd62ffbfa2d480.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180710/84e898e82aaeca95580e8d91b283b153.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180710/818d9b4269b99fd81e8ca0d4fe059f66.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180710/8c799493654aa179337713190d10bcd3.jpg)
Fast and furious 30 min of fishing.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180710/ef63b839df2a6a5f3bcd62ffbfa2d480.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180710/84e898e82aaeca95580e8d91b283b153.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180710/818d9b4269b99fd81e8ca0d4fe059f66.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180710/8c799493654aa179337713190d10bcd3.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 11, 2018, 11:02:29 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 11, 2018, 11:02:29 AM
Quote from: driver on July 10, 2018, 15:53:06 PM
Btw still a few yellow bugs around. GDs are coming off too.
Fast and furious 30 min of fishing.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180710/ef63b839df2a6a5f3bcd62ffbfa2d480.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180710/84e898e82aaeca95580e8d91b283b153.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180710/818d9b4269b99fd81e8ca0d4fe059f66.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180710/8c799493654aa179337713190d10bcd3.jpg)
Ya shoulda called... you got some books of mine and I've got yer swap flies
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 11, 2018, 11:03:01 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 11, 2018, 11:03:01 AM
Quote from: driver on July 10, 2018, 15:53:06 PM
Btw still a few yellow bugs around. GDs are coming off too.
Fast and furious 30 min of fishing.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180710/ef63b839df2a6a5f3bcd62ffbfa2d480.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180710/84e898e82aaeca95580e8d91b283b153.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180710/818d9b4269b99fd81e8ca0d4fe059f66.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180710/8c799493654aa179337713190d10bcd3.jpg)
Ya shoulda called... you got some books of mine and I've got yer swap flies
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 11, 2018, 16:29:15 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 11, 2018, 16:29:15 PM
Nice paddle on the third dude
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 11, 2018, 16:50:48 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 11, 2018, 16:50:48 PM
*****SPREAD THE WORD*****
Water temps are spiking on the lower river. We have gone over 72 degrees at the Martinsville gauge on numerous days already in July. With only one functional generator at Philpott, we have half the volume of cold water coming downstream as we normally had at generation. It's warming faster as it moves downstream. Trout will be seriously stressed at the minimum. A fish kill is happening at the maximum. Please stop any fishing below Martinsville dam until further notice. Lets leave the fish alone and let them hunker down in favorable spots as we cross our fingers. Keep an eye on the Bassett gauge and use stream thermometers upstream, too. The Bassett gauge bumped 70 on a couple of days. Be smart, folks. Love the river back.
Thanks.
Water temps are spiking on the lower river. We have gone over 72 degrees at the Martinsville gauge on numerous days already in July. With only one functional generator at Philpott, we have half the volume of cold water coming downstream as we normally had at generation. It's warming faster as it moves downstream. Trout will be seriously stressed at the minimum. A fish kill is happening at the maximum. Please stop any fishing below Martinsville dam until further notice. Lets leave the fish alone and let them hunker down in favorable spots as we cross our fingers. Keep an eye on the Bassett gauge and use stream thermometers upstream, too. The Bassett gauge bumped 70 on a couple of days. Be smart, folks. Love the river back.
Thanks.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 20, 2018, 14:08:23 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 20, 2018, 14:08:23 PM
Snuck down for a few hours before generation. Flow was looow. New glass rod I just finished up needed baptizing.
Just before I turned off the main road, I remembered I did not grab my socks.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180720/8843013bcf4d90be9f26221294b9776e.jpg)
Swung around to the the new Dolla Store.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180720/3d1792eba5a3a6310143c2a58a84431a.jpg)
Suited up. One suv in the lot.
Got to down to the desired started point and saw a dude fishing up to me. Shit.
Bounced downstream.
Found another guy.
Then two more!
Fukking clown car!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180720/a35ffface8588513ea1ed29bea6fa549.jpg)
Went further and hopped in.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180720/fe0cf4939c558d75e36651216e0a34b9.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180720/25142012f0ef25d6d03acda2f7e56af9.jpg)
Finally got some interested feesh. Four little brownies. Dis one was the best.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180720/3d41ab7ae8654aa23e4a3e06bcc0301a.jpg)
Competed a conference call while fishing, ftw.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180720/fb48c9b208f5930ba72d09432f7097ac.jpg)
Liked the new 8' 5wt., 4 piece.
Crop of clover is hands down better than the recent corn crops.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180720/57c7434dcd6fa52f1355b26a5ed93939.jpg)
Peace, out.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on July 20, 2018, 15:11:57 PM
Post by: Big J on July 20, 2018, 15:11:57 PM
Did you sneak down to the smith Doug?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 20, 2018, 15:33:42 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 20, 2018, 15:33:42 PM
Quote from: Big J on July 20, 2018, 15:11:57 PM
Did you sneak down to the smith Doug?
Tapatalk sux.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on July 20, 2018, 18:12:39 PM
Post by: ryguy on July 20, 2018, 18:12:39 PM
What blank did you build the rod on??
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 20, 2018, 19:45:01 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 20, 2018, 19:45:01 PM
Quote from: ryguy on July 20, 2018, 18:12:39 PMCheap Chinese. I bought 3 blanks for less than $100 off evilbay. 3, 4, 5 wts. Liked the 4. Cuz has that one. Still have the 3 to build. And a better? 3. And another, longer 5 that's on the bench. After that will be a higher end blank.
What blank did you build the rod on??
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Then there is a Shakespeare, and a Phillipson redu. Lol.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on July 20, 2018, 20:32:05 PM
Post by: ryguy on July 20, 2018, 20:32:05 PM
Nice. I've bought some similar blanks. Latest is a 12' 4wt spey rod that I need to finish. Never tried two handed rods before so it was an inexpensive way to learn. More guides to wrap though!
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 20, 2018, 20:39:55 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 20, 2018, 20:39:55 PM
That tip section is gonna be a bitch. :laugh: -0-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 23, 2018, 21:19:37 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 23, 2018, 21:19:37 PM
Perty brown.
You should do a thread on rod building—-
Ive wanted to give it a whirl
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You should do a thread on rod building—-
Ive wanted to give it a whirl
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 29, 2018, 19:03:29 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 29, 2018, 19:03:29 PM
25
Back down this morning. Had the river to myself. No other soul. 8 -3:30.
Decided to fish some of the usual, then hit some runs I had not fished in 2-3 years.
Low flow. Gin clear. Spooky, really spooky fish.
You line some fish? Gone. Whole run spooked.
Slooow wading.
Protein.
(https://i.imgur.com/xmEiZ7Y.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/nGdMSZd.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/vVkbuat.jpg)
#glassisnotdead
(https://i.imgur.com/RkwRFia.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xzwi6G5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/skiVAap.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/uouOZoy.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1Oc6WiL.jpg)
Last run was the money. Caught a handful there.
Including a heavy 14-15"er that rose like a sub to take a dry fly. Sweet.
(https://i.imgur.com/Az03Ehy.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/RoclK8h.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/T7IgBIE.jpg)
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: jwgnc on July 29, 2018, 20:57:58 PM
Post by: jwgnc on July 29, 2018, 20:57:58 PM
Wow. Nice Brown. 0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 30, 2018, 16:26:03 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 30, 2018, 16:26:03 PM
Sweet Doug. They're growing! 0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: natureboy on August 01, 2018, 07:23:42 AM
Post by: natureboy on August 01, 2018, 07:23:42 AM
Nice!
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Sent from my SM-G955U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on August 18, 2018, 13:27:28 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on August 18, 2018, 13:27:28 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/ltyIc79.jpg?1)
highwater dries
highwater dries
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: BRFFF on August 18, 2018, 14:27:36 PM
Post by: BRFFF on August 18, 2018, 14:27:36 PM
Nice, I'll get back to that river one day
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 18, 2018, 14:53:37 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 18, 2018, 14:53:37 PM
Noice! I need a bote ride.
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Sent from my LG-US998 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on August 18, 2018, 18:29:33 PM
Post by: Fishbug on August 18, 2018, 18:29:33 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on August 18, 2018, 14:53:37 PM
Noice! I need a bote ride.
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Ditto!
What kind of raft you using?
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on August 19, 2018, 08:30:14 AM
Post by: driver on August 19, 2018, 08:30:14 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on August 18, 2018, 14:53:37 PMYou got da bote!
Noice! I need a bote ride.
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 10, 2018, 21:57:08 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 10, 2018, 21:57:08 PM
Had some family business that took me to Franklin Co. and a chance to spend a half day Sunday on the river. I arrived early and hiked down, my first glance at the water color after the hike reminded me what a nights rain could do to Town Creek. The water was off color and would have been my excuse for poor fishing had I not caught a fish on about the third cast[attachment id=0 msg=159510]
It was game on for the next few hours as I worked my way upstream.[attachment id=1 msg=159510]
[attachment id=2 msg=159510][attachment id=3 msg=159510][attachment id=4 msg=159510]
Had it not happened to me I would have found it hard to believe. As I waded upstream through this slow water stretch holding my rod over the water and my fly trailing in the water just off the rod tip ( trolling?) yep .....caught one. All I can figure is the off color water caused the fish to loose their caution. I only saw a total of three rises all morning. One of these was not even ten feet away....third drift through caught him.[attachment id=8 msg=159510]
As I worked my way upstream the water was getting really muddy but it was great getting back on the Smith for a few hours. I always enjoy the scenery and celebrated with a cold one before hiking back through the field. I still don't know how they grow those round bales?
[attachment id=5 msg=159510][attachment id=9 msg=159510][attachment id=6 msg=159510]
As I was was loading up to leave at noon two fellows walked back to their car and reported the river was too muddy to fish but one of them had actually caught one. I felt pretty good landing 18 ...... Bob Dylan and I made the drive back to Richmond in time for dinner.
It was game on for the next few hours as I worked my way upstream.[attachment id=1 msg=159510]
[attachment id=2 msg=159510][attachment id=3 msg=159510][attachment id=4 msg=159510]
Had it not happened to me I would have found it hard to believe. As I waded upstream through this slow water stretch holding my rod over the water and my fly trailing in the water just off the rod tip ( trolling?) yep .....caught one. All I can figure is the off color water caused the fish to loose their caution. I only saw a total of three rises all morning. One of these was not even ten feet away....third drift through caught him.[attachment id=8 msg=159510]
As I worked my way upstream the water was getting really muddy but it was great getting back on the Smith for a few hours. I always enjoy the scenery and celebrated with a cold one before hiking back through the field. I still don't know how they grow those round bales?
[attachment id=5 msg=159510][attachment id=9 msg=159510][attachment id=6 msg=159510]
As I was was loading up to leave at noon two fellows walked back to their car and reported the river was too muddy to fish but one of them had actually caught one. I felt pretty good landing 18 ...... Bob Dylan and I made the drive back to Richmond in time for dinner.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on September 11, 2018, 06:27:35 AM
Post by: Big J on September 11, 2018, 06:27:35 AM
I never fault anyone for getting skunked on that river. You did good. Wondering if they will be releasing more water in preparation for potential rains coming.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 11, 2018, 06:34:52 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 11, 2018, 06:34:52 AM
You the man, Fred. bd;0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: BRFFF on September 11, 2018, 09:21:54 AM
Post by: BRFFF on September 11, 2018, 09:21:54 AM
Sweet ! Nice work — one day I fished it slightly stained and had a banner day — thought I had figured the bitch out! Next week not so much!
With this hurricane coming the lake is sure to fill up!
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With this hurricane coming the lake is sure to fill up!
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on September 11, 2018, 10:02:12 AM
Post by: Phil on September 11, 2018, 10:02:12 AM
Good stuff Fred! Tearin' 'em up.... 'c; 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on September 11, 2018, 11:09:20 AM
Post by: Al on September 11, 2018, 11:09:20 AM
Quote from: Big J on September 11, 2018, 06:27:35 AM
Wondering if they will be releasing more water in preparation for potential rains coming.
According to my email they had a meeting to discuss hurricane water flows about 2 hours ago. I will let you know if I hear any thing further.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: BRFFF on September 11, 2018, 19:10:02 PM
Post by: BRFFF on September 11, 2018, 19:10:02 PM
Quote from: Al on September 11, 2018, 11:09:20 AMQuote from: Big J on September 11, 2018, 06:27:35 AM
Wondering if they will be releasing more water in preparation for potential rains coming.
According to my email they had a meeting to discuss hurricane water flows about 2 hours ago. I will let you know if I hear any thing further.
That's a lot of rain!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180912/3d04e5aa93ec6d2db0b670876dc0f410.png)
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on September 12, 2018, 11:25:02 AM
Post by: Al on September 12, 2018, 11:25:02 AM
Quote from: Al on September 11, 2018, 11:09:20 AMQuote from: Big J on September 11, 2018, 06:27:35 AM
Wondering if they will be releasing more water in preparation for potential rains coming.
According to my email they had a meeting to discuss hurricane water flows about 2 hours ago. I will let you know if I hear any thing further.
Just received the latest declaration - They are not factoring in the rain effect from the storm at this stage. They do anticipate a revision early next week after the storm has passed.
Stay safe folks - if you live in a flood prone area you had better make plans to evacuate sooner rather than later.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on October 05, 2018, 20:03:26 PM
Post by: Al on October 05, 2018, 20:03:26 PM
Did you ever want to fish the Smith River which runs through Bassett / Martinsville VA but didn't know the access points or heard it was a difficult stream to fish? Or maybe you give it a try but came away scratching your head. An opportunity to shorten your learning curve is coming up on Saturday, October 13th. Smith River Trout Unlimited (SRTU) will host a "Fish with a Friend" event where "Smith River Regulars" will pair up with outsiders and friends to show them some of the secrets of the river which is know as one of Virginia's premier trout streams.
We'll meet at 8:30am at the Bassett Canoe Access (Trent Hill Canoe Ramp), 271 Trent Hill Drive, off Route 57 in north Bassett behind the old burned out chair factory and fan out from there.
If you are able to link up with a SRTU member beforehand that is great but if not please don't allow that to intimidate you. We will shake your hand, do some introductions, and pair you up with one of our members. Please bring your own gear - but if you don't have items like a fly rod or waders/boots we will have a few gently used ones which we can loan you.
For our regular members - if you have a spare rod or waders/boots which you do not mind sharing please bring them.
We'll break at noon and assemble at Papa's Pizza for complementary pizza and drink. Some will likely continue fishing after lunch.
If you need more info feel free to contact Al Kittredge aakitt@earthlink.net or Joe May jmaydoc@hotmail.com
We'll meet at 8:30am at the Bassett Canoe Access (Trent Hill Canoe Ramp), 271 Trent Hill Drive, off Route 57 in north Bassett behind the old burned out chair factory and fan out from there.
If you are able to link up with a SRTU member beforehand that is great but if not please don't allow that to intimidate you. We will shake your hand, do some introductions, and pair you up with one of our members. Please bring your own gear - but if you don't have items like a fly rod or waders/boots we will have a few gently used ones which we can loan you.
For our regular members - if you have a spare rod or waders/boots which you do not mind sharing please bring them.
We'll break at noon and assemble at Papa's Pizza for complementary pizza and drink. Some will likely continue fishing after lunch.
If you need more info feel free to contact Al Kittredge aakitt@earthlink.net or Joe May jmaydoc@hotmail.com
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 11, 2019, 07:25:01 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 11, 2019, 07:25:01 AM
Brian Williams got into a caddis hatch on the Smith last evening! Looked like they were thick! I’m planning on going up this evening! My question is where to wade and catch the hatch! Any ideas?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on March 11, 2019, 10:46:36 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on March 11, 2019, 10:46:36 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on March 11, 2019, 07:25:01 AMBrian Williams got into a caddis hatch on the Smith last evening! Looked like they were thick! I’m planning on going up this evening! My question is where to wade and catch the hatch! Any ideas?
Seen that, and I wondered the same.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 11, 2019, 11:46:08 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 11, 2019, 11:46:08 AM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on March 11, 2019, 10:46:36 AMHe said floaty boat on lower riverQuote from: Woolly Bugger on March 11, 2019, 07:25:01 AMBrian Williams got into a caddis hatch on the Smith last evening! Looked like they were thick! I’m planning on going up this evening! My question is where to wade and catch the hatch! Any ideas?
Seen that, and I wondered the same.
And the fish were not rising
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on March 11, 2019, 11:55:25 AM
Post by: Big J on March 11, 2019, 11:55:25 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on March 11, 2019, 11:46:08 AMQuote from: Dee-Vo on March 11, 2019, 10:46:36 AMHe said floaty boat on lower riverQuote from: Woolly Bugger on March 11, 2019, 07:25:01 AMBrian Williams got into a caddis hatch on the Smith last evening! Looked like they were thick! I’m planning on going up this evening! My question is where to wade and catch the hatch! Any ideas?
Seen that, and I wondered the same.
And the fish were not rising
Has there ever been a more accurate description of the Smith River?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 11, 2019, 14:47:35 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 11, 2019, 14:47:35 PM
You lost me at Brian Williams.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on March 11, 2019, 15:15:48 PM
Post by: 22midge on March 11, 2019, 15:15:48 PM
Doug are you referring to the Smith River Gillie?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 11, 2019, 15:16:18 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 11, 2019, 15:16:18 PM
streamer fished through the hatch. no risers. not one. caddis were thick. t-7-10 days and it'll be over with.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 11, 2019, 18:37:17 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 11, 2019, 18:37:17 PM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on March 11, 2019, 15:16:18 PMstreamer fished through the hatch. no risers. not one. caddis were thick. t-7-10 days and it'll be over with.
Emergers, soft hackles.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on March 11, 2019, 18:54:11 PM
Post by: 22midge on March 11, 2019, 18:54:11 PM
900 to 1000 CFS....they cant unhook from the anchor chains long enough to head up to the surface to eat the floaters
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 11, 2019, 20:01:12 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 11, 2019, 20:01:12 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on March 11, 2019, 18:37:17 PMQuote from: streamereater_101691 on March 11, 2019, 15:16:18 PMstreamer fished through the hatch. no risers. not one. caddis were thick. t-7-10 days and it'll be over with.
Emergers, soft hackles.
Could have but deep meat was more productive. Water was still 43 degrees so minimal effort by the fish is normal. Dries have been more productive for me than anything closer to the 4pm hour, after the emergence, mating, and then returning to the water to lay eggs. Only then is the brachycentrus at its most vulnerable state.
Quote from: 22midge on March 11, 2019, 18:54:11 PM900 to 1000 CFS....they cant unhook from the anchor chains long enough to head up to the surface to eat the floaters
I beg to differ. 6pm today consisted of steady risers below the dead baby hole. Our legs are much weaker than their paddle tails.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 11, 2019, 20:50:21 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 11, 2019, 20:50:21 PM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on March 11, 2019, 20:01:12 PMQuote from: Dougfish on March 11, 2019, 18:37:17 PMQuote from: streamereater_101691 on March 11, 2019, 15:16:18 PMstreamer fished through the hatch. no risers. not one. caddis were thick. t-7-10 days and it'll be over with.
Emergers, soft hackles.
Could have but deep meat was more productive. Water was still 43 degrees so minimal effort by the fish is normal. Dries have been more productive for me than anything closer to the 4pm hour, after the emergence, mating, and then returning to the water to lay eggs. Only then is the brachycentrus at its most vulnerable state.Quote from: 22midge on March 11, 2019, 18:54:11 PM900 to 1000 CFS....they cant unhook from the anchor chains long enough to head up to the surface to eat the floaters
I beg to differ. 6pm today consisted of steady risers below the dead baby hole. Our legs are much weaker than their paddle tails.
Pics, or shut up.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 11, 2019, 21:39:05 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 11, 2019, 21:39:05 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on March 11, 2019, 20:50:21 PMQuote from: streamereater_101691 on March 11, 2019, 20:01:12 PMQuote from: Dougfish on March 11, 2019, 18:37:17 PMQuote from: streamereater_101691 on March 11, 2019, 15:16:18 PMstreamer fished through the hatch. no risers. not one. caddis were thick. t-7-10 days and it'll be over with.
Emergers, soft hackles.
Could have but deep meat was more productive. Water was still 43 degrees so minimal effort by the fish is normal. Dries have been more productive for me than anything closer to the 4pm hour, after the emergence, mating, and then returning to the water to lay eggs. Only then is the brachycentrus at its most vulnerable state.Quote from: 22midge on March 11, 2019, 18:54:11 PM900 to 1000 CFS....they cant unhook from the anchor chains long enough to head up to the surface to eat the floaters
I beg to differ. 6pm today consisted of steady risers below the dead baby hole. Our legs are much weaker than their paddle tails.
Pics, or shut up.
No rod in possession. Work is a bitch.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on March 12, 2019, 06:43:55 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on March 12, 2019, 06:43:55 AM
Brachycentrus in the Smith tailwater and in numbers that give us a woody? Emerging in March? If true, you’ve piqued my interest.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 12, 2019, 18:11:18 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 12, 2019, 18:11:18 PM
Quote from: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on March 12, 2019, 06:43:55 AMBrachycentrus in the Smith tailwater and in numbers that give us a woody? Emerging in March? If true, you’ve piqued my interest.
(https://i.imgur.com/8peuav8.png?1)
Similar species as in the watauga I believe. Water temp hits 50 and they emerge for 7-10 days ish.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 13, 2019, 10:02:04 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 13, 2019, 10:02:04 AM
well it drove up last evening, arrived around 5:30, took a look at the water at the Frith pool. Looked like it was moving too fast and there was no bird, bug or fish activity. Headed up to the boat ramp where the water is wadable but again there was no activity. I ate dinner while listening to Blueprint for Armageddon (http://hwcdn.libsyn.com/p/6/9/2/692cf9806a216111/dchha51_Blueprint_for_Armageddon_II.mp3?c_id=6761597&cs_id=6761597&expiration=1552504709&hwt=fd717b19a635418fe75872980e7c7875), Dan Carlin's Hardcore History series, I - VI, about The Great War. The bugs did not come but I waded out anyway with my rod rigged with an Elk Hair Caddis that I had tied up earlier in the day. On about the fourth cast I unexpectedly had a fish rise to the fly and I promptly yanked it out of its mouth! That was the only fish to be seen, and I refused to change flies and go sub-surface as I intended to wait for the last light and the possibility of a caddis hatch....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on March 13, 2019, 15:36:00 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on March 13, 2019, 15:36:00 PM
At least you tried!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on March 13, 2019, 20:10:05 PM
Post by: driver on March 13, 2019, 20:10:05 PM
I rode up there this evening. I wasn't too far away with work. I saw a total of 5 caddis, no risers, and caught 1 dink on a nymph.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 14, 2019, 12:59:16 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 14, 2019, 12:59:16 PM
I though you would have taken a hint from my post, but no, you had to go see for yourself! :banana072:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 14, 2019, 14:19:01 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 14, 2019, 14:19:01 PM
Another week of 24/7 announced. b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on March 14, 2019, 17:20:15 PM
Post by: Onslow on March 14, 2019, 17:20:15 PM
The bass are starting to bite.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on March 15, 2019, 20:04:52 PM
Post by: Fishbug on March 15, 2019, 20:04:52 PM
The Smith sucks
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on March 16, 2019, 09:23:55 AM
Post by: Al on March 16, 2019, 09:23:55 AM
Quote from: Fishbug on March 15, 2019, 20:04:52 PMThe Smith sucks
Got to jump in to defend my favorite river:
Yes, the Smith sucks at the present time because the flows are messed up and have been for the past 2-3 years. But we are working with "the powers to be" to change that to more favorable recreational flows. No decisions yet but they are listening to us - If we are successful you can thank SRTU. Maybe you can even start attending SRTU meetings to show your support and be an important part of the process of making the fishery more angler friendly.
The Smith is the closest trout stream to a large population of VA and NC residents that can support multiple fisherman on a daily basis without it feeling over crowded.
The Smith offers something for everyone - stocked trout for the "put and take" crowd; stream spawned browns for the "catch and release" fishermen; good flows for the paddlers; 95% of the trout holding water is accessible without fear of trespassing - see a pull over, park and go fishing - businesses in town don't mind if you park in their parking lot as long as you don't park near the front door; there are walking trails for the walkers; boating, fishing, and camping in an undeveloped setting behind the dam; flood control for those downstream; drinking water for the nearby communities; etc, etc.
The Smith sucks if your angling experience / skills are limited to delayed harvest streams or small wild trout streams, both of which are great fun but relatively easy to fish. Have a good day on the Smith on a regular basis and you can transfer the skills learned there to make yourself a better all round fisherman.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 16, 2019, 10:17:00 AM
Post by: Dougfish on March 16, 2019, 10:17:00 AM
I think that was tongue in cheek, btw.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on March 16, 2019, 12:00:41 PM
Post by: Onslow on March 16, 2019, 12:00:41 PM
I second FB even though I've never fished the Smith.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on March 19, 2019, 20:14:25 PM
Post by: Fishbug on March 19, 2019, 20:14:25 PM
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 21, 2019, 09:35:23 AM
Post by: Dougfish on March 21, 2019, 09:35:23 AM
Philpott Generation schedule for Mar 23-29
We are finally able to cutback from the months of heavy generation. Get out and enjoy the river and stay safe!
Sat. 23rd- 5am-1pm & 6pm-11pm
Sun. 24th- 6am-11am & 7pm-10pm
Mon. 25th- 6am -12pm & 6pm-10pm
Tues. 26th- 6am-2pm & 5pm-11pm
Wed. 27th- 5am-2pm & 5pm-11pm
Thur. 28th- 5am-2pm & 5pm-11pm
Fri. 29th- 5am-2pm & 5pm-11pm
*Note: THis schedule is subject to change without notice.
We are finally able to cutback from the months of heavy generation. Get out and enjoy the river and stay safe!
Sat. 23rd- 5am-1pm & 6pm-11pm
Sun. 24th- 6am-11am & 7pm-10pm
Mon. 25th- 6am -12pm & 6pm-10pm
Tues. 26th- 6am-2pm & 5pm-11pm
Wed. 27th- 5am-2pm & 5pm-11pm
Thur. 28th- 5am-2pm & 5pm-11pm
Fri. 29th- 5am-2pm & 5pm-11pm
*Note: THis schedule is subject to change without notice.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 21, 2019, 10:22:26 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 21, 2019, 10:22:26 AM
I've also been seeing some, a few, not many, nice, big, but not huge, healthy brown trouts being caught on the lower river from floaty boats...
I may give Sat, Sun, Mon a shot wading on the upper.... jis say'in
I may give Sat, Sun, Mon a shot wading on the upper.... jis say'in
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 23, 2019, 22:33:16 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 23, 2019, 22:33:16 PM
When the first real opportunity to fish the upper smith in what used to be normal flow conditions popped up upon us this weekend. Thoughts of catching handfuls of rising brown trout brought Fishbug, Dougfish and da bugger out to the old special regs section. Greetings and beers were passed in the parking lot and we all headed down to the water to wait for it to fall.
I kept thinking that swinging a streamer on the falling water might not be bad idea, but really was more interested in eating my snad and finishing up my beer.
Doug headed downstream and fishbug went up, I stayed in the middle and waited and waited for the water to fall and the fish to rise.
There were a number of bugs on the water and at times there were a lot of bwos. After many hours of fruitless euro trash nymphing Doug called it quits and Fishbug reported one on the nymph rig and one on a dry. We had gathered at the starting point and we watched as Fishbug worked a riser in the slack water up against the far bank. He made many money casts, serving up the fly to the dinner plate, and got five or six responses, but failed to hook the little bastard.
As the evening approached they left me alone to wait for the final chance of an evening rise. Finally as it approached seven o'clock fish began to rise. The first one to come to hand was from the same eddy that Fishbug had tried so hard to catch. Then three rose a little further downstream, and I caught a couple down that way before the water began to rise at twenty past seven.
Good times, good beers, fishing was awesome, but the catching sucked!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/032319-1.jpg)
Stenonema or Epeorus???
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/032319-2.jpg)
Tasty!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/032319-3.jpg)
Spring Beauty
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/032319-4.jpg)
Fishbug fishing
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/032319-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/032319-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/032319-7.jpg)
Tons of this crap growing in the stream now... a lot of it is dead...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/032319-8.jpg)
punes of the smith
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/032319-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/032319-10.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on March 24, 2019, 16:58:14 PM
Post by: creakycane on March 24, 2019, 16:58:14 PM
Wonder why the water is so warm when they cut off the flows at noon?
The low water times are typically colder, not warmer? I hope this is not going to result in low, warm releases for any length of time..... Thoughts?
https://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?02072000
https://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?02072500
The low water times are typically colder, not warmer? I hope this is not going to result in low, warm releases for any length of time..... Thoughts?
https://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?02072000
https://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?02072500
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 24, 2019, 18:49:16 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 24, 2019, 18:49:16 PM
On it.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on March 24, 2019, 20:46:45 PM
Post by: 22midge on March 24, 2019, 20:46:45 PM
inversion in the lake maybe
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on March 25, 2019, 06:06:12 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on March 25, 2019, 06:06:12 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on March 23, 2019, 22:33:16 PM
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/032319-7.jpg)
Tons of this crap growing in the stream now... a lot of it is dead...
Podostemum ceratophyllum, not “crapâ€, ecologically a treasured plant with different common names, perennial so not dead, just resting.
https://gobotany.newenglandwild.org/species/podostemum/ceratophyllum/
https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2016/08/qe/podostemum-ceratophyllum-2012.pdf
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 25, 2019, 08:54:35 AM
Post by: Dougfish on March 25, 2019, 08:54:35 AM
A foundation aquatic plant. Highly beneficial. A sign of good water.
It's supposedly going backwards quickly on the Roanoke tribs. Hmmm, who'd a thunk it?
I'll take that plant. On the other hand, the rock snot has been sluiced away pretty good.
It's supposedly going backwards quickly on the Roanoke tribs. Hmmm, who'd a thunk it?
I'll take that plant. On the other hand, the rock snot has been sluiced away pretty good.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 25, 2019, 09:35:31 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 25, 2019, 09:35:31 AM
Quote from: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on March 25, 2019, 06:06:12 AMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on March 23, 2019, 22:33:16 PM
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/032319-7.jpg)
Tons of this crap growing in the stream now... a lot of it is dead...
Podostemum ceratophyllum, not “crapâ€, ecologically a treasured plant with different common names, perennial so not dead, just resting.
https://gobotany.newenglandwild.org/species/podostemum/ceratophyllum/
https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2016/08/qe/podostemum-ceratophyllum-2012.pdf
I call crap because the fish dive into it will break you off p;-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on March 25, 2019, 17:26:18 PM
Post by: Fishbug on March 25, 2019, 17:26:18 PM
Good stuff.
Nice creeper photos WB.
Glad you caught that bastard under the rhodies.
Id post some pics but crapatalk no longer a thing?!
Nice creeper photos WB.
Glad you caught that bastard under the rhodies.
Id post some pics but crapatalk no longer a thing?!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 25, 2019, 18:15:22 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 25, 2019, 18:15:22 PM
Went back again today -0- cloudy skies looked like primo BWO weather :banana026:
Was on the water by 2:00 and it had receded to a good wadable level. Right off the bat small pune sized fish were rising it that little back eddy on the far bank. I managed to pick off three of them. Then I moved up and drifted the Puff Daddy in some runs known to hold trouts. Eventually I found some interested fish and got them to rise and take the fly. Count was up to seven. Moved on down a ways and tried to pick off some risers but only managed to break off two flies on the overhanging branches.
It was raining harder now and without a rain jacket my shirt sleeves were soaked. I cast to some old productive runs and got a couple of more fish to hand. I was becoming difficult to keep the fly afloat and I called it a day after catching one more trout.
032519-2.jpg
032519-3.jpg
032519-1.jpg
Was on the water by 2:00 and it had receded to a good wadable level. Right off the bat small pune sized fish were rising it that little back eddy on the far bank. I managed to pick off three of them. Then I moved up and drifted the Puff Daddy in some runs known to hold trouts. Eventually I found some interested fish and got them to rise and take the fly. Count was up to seven. Moved on down a ways and tried to pick off some risers but only managed to break off two flies on the overhanging branches.
It was raining harder now and without a rain jacket my shirt sleeves were soaked. I cast to some old productive runs and got a couple of more fish to hand. I was becoming difficult to keep the fly afloat and I called it a day after catching one more trout.
032519-2.jpg
032519-3.jpg
032519-1.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on March 25, 2019, 18:42:38 PM
Post by: Fishbug on March 25, 2019, 18:42:38 PM
Punetastic!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 25, 2019, 19:01:39 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 25, 2019, 19:01:39 PM
You magnificent bastard.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on March 25, 2019, 19:06:13 PM
Post by: troutrus on March 25, 2019, 19:06:13 PM
Saw this today on Philpott Lake Facebook page. Says it was caught in the Smith River. Looks like it’s time to get off my butt and head up that way. Photo looks phony. Anybody know?
6C0B3410-690E-480A-9E05-13A825623A05.jpeg
6C0B3410-690E-480A-9E05-13A825623A05.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on March 25, 2019, 19:11:33 PM
Post by: troutrus on March 25, 2019, 19:11:33 PM
Haven’t been there for several years. Is a trout license required in the old “special regulation section†between Towne Creek and the bridge at 666?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 25, 2019, 19:54:26 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 25, 2019, 19:54:26 PM
No trout stamp needed in that section.
That pic is at least 18 months old. Various claims since then. Dubious is all I'll say.
That pic is at least 18 months old. Various claims since then. Dubious is all I'll say.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 25, 2019, 21:51:58 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 25, 2019, 21:51:58 PM
I believe that fish was caught sept 2017 if memory serves me correct. The guys name is billy bocock. Strict bait fisherman. Nice fella though. Caught it up near the dam.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 26, 2019, 11:35:42 AM
Post by: Dougfish on March 26, 2019, 11:35:42 AM
QuoteWonder why the water is so warm when they cut off the flows at noon?Gauge malfunction. All good.
The low water times are typically colder, not warmer? I hope this is not going to result in low, warm releases for any length of time..... Thoughts?
https://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?02072000
https://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?02072500
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on March 26, 2019, 14:39:36 PM
Post by: Fin on March 26, 2019, 14:39:36 PM
QuotePhoto looks phony. Anybody know?
Posted on another site I follow by Mr. Billy himself.
"It was back during the spawn. It was a big female on the nest and this big male I caught was chasing everything away. Just great timing and a bad decisions on his part."
"12 lbs and 14 oz. 30 and 1/2 in."
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 28, 2019, 08:36:27 AM
Post by: Dougfish on March 28, 2019, 08:36:27 AM
Philpott Generation Schedule for Mar. 30-Apr. 5
Sat. 30th, 6am-12pm & 6pm-10pm
Sun. 31st, 6am-10am & 5pm-11pm
Mon. 1st, 24 hours
Tues. 2nd, 24 hours
Wed. 3rd, 12am-1am & 5am-12am midnight
Thur. 4th, 12am-1am & 5am-12am midnight
Fri. 5th, 12am-1am & 5am-12am midnight
(Apr.3-5, Generation all day except 1am-5am)
*Note:This schedule is subject to change without notice.
Sat. 30th, 6am-12pm & 6pm-10pm
Sun. 31st, 6am-10am & 5pm-11pm
Mon. 1st, 24 hours
Tues. 2nd, 24 hours
Wed. 3rd, 12am-1am & 5am-12am midnight
Thur. 4th, 12am-1am & 5am-12am midnight
Fri. 5th, 12am-1am & 5am-12am midnight
(Apr.3-5, Generation all day except 1am-5am)
*Note:This schedule is subject to change without notice.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 29, 2019, 21:30:52 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 29, 2019, 21:30:52 PM
Slipped down for a quick between generation fish. Dries all the way.
Nothing happening a for a good while as the water settled to the max.
Beers. Watching. Setting. Walking.
(https://i.imgur.com/2gxs8u7l.jpg)
Went upstream and found some rising fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/fEk6Gn6l.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QkJao8Bl.jpg)
I'll be back.
Nothing happening a for a good while as the water settled to the max.
Beers. Watching. Setting. Walking.
(https://i.imgur.com/2gxs8u7l.jpg)
Went upstream and found some rising fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/fEk6Gn6l.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QkJao8Bl.jpg)
I'll be back.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 01, 2019, 08:08:43 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 01, 2019, 08:08:43 AM
And I thought the wind was bad on Saturday!
With a favorable break in the generation on the weekends I've gone back for more pune punishment on the Smith. Saturday starting at about 2:30 with sporadic bwos and a very few risers. I caught the usual suspects and a few that were smaller than expected. Fishbug joined in on the game but left early, not that that was a bad idea. There were a ton of bugs at 7:00 but not enough to get the fish excited, they would take a skated Puff Daddy, but they didn't show themselves by rising steadily. I left just as the water started to come up.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/033119-1.jpg)
Someone explain to me the 19.2 oz? what's up with that?
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/033119-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/033119-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/033119-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/033119-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/033119-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/033119-7.jpg)
I wasn't sure that I would go back on Sunday, but somehow couldn't stay away. And I joined two other BRFFF bums on the river. They had gone down and dirty and had caught a few (Driver anyway) but keeping the fly in the water was difficult if not impossible with the gale force winds blasting down the river.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/033119-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/033119-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/03/033119p-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 01, 2019, 09:39:04 AM
Post by: Dougfish on April 01, 2019, 09:39:04 AM
Imperial pint.
WB and Driver threw in the towel and hit the road. I was dumb enough to stay.
I moved up to less of a wind tunnel and switched to dry/dropper.
Scored a couple on two miraculous drag free drifts.
(https://i.imgur.com/PgOop5Gl.jpg)
Feeling cocky, I went back down the promised land and managed one more on numerous downstream presentations in the howling wind.
Off the water by 5. FTS.
(https://i.imgur.com/YZD9Av2l.jpg)
WB and Driver threw in the towel and hit the road. I was dumb enough to stay.
I moved up to less of a wind tunnel and switched to dry/dropper.
Scored a couple on two miraculous drag free drifts.
(https://i.imgur.com/PgOop5Gl.jpg)
Feeling cocky, I went back down the promised land and managed one more on numerous downstream presentations in the howling wind.
Off the water by 5. FTS.
(https://i.imgur.com/YZD9Av2l.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on April 01, 2019, 18:06:49 PM
Post by: ryguy on April 01, 2019, 18:06:49 PM
Nice! Excellent choice of beer Woolly, Hardywood’s Richmond Lager is one of my favorites.
Hope the winds die down, water looks great (when not generating)
Hope the winds die down, water looks great (when not generating)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 04, 2019, 06:48:09 AM
Post by: Dougfish on April 04, 2019, 06:48:09 AM
Philpott Generation Schedule for April 6-12
Sat. 6th, 6am-8am & 7pm-9pm
Sun. 7th, 6pm-9pm
Mon. 8th, 6am-2pm & 4pm-10pm
Tues. 9th, 6am-1pm & 4pm-10pm
Wed. 10th, 6am-1pm & 5pm-10pm
Thur. 11th, 6am-1pm & 5pm-10pm
Fri. 12th, 6am-1pm & 5pm-10pm
*Note: This schedule is subject to change without notice.
Sat. 6th, 6am-8am & 7pm-9pm
Sun. 7th, 6pm-9pm
Mon. 8th, 6am-2pm & 4pm-10pm
Tues. 9th, 6am-1pm & 4pm-10pm
Wed. 10th, 6am-1pm & 5pm-10pm
Thur. 11th, 6am-1pm & 5pm-10pm
Fri. 12th, 6am-1pm & 5pm-10pm
*Note: This schedule is subject to change without notice.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on April 04, 2019, 17:23:03 PM
Post by: Al on April 04, 2019, 17:23:03 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on April 04, 2019, 06:48:09 AMPhilpott Generation Schedule for April 6-12
Sat. 6th, 6am-8am & 7pm-9pm
Sun. 7th, 6pm-9pm
Mon. 8th, 6am-2pm & 4pm-10pm
Tues. 9th, 6am-1pm & 4pm-10pm
Wed. 10th, 6am-1pm & 5pm-10pm
Thur. 11th, 6am-1pm & 5pm-10pm
Fri. 12th, 6am-1pm & 5pm-10pm
*Note: This schedule is subject to change without notice.
Not sure if you saw comments on original post, Brian is already crying about no paddling this weekend.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 04, 2019, 18:33:42 PM
Post by: Dougfish on April 04, 2019, 18:33:42 PM
Fuck him. n!n
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on April 04, 2019, 19:03:31 PM
Post by: Onslow on April 04, 2019, 19:03:31 PM
Schooling for Brian.....
Facts: The Smith River drains 215 sq. miles at Philpott dam, and 379 at the Martinsville USGS gage...and yes it is spelled gage, not effing gauge. This means that there is 164 sq. miles of drainage between the two locations. If there was no water coming out of Philpott, I estimate that the flow would be 250 cfs at Martinsville. Why, because the nearby NF Mayo is running 1.5 cfs per sq. mile as we speak, and will be more than this over the weekend. While 350 cfs is on the low side, it is PLENTY of water for floatage below Martinsville. I PREFER LOWER flows than this for float fishing comparable sized watersheds. Floating the Smith at 120 cfs is entirely feasible.
This guy is masquerading as some kind of leader in the field of river floating. He needs to shut the hell up and go to school.
Facts: The Smith River drains 215 sq. miles at Philpott dam, and 379 at the Martinsville USGS gage...and yes it is spelled gage, not effing gauge. This means that there is 164 sq. miles of drainage between the two locations. If there was no water coming out of Philpott, I estimate that the flow would be 250 cfs at Martinsville. Why, because the nearby NF Mayo is running 1.5 cfs per sq. mile as we speak, and will be more than this over the weekend. While 350 cfs is on the low side, it is PLENTY of water for floatage below Martinsville. I PREFER LOWER flows than this for float fishing comparable sized watersheds. Floating the Smith at 120 cfs is entirely feasible.
This guy is masquerading as some kind of leader in the field of river floating. He needs to shut the hell up and go to school.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on April 04, 2019, 19:13:03 PM
Post by: troutrus on April 04, 2019, 19:13:03 PM
Since the water was high for months, I would think the paddlers had plenty of opportunity.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on April 04, 2019, 20:07:08 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on April 04, 2019, 20:07:08 PM
Quote from: Onslow on April 04, 2019, 19:03:31 PMSchooling for Brian.....
Facts: The Smith River drains 215 sq. miles at Philpott dam, and 379 at the Martinsville USGS gage...and yes it is spelled gage, not effing gauge. This means that there is 164 sq. miles of drainage between the two locations. If there was no water coming out of Philpott, I estimate that the flow would be 250 cfs at Martinsville. Why, because the nearby NF Mayo is running 1.5 cfs per sq. mile as we speak, and will be more than this over the weekend. While 350 cfs is on the low side, it is PLENTY of water for floatage below Martinsville. I PREFER LOWER flows than this for float fishing comparable sized watersheds. Floating the Smith at 120 cfs is entirely feasible.
This guy is masquerading as some kind of leader in the field of river floating. He needs to shut the hell up and go to school.
I don't think he would disagree with you and I don't either. Based on what you are talking about below martinsville dam, we float and fish that with no water coming over the dam. It's not a problem at all and yes, the fishing is perfectly fine. If you folks haven't noticed, he hasn't been advertising floats on the lower river. That has left the lower river to the fishermen with few plastic hatches coming off. If you don't believe me, thats fine. I've been on the river 8x in the past 3 weeks and haven't seen one kayak or canoe.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 07, 2019, 21:11:32 PM
Post by: Dougfish on April 07, 2019, 21:11:32 PM
All day Saturday to fish. No gen, 8-7, pretty day. Too pretty?
Suited up, loaded up the pack with beverages and headed down to fish a run the water had probably dropped at by now. No bugs flying. Tied on the nymphs and dredged up 2 where there should have been 5 plus.
(https://i.imgur.com/Wb4pL71.jpg)
Walked out and found 2 young guys walking in. We will meet later.
Wildflowers are getting righteous.
Bluebells
(https://i.imgur.com/wOPRTrF.jpg)
Started sitting, fishing and drinking a breakfast beer. Picked up a few more.
(https://i.imgur.com/WqXx7YT.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xoaMxYL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Qve3LT6.jpg)
Noticed the homies had moved just below me. Then they started to work down stream. :o
Whatever. Watched two paired up hawks circle and with the male squalling at a interloper.
(https://i.imgur.com/pnqDN5q.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xQ4Ufw6.jpg)
I decided to hike down below and get below them to fish a couple of runs before they fudged them up.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZdIFrwk.jpg)
Dutchman's Breeches
(https://i.imgur.com/tlUwPV4.jpg)
Then the phone started blowing up with texts. Fishbug and a new guy were looking for me.
The Bug arrived and joined in. The guys above us spoiled one of my favorite holes before jumping out and heading down the tracks. Then Austin cruised in. We chatted, then he started in. I needed to re-fuel, so I boogied back to the Subaru, dropped the empties and repacked the reinforcements. Found Fishbug, lost Austin. We finally got back together about the time the Bug had to bail.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZdIFrwk.jpg)
Not so good pic of a good fish. Big paddle.
(https://i.imgur.com/djIrvdQ.jpg)
Tied on a puffdaddy and watched Austin snag a few more out of the back of a pool with the stonefly. he hit the road and I sat and waited. And waited. And waited. Some bugs were flying upstream, no rises. I moved upstream to slack water that had been good last week. Almost no rises. No bugs. Threw some stupid blind casts before heading out.
(https://i.imgur.com/pBw3U52.jpg)
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 12, 2019, 09:39:29 AM
Post by: Dougfish on April 12, 2019, 09:39:29 AM
No generation for Sat. and Sunday, April 13-14.
Watch the gauges for April 15-May 3. They are performing maintenance at the dam and there will be no regular generation. They will be sluicing. Output could vary depending on input.
How bout a sulfur hatch?!?!
Watch the gauges for April 15-May 3. They are performing maintenance at the dam and there will be no regular generation. They will be sluicing. Output could vary depending on input.
How bout a sulfur hatch?!?!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 12, 2019, 13:52:44 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 12, 2019, 13:52:44 PM
planning a Sunday trip! 0:0 <-;: :banana026: -0-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on April 13, 2019, 14:28:24 PM
Post by: Fishbug on April 13, 2019, 14:28:24 PM
Good stuff Doug
I got lots of new trutt pics but too lazy to upload. Maybe some day...
I got lots of new trutt pics but too lazy to upload. Maybe some day...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on April 13, 2019, 18:35:26 PM
Post by: driver on April 13, 2019, 18:35:26 PM
I wouldn't waste your time tomorrow. Townes is running pumpkin orange.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 14, 2019, 08:07:49 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 14, 2019, 08:07:49 AM
Plan B RiverRun film festival d:b
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 27, 2019, 14:34:26 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 27, 2019, 14:34:26 PM
Brewed a pot of coffee and put 2 butts on the smoker at 6:15.
Headed out for the cold water.
(https://i.imgur.com/0HRcO3K.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/h4MJ1VD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/cyg0SGQ.jpg)
Breakfast beer.
(https://i.imgur.com/MWca0FP.jpg)
Euro'd it for a while. I was determined to practice, even though the flows were low. Some sulfurs were coming off in fits and starts. The trout were keying more on the emergers. I struggled but picked up a few on the anchor fly, not the fluttering nymph/soft hackle. I noticed the bossman above me a bit later. He was picking up some fish on the dry. I waded up stream, exchanged pleasantries and swapped my leader out. Puff daddy time.
(https://i.imgur.com/fwEk9yB.jpg)
I jumped around him and fished pretty quick up through some frog water. Picked up 3 or 4 on the way to the targeted run.
(https://i.imgur.com/CAtJiHW.jpg)
Hit the solid run and nothing in the back half. WTF?
Picked up a few in the head and called it a day before the water came up. Keith waded up, we hopped out and I spotted him a beer at the cars.
Another punearama in the books.
(https://i.imgur.com/k8wOel1.jpg)
0:0
Headed out for the cold water.
(https://i.imgur.com/0HRcO3K.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/h4MJ1VD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/cyg0SGQ.jpg)
Breakfast beer.
(https://i.imgur.com/MWca0FP.jpg)
Euro'd it for a while. I was determined to practice, even though the flows were low. Some sulfurs were coming off in fits and starts. The trout were keying more on the emergers. I struggled but picked up a few on the anchor fly, not the fluttering nymph/soft hackle. I noticed the bossman above me a bit later. He was picking up some fish on the dry. I waded up stream, exchanged pleasantries and swapped my leader out. Puff daddy time.
(https://i.imgur.com/fwEk9yB.jpg)
I jumped around him and fished pretty quick up through some frog water. Picked up 3 or 4 on the way to the targeted run.
(https://i.imgur.com/CAtJiHW.jpg)
Hit the solid run and nothing in the back half. WTF?
Picked up a few in the head and called it a day before the water came up. Keith waded up, we hopped out and I spotted him a beer at the cars.
Another punearama in the books.
(https://i.imgur.com/k8wOel1.jpg)
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on May 27, 2019, 16:01:23 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on May 27, 2019, 16:01:23 PM
Doug....Doug- just think what you would have caught without that banana!
Also just remember euro nymphing does not work.
Also just remember euro nymphing does not work.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 27, 2019, 16:29:12 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 27, 2019, 16:29:12 PM
DF wasn't the only one that had the Smith on the radar with the only wading opportunity in quite sometime.
Several options were presented this weekend.. low 300 cfs sluice on the SoHo, carps and smallies on the Gnu, but the shortest route to dry fly satisfaction was the Smith. I was a little late in my start due to indication about my options.
I'm glad I picked the Smith because as soon as I got on the water there were a lot of trout rising, slashing as emergers. I tied on a puff daddy and started catching the punes of the Smith. This lasted for about an hour and then things started slowing down and by noon it was all over as far as dry fly fishing went.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/05/052719-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/05/052719-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/05/052719-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/05/052719-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/05/052719-5.jpg)
this dude tried to high hole me, but I ran him of and made him surrender a beer in the parking lot
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/05/052719-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on May 27, 2019, 18:38:05 PM
Post by: Fishbug on May 27, 2019, 18:38:05 PM
Pune-tastic
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 02, 2019, 20:50:28 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 02, 2019, 20:50:28 PM
Sunday, still waiting on Spork to drop a pin on a map <-;:
Took a while to get out the door and I got to the river late but the fish were rising all over the place. Picking bastads and I was out of Comparduns, puff daddy worked some of the time. Had to twitch it to get them to attack it. It lasted until just after 12 and then shut down... fished a little while longer, but was at Papa's Pizza before the water hit.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/06/060219-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/06/060219-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/06/060219-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/06/060219-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/06/060219-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/06/060219-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/06/060219-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on June 03, 2019, 06:44:55 AM
Post by: Al on June 03, 2019, 06:44:55 AM
20190601_113350_resized.jpgDon't forget to thank Smith River TU for orchestrating some fishermen friendly flows. We definitely got them to hold off until noon on Saturday for our clean up and it looks like they have us in mind for the remainder of the week. Not sure if it will continue. We are still in talks with them - we will see.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on June 03, 2019, 10:34:11 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on June 03, 2019, 10:34:11 AM
@Woolly Bugger - I almost hit it myself Sunday morning. About the time I realized I had an opportunity to fish is when I checked the release schedule and figured out that I wouldn't have had very much time at all to fish once I got there. Next time!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 16, 2019, 10:23:29 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 16, 2019, 10:23:29 AM
So it was time for new tires, just a little tread left and that last puncture forced the issue, oh and that noise wasn't just from the tires, bad rear wheel bearing n!n All good now and the CR-V with 124K is rolling smooth and quiet again.
Saturday, let's go fishing I thought, check the damn dam schedule, go to Facebook, check Philpott lake page, scroll on down... there is is... Saturday NO generation, cool! No real hurry to get to the river, the little yaller bugs won't start popping in the cool of the morning. I'll get there by 9:30 and fish all damn day if I feel like it.
Stopped and got some Chorizo, Cheese, Beer (Sam Adams '76 is my new go to Summer brew). Two cars in the lot, one local and one Subaru from NC. Started the walk in... turned around 'cause the Trouthunter Tippet was left behind. Got to "Sally's Pool" and rigged up with trout smacking bugs in the background. A few birds were feeding and things were looking up. I tied on a compardun and went to work with a 8 ft 3 wt and despite the ever present wind on the Smith was getting some good cast and drifts in. But the fish were missing the fly! 1, 2, 3, a bump, a slash, a jump over, none hooked up, but I was determined to hook a fish on this fly, damn it! Time to sit down and have a beer! 4, 5, 6, 7, okay this is getting absurd. Maybe another beer will help. I set quicker, then slower, "God save the Queen" and all that rot. Got some good (for the Smith) fish to rise but still nothing came to hand. Worked another run and 9, 10, 11 failed to hook themselves.
Okay there is another fish rising on the far side of the current just past the tree. Cast and cast again, oh a rise, set the hook (https://news.orvis.com/fly-fishing/Tuesday-Tip-How-to-Set-the-Hook) and fish on. Time for a celebratory beer!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/06/061519-2.jpg)
As I sat on the bank and enjoyed slices of Chorizo and cheese chased by sips of Sam Adams '76 I noticed that the water was louder and oh crap looked like it was rising! Sure enough the damn dam was open and my fishing was over. I glanced downstream and saw an angler battling the strong current and flailing away. Surely he'll get out soon as the water continued to rise. Awe crap, I better go check on him. So I walked on down and bushwhacked in to the water's edge just above him and observed that he was just stubbornly containing to cast into the run of rushing water with his euro rig.
I walked back down the edge of the field and back to the car. There was only the Subaru in the lot now. As I was taking off my gear the other angler walked in and we talked for a while. Turns out Mark is from Clemmons and has only fished the Smith a few times. I gave him a BRFFF PSB sticker, invited him to join the forum and then he headed on down to the lover river and I drove home.
Turns out the FB schedule was from the previous week! n!n <-;:
Photos at 11.
@Mudwall, what? where? when? how?
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/06/061519-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/06/061519-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/06/061519-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/06/061519-5.jpg)
fin
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 17, 2019, 09:07:25 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 17, 2019, 09:07:25 AM
pics posted...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on June 23, 2019, 16:37:01 PM
Post by: Al on June 23, 2019, 16:37:01 PM
With the erratic flows coming out of Philpott Reservoir it has been difficult for DGIF to schedule a sampling of the Smith River trout fishery which extends for 31 miles downstream of the dam. With only one working turbine it takes twice as long for the COE to manage the inflows and outflows so there is not a backup of water behind the dam. Sometime the inflows are so great they have to open the sluice gate but that allows flows downstream without passing through the turbine which is viewed by some as revenue lost - nonetheless with frequent torrential rains so far this year that has been the scenario. This past Thursday and hopefully one day next week the generation schedule was such that DGIF fisheries biologists are able to get on the river using their sampling raft supported by a flotilla of Smith River Trout Unlimited (SRTU) volunteers.
DSCN7646.JPG
A couple of the younger SRTU volunteers brought their own raft
DSCN7649.JPG
I turned 80 this past week - here's my ride
DSCN7650.JPG
That first stretch of water got me thinking maybe those boys in the raft had the right idea but once I got my sea-legs I was good to go.
DSCN7655.JPG
The electronic probes on the raft cover about a 6 foot section of the river. With a river the size of the Smith the biologists estimate they pass over less that 10% of the fish. The raft is moving with the flow so the designated net person only gets one stab at a temporarily stunned fish - Probably less than 5% of the fish are actually collected for the sample. With all that said, it still didn't take long to collect a cooler full of fish.
DSCN7702.JPG
DSCN7663.JPG
Now the work begins. First thing is locating a shallow but calm area away from the flow of the main river
DSCN7662.JPG
Next they doctor up a big tub with a few drops of clove oil to calm the fish down so they will come to hand one at a time for measurement and weight. All fish were returned safely to the water and were last seen swimming upstream shaking their heads wondering "what the heck just happened?"
DSCN7664.JPG
DSCN7669.JPG
Measurement and weights, along with species of fish and total numbers are meticulously recorded. This data is later entered into a computer program that helps determine the health of the river which aides in management decisions.
DSCN7670.JPG
And so it went for a half a dozen "cooler full" floats down the river to our predetermined take-out point. I am not sure of the total numbers but can report there are no shortage of catchable size fish in the river. One thing was very apparent each time we stopped to process fish and that was there are a ton of rainbow trout still in the river from the "put and take stocking season". George Palmer, the lead biologist remarked several times "you fisherman are not doing your jobs!". Our response is the constant daytime flows have prevented local and visiting fishermen from safely wading the river to harvest fish placed there at a great expense for the purpose of recreation and consumption. This situation is not going to change without the cooperation of all stakeholders involved. I believe the recreational users of the river, i.e. the fishermen, the paddlers and the hikers can come to a workable compromise- that leaves the bigger stakeholders, i.e. the COE and Dominion Power.
DSCN7701.JPG
We rolled up some nice fish. Regardless of the size all of the fish looked healthy and well fed.
DSCN7686.JPG
DSCN7707.JPG
DSCN7724.JPG
The takeout point for this section was an improvised ramp just below the Fieldale Bridge - We don't recommend you use it unless you have a winch on your 4WD vehicle.
DSCN7749.JPG
DSCN7757.JPG
DSCN7756.JPG
DSCN7646.JPG
A couple of the younger SRTU volunteers brought their own raft
DSCN7649.JPG
I turned 80 this past week - here's my ride
DSCN7650.JPG
That first stretch of water got me thinking maybe those boys in the raft had the right idea but once I got my sea-legs I was good to go.
DSCN7655.JPG
The electronic probes on the raft cover about a 6 foot section of the river. With a river the size of the Smith the biologists estimate they pass over less that 10% of the fish. The raft is moving with the flow so the designated net person only gets one stab at a temporarily stunned fish - Probably less than 5% of the fish are actually collected for the sample. With all that said, it still didn't take long to collect a cooler full of fish.
DSCN7702.JPG
DSCN7663.JPG
Now the work begins. First thing is locating a shallow but calm area away from the flow of the main river
DSCN7662.JPG
Next they doctor up a big tub with a few drops of clove oil to calm the fish down so they will come to hand one at a time for measurement and weight. All fish were returned safely to the water and were last seen swimming upstream shaking their heads wondering "what the heck just happened?"
DSCN7664.JPG
DSCN7669.JPG
Measurement and weights, along with species of fish and total numbers are meticulously recorded. This data is later entered into a computer program that helps determine the health of the river which aides in management decisions.
DSCN7670.JPG
And so it went for a half a dozen "cooler full" floats down the river to our predetermined take-out point. I am not sure of the total numbers but can report there are no shortage of catchable size fish in the river. One thing was very apparent each time we stopped to process fish and that was there are a ton of rainbow trout still in the river from the "put and take stocking season". George Palmer, the lead biologist remarked several times "you fisherman are not doing your jobs!". Our response is the constant daytime flows have prevented local and visiting fishermen from safely wading the river to harvest fish placed there at a great expense for the purpose of recreation and consumption. This situation is not going to change without the cooperation of all stakeholders involved. I believe the recreational users of the river, i.e. the fishermen, the paddlers and the hikers can come to a workable compromise- that leaves the bigger stakeholders, i.e. the COE and Dominion Power.
DSCN7701.JPG
We rolled up some nice fish. Regardless of the size all of the fish looked healthy and well fed.
DSCN7686.JPG
DSCN7707.JPG
DSCN7724.JPG
The takeout point for this section was an improvised ramp just below the Fieldale Bridge - We don't recommend you use it unless you have a winch on your 4WD vehicle.
DSCN7749.JPG
DSCN7757.JPG
DSCN7756.JPG
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 23, 2019, 17:03:31 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 23, 2019, 17:03:31 PM
Great write up on the sampling effort
Now I need to float that river and catch some of those big browns.
Now I need to float that river and catch some of those big browns.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 24, 2019, 05:53:37 AM
Post by: Dougfish on June 24, 2019, 05:53:37 AM
Thanks Al, Zach and Alex!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 30, 2019, 11:20:50 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 30, 2019, 11:20:50 AM
After catching a carp at the pond on the Sage One Six weight, I took off to fish the evening on the Smiff after the water fell from the "recreational" release. I put on a new 9' 6x SA leader, the last of my hoard that I purchased from Sierra Trading Post for 50% off. Damn it was hot, there must have been a shower earlier that cooled things off a bit but once the sun came back out the heat was on. I packed the vest full of ice cold Sam Adams '76 beer and laced up my boots, no need for waders on this day. Walked into my spot, "Sally's Pool", and took a look around as I tied on a sulfur comparadun. There were a few risers and a few bugs, 10s, not hundreds, or thousands.
Video timeline:
I followed the sulfurs floating on the water, watch the rod tip in the video, then I was visited by what I make out to be a muskrat, I saw him swimming at the head of the pool headed downstream, but it must have seen me and dove under, I began recording and was just as surprised as it was when it almost swam into me. Next a beer break and then some slo-mo releases, followed by a sip poured to remember those who have passed and finally a splashy rise.
https://vimeo.com/345316144
There wasn't a lot of activity but when the skies darkened and the wind began to blow I contemplated retreating to the car as the thunder boomed loudly in the distance. As I was thinking about making my move the a few fish rose and I spied a few more little yaller bugs on the water. The next hour was the best and I caught 6 or 7 of those little bastards before the sun came back and things quieted down on the water. But one fish stands out, it snatched the puff daddy as it lit upon the water, I set the hook and was immediately surprised by the weight, strength, and speed of this fish and expecting nothing more than a typical SRP (Smith River Pune) I applied too much pressure and the fish broke me off, it could have been a worn knot, but I think it was just a little too much pepper applied to the brakes.
I caught about a dozen on the day with the last one coming to hand at 7:15, I waited another hour, standing in the cool water drinking beer, for a hatch or evening rise. I was disappointed.
here are the few pic that I took with the phone...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/06/062919-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/06/062919-9.jpg)
who knew?
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/06/062919-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/06/062919-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/06/062919-12.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on June 30, 2019, 12:42:45 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on June 30, 2019, 12:42:45 PM
So there is life after carp! I miss Smiffing.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 30, 2019, 14:10:51 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 30, 2019, 14:10:51 PM
Gusto.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 30, 2019, 22:39:58 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 30, 2019, 22:39:58 PM
Quote from: itieuglyflies on June 30, 2019, 12:42:45 PMSo there is life after carp! I miss Smiffing.
Funny thing is the trout worried me as much as the carp on the 6 wt. But 12 lb vs 6x
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 02, 2019, 11:16:30 AM
Post by: Al on July 02, 2019, 11:16:30 AM
Smith River TU assisted DGIF with another sample last week - this one from the Philpott Dam to the Trent Hill Canoe Access just behind the old burned out Chair Factory. DGIF was short handed because one of their biologists is on the injured list with a cut hand. We love to help with these things - all they had to do with point us in the right direction and before long we were part of the fish sampling team.
DSCN7770.JPG
DSCN7771.JPG
As the official photographer I had my usual solo ride - Yes some of those rapids are a little hairy. I almost got unseated by a "sweeper" but this old man just did "the limbo" and sailed right under it.
DSCN7778.JPG
Ran across a prehistoric monster not too far down from the dam which may help validate my initial impression of there were not the numbers of fish we used to collect from that area.
DSCN7782.JPG
DSCN7803.JPG
The next section from Philpott Bridge down through to old Special Regs Section was full of fish and some nice ones at that. We didn't go far before filling the cooler and finding a spot to measure and weigh the fish.
DSCN7809.JPG
DSCN7850.JPG
DSCN7836.JPG
We picked up some real nice ones.
DSCN7854.JPG
DSCN7851.JPG
DSCN7863.JPG
A few of the stocked rainbows we collected made the ultimate sacrifice so we could see what they had been eating. Turns out it was mostly vegetation and other debris which validates the theory of "put and take" because most catchable size stocked fish do not readily adapt to long term survival outside the hatchery. They did not appear to be competing with the browns for bugs, crayfish and other natural forage.
DSCN7871.JPG
DSCN7873.JPG
Check out the belly on this brown. We didn't sacrifice any browns but they appear to be eating well.
DSCN7882.JPG
The Smith River remains one of the best brown trout fisheries in Virginia. There is very little posted land and no one is claiming "Kings Grant" ownership of the river. Access for both fishermen and paddlers is encouraged by landowners, businesses and local community groups. DGIF has spent a lot of money managing a resource which is difficult for the average fisherman to enjoy. Fishermen who wade have been faced with almost constant flows that make wading challenging or impossible. A little fine tuning of the generation schedule by the COE and Dominion Power would go a long way towards showing they are a partner in making the Smith River the centerpiece for recreation and economic tourism.
DSCN7770.JPG
DSCN7771.JPG
As the official photographer I had my usual solo ride - Yes some of those rapids are a little hairy. I almost got unseated by a "sweeper" but this old man just did "the limbo" and sailed right under it.
DSCN7778.JPG
Ran across a prehistoric monster not too far down from the dam which may help validate my initial impression of there were not the numbers of fish we used to collect from that area.
DSCN7782.JPG
DSCN7803.JPG
The next section from Philpott Bridge down through to old Special Regs Section was full of fish and some nice ones at that. We didn't go far before filling the cooler and finding a spot to measure and weigh the fish.
DSCN7809.JPG
DSCN7850.JPG
DSCN7836.JPG
We picked up some real nice ones.
DSCN7854.JPG
DSCN7851.JPG
DSCN7863.JPG
A few of the stocked rainbows we collected made the ultimate sacrifice so we could see what they had been eating. Turns out it was mostly vegetation and other debris which validates the theory of "put and take" because most catchable size stocked fish do not readily adapt to long term survival outside the hatchery. They did not appear to be competing with the browns for bugs, crayfish and other natural forage.
DSCN7871.JPG
DSCN7873.JPG
Check out the belly on this brown. We didn't sacrifice any browns but they appear to be eating well.
DSCN7882.JPG
The Smith River remains one of the best brown trout fisheries in Virginia. There is very little posted land and no one is claiming "Kings Grant" ownership of the river. Access for both fishermen and paddlers is encouraged by landowners, businesses and local community groups. DGIF has spent a lot of money managing a resource which is difficult for the average fisherman to enjoy. Fishermen who wade have been faced with almost constant flows that make wading challenging or impossible. A little fine tuning of the generation schedule by the COE and Dominion Power would go a long way towards showing they are a partner in making the Smith River the centerpiece for recreation and economic tourism.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 02, 2019, 11:32:58 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 02, 2019, 11:32:58 AM
Sweet work!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2019, 12:46:03 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2019, 12:46:03 PM
Good stuff there Al!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on July 02, 2019, 17:48:19 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on July 02, 2019, 17:48:19 PM
Al should be an inspiration for all of us...Keep it up, and thanks for the informative report
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: dhjunkie on July 03, 2019, 18:52:03 PM
Post by: dhjunkie on July 03, 2019, 18:52:03 PM
Great write up and pics Al. Thank you.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 06, 2019, 22:19:57 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 06, 2019, 22:19:57 PM
Ran into an old BRFFFer at the parking lot today, Scott showed up, said it was his third fishing trip in two years, family life has taken its toll.
Very few sulfurs out but a few fish were rising and I manages to bring 8 or 9 to hand in th eevening. It got real quie after 7 pm and I left around 7:30, Scott followed shortly after that and there was another angler down on the water, he arrived after we go there.
https://vimeo.com/346641874
Very few sulfurs out but a few fish were rising and I manages to bring 8 or 9 to hand in th eevening. It got real quie after 7 pm and I left around 7:30, Scott followed shortly after that and there was another angler down on the water, he arrived after we go there.
https://vimeo.com/346641874
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: dhjunkie on July 07, 2019, 19:09:06 PM
Post by: dhjunkie on July 07, 2019, 19:09:06 PM
Can't wait till the day I find a pff sticker on my windshield!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 08, 2019, 12:28:46 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 08, 2019, 12:28:46 PM
after reading Al's shocking reports, I was ready to float the middle seciton with Spork when he called. We planne to canoe from above the 220 bridge to Fieldale access. The damn scheule was for a 10 to 2 release and we put in at ten and fished our way downstream on the low water. I wasn't quite sure what to expect. We eneded up cathing most of our fish in the riffles and runs when we beached the canoe and got out to wade. I wouln't say it was on fire, but we caught fish all day long. Thunder stormes were popping up and we expreinced a shower for about a half an hour but fortunatly the lightneing and thunder stayed to the south and we didn't fear for our lives but I did consume the last beer when the skies darkened.
New camera will be here tomorrow...
it looked a lot like this... except I caught more than spork... :P <-;: 0:0
https://vimeo.com/346907842
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/070719-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/070719-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/070719-3.jpg)
We counted about 132 tires and one kayak paddle which we retrieved along with a few other pieces of trash.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 08, 2019, 15:28:21 PM
Post by: Al on July 08, 2019, 15:28:21 PM
Not a damn thing wrong with Woolly's latest report. Glad to see folks keeping the rainbows - that is what they are for - "Put & Take"
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on July 08, 2019, 16:57:07 PM
Post by: ryguy on July 08, 2019, 16:57:07 PM
Looks like a great trip. How long until the water rose from the generation?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 08, 2019, 17:13:44 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 08, 2019, 17:13:44 PM
Quote from: ryguy on July 08, 2019, 16:57:07 PMLooks like a great trip. How long until the water rose from the generation?
This is what I know about the times from the dam to
a) to Towns Creek; about an hour
b) to the gauge in Bassett (666 bridge) 2 hours
c) to the second Fieldale bridge about 3.5 hours (this might actually be 4.5 hours as I'm trying to recall the exact time the water came up on us...)
From Smith River Outfitters
As a general rule, once the generation begins, it takes 2 hrs and 45 min to get to the Bassett ramp, another 30 minutes to SRO and another 1 hr and 45 min to get to the Great Road boat ramp.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 08, 2019, 19:05:03 PM
Post by: Al on July 08, 2019, 19:05:03 PM
Here is an old map I stole from someone else and modified for use back when I was guiding on the river. The flow rates listed in the upper right hand corner were pretty accurate.
Smith River Map Spec Reg.jpg
Smith River Map Spec Reg.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 09, 2019, 09:34:18 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 09, 2019, 09:34:18 AM
Good stuff, WB and Spork.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 19, 2019, 15:26:21 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 19, 2019, 15:26:21 PM
Decided to run down and get in a few hours of Smiffin before generation.
(https://i.imgur.com/r57JoXw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4j7qr9g.jpg)
Euro'd. Only a couple of fish rose. And I was jacking them. Good call. -+;
I caught more nice fat bows than usual. These have been in there a good while. Advanced past eating sticks and such, for sure.
Four like des came to hand.
(https://i.imgur.com/PNB3ZlQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/DRp5PE5.jpg)
Dregged up the usual punes and a few nicer ones.
(https://i.imgur.com/sNtHLAB.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pqWwiJk.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pWqsoR8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/r7oJeeQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/EqUPHf3.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/P1mOD6Q.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/m8M9eEZ.jpg)
Finished with 20-25. -0-
Only needed one fly.
Now why doesn't the bitch give it up like this every day? :laugh:
(https://i.imgur.com/fOruXxB.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/R1gZdAy.jpg)
0:0
(https://i.imgur.com/r57JoXw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4j7qr9g.jpg)
Euro'd. Only a couple of fish rose. And I was jacking them. Good call. -+;
I caught more nice fat bows than usual. These have been in there a good while. Advanced past eating sticks and such, for sure.
Four like des came to hand.
(https://i.imgur.com/PNB3ZlQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/DRp5PE5.jpg)
Dregged up the usual punes and a few nicer ones.
(https://i.imgur.com/sNtHLAB.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pqWwiJk.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pWqsoR8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/r7oJeeQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/EqUPHf3.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/P1mOD6Q.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/m8M9eEZ.jpg)
Finished with 20-25. -0-
Only needed one fly.
Now why doesn't the bitch give it up like this every day? :laugh:
(https://i.imgur.com/fOruXxB.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/R1gZdAy.jpg)
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 19, 2019, 16:04:55 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 19, 2019, 16:04:55 PM
Good stuff — but leave my fish alone
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 19, 2019, 16:16:05 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 19, 2019, 16:16:05 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on July 19, 2019, 16:04:55 PMGood stuff — but leave my fish alone
Your fish cheat on you.
And, I was downstream a bit today.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on July 20, 2019, 14:32:45 PM
Post by: Phil on July 20, 2019, 14:32:45 PM
Euro nymphing, eh? Were you using two nymphs? How did ya have 'em rigged? Curious minds want to know....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 20, 2019, 14:45:02 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 20, 2019, 14:45:02 PM
Quote from: Phil on July 20, 2019, 14:32:45 PMEuro nymphing, eh? Were you using two nymphs? How did ya have 'em rigged? Curious minds want to know....
My frenchie version on anchor, had a midge above. All on the anchor.
All.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 20, 2019, 19:36:25 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 20, 2019, 19:36:25 PM
good stuff
anchor alway catch the most—-trout hugging bottom
anchor alway catch the most—-trout hugging bottom
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 21, 2019, 04:52:47 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 21, 2019, 04:52:47 AM
A line of thunderstorms cooled the air in the afternoon but as I drove north the thermometer contained to rise and the heat on July hit me as I opened the car door. I added some ice to a zip lock and added three cans of Sam Adams'76. I geared up and hiked in across the field with pants tucked into my wading socks. I picked of three ticks as they crawled up my pants leg. And I continued to check to make sure I hadn't missed any.
The cool water felt refreshing as I waded out into position. I still had a puff daddy tied on from the SoHo so I went ahead and cast that out into the run. A few cast and a nice brows jumped completely out of the water chasing after the fly but missed it. I would get that fish to rise again but never hooked it.
There were just a few yellow bugs on the water and in the air and there were hardly any fish rising but I continued to fish the dry.
Eventually I caught several of the resident punes and played the casting game. I hooked a better fish at the head of a run under the overhanging trees 45 feet out but it unbuttoned still I relished the cast and initial short lived hook up.
Fish, beer, repeat. Hiked out around 7:30 and picked off more of those little bastard ticks.
Then I drove down to the Great Road to meet up with Spork and Eric with a K as they prepared for a mousing expedition.
A817D82D-DFA2-4FBD-807E-00E6243A17A9.jpeg
1CF8A172-425F-431C-A274-D091304E625F.jpeg
FBDD91B7-0320-4F4C-B753-EEB2428D54A8.jpeg
2545B1F3-D73E-481C-8022-F4491EF2A9FB.jpeg
072019-3.jpg
0E2B3563-8382-4A5A-8C79-BD24073C9694.jpeg
13FE5793-6BA0-4EA9-B144-3BB78D2831BB.jpeg
spork-1.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 21, 2019, 05:49:09 AM
Post by: Al on July 21, 2019, 05:49:09 AM
Very nice Woolly. 'c; bd;0 'c; bd;0 'c; bd;0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 26, 2019, 16:10:12 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 26, 2019, 16:10:12 PM
27
Got in another morning Smiffing.
Looow flow. Hiked down a good piece, crossed over and went down somemore. Fished the likely runs. Euroing again. I was covering one side of the river to the other. Moving my feet, jacking the fish again.
Breakfast beer.
(https://i.imgur.com/mHeCmGX.jpg)
Trash panda tracks.
(https://i.imgur.com/NCJeffV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/6f8tGTt.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Qmgbqa2.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WLZ9UQo.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/IunCOmw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/6EqydF3.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/NWHcbXW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GdME9w3.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/uIha4Q8.jpg)
Another 25ish to hand. No lunkers.
Cheers! -0- 0:0
(https://i.imgur.com/RHPL5Ih.jpg)
Got in another morning Smiffing.
Looow flow. Hiked down a good piece, crossed over and went down somemore. Fished the likely runs. Euroing again. I was covering one side of the river to the other. Moving my feet, jacking the fish again.
Breakfast beer.
(https://i.imgur.com/mHeCmGX.jpg)
Trash panda tracks.
(https://i.imgur.com/NCJeffV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/6f8tGTt.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Qmgbqa2.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WLZ9UQo.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/IunCOmw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/6EqydF3.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/NWHcbXW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GdME9w3.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/uIha4Q8.jpg)
Another 25ish to hand. No lunkers.
Cheers! -0- 0:0
(https://i.imgur.com/RHPL5Ih.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 27, 2019, 12:08:51 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 27, 2019, 12:08:51 PM
As some of you know I've been thinking about buying a raft for sometime and I have looked at the flycraft but thought it really wasn't suitable for many of the rivers that I would like to float as it isn't a self-bailer and has relatively small tubes. The Strealtcraft Hooligan XL is a much better option but is also spendy. I really wanted to get a look at one before pulling the trigger. I bummed a ride aboard Streamereater's craft and was very impressed in the construction, stability, maneuverability and comfort.
Checking the damn dam release SE said we should put in an hour or so after the release started, so we met at the basset ramp @ 1:30
Slight delay of the drive up...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072619-1.jpg)
Pre-rigged with a barely legal
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072619-2.jpg)
Nice new informative signage at the ramps.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072619-3.jpg)
When I got to the ramp I rigged up the dry fly rod, a Sage SP that I hadn't fished in years, and encountered a couple of gruff guys from Roanoke in a grey two man raft that were going to do the same float.
SE arrived shortly after and after transferring gear we drove on up to the dam and unloaded the raft onto his DIY dolly as the DRBA doesn't think that trailer accessible ramps would allow more people to get into trouble on the river with foolhardy people launching unsuitable boats on the river. SE and I sort of agreed that the Darwin principle should apply. SE then did the shuttle with BW and then we were off.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072619-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072619-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072619-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072619-7.jpg)
We began by tossing streamers and decided fairly quickly that my barely legal was a bit on the large size so I downsized to an SE special small Sex Dungeon and I got a few good fish to follow that fly.
The cold water release stirred up the bugs and a few sulfurs were popping off and risers were spotted. SE quickly switched over to the dry fly gam and despite his handle I think he really enjoys the challenges and satisfaction of the dry fly game.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072619-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072619-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072619-10.jpg)
After spending way too much time working picky pune risers we moved on down. I was hard to leave these fish as they were chasing down the fly, leaping out of the water on the take and just a lot of fun to fish for.
Then I took the sticks for a spell while SE whacked a few on streamers, there were a lot of follows, short strikes and flashes before bringing fish to hand. I chided him for missing so many strikes.
We switched seats so SE could row us through the fishcamp rapid where he showed off his rowing skills to thread our way through the rapid. SE got his revenge as I was now watching fish follow and not commit and short strike before getting several to hand.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072619-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072619-12.jpg)
We got back to the ramp at dusk and were thankful that the Bassett ramp it trailer accessible.
This was the first time I've floated the upper stretch of river and it was very enjoyable, the scenery was remote and peaceful, there are plenty of willing fish, I'd say we caught about a couple of dozen, there is a sulfur hatch and rising fish. Oh and we had a beaver swim alongside the raft for a while.
Many thanks for a great trip!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 27, 2019, 15:58:19 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 27, 2019, 15:58:19 PM
All those Roanoke guys are gruff. :laugh:
High five, dudes.
Redneck bote rollers. Round wood fence posts. 100'+ Jackson launch.
Git er done.
(https://i.imgur.com/gfmBuAY.jpg)
High five, dudes.
Redneck bote rollers. Round wood fence posts. 100'+ Jackson launch.
Git er done.
(https://i.imgur.com/gfmBuAY.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on July 27, 2019, 19:26:07 PM
Post by: ryguy on July 27, 2019, 19:26:07 PM
Nice work! How did the boat row?
I have my eye on this design as a pipe-dream replacement for my raft:
https://www.downhomeboatworks.com/copy-of-flyfisher-skiff
I have my eye on this design as a pipe-dream replacement for my raft:
https://www.downhomeboatworks.com/copy-of-flyfisher-skiff
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 27, 2019, 19:45:23 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 27, 2019, 19:45:23 PM
Quote from: ryguy on July 27, 2019, 19:26:07 PMNice work! How did the boat row?
I have my eye on this design as a pipe-dream replacement for my raft:
https://www.downhomeboatworks.com/copy-of-flyfisher-skiff
Very responsive, much more like a drift boat than a full size raft
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on July 27, 2019, 21:17:57 PM
Post by: driver on July 27, 2019, 21:17:57 PM
So when you buying?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on July 28, 2019, 20:47:23 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on July 28, 2019, 20:47:23 PM
Quote from: driver on July 27, 2019, 21:17:57 PMSo when you buying?
re-iterated
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on July 29, 2019, 08:01:52 AM
Post by: Big J on July 29, 2019, 08:01:52 AM
Quote from: NCsporksman on July 28, 2019, 20:47:23 PMQuote from: driver on July 27, 2019, 21:17:57 PMSo when you buying?
re-iterated
Re-re-iterated. Treat yourself old man.
P.S. You do have my phone number for when you have an open seat correct? All my friends have boats....Friend.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 29, 2019, 10:29:58 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 29, 2019, 10:29:58 AM
Sunday afternoon. What to do? Go to the carp pond? Or head up to the Smith for punes on dryflies?
Getting some inspiration from the Orvis podcast on the drive up to the river. A streamereater Sex dungeon from the last trip is dangling from the Sage One.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-1.jpg)
Man was it hot, I broke a sweat gearing up in the lot as the afternoon sun beat down. It was 4:30 and I was going to wet wade.
Some fungi popped out after the recent rain.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-3.jpg)
Weird bug...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-4.jpg)
6 to 6.5x blood knot...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-5.jpg)
The hike down to the corner pool was taxing and I couldn't wait to stand in to cool water and pop a beer open. I saw a few birds working but no risers as I chugged the barley pop. I still had a comparadun tied of the Sage SP 5 wt. Went old school with a CFO reel too. I worked the run but the fish weren't looking up and I thought for a moment to rig for nymphing. Finally a fish rose to the fly but missed it entirely, it would not rise again.
I tried puff daddies, and cdc comparaduns and then went small with a #18 BWO parachute.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-6.jpg)
That appeared to be the ticket and I caught a few on the surface.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-8.jpg)
Time for #2
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-9.jpg)
Cardinals and cedar waxwings were on patrol picking off the bugs as they tried to fly to safety. During lulls in activity they perched on nearby branches with strategic views allowing them to track down any newly hatched mayfly.
A pair of anglers came down from the flats above, they were wearing full chest waders and flailed away without any success that I could see. They worked down to the hole below me and then quit as it wasn't happening for them. I wasn't exactly working for me either, but the plan was to fish as long as possible and I still had one more stream chilled beer left.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-13.jpg)
Walking back past the mirror plant I head voices coming from the railroad tracks and we all arrived at the parking lot at the same time. I was Chuck and Ian, they had floated earlier and then hiked down to the islands for some wade fishing. I think they both were euro nymping. Ian handed me a pint of beer, some strange brew, and we talked for a while before departing for home.
Getting some inspiration from the Orvis podcast on the drive up to the river. A streamereater Sex dungeon from the last trip is dangling from the Sage One.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-1.jpg)
Man was it hot, I broke a sweat gearing up in the lot as the afternoon sun beat down. It was 4:30 and I was going to wet wade.
Some fungi popped out after the recent rain.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-3.jpg)
Weird bug...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-4.jpg)
6 to 6.5x blood knot...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-5.jpg)
The hike down to the corner pool was taxing and I couldn't wait to stand in to cool water and pop a beer open. I saw a few birds working but no risers as I chugged the barley pop. I still had a comparadun tied of the Sage SP 5 wt. Went old school with a CFO reel too. I worked the run but the fish weren't looking up and I thought for a moment to rig for nymphing. Finally a fish rose to the fly but missed it entirely, it would not rise again.
I tried puff daddies, and cdc comparaduns and then went small with a #18 BWO parachute.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-6.jpg)
That appeared to be the ticket and I caught a few on the surface.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-8.jpg)
Time for #2
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-9.jpg)
Cardinals and cedar waxwings were on patrol picking off the bugs as they tried to fly to safety. During lulls in activity they perched on nearby branches with strategic views allowing them to track down any newly hatched mayfly.
A pair of anglers came down from the flats above, they were wearing full chest waders and flailed away without any success that I could see. They worked down to the hole below me and then quit as it wasn't happening for them. I wasn't exactly working for me either, but the plan was to fish as long as possible and I still had one more stream chilled beer left.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/07/072819-13.jpg)
Walking back past the mirror plant I head voices coming from the railroad tracks and we all arrived at the parking lot at the same time. I was Chuck and Ian, they had floated earlier and then hiked down to the islands for some wade fishing. I think they both were euro nymping. Ian handed me a pint of beer, some strange brew, and we talked for a while before departing for home.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 29, 2019, 11:21:18 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 29, 2019, 11:21:18 AM
You're welcome. :laugh: n!n
Wheel Bug. A type of Assassin Bug.
Wheel Bug. A type of Assassin Bug.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on July 29, 2019, 18:02:48 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on July 29, 2019, 18:02:48 PM
Good stuff.....new camera is producing.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 04, 2019, 10:06:24 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 04, 2019, 10:06:24 AM
I've been trying to get used to the new normal weekend flows on the Smith. Hitting the old Special Regs section around four and then fishing till darkish-thirty. That leaves the morning open, so I hit the carp pond in the morning, I was overcast and I'm beginning to think that I see more carp feeding in the shallow end during low light conditions. As I approached the first spot a little Green Heron flew off its perch and spooked the carp that was feeding three feet off the bank. It was almost impossible to see the fish in the pollen covered water. Take a look, there are two carp feeding in this photo, sure polarizing lenses help but not as much as you would like. One is moving to the right and the other to the left.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-21.jpg)
I had a good number of shots at those slimy bastards but they weren't interested in my fly or it was too far away and they didn't notice and then when I dropped it closer they spooked and left a plume of mud. After a couple of hours, I was getting ready to leave when to "local" bait fishermen came on down. They were fascinated with the fly "pole" and asked a lot of questions about knots and fly line and flies, they wanted to know if I ate the carp. They said they didn't eat carp, but I suspect that if they caught one they might change their minds. Now, this is a catch and release pond, but they ignore that rule and keep all the bream they catch. I could be back there now, but I'm writing this TR instead.
Anyway, after a late lunch, I iced down the Yeti and headed up to the river. I listened to a Hidden Brain episode The Cowboy Philosopher: A Tale Of Obsession, Scams, And Family (https://edge2.pod.npr.org/anon.npr-podcasts/podcast/npr/hiddenbrain/2019/01/20190107_hiddenbrain_hb_the_cowboy_philosopher_podcast_mix-35415656-6a9e-4de5-9b66-eff0adf36630-98e9bb8a-2948-464b-8d23-8e3d5f0001ba.mp3/20190107_hiddenbrain_hb_the_cowboy_philosopher_podcast_mix-35415656-6a9e-4de5-9b66-eff0adf36630-98e9bb8a-2948-464b-8d23-8e3d5f0001ba.mp3_dceb4ceb11efa8081ee1f778baa8236e_49563625.mp3?orgId=1&topicId=1136&aggIds=423302056&d=3071&p=510308&story=679233260&t=podcast&e=679233260&siteplayer=true&awCollectionId=510308&awEpisodeId=679233260&dl=1&hash_redirect=1&x-total-bytes=49563625&x-ais-classified=download&listeningSessionID=0CD_382_215__cca93861ae08db8d8c182e7db78da548c1cecd81) Worth a listen... Further Reading (https://blogs.loc.gov/folklife/2019/01/on-nprs-hidden-brain-hagrid-discusses-an-ambitious-folksong-manuscript/)
As I pulled in the parking lot thunder boomed and the sky darkened and it started to rain. I had planned to make the trek down the track to a section that I've not fished in a while to break out of my standard run and avoid the tick-infested field. I checked the radar and decided to wait and see if the storm would stay on the far side of the ridge.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-2.jpg)
It had cooled off a bit and I donned my waders mostly as a tick deterrent and headed down to my usual spot not wanting to make the long hike just in case another thunderstorm popped up. I flicked off one tick and looked for more, usually, I get at least two of the suckers. Took to freshly hacked access at the head of the run, assume that is the work of Doug.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-4.jpg)
It started to rain as I cast the puff daddy. There weren't any risers and only a few small bugs in the air. It only took a few casts and a twitch to entice a rise.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-6.jpg)
I managed to catch three in quick succession while it continued to rain and I was beginning to think this might be a good day.
After a few more fish and breaking off a fly in a rhodo it was time for a beer as the humidity was approaching 100%.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-7.jpg)
I worked my way down to Sally's pool and cast out to the likely holds. Drift and twitch is the game and it brought a nice brown out of the water but it missed the fly and wouldn't rise again. Another fish went into an epileptic fit trying to chase down the skittering puff daddy. The birds were perched ready to take off and intercept the mayflies as they hatched. I was a yellow drake and what I believe was a yellow stone along with midges and the occasional sulfur.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-10.jpg)
Things slowed down a bit and I took it as a sign to have another beer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-12.jpg)
I got a lot of fish to rise and I missed them or they missed the fly and only a few more punes came to hand.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-13.jpg)
Awe fuk....
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-1.jpg)
It hurt going in, but damn it really hurt when I looped the fly line around the hook and pressed down the eye as best I could and 1, 2, yank!
Then this happened later on.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-14.jpg)
I may have called it quits after that.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-15.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-16.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-17.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-18.jpg)
Back and the car I got a text from that ex that my old neighbor, Fred, has passed away. He was in his eighties. He was a bird hunter and fly fisherman but gave that up a long time ago. He gave me his old Pflueger reel. I passed that reel along to a troubled friend, Mike, and hoped that getting into fly fishing would help him, he pawned the reel for crack. Mike died shortly after that. I poured a sip for Fred, Mike and the people in El Paso.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-19.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080319-20.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on August 04, 2019, 11:28:33 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on August 04, 2019, 11:28:33 AM
I tip my hat to you sir. bd;0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 04, 2019, 16:52:08 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 04, 2019, 16:52:08 PM
Nice. Bloodshed and everything. V:;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 04, 2019, 19:46:43 PM
Post by: Al on August 04, 2019, 19:46:43 PM
I was finally able to get my significant other up to my Bassett cabin this weekend - first time in over a year and a half due to health issues. Hopefully we have it under control or at least on hold. Ok, back to fishing ...............
I was able to slip down to a nearby section of the Smith early Saturday morning - spotted a big black bear near the end of my driveway as I undid the cable at main road.
No one at my predetermined spot so suited up while admiring the fog coming off the water just being happy to be alive
DSCN7922.JPG
Didn't go far before my fortitude was rewarded
DSCN7926.JPG
Caught several like this - seems the AW still works :o
DSCN7920.JPG
Had a good number come unbuttoned so they don't count but if I was keeping score I'd say close to to a double handful
DSCN7935.JPG
DSCN7932.JPG
Off the water and back to my wife and cabin at 0900 - still pleased to be alive and able to outfox the elusive Smith.
I was able to slip down to a nearby section of the Smith early Saturday morning - spotted a big black bear near the end of my driveway as I undid the cable at main road.
No one at my predetermined spot so suited up while admiring the fog coming off the water just being happy to be alive
DSCN7922.JPG
Didn't go far before my fortitude was rewarded
DSCN7926.JPG
Caught several like this - seems the AW still works :o
DSCN7920.JPG
Had a good number come unbuttoned so they don't count but if I was keeping score I'd say close to to a double handful
DSCN7935.JPG
DSCN7932.JPG
Off the water and back to my wife and cabin at 0900 - still pleased to be alive and able to outfox the elusive Smith.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creekfreak on August 05, 2019, 18:34:53 PM
Post by: creekfreak on August 05, 2019, 18:34:53 PM
Awesome... I await the next reports!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 05, 2019, 19:01:35 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 05, 2019, 19:01:35 PM
Go Al!
For those who want to know/go/turn in a net?:
Smith Riverfest. 8/10
Meeting 9/5
Fish With A Friend 9/21
For those who want to know/go/turn in a net?:
Smith Riverfest. 8/10
Meeting 9/5
Fish With A Friend 9/21
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on August 05, 2019, 19:38:49 PM
Post by: driver on August 05, 2019, 19:38:49 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on August 05, 2019, 19:01:35 PMGo Al!
For those who want to know/go/turn in a net?:
Smith Riverfest. 8/3
Meeting 9/5
Fish With A Friend 9/21
Your date is wrong on SRF. 8/10
The wife showed interest in going. So we may show up.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 05, 2019, 20:37:00 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 05, 2019, 20:37:00 PM
Quote from: driver on August 05, 2019, 19:38:49 PMQuote from: Dougfish on August 05, 2019, 19:01:35 PMGo Al!Fixed!
For those who want to know/go/turn in a net?:
Smith Riverfest. 8/3
Meeting 9/5
Fish With A Friend 9/21
Your date is wrong on SRF. 8/10
The wife showed interest in going. So we may show up.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on August 05, 2019, 22:18:56 PM
Post by: troutrus on August 05, 2019, 22:18:56 PM
Though I previously would fish the Smith 50+ times per year, a review of my log revealed my last trip was in July 2014. With favorable weather and generation plan, I decided to head up this a.m.
Arrived at the upper mirror facility about 6:45 and was on the water about 7:15.
F76D1F54-5342-4831-A5B3-9547F07457F1.jpeg
Decided I would target surface feeders and tied on this pattern that had proven productive for me in the past. Stayed with the same for the three hours I was there.
E136784E-8A1F-4E67-97FA-8993887E1A34.jpeg
Had immediate success with a couple small browns, after which I went through a dry spell. Probably spent as much time just sitting and relaxing as I did fishing. Even took a beer break to celebrate my return to the river.
4B7D682B-DA62-4395-98DA-2234089D56DB.jpeg
While sitting I noticed a few rises. Went back to fishing and quickly missed the next two strikes. Overall I went four for seven, all of which were little Browns.
Left about 10:30 as another angler arrived. The walk out was extremely pleasant considering the time of year. Glad I went. Hope to get back soon.
25F392E1-C369-41B3-B47A-23276D940E2F.jpeg
Arrived at the upper mirror facility about 6:45 and was on the water about 7:15.
F76D1F54-5342-4831-A5B3-9547F07457F1.jpeg
Decided I would target surface feeders and tied on this pattern that had proven productive for me in the past. Stayed with the same for the three hours I was there.
E136784E-8A1F-4E67-97FA-8993887E1A34.jpeg
Had immediate success with a couple small browns, after which I went through a dry spell. Probably spent as much time just sitting and relaxing as I did fishing. Even took a beer break to celebrate my return to the river.
4B7D682B-DA62-4395-98DA-2234089D56DB.jpeg
While sitting I noticed a few rises. Went back to fishing and quickly missed the next two strikes. Overall I went four for seven, all of which were little Browns.
Left about 10:30 as another angler arrived. The walk out was extremely pleasant considering the time of year. Glad I went. Hope to get back soon.
25F392E1-C369-41B3-B47A-23276D940E2F.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 06, 2019, 06:05:56 AM
Post by: Al on August 06, 2019, 06:05:56 AM
Welcome back!
Not sure if you noticed but the river has changed. All that free flow of water while the turbines were out of action has moved the bottom around a bit. Places that were shallow are now deep and vice versa. It becomes more noticeable as you move downstream. Fish have adapted so we need to do the same.
Not sure if you noticed but the river has changed. All that free flow of water while the turbines were out of action has moved the bottom around a bit. Places that were shallow are now deep and vice versa. It becomes more noticeable as you move downstream. Fish have adapted so we need to do the same.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on August 06, 2019, 08:31:06 AM
Post by: itieuglyflies on August 06, 2019, 08:31:06 AM
Good report. Just goes to remind us that you don't need some exotic beverage or fifty trout to have a great day on the river!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on August 06, 2019, 12:14:36 PM
Post by: troutrus on August 06, 2019, 12:14:36 PM
Couple questions:
-What is the situation with walking along the railroad right of way to access fishing areas? Back when I was fishing the area on a regular basis there was talk of prosecution for trespassing. :o
-Are felt-soled boots permissible in the Smith and other Virginia trout water?
-What is the situation with walking along the railroad right of way to access fishing areas? Back when I was fishing the area on a regular basis there was talk of prosecution for trespassing. :o
-Are felt-soled boots permissible in the Smith and other Virginia trout water?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 06, 2019, 13:33:04 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 06, 2019, 13:33:04 PM
Still "technically" trespassing. Walking on any tracks is. You have to get caught, though. V:;
Felt is legal in VA. Doug would die without felt.
Felt is legal in VA. Doug would die without felt.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 06, 2019, 16:33:30 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 06, 2019, 16:33:30 PM
Boo, browns, and beer!
got a wild hair and spooled up a CFO III with a DT3F and decided to take the 1971 Orvis Flea out and catch some Smith River Punes on a dryfly.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080519-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080519-1.jpg)
The rod calls for a HFG line which is akin to a 4wt, I cast in the back yard and the 3 weight line cast well enough.
I didn't get off as early as I wanted and when I arrived at the Mirror Plant at nine there were three cars there already. I had no ideas where there would be on the river. Two cars were from Virginia and the other was from NC with a competition nymping decal on the back window. What the heck, I'll walk down the field and see if I can find some open water as I would have hated to have walked the track only to find a crowd down at the trestle pool.
I lucked out, not another angler in sight!
Clipped the old nail knotted leader off about a foot from the fly line, tied a perfection loop and added a new 9' 6x leader with two feet of 6.5 Trout Hunter tippet and tied on my best Puff Daddy!
I quickly realized that I was having a lot of difficulty turning over the fly. I wasn't casting the wiggly 6'6" bamboo rod very well. It took a concerted effort to slow down and get that rod to load. I got a few good casts and got a trout to rise, but the hook didn't stick. Finally, I coaxed a few of the diminutive browns to take the fly.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080619-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080619-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080619-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080619-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080619-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080619-6.jpg)
free CDC
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080619-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080619-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080619-9.jpg)
I think Dougfish was here and left the 76ers and a belgian behind.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080619-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080619-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080619-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080619-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/080619-14.jpg)
DT4F ordered
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 06, 2019, 16:52:00 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 06, 2019, 16:52:00 PM
Nice, boss. Nice.
And you know I pick up other's litter. And I hate SA beer.
And you know I pick up other's litter. And I hate SA beer.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on August 06, 2019, 17:21:26 PM
Post by: ryguy on August 06, 2019, 17:21:26 PM
Nice! The Flea looks to be in great shape, that's on my list of rods to own one day... That and a 1 piece bamboo rod.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 06, 2019, 19:10:38 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 06, 2019, 19:10:38 PM
Quote from: ryguy on August 06, 2019, 17:21:26 PMNice! The Flea looks to be in great shape, that's on my list of rods to own one day... That and a 1 piece bamboo rod.
rod and reel are minty... circa 1971
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on August 07, 2019, 07:39:16 AM
Post by: Big J on August 07, 2019, 07:39:16 AM
Perfect Pretentious TR Bossman.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 11, 2019, 09:23:39 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 11, 2019, 09:23:39 AM
I was going to go over the hump to the SoHo / Watauga but when I came home the Rube Goldberg plumbing under the sink had given way and I had said the next time it came apart I would fix it properly. So my early morning hours were spent plumbing. Then I decided to hit the carp pond but forgot that the art museum was having a car show and there was such a crowd that there was no parking available. At that point I should have started tying flies but found another diversion and took care of some chores. I went back to the pond after lunch when the crowd had dissipated. The cloudy skies made visibility impossible and there were no carp to be found. I packed it in and headed up to the smith with the bamboo and a new DF4F line spooled on the CFOIII, damn that reel is tiny. Zero backing and the line just fit, I will be switching over to the CFO123 in the future and maybe try to spool a WF4F on the III.
There were two cars in the lot when I arrived a little after four. Both were from NC and I stickered them.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081019-1.jpg)
Thunder boomed over the ridge and I checked the radar, there was a small storm, but it looked like it was going to pass to the south. Ian and his partner pulled in, they had been floating in the Hooligan again. I headed on down to the bend in the river and jumped in right below another angler who was working his way upstream. Then the thunder got louder and it started to rain. The angler reeled in and came over to stand under the sheltered bank. We talked while the rain drenched us but the skies promised that it would end soon. Turns out the other angler is also from Winston Salem and his name is Bill and has been fishing the Smith for many decades. I spied a couple of risers in the rain, and when it stopped I was planning on targeting them, but the fog became a problem and I was still having issues casting the boo. Tailing loop after tailing loop made long for my graphite and I almost quit in frustration.
Bill in the fog.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081019-2.jpg)
Rays of hope
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081019-3.jpg)
Success in twitching up a few punes on the puff daddy, I was at the dregs of my fly box and only had a few ratting and abused Puffs and even fewer comparaduns.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081019-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081019-5.jpg)
The day was getting long and only a few more fish came to hand,
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081019-6.jpg)
Trout chow.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081019-7.jpg)
I hiked out with the last of the daylight, all the cars were gone with the exception of Ian and his friend's.
I popped a barley pop and had some cheese and chorizo while packing up. Ian show up well after nine, they must have worked their way quite far down the river.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081019-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 11, 2019, 19:56:45 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 11, 2019, 19:56:45 PM
0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on August 11, 2019, 22:04:43 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on August 11, 2019, 22:04:43 PM
Very nice
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 12, 2019, 10:26:43 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 12, 2019, 10:26:43 AM
I wasn't sure if I wanted to go back for more abuse from those picky trouts. But I made the drive up and got to the lot at 4. One truck in the lot got stickered and I hiked it to the usual spot. When I ducked into the river I ran into Alex, the guy who managed to dump the Sam Adams beer cans from his pack as he exited the river at o'dark thirty. We talked for a bit and he complained about how picky the little bastard trouts were before he moved on upstream. I was armed with the Sage SP 9' 5 wt and tied on a comparadun and cast out into the run. Second cast and a trout rose and took the fly. Damn, I thought this would be a good evening.
The waxwings were staging in the trees and tracked down any flying insect with unmatched precision. There were quite a few birds working the "evening hatch" although I didn't see that many bugs and there were even fewer fish rising. But the graphite rod enabled me to place the fly where I wanted it to go and I managed to coax a few punes to the surface and even brought a few to hand. I whipped the TG out of my vest pocket and in a habitual movement, turned it on and pressed the shutter button. The low angel that I take the photos from doesn't allow me to actually view the screen, so I failed to notice the "NO MEMORY CARD" warning and I thought
I had successfully captured images of the fish I had caught. I only realized my error when I went to write up this report!
I fished towards dark and was back at the car by 8, Alex was gone by then.
panosmither.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 12, 2019, 19:09:28 PM
Post by: Al on August 12, 2019, 19:09:28 PM
Glad to see that I am not the only one who messes up my camera from time to time. :P
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on August 12, 2019, 19:43:10 PM
Post by: driver on August 12, 2019, 19:43:10 PM
I would have though with that new camera you wouldn't even have to take the card out. It does't connect to your Wifi?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 12, 2019, 22:06:35 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 12, 2019, 22:06:35 PM
Quote from: driver on August 12, 2019, 19:43:10 PMI would have though with that new camera you wouldn't even have to take the card out. It does't connect to your Wifi?
I still download to the computer and post process in Lightroom d:b
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 17, 2019, 10:25:50 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 17, 2019, 10:25:50 AM
29
I made a bit of a last minute decision to Smith it Friday morning before the generation. Just a quick attitude adjustment. Kitted up and walked back through the hay (sic) field.
(https://i.imgur.com/qcVoaKzl.jpg)
Now, my normal route to the mirror plant does not go over/by the river.
And I did not have a storm at my house on Thursday night.
So imagine my surprise at eyeballing the muddy river. n!n
I waded in otherwise, changed my planned presentation to a hopper with a flashy dropper. Fished a notoriously good run and .....nuttin.
Walked back down, climbed out and back to the car. Went up towards the dam to get around the main source of the mud.
Still wasn't great, but better. Clipped off the hopper and tied on a largish klinkhammer sulfur and proceeded to whack 6 average browns. No bows for the first trip in a while.
And lost the only husky fish of the hour. b';
(https://i.imgur.com/YR4WPeOl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/gFDtAnUl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8TcO6zLl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Niu3rBVl.jpg)
Climbed out at a little after 11 and watched the water come up before boogieing home. -0-
But I know I wasn't the only one not paying attention. :laugh:
I made a bit of a last minute decision to Smith it Friday morning before the generation. Just a quick attitude adjustment. Kitted up and walked back through the hay (sic) field.
(https://i.imgur.com/qcVoaKzl.jpg)
Now, my normal route to the mirror plant does not go over/by the river.
And I did not have a storm at my house on Thursday night.
So imagine my surprise at eyeballing the muddy river. n!n
I waded in otherwise, changed my planned presentation to a hopper with a flashy dropper. Fished a notoriously good run and .....nuttin.
Walked back down, climbed out and back to the car. Went up towards the dam to get around the main source of the mud.
Still wasn't great, but better. Clipped off the hopper and tied on a largish klinkhammer sulfur and proceeded to whack 6 average browns. No bows for the first trip in a while.
And lost the only husky fish of the hour. b';
(https://i.imgur.com/YR4WPeOl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/gFDtAnUl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8TcO6zLl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Niu3rBVl.jpg)
Climbed out at a little after 11 and watched the water come up before boogieing home. -0-
But I know I wasn't the only one not paying attention. :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 19, 2019, 10:47:37 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 19, 2019, 10:47:37 AM
One of the hottest days of the year convinced me to wet wade the Smith in the afternoon. No one was in the parking lot when I arrived shortly after four. I dunked the Comparadun into some homebrew flyargra (http://stalkingtheseam.com/2014/07/16/diy-fly-floatant/) while I geared up. Stuffed some beers into the vest and headed across the field. A deer ran through the mirror plant parking lot and there were a couple more crossing the river below where I stepped into the cool water.
Failed to raise a trout in some usual spots but a little twitch of the comparadun got one to rise in the next spot and number two came shortly after that just at four kayaks floated behing me. The dad hollered out, "Thst the first fish that we've seen caught today!"
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-4.jpg)
I was hoping for a bang up day, but that wasn't in the cards as things slowed down dramatically and I couldn't get another fish to hand. Time for a beer break. I picked up this brew at Trader Joe's. Brewed in Michigan, I thought it couldn't be too bad, boy was I wrong. I really thought it smelled like wet rocks, kind of mineral or chemical odor. Taste not much better, but it was cold and wet and I choked it down.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-7.jpg)
I moved on down to another productive run and was then high holed by a skein of Canada geese.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-8.jpg)
The fish weren't biting so I looked around and took some photos and drank another beer or two.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-10.jpg)
As I was taking a photo of this Garden Spider a moth (I think) got trapped in the web and like a flash the spider was off to inject its poison and wrap up its meal in more silk in a second. Then it returned to its resting spot waiting for another victim.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-14.jpg)
Hoof print of a fawn.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-15.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-16.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-17.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-18.jpg)
Sometimes I just go with a triple surgeon's knot especially later in the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-19.jpg)
I began to see some more risers and went after them.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-20.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-21.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-22.jpg)
I continued on until it was beyond reason and I could no longer see my fly on the water.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-23.jpg)
Saw some ladybugs getting it on. "The mating and courtship rituals of ladybugs are poorly understood but to attract a mating
partner, ladybugs secrete pheromones and, once a suitable partner is found, the insects copulate for up to 2 hours."
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-24.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-25.jpg)
Shot inspired by Doug's photo the other day...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-26.jpg)
There was a truck in the lot when I returned so it got stickered....
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-27.jpg)
Snack....
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-28.jpg)
$2.55 in NC.... Couldn't pass this price...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/081819-29.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 19, 2019, 14:23:39 PM
Post by: Al on August 19, 2019, 14:23:39 PM
Even with all the "woe is me" it looks like it turned out well for you Woolly. Love your pictures. bd;0 'c; bd;0 'c; bd;0 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on August 19, 2019, 15:57:28 PM
Post by: Phil on August 19, 2019, 15:57:28 PM
The camera is definitely an upgrade. Nice fish, excellent photos. /'/
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on August 19, 2019, 19:24:13 PM
Post by: troutrus on August 19, 2019, 19:24:13 PM
Two hours? Damn! :o
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 26, 2019, 17:02:02 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 26, 2019, 17:02:02 PM
I was planning to go to the Smith for a morning session before getting ready for some evening activities. Something woke me up at four A.M. and I decided to empty the bladder before getting back to sleep, I did check the weather and stream data to make sure the trip would be worth it. Then I got a call from the Translywader which I declined and then he sent a series of text and I finally answered when he called back. I had figured that he would be jrunk, but he sounded sober. We talked for a while and made some tentative plans for a fall surf donkey trip.
Now I was awake and I got up and went out for breakfast before driving up to the river. I was drizzling and the radar and weather report confirmed there would be a light rain for the morning. One car in the lot and I geared up and added a few streamers to the fly box before headed across the newly mown hayfield.
Town creek was mudding up the river so I tied on an olive slumpbuster and began working the runs. I didn't take too long before I had a strike and I continued to get short strikes frequently enough to prevent me from changing flies.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/082419-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/082419-2.jpg)
Finally after working a couple hundred yards I brought one to hand.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/082419-3.jpg)
A father and son were coming up the river and I was deciding where to move to when they approached and told me that the water would be coming up soon, a full hour earlier than I had anticipated going by the "normal" weekend release of 10 – 2, I was informed that for some reason it had changed to 9 – 1 !
Some more insect sex, I know mudwall gets off of this stuff....
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/082419-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/082419-5.jpg)
Was going to fish the SoHO, but Saturday night forced me to change plans and I rolled out of Winston at 2 o'clock headed back to the same ole river, same ole stretch. I had just finished wadering up when a truck pulled into the lot, a guy and his gal who hadn't fished the Smith this year headed on to the trestle pool and planned on nymphing up some trouts.
Took some pics on the walk in.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/082519-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/082519-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/082519-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/082519-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/082519-5.jpg)
The water was much clearer and a bit lower than yesterday. I floated a comparadun despite not seen any surface activity and only a few birds working the water. The fish ignored that fly and I changed over to a natural puff daddy and managed to twitch up a nice brown that was in about three feet of water. I tracked the fly down stream and turned back to take a look. It floated back with the fly undecided, until the twitch which triggered the fish to strike.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/082519-6.jpg)
The release
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/082519-7.jpg)
and another nice one on the twitch
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/082519-8.jpg)
I only caught a handful but getting the fish to rise was a battle as very few bugs were hatching. After breaking off a fly in a rhodo I was tying on another one when I heard a loud splash downstream I looked up and saw what appeared to be a bald eagle taking flight from the middle of the river with a fish secured in its talons. How cool was that!
Headed upstream for a bit
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/082519-9.jpg)
Found the source of the carrion odor, a deer hung up in a downed tree. I've smelled this for weeks on the hike in. I is going to be around for a while as the cold river water and daily submergence is slowing down the process. Also known as DSFK.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/082519-10.jpg)
Another garden spider, some mushrooms, and a stickered windshield ended my evening of the river.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/082519-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/082519-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/082519-13.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 31, 2019, 14:36:58 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 31, 2019, 14:36:58 PM
finally got an invite to ride the beast, Doug's bi-yak transformed into FrankenRaft an overbuilt but very stable craft.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/083019-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/083019-2.jpg)
We got on the water about an hour after the wheels started turning on the damn dam. Driver and I tossed streamers and I got a fish on and off in the first five minutes. Another came to hand shortly after that. I didn't take a photo because it was a pune of a pune. Driver kept missing fish and the day wore on. Doug stayed on the sticks and we pounded beers and the bank. Finally, in desperation, we switched things up and Driver got one on a nymph.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/08/083019-3.jpg)
beers, bros, 'n browns ....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 31, 2019, 16:08:17 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 31, 2019, 16:08:17 PM
Good company, good first Smiff float.
Part of the carnage.
(https://i.imgur.com/rxNMad3l.jpg?1)
Part of the carnage.
(https://i.imgur.com/rxNMad3l.jpg?1)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 31, 2019, 16:14:36 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 31, 2019, 16:14:36 PM
Oh and this was in the driveway
9DBE94D4-6897-4FA5-9802-58B94A49B475.jpeg
when I got home!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on August 31, 2019, 17:40:39 PM
Post by: Onslow on August 31, 2019, 17:40:39 PM
Where da browns at?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on September 01, 2019, 21:04:22 PM
Post by: driver on September 01, 2019, 21:04:22 PM
The only fish I put in hand.
While Bossman really puts it to that casting rail.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190902/a910683b07a104e57f8430f2c5a129a4.jpg)
Sent from my SM-G973U using Tapatalk
While Bossman really puts it to that casting rail.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190902/a910683b07a104e57f8430f2c5a129a4.jpg)
Sent from my SM-G973U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 01, 2019, 21:22:08 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 01, 2019, 21:22:08 PM
dang I literally laughed out loud on that pick... :o d:b <-;: :banana026: n!n
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 02, 2019, 17:29:22 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 02, 2019, 17:29:22 PM
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/09/giffer.gif)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 02, 2019, 17:50:45 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 02, 2019, 17:50:45 PM
Thought about the soho, headed to the smiff instead... Three in the lot... down the tracks... got low and high holed ... 4 anglers came upriver and one came down... got a few to rise .... woked a pod of midge sippers for way too long ... got a couple to rise but didn't seal the deal... ran out of shade in the afternoon and hiked out only to realize the low holers had split, but there were two new vehicles in the lot, gave out five BRFFF stickers...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/09/090219-1.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/09/090219-2.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/09/090219-3.jpg)
well that answers the question about crayfish on the upper, this guy was about 4 inches long...
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/09/090219-4.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/09/090219-5.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/09/090219-6.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/09/090219-7.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/09/090219-8.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/09/090219-9.jpg)
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/09/090219-10.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on September 03, 2019, 06:31:50 AM
Post by: Big J on September 03, 2019, 06:31:50 AM
Quote from: driver on September 01, 2019, 21:04:22 PMThe only fish I put in hand.
While Bossman really puts it to that casting rail.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190902/a910683b07a104e57f8430f2c5a129a4.jpg)
Sent from my SM-G973U using Tapatalk
Doug has put way too much love and commitment into that boat for you to go and that to the boat behind Doug's back!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 03, 2019, 11:58:18 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 03, 2019, 11:58:18 AM
Lol.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 03, 2019, 12:06:21 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 03, 2019, 12:06:21 PM
I forgot to mention that we saw an eagle dive for and miss a fish on the flat water by the large sycamore tree. Also saw a dead 12" brown... couldn't determine why caused its demise .
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 03, 2019, 15:30:09 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 03, 2019, 15:30:09 PM
The float bote porn shot ......priceless! And to think I have ridden in that seat and was not told of the many available features.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 04, 2019, 09:12:45 AM
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 04, 2019, 09:12:45 AM
Just opened most recent issue of Va. Wildlife Magazine to find article on the Smith with our own Al and someone named Doug quoted.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 04, 2019, 09:17:31 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 04, 2019, 09:17:31 AM
They'll quote any jackass, I guess.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on September 04, 2019, 09:21:24 AM
Post by: Big J on September 04, 2019, 09:21:24 AM
Quote from: itieuglyflies on September 04, 2019, 09:12:45 AMJust opened most recent issue of Va. Wildlife Magazine to find article on the Smith with our own Al and someone named Doug quoted.
A bunch of nobodies. The Corps of Engineers don't even know who those nobodies are.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on September 04, 2019, 09:47:24 AM
Post by: Al on September 04, 2019, 09:47:24 AM
I haven't seen it yet (to cheap to subscribe :embarassed: ) DGIF is sending me a couple copies. I may sign one and send it to my buddy BW.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on September 04, 2019, 10:24:15 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on September 04, 2019, 10:24:15 AM
Hard to believe the quotes from two of our Smith River sages.
Doug: "The most resourceful way to harvest the wild Smith River browns is with natural baits (worms, mealworms, crickets, etc.) fished on long classic glass rods, held high, allowing the enticement to move normally through the deep crevasses found throughout the river."
Al: "I rarely fish the river with the guys anymore. It just is not as much fun as it used to be. Now, angling with the gals, that is a different, more entertaining, exhilarating endeavor. As my pals tell me, I still got game."
Doug: "The most resourceful way to harvest the wild Smith River browns is with natural baits (worms, mealworms, crickets, etc.) fished on long classic glass rods, held high, allowing the enticement to move normally through the deep crevasses found throughout the river."
Al: "I rarely fish the river with the guys anymore. It just is not as much fun as it used to be. Now, angling with the gals, that is a different, more entertaining, exhilarating endeavor. As my pals tell me, I still got game."
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on September 04, 2019, 19:44:31 PM
Post by: Fishbug on September 04, 2019, 19:44:31 PM
Caught up on posts...
Nice pics WB
and nice report on the FrankenRaft! - que the bigger browns!
Nice pics WB
and nice report on the FrankenRaft! - que the bigger browns!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on September 04, 2019, 21:26:24 PM
Post by: driver on September 04, 2019, 21:26:24 PM
Quote from: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on September 04, 2019, 10:24:15 AMHard to believe the quotes from two of our Smith River sages.
Doug: "The most resourceful way to harvest the wild Smith River browns is with natural baits (worms, mealworms, crickets, etc.) fished on long classic glass rods, held high, allowing the enticement to move normally through the deep crevasses found throughout the river."
Al: "I rarely fish the river with the guys anymore. It just is not as much fun as it used to be. Now, angling with the gals, that is a different, more entertaining, exhilarating endeavor. As my pals tell me, I still got game."
Ha. Sounds about right!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 16, 2019, 20:09:29 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 16, 2019, 20:09:29 PM
Saturday afternoon I went back to the usual spot. That was a couple of days ago, so I may have forgotten some of the details. I was a bit surprised that I was the only car in the lot. I debated about wet wading and put on the leaky wader pants. I keep meaning to try and fix the leaks with an alcohol spray, but just haven't gotten around to it yet.
The rod was rigged with a dry dropper and stayed with a sulfur comparadun with a splitback. It didn't take long before a fish took the dropper. I caught a half dozen before things slowed down and the fish refused to cooperate.
A kingfisher made a noisy flyby and waxwings few about picking off invisible insects. The sun is setting earlier now so I was off the water by 7:30
Here are a few pics
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/09/091419-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/09/091419-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/09/091419-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/09/091419-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/09/091419-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 19, 2019, 13:20:19 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 19, 2019, 13:20:19 PM
30
I slipped down for a few overcast hours before generation. I've had good bluebird days, and slow ones, too. Lets see what a cooler, gray day brings.
Well, the first thing it brought was looow flows. And I was the only fool there.
(https://i.imgur.com/vjLXm0W.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/zV9v0Eb.jpg)
Started euroing on a run I love. But the flows were too low to get really
good drifts. Caught one where I should have caught 5-6. Switched reels and moved downstream.
Medalist porn. I'm using a 1496 and a 1495 1/2 to counterbalance the 10' rod. One set up for euroing, one with a floating line.
(https://i.imgur.com/SmthKAU.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pUGz7df.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/KbiRHMH.jpg)
Rigged up the dry dropper and went to work.
(https://i.imgur.com/AHWC9Sd.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MYii37W.jpg)
Caught the usual suspects, but picked up some huskier fish, too.
90% on the dropper. Light bites, too. In the low flow flow, they were very leisurely in their feeding. Some midges, a few big mayflies, and nothing much else happening.
(https://i.imgur.com/7L8YvRK.jpg?1)
(https://i.imgur.com/Nk5isTZ.jpg)
I've been eating/drinking more fruit.
(https://i.imgur.com/rTQlGU3.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Uj9VLjz.jpg)
Got another chunky bow from a back eddy after catching 4 splashy browns there already. Dumb bow.
(https://i.imgur.com/A6AOBzC.jpg?1)
Boke off my rig in a tree and decided to put on a hopper since the sulphur was not getting love. They still took the dropper. Quit about a half hour later and headed out for some work. Finished with 10ish to hand.
(https://i.imgur.com/M3WwfLz.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/cbnWeRE.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XkFfouP.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/A2bW2hV.jpg)
Meh. But no ticks. 0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 19, 2019, 13:35:31 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 19, 2019, 13:35:31 PM
Those beers are ghey 0:0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on September 19, 2019, 13:54:21 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on September 19, 2019, 13:54:21 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on September 19, 2019, 13:35:31 PMThose beers are ghey 0:0
And those reels set up for right-handed retrieve for a dextral caster are ghey!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 19, 2019, 15:38:42 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 19, 2019, 15:38:42 PM
Those reels were made when real men fly fished. 30's - 60's. And RHW was the rule.
Pansy spinning reels brought on the LHW.
Yeah those beers are ghey. Good AM beers, though.
Pansy spinning reels brought on the LHW.
Yeah those beers are ghey. Good AM beers, though.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Yallerhammer on September 19, 2019, 17:19:08 PM
Post by: Yallerhammer on September 19, 2019, 17:19:08 PM
Good stuff! (except for the fruity beer.) 'c;
How you like that mono rig? I've became a fan lately.
How you like that mono rig? I've became a fan lately.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 19, 2019, 17:42:13 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 19, 2019, 17:42:13 PM
Quote from: Yallerhammer on September 19, 2019, 17:19:08 PMHow you like that mono rig? I've became a fan lately.
When the conditions are right (higher, or swifter water), it's deadly.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on September 19, 2019, 17:49:17 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on September 19, 2019, 17:49:17 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on September 19, 2019, 15:38:42 PMThose reels were made when real men fly fished. 30's - 60's. And RHW was the rule.
Pansy spinning reels brought on the LHW.
Yeah those beers are ghey. Good AM beers, though.
It is my understanding that "real men" of old used to pull their puds in their bandanas and switch hands to avoid undue hair growth in any one palm, much like you do while fishing. As nostalgic as I am for the good old days, I am happy to say there's been wonderful advancements in the skills of masturbation and fly line retrieval.
Plus, if you were sincere on following the old with the glass and Medalist, then you'd be drinking Ballantine or Hamm's on the stream, and not these contemporary brews.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 26, 2019, 09:36:59 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 26, 2019, 09:36:59 AM
No scheduled generation on Friday
Philpott Generation Schedule for Sept.28-Oct.4
Sat. 28, 10am-6pm
Sun. 29, 10am-7pm
Mon. 30, 2pm-6pm
Tues. 1, 2pm-6pm
Wed. 2, 3pm-6pm
Thur. 3, 4pm-6pm
Fri. 4, no generation
*Note:This schedule is subject to change without notice.
Philpott Generation Schedule for Sept.28-Oct.4
Sat. 28, 10am-6pm
Sun. 29, 10am-7pm
Mon. 30, 2pm-6pm
Tues. 1, 2pm-6pm
Wed. 2, 3pm-6pm
Thur. 3, 4pm-6pm
Fri. 4, no generation
*Note:This schedule is subject to change without notice.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 16, 2019, 12:27:25 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 16, 2019, 12:27:25 PM
I had planned to go low but was concerned about the flows, so I headed upriver for the afternoon.
Sunny skies and in the low 70s made the walk in much more comfortable than in the heat of the summer.
I jumped in at the head of a run and noticed that a gaggle of Canada Goose had settled in the pool bellow and beyond them was another angler whose car I had noticed in the parking lot. So he was high holed by them and me.
He gave up and hiked on out, I assume back to the car, but he could have hit another stretch.
There were a lot of midges in the air and I watched a dragonfly snatch them off the surface as they emerged. My what keen eyes they have!
I worked the water with a dry in all the places that had proven to hold trout in the past but they weren't looking up this day. Then I noticed a little rise at the tail-out and placed a cast in front of the rise and let it drift down, the trout struck the fly and I had a fish on the line. It was a perfect little brown trout.
That was the only fish I caught, I did see a couple of other risers but they weren't interested in my offerings.
So I drank a beer or two and turned over rocks and chased after flying midges and mayflies for photo opportunities.
The pics sum up the afternoon...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/10/101519-SR-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/10/101519-SR-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/10/101519-SR-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/10/101519-SR-4.jpg)
The serenity was broken by the roar of jest as they flew over the treetops.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/10/101519-SR-5.jpg)
cropped photo from the above image...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/10/101519-SR-6.jpg)
Stanleytown Food Lion carries some craft beer, but they are proud that they do!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/10/101519-SR-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/10/101519-SR-8.jpg)
Small Stonefly for @Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 to Identify
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/10/101519-SR-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/10/101519-SR-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/10/101519-SR-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/10/101519-SR-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/10/101519-SR-13.jpg)
and this looks like a stone also but it was almost midge sized
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/10/101519-SR-14.jpg)
snatched this bwo off of a rock that it had landed on, sorry I crumpled the wings...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/10/101519-SR-15.jpg)
since I don't have any #32 midges I threw this CDC BWO emerger
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/10/101519-SR-16.jpg)
now that's a midge larva
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/10/101519-SR-17.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on October 21, 2019, 15:26:40 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on October 21, 2019, 15:26:40 PM
Big stone = Perlodidae, likely Isoperla, but might be some other genus.
Small stone = Chloroperlidae, only Ma Nature knows the genus
Not BWO - some wrecked flat-headed mayfly
Last critter = Diptera/Simuliidae Black Fly larva
Good job!
Small stone = Chloroperlidae, only Ma Nature knows the genus
Not BWO - some wrecked flat-headed mayfly
Last critter = Diptera/Simuliidae Black Fly larva
Good job!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on October 22, 2019, 07:38:05 AM
Post by: troutrus on October 22, 2019, 07:38:05 AM
You gotta be quick on the draw to get that aircraft photo. Normally by the time I hear them they're gone. I would guess FA18 Hornet ex Naval Air Station Oceana.
What kind of camera? That closeup of your thumbnail is truly amazing.
What kind of camera? That closeup of your thumbnail is truly amazing.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 22, 2019, 08:19:11 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 22, 2019, 08:19:11 AM
Olympus TG-6
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on October 22, 2019, 09:41:28 AM
Post by: Phil on October 22, 2019, 09:41:28 AM
Woolly, your pic of the midge reminded me of Darryl Dodson at PFF discussing how he fishes size #34 midge pupae in flat water. I didn't know whether to believe him or not. Hell, I can't tie on a #22. :o
Fine photographs all around there, bossman. /'/
Fine photographs all around there, bossman. /'/
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on October 22, 2019, 14:43:50 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on October 22, 2019, 14:43:50 PM
Quote from: troutrus on October 22, 2019, 07:38:05 AMYou gotta be quick on the draw to get that aircraft photo. Normally by the time I hear them they're gone. I would guess FA18 Hornet ex Naval Air Station Oceana.
What kind of camera? That closeup of your thumbnail is truly amazing.
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on October 22, 2019, 08:19:11 AMOlympus TG-6
The TG cameras have a super macro mode capability. I've got some shots with my TG-4 that I was impressed with, but I'm no real photographer.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on October 23, 2019, 20:12:37 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on October 23, 2019, 20:12:37 PM
Quote from: troutrus on October 22, 2019, 07:38:05 AMYou gotta be quick on the draw to get that aircraft photo. Normally by the time I hear them they're gone. I would guess FA18 Hornet ex Naval Air Station Oceana.
What kind of camera? That closeup of your thumbnail is truly amazing.
Here are a few shots that I'm sort of proud of that I got with my TG-4. The camera is impressive for the money.
The water droplet was maybe the size of a BB. I stood and worked on getting that picture clear and steady forever on that trail in the middle of nowhere.
The snail was awesome. It was looking up at me perfectly. The entire snail, shell and all, may have been as big as a dime.
The dragonfly turned out good, I thought.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191024/f64aa954b7cd0ad2b006b89333150eb2.plist)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191024/fa396c0e1ac298765a3582f3ea328367.plist)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191024/68fc8b36e77568b2ee56952b16256bb1.plist)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191024/a3ee766a0798e812b5cd6745f86a31f0.plist)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191024/bf29bdb88597cf41dfb07bea0dd06815.plist)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191024/3e46f469e2cd797efaf1d1d3019455fe.plist)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: rbphoto on October 24, 2019, 06:05:19 AM
Post by: rbphoto on October 24, 2019, 06:05:19 AM
I love macro photography!
Those little TG-series cameras are sweet, but I want the EOS-R or Sony A7III - mirrorless rocks.
Those little TG-series cameras are sweet, but I want the EOS-R or Sony A7III - mirrorless rocks.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on October 24, 2019, 06:27:03 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on October 24, 2019, 06:27:03 AM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on October 23, 2019, 20:12:37 PMThe water droplet was maybe the size of a BB. I stood and worked on getting that picture clear and steady forever on that trail in the middle of nowhere.
I like the droplet of water. It made me think of Anton van Leeuwenhoek and his cell discovery from a drop of pond water. Good job.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on October 24, 2019, 06:50:23 AM
Post by: Phil on October 24, 2019, 06:50:23 AM
Verrry nice macro photos from both youse guys! 'c;
Doug, I've also started carrying two reels -- one rigged w/ floating line and one w/ mostly 20# Maxima and a Euro leader. Switched 'em out in the middle of a trip yesterday due to water depth/speed. It's not that much trouble and it seems to work. Old dogs and new tricks, maybe.
Now, if you would stop reeling with the wrong hand.... b';
Doug, I've also started carrying two reels -- one rigged w/ floating line and one w/ mostly 20# Maxima and a Euro leader. Switched 'em out in the middle of a trip yesterday due to water depth/speed. It's not that much trouble and it seems to work. Old dogs and new tricks, maybe.
Now, if you would stop reeling with the wrong hand.... b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on October 24, 2019, 07:51:59 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on October 24, 2019, 07:51:59 AM
Quote from: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on October 24, 2019, 06:27:03 AMQuote from: Dee-Vo on October 23, 2019, 20:12:37 PMThe water droplet was maybe the size of a BB. I stood and worked on getting that picture clear and steady forever on that trail in the middle of nowhere.
I like the droplet of water. It made me think of Anton van Leeuwenhoek and his cell discovery from a drop of pond water. Good job.
I appreciate that, MW. That droplet is probably my overall favorite shot so far in my photo "career."
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on October 24, 2019, 08:14:15 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on October 24, 2019, 08:14:15 AM
Quote from: Phil on October 24, 2019, 06:50:23 AMDoug, ..............
Now, if you would stop reeling with the wrong hand.... b';
Most anglers are amphibious like Charles Shackleford; Doug is not!
"Left hand, right hand, it doesn't matter. I'm amphibious." – former NC State basketball player Charles Shackleford
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 24, 2019, 09:17:46 AM
Post by: Dougfish on October 24, 2019, 09:17:46 AM
I love living rent free in your spacious head.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on October 29, 2019, 20:17:43 PM
Post by: troutrus on October 29, 2019, 20:17:43 PM
Arrived upper mirror plant about 10:30 am. Surprised that nobody else was there on such a beautiful overcast day. Just a couple mutts sniffing around and acting like they expected me to have treats.
01EFE56F-1271-4586-B8CE-CAD1E5230923.jpeg
Got set up with intentions of walking to the bottom end of the field. Made it about half way and decided to sit down on the bank and have a beer and assess the situation.
A26F18A5-8DD6-4E69-9D75-E7057DF20E64.jpeg
Saw no bugs and no surface activity, so decided to tie on an old no name pattern that has produced in the past.
21A12D7A-E9D3-43AA-AC28-3AA9D05C2F80.jpeg
Took quite awhile to produce the first fish. As I continued to work up towards the flatter water of the pool above I noticed fish dimpling the surface, so I changed over to a dry.
E8F08357-7875-47DB-9573-456113858564.jpeg
I quickly lost confidence in the dry and as I entered the pool I tied on a flashback under a bobber and it was game on.
A6D6D842-E347-499B-890D-0A2725C00081.jpeg
For the next two hours it was literally non-stop action. Granted they were all small browns, but it was one of those special days for sure. And to top it off, not another person in sight.
A6B47C5A-243B-4A93-B01B-94493F29E928.jpeg
E92BF616-15AE-4E0F-9920-0293E8146033.jpeg52F8121E-A435-4B8A-A8F0-648C49361475.jpeg5AE1B2BC-7C68-43CF-B90B-49D431428700.jpeg
E7CF57F7-7F87-488F-9C07-93573B3D4D8B.jpeg
Reached the upper end of the pool about 3:30 and headed on out. Been a long time since I had them Smith River trouts mangle up some flies like they did today.
3B37366C-F2A1-4471-A4E9-366F52F79DA8.jpeg
01EFE56F-1271-4586-B8CE-CAD1E5230923.jpeg
Got set up with intentions of walking to the bottom end of the field. Made it about half way and decided to sit down on the bank and have a beer and assess the situation.
A26F18A5-8DD6-4E69-9D75-E7057DF20E64.jpeg
Saw no bugs and no surface activity, so decided to tie on an old no name pattern that has produced in the past.
21A12D7A-E9D3-43AA-AC28-3AA9D05C2F80.jpeg
Took quite awhile to produce the first fish. As I continued to work up towards the flatter water of the pool above I noticed fish dimpling the surface, so I changed over to a dry.
E8F08357-7875-47DB-9573-456113858564.jpeg
I quickly lost confidence in the dry and as I entered the pool I tied on a flashback under a bobber and it was game on.
A6D6D842-E347-499B-890D-0A2725C00081.jpeg
For the next two hours it was literally non-stop action. Granted they were all small browns, but it was one of those special days for sure. And to top it off, not another person in sight.
A6B47C5A-243B-4A93-B01B-94493F29E928.jpeg
E92BF616-15AE-4E0F-9920-0293E8146033.jpeg52F8121E-A435-4B8A-A8F0-648C49361475.jpeg5AE1B2BC-7C68-43CF-B90B-49D431428700.jpeg
E7CF57F7-7F87-488F-9C07-93573B3D4D8B.jpeg
Reached the upper end of the pool about 3:30 and headed on out. Been a long time since I had them Smith River trouts mangle up some flies like they did today.
3B37366C-F2A1-4471-A4E9-366F52F79DA8.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on October 30, 2019, 07:16:36 AM
Post by: itieuglyflies on October 30, 2019, 07:16:36 AM
Very nice and always more fun when those picky fish are eating your flies.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 30, 2019, 17:00:42 PM
Post by: Dougfish on October 30, 2019, 17:00:42 PM
Bravo, sir.
Them pooches are getting old. Their high holing days are bout done.
Them pooches are getting old. Their high holing days are bout done.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on November 05, 2019, 18:15:23 PM
Post by: troutrus on November 05, 2019, 18:15:23 PM
Oh well. I guess my plan of getting back to the river on a regular basis will be delayed. 🙁
Notice:
Our generation schedule for the rest of the week has been revised. Sorry, we know this is bad timing with the stocking of the river.
Tues. 5, 6am-9pm
Wed. 6, 5am-12am midnight
Thur. 7, 5am-12am midnight
Fri. 8, 4am-12am midnight
*Note:This schedule is subject to change without notice.
Notice:
Our generation schedule for the rest of the week has been revised. Sorry, we know this is bad timing with the stocking of the river.
Tues. 5, 6am-9pm
Wed. 6, 5am-12am midnight
Thur. 7, 5am-12am midnight
Fri. 8, 4am-12am midnight
*Note:This schedule is subject to change without notice.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 13, 2019, 19:43:22 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 13, 2019, 19:43:22 PM
Revised generation schedule for Nov.14th-15th
Thur. 14th-No Generation
Fri. 15th-4am-12pm & 3pm-11pm
*Note: This schedule is subject to change without notice.
Thur. 14th-No Generation
Fri. 15th-4am-12pm & 3pm-11pm
*Note: This schedule is subject to change without notice.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 25, 2019, 15:42:20 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 25, 2019, 15:42:20 PM
Saturday night we went to a concert at the Double Oaks B&B to listen to Sam Frazier and the Side Effects and drank too much wine while listening to great but loud music.
Sunday morning was a bit rough and wobbly and with some resolve I drove up to the smith, parked at the mirror plant I thought about taking a nap as the sun warmed the insides of the car and outside it was 50 with the wind blowing at 7 knots.
After a few minutes I got out and geared up to make the walk across the field. The six wt was rigged with a crayfish that I had been trying out on the carp in the pond, remembering the crayfish that I saw in the smith a while back I decided to keep it on despite the stout leader.
It appeared to be fishing well and I expected to have a hit with every cast . Maybe I wasn't getting down deep enough! Finally I had a nice fish come off the bank and follow the fly. I may have stripped a little to far and the fish turned back!
I fished on for a while longer as the shadows grew and I wasn't really feeling much like staying any longer, so I packed it in.
d:b d:b
Sunday morning was a bit rough and wobbly and with some resolve I drove up to the smith, parked at the mirror plant I thought about taking a nap as the sun warmed the insides of the car and outside it was 50 with the wind blowing at 7 knots.
After a few minutes I got out and geared up to make the walk across the field. The six wt was rigged with a crayfish that I had been trying out on the carp in the pond, remembering the crayfish that I saw in the smith a while back I decided to keep it on despite the stout leader.
It appeared to be fishing well and I expected to have a hit with every cast . Maybe I wasn't getting down deep enough! Finally I had a nice fish come off the bank and follow the fly. I may have stripped a little to far and the fish turned back!
I fished on for a while longer as the shadows grew and I wasn't really feeling much like staying any longer, so I packed it in.
d:b d:b
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 16, 2019, 17:43:40 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 16, 2019, 17:43:40 PM
Been in a funk and the Smith has been inaccessible for me for quite some time and the TN tailwaters haven't been much better, so despite knowing better I headed up to fish the lower river but she was rolling high and muddy but since I was in the neighborhood I headed up to the mirror plants stopping along the way at the basset canoe launch to take a peak, Three anglers were flailing away just off the ramp in ankle-deep water. I was pleased that the mirror plant parking lot was empty. I stashed a couple of beers in my vest and headed on down to the river.
Determined to catch these punes on a crayfish I worked the water with a small lightly weighted pattern that didn't sink too far and was visible on the retrieve. I finally got a fish to commit and was thrilled by the aggressive strike. Shortly I had another fish take the crayfish and I was hoping for continued success but that didn't happen. When i got down to deeper water I switched up to a weighted version and had a couple of short strikes on that one before calling it a day as I needed to be back in town early.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/121519-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/121519-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/121519-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/121519-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/121519-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/121519-6.jpg)
That Sierra Nevada Tropical Torpedo is quite tasty! Move over NB Citradellic!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 16, 2019, 19:47:01 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 16, 2019, 19:47:01 PM
Bravo.
I need to get some shit behind me and get back down there.
I need to get some shit behind me and get back down there.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Sedition and Pockets on December 16, 2019, 23:44:23 PM
Post by: Sedition and Pockets on December 16, 2019, 23:44:23 PM
Tropical Torpedo is about the only IPA I still drink.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 31, 2019, 12:15:57 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 31, 2019, 12:15:57 PM
Facebook reminds me that I used to fish and catch a lot of trout. I've not been out nearly as many days this year but when the temperature hitting the 60s I had to get out. I was having lunch at Mellow mushroom and as I was checking out the bartender asked me if I would like the Chmay that she had mistakenly opened, I couldn't drink it right then, so she put a cork in it and I took it to go. Well I sort of forgot about it for a couple of days and when I got to the Mirror plant and opened the trunk I was still sitting there inside of my wading boot where I had stashed it. I decided to drink it before heading on down to the water. Then a pickup truck pulls in and I felt some pressure to get on my way before this dude jumps my spot. So I put the cork back in the Grande Réserve and hit the trail after stuffing a couple of Tropical Torpedo's in my vest pockets. Once on the water I rigged up with some 6.5x and a dry dropper midge setup. No love there, but the day was gorgeous.
I was high holed by the other angler and he was exerting some pressure on my territory, I swithched back to a crayfish and moved up to a spot where I had "pulled" a few off the bank. I worked this little run with care and after about a half dozen casts a fish hit the fly and I missed it, it followed the fly downstream and hit it again and I came up empty again. I cussed the fish and myself, then I drank a torpedo and hiked on down a ways to another section.
I switched up flies and few times and finally managed to get one to chase down a Rusty Trombone that was about 1/3 the size of the fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/122819-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/122819-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/122819-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/122819-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/122819-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/122819-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/122819-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/122819-8.jpg)
I was high holed by the other angler and he was exerting some pressure on my territory, I swithched back to a crayfish and moved up to a spot where I had "pulled" a few off the bank. I worked this little run with care and after about a half dozen casts a fish hit the fly and I missed it, it followed the fly downstream and hit it again and I came up empty again. I cussed the fish and myself, then I drank a torpedo and hiked on down a ways to another section.
I switched up flies and few times and finally managed to get one to chase down a Rusty Trombone that was about 1/3 the size of the fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/122819-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/122819-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/122819-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/122819-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/122819-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/122819-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/122819-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2019/12/122819-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on January 01, 2020, 09:11:13 AM
Post by: Big J on January 01, 2020, 09:11:13 AM
I thought about fishing the Smith last weekend and then I laughed and decided I wanted to catch fish. Props on you though.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 01, 2020, 10:43:54 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 01, 2020, 10:43:54 AM
Good going, boss.
My last day of 2019 was a double skunk. Skunked on a small stream and the Smiff in the same day. Granted, I did not fish long on either, but I wasn't feelin it.
0:0
Gonna hit a stream in the rain Friday for the first of 2020. :laugh:
My last day of 2019 was a double skunk. Skunked on a small stream and the Smiff in the same day. Granted, I did not fish long on either, but I wasn't feelin it.
0:0
Gonna hit a stream in the rain Friday for the first of 2020. :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 05, 2020, 21:08:07 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 05, 2020, 21:08:07 PM
2020 Resolutions:
1. More trout trips, different rivers -- number and blog them all
2. Get back to rowing 4/5 days a week on the WaterRower.
So I've rowed twice and here is the first TR
Drive time listening to TailerTrash podcast... I had planned to hit the SoHo on Saturday but my peeps quashed that idea with reports of heavy rains, probable shoulda gone anyway, but I regrouped and hit the lower local on Sunday instead.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/01/010520-1.jpg)
This must be the place
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/01/010520-4.jpg)
I'll start right here:
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/01/010520-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/01/010520-5.jpg)
The river was a little on the high side and I passed up some spots that I usually fish. I had a double stone rig and worked the seams. I caught a trout.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/01/010520-2.jpg)
Worked a lot of water and saw nothing else. Fished back up with a streamer and still saw no more fish.
Went up higher and continued without seeing any more fish,
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/01/010520-6.jpg)
So I stopped and had a beer
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/01/010520-7.jpg)
At that point, I had had enough abuse and called it quits.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on January 06, 2020, 08:45:59 AM
Post by: Fin on January 06, 2020, 08:45:59 AM
QuoteI caught a trout.
Well done. I spent 3 hours in the yak Saturday evening upstream of where you fished under perfect conditions (warm, grey skies, chalky green, off-colored water) and did not move a single fish. Hit many of my favorite go-to spots; nothing....
Sadly, it appears George's dire report regarding the lower section is on point. Time to focus my efforts much further upstream.
On the bright side, I got my 2020 skunking out of the way on the first trip of the year. Things should improve from here!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on January 06, 2020, 11:31:11 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on January 06, 2020, 11:31:11 AM
I hit the Smith for a couple hours yesterday. I'll post my joke of a report soon. I'm glad I wasn't the only one without much luck....but, I did have luck --- if you can call it that.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on January 07, 2020, 21:25:34 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on January 07, 2020, 21:25:34 PM
Sunday morning was windy and nice and chilly. I had bigger water on my mind. I headed to the Smith since no generation was taking place. It's always nice to gain a good swift kick to the balls for your fishing efforts. This place is challenging, I like it. But, it really pisses me off at times.
Low and clear it was. The first area I hiked into was already occupied by a group of young dudes goofing off in the edge of the water. Maybe a circle jerk....didn't get close enough to get a good view. I turned and went downriver a good ways. Slid down the bank and began fishing.
None of the famed browns ever showed themselves besides the one I spooked. Imagine that.
A few free hours yielded one rainbow that very well may've been a stocked fish. Truthfully, I was damned happy to net that fish. No lie.
(https://i.imgur.com/Lw8dzQ6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HLy2CIh.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xDQPCuk.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iOCjjDr.jpg)
I don't know my way around very well up here so maybe in the future I'll do a little better. I've caught fish each time I've been there but never any larger fish. At least I caught the train coming by as I rolled out.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 07, 2020, 21:42:00 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 07, 2020, 21:42:00 PM
One fish (is better than no fish)
Red fish
Two fish
Blue dosh
Red fish
Two fish
Blue dosh
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 06, 2020, 17:18:23 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 06, 2020, 17:18:23 PM
Got enough rain for a while :;! :o
4AEF1680-89DB-4160-B919-3E9FBA4E3A28.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 06, 2020, 18:41:54 PM
Post by: Dougfish on February 06, 2020, 18:41:54 PM
I was considering fishing the SF Holston above Beuller on Sat.
Ugh, no....
Go high, or die.
(https://i.imgur.com/mnVw8Icl.png)
Ugh, no....
Go high, or die.
(https://i.imgur.com/mnVw8Icl.png)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on February 06, 2020, 19:34:59 PM
Post by: Onslow on February 06, 2020, 19:34:59 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on February 06, 2020, 17:18:23 PMGot enough rain for a while :;! :o
4AEF1680-89DB-4160-B919-3E9FBA4E3A28.jpeg
4.3 inches thus far in Elkin
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 06, 2020, 19:43:21 PM
Post by: Dougfish on February 06, 2020, 19:43:21 PM
Quote from: Onslow on February 06, 2020, 19:34:59 PM4.3 inches thus far in Elkin
Pounded, sir.
Only, 2.5" here.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on February 10, 2020, 20:31:12 PM
Post by: Al on February 10, 2020, 20:31:12 PM
Probably a good idea to follow Doug to some of his high country creeks this week
Here is the latest that came into my inbox today............
WEATHER:
Additional light to moderate rain forecast for most of the next 7 days, totaling 1.5-2" in the upper Roanoke Basin and 1-1.5" in the lower Roanoke Basin.
PHILPOTT:
- Currently near elevation 977.5 and peaking.
- Continuous generation is scheduled for the rest of the week.
- Sluice gate releases (650 cfs) started today and will extend through Thursday afternoon, for a total release of about 1300 cfs.
Here is the latest that came into my inbox today............
WEATHER:
Additional light to moderate rain forecast for most of the next 7 days, totaling 1.5-2" in the upper Roanoke Basin and 1-1.5" in the lower Roanoke Basin.
PHILPOTT:
- Currently near elevation 977.5 and peaking.
- Continuous generation is scheduled for the rest of the week.
- Sluice gate releases (650 cfs) started today and will extend through Thursday afternoon, for a total release of about 1300 cfs.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on February 13, 2020, 16:07:11 PM
Post by: Al on February 13, 2020, 16:07:11 PM
Smith looks to be un-wadeable next week as well. That should scatter the Rainbows they stocked in the lower river yesterday. - Stakeout Doug's house and follow him to his secret blue line creeks.
PHILPOTT:
- Currently near elevation 976.0 and falling after peaking at 977.48.
- Continuous generation is scheduled through the end of next week.
- Sluice gate releases (650 cfs) will be stopped this afternoon.
PHILPOTT:
- Currently near elevation 976.0 and falling after peaking at 977.48.
- Continuous generation is scheduled through the end of next week.
- Sluice gate releases (650 cfs) will be stopped this afternoon.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on February 16, 2020, 09:42:08 AM
Post by: troutrus on February 16, 2020, 09:42:08 AM
With heavy flows lately, I fully expect to hear some reports of stocker rainbows being caught down here in Eden. Used to be fairly common before land owners blocked access to the good areas. 😡
Feb 7th the water was as high as I've ever seen it on the Smith in Eden.
This is at the greenway/canoe access area about 1.5 miles up from the river mouth.
7D606248-77C5-482C-99C2-E8C5D93C97E4.jpeg
Here's the Smith several hundred yards from it's confluence with the Dan R. 1st and 18th fairways at Lynrock GC.
2A7AC00D-2624-4B0B-BDB2-605D87FBB2E2.jpeg
Feb 7th the water was as high as I've ever seen it on the Smith in Eden.
This is at the greenway/canoe access area about 1.5 miles up from the river mouth.
7D606248-77C5-482C-99C2-E8C5D93C97E4.jpeg
Here's the Smith several hundred yards from it's confluence with the Dan R. 1st and 18th fairways at Lynrock GC.
2A7AC00D-2624-4B0B-BDB2-605D87FBB2E2.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 16, 2020, 10:52:40 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 16, 2020, 10:52:40 AM
Yikes, that's a lot of water!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on February 17, 2020, 12:42:57 PM
Post by: troutrus on February 17, 2020, 12:42:57 PM
Rooting around along the Dan River this morning in Eden, just upstream from where the Smith dumps in.
As reference, the bench appears to be approx. 20 feet above the current river level.
45401E21-B5D1-4AE8-A73B-089538DE1AA4.jpeg
9F92D55C-DFF8-4177-851D-A976F7EE264B.jpeg
As reference, the bench appears to be approx. 20 feet above the current river level.
45401E21-B5D1-4AE8-A73B-089538DE1AA4.jpeg
9F92D55C-DFF8-4177-851D-A976F7EE264B.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on February 17, 2020, 13:04:22 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on February 17, 2020, 13:04:22 PM
Wonder how they finished their picnic meal with the water getting so high?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 17, 2020, 20:29:44 PM
Post by: Dougfish on February 17, 2020, 20:29:44 PM
An exclusive dining experience. :o
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on February 19, 2020, 17:07:02 PM
Post by: Al on February 19, 2020, 17:07:02 PM
Heads up - looks like there is going to be maintenance going on at Philpott - not sure how they will handle the excess water but generation is going down starting Feb 25 through March 12th. Here is the latest.....
PHILPOTT:
Energy declared at Philpott is for continuous generation through 0600 Tuesday (2/25) morning. Unit one will go into an outage after this time through Mar 12
PHILPOTT:
Energy declared at Philpott is for continuous generation through 0600 Tuesday (2/25) morning. Unit one will go into an outage after this time through Mar 12
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on February 20, 2020, 10:20:10 AM
Post by: Al on February 20, 2020, 10:20:10 AM
This just in .................
PHILPOTT:
- Currently near elevation 975.2 and falling.
- Continuous generation (650 cfs) is scheduled through Tuesday morning.
- Unit 1 will have an outage beginning Tuesday Morning lasting 2/25-3/12.
- Sluice gate releases will be used during the outage.[/b]
PHILPOTT:
- Currently near elevation 975.2 and falling.
- Continuous generation (650 cfs) is scheduled through Tuesday morning.
- Unit 1 will have an outage beginning Tuesday Morning lasting 2/25-3/12.
- Sluice gate releases will be used during the outage.[/b]
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on March 13, 2020, 19:48:47 PM
Post by: Al on March 13, 2020, 19:48:47 PM
Just got the word they closed or are closing the sluice gates this afternoon. No generation all this weekend. Back to normal schedule per regular announcement starting Monday
Get out there and get'em!
Get out there and get'em!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 14, 2020, 05:42:26 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 14, 2020, 05:42:26 AM
Damn dam, I'll have to go again!!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 16, 2020, 22:08:30 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 16, 2020, 22:08:30 PM
3-14-2020 #8
More Social Distancing, but this time with the damn dam flows cut up to the mirror plant. It was low at 42 cfs and very clear. There were no fish rising but plenty of midges and a few bows, little black caddis or stones flying about. I fished with a girdle bug and caught a nice specimen early on. It was pretty slow with only the occasional fish to hand. I switched up the game and enticed a few punes to take a dry.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/031420-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/031420-2.jpg)
It's always a good spot to have a beer!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/031420-3.jpg)
And retie leaders
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/031420-4.jpg)
And have a snack
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/031420-5.jpg)
And look at bugs
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/031420-6.jpg)
And take in the beauty
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/031420-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on March 18, 2020, 19:28:01 PM
Post by: troutrus on March 18, 2020, 19:28:01 PM
Arrived at the upper Mirror parking lot around noon. Two other vehicles in the lot. One guy was in the spot I had in mind, so I went down to the bottom of the big field and got in. Bing, bang, bam!!! Three quick fish and then nada. Nice to get up there. First time this year. Graph showed 200 cfs. Perfect. 👍🏻
7C4C8DAB-FC15-4F89-B0E3-C88A9C86EE73.jpeg
EAEE0DB0-B328-42BE-B478-C9CB5E31C11D.jpeg
036B871D-3D44-4640-9087-02F218A92468.jpeg
7C4C8DAB-FC15-4F89-B0E3-C88A9C86EE73.jpeg
EAEE0DB0-B328-42BE-B478-C9CB5E31C11D.jpeg
036B871D-3D44-4640-9087-02F218A92468.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 19, 2020, 09:31:02 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 19, 2020, 09:31:02 AM
I got there a bit later and was the fifth car. I opened the hatch and popped the top on a beer and sliced up some cheese while I was deciding what to do, fish here or move on. Then this dude, in his spiffy new waders, boots, and vest, from Mt. Airy started to come over and he asked me if I fished here much before.
"This is my fifth day in a row," I grumbled at him with a lie as I hadn't fished this spot in a while.
"Wow, I fished here last November when the water was really low and I didn't catch anything, what's the secret out here" he replied.
"They are a pain in the ass," I said speaking of the fish. My comment took him aback, and I had to repeat and clarify my statement, "The fish are a pain in the ass!"
He walked in and I finished my beer and drove on!
"This is my fifth day in a row," I grumbled at him with a lie as I hadn't fished this spot in a while.
"Wow, I fished here last November when the water was really low and I didn't catch anything, what's the secret out here" he replied.
"They are a pain in the ass," I said speaking of the fish. My comment took him aback, and I had to repeat and clarify my statement, "The fish are a pain in the ass!"
He walked in and I finished my beer and drove on!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 24, 2020, 20:57:44 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 24, 2020, 20:57:44 PM
3-24-2020 #13
https://vimeo.com/400457709
Got up and hit the falling water after they stopped generation at 11 for the day. BWOs started to hatch in good numbers and I got a few fish to take an olive puff daddy. It was fun and games until the otters show up! Actually around 3:30 things slowed down a bit and the fish didn't come to hand for a while. I finally got a decent one to harvest and called it quits after that. The rain started when I got back to the car anyway.
The old yellow dog is showing some age and I don't think she'll make another winter.
Don't know who the huge fisherman is in the van with va tags, but he showed up after me.
Saw and heard two pairs of what I think were pileated woodpeckers.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032420-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032420-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032420-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032420-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032420-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032420-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032420-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032420-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032420-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032420-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032420-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032420-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032420-13.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 24, 2020, 21:16:41 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 24, 2020, 21:16:41 PM
Black dog a no show? Sniff, Sniff.
And that's a Pretentious Snobby Bastard vehicle, right there!
And that's a Pretentious Snobby Bastard vehicle, right there!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 24, 2020, 22:54:31 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 24, 2020, 22:54:31 PM
Black Dog was off in the distance
I think their names are Bonnie and Clyde
I think their names are Bonnie and Clyde
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 27, 2020, 16:04:52 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 27, 2020, 16:04:52 PM
Philpott Generation Schedule for March 28-April 3
Sat. 28th, 1pm-9pm
Sun.29th, 5pm-10pm
Mon. 30th, 6am-2pm & 4pm-10pm
Tues. 31st, 6am-10pm
Wed. 1st, 6am-11pm
Thur. 2nd, 9am-11pm
Fri. 3rd, 5am-11pm
*Note:This schedule is subject to change without notice.
Sat. 28th, 1pm-9pm
Sun.29th, 5pm-10pm
Mon. 30th, 6am-2pm & 4pm-10pm
Tues. 31st, 6am-10pm
Wed. 1st, 6am-11pm
Thur. 2nd, 9am-11pm
Fri. 3rd, 5am-11pm
*Note:This schedule is subject to change without notice.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Yallerhammer on March 28, 2020, 08:36:39 AM
Post by: Yallerhammer on March 28, 2020, 08:36:39 AM
Hell, yeahs!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 30, 2020, 21:32:57 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 30, 2020, 21:32:57 PM
032920 #14
Quit visit to the carp pond, it's now posted, bur people are going in to fish like these two kids, who have a better sense of balance than I do.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032920-20.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032820-1.jpg)
Anyway the next day I hit the upper smith on Saturday morning before the 1 pm generation, there were only two cars in the lot and I headed on down to Sally's pool, which I've renamed effin otter run!
Stepped into the river and thought I had that section to myself only to realize that I high holed two anglers. I moved up a bit and then realized they were moving down stream. I fished a puff daddy and got a fish to rise but struggled to get a hook up. So I drank a beer.
There were some caddis coming off and a few bwos, but not enough to get the fish excited.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032820-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032820-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032820-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032820-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032820-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032820-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032820-8.jpg)
So pretty much I was fishing over water that the other angles had beaten and I caught nothing.
Waiting for sulfurs...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032920-21.jpg)
Bar Harbor Kippers and beer for lunch!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/03/032920-22.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2020, 09:14:31 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2020, 09:14:31 AM
4/4/20 #15
With no daytime generation on the river for weekend I ventured out of quarantine and hit the road.
The lot was empty when I arrived but a dude from NC pulled up as I was gearing up. We exchanged distant pleasantries and I packed my vest with a couple of beers and set out across the field to the otter run.
Bluebird skies
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040420-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040420-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040420-3.jpg)
Caddis were coming off in the riffles and there were a few fish interested it chasing down a puff daddy.
Bad trout photos.. I don't know what the cause of that was, may be the Heavy Seas Tropic Cannon? 7.5 ABV and robust citric flavors might make this one of my favorite IPAs winning out over New Belgian's Criticdellic
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040420-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040420-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040420-6.jpg)
DSFK
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040420-7.jpg)
Took a break for lunch, Bar Harbor Smoked Sardines, not too shabby.
Back on the water I continued to catch fish on the surface and take bad photos.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040420-9.jpg)
I even saw one sulfur! Things will be looking up before to long.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2020, 09:36:54 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2020, 09:36:54 AM
4/5/20 #16
Two days in a row escaping from NC and staying away from everybody.
The lot was empty again, but as I geared up a truck with a couple of guys drove up and a dude gets out to ask about access at this point, "do you walk down the track"? as he walked closer to me and I was getting ready to back up but he stopped 6 feet away, which I considered too close under the conditions.
#Staythefuckaway
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040520-1.jpg)
Caddis were present but not in the numbers of yesterday, few fish rose and I targeted them. I missed more than I caught but that was alright.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040520-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040520-3.jpg)
After a while I sat down for a break and a beer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040520-4.jpg)
Midges
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040520-5.jpg)
And stones
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040520-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040520-7.jpg)
I sat there and watch the river, listening to the birds and looking for risers.
After a while I set the camera down and recorded 18 minutes...
https://vimeo.com/404578416
lots of bird and a number of fish rising.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040520-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040520-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040520-10.jpg)
The day was getting long and I was getting hungry.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040520-11.jpg)
Not a bad way to spend the day in isolation.
I didn't see anybody of the river but I did hear some voices moving on down the trail.
saw otters, kingfishers, woodpeckers, osprey, muskrat
Be Safe / Sane and #staythefuckaway
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on April 06, 2020, 11:23:18 AM
Post by: itieuglyflies on April 06, 2020, 11:23:18 AM
Ok, I admit it. I watched all 18 minutes ( and found it quite relaxing). Probably the closest I will get to the Smith this Spring. It also shows me that I must be going mad. Keep it up Woolly, heck I might just watch it again!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: jwgnc on April 06, 2020, 11:31:13 AM
Post by: jwgnc on April 06, 2020, 11:31:13 AM
I expected to hear a beer being opened during the video. Did I miss it?
BUSTED! I admit to an occasional fast-forward.
BUSTED! I admit to an occasional fast-forward.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 06, 2020, 13:13:14 PM
Post by: Dougfish on April 06, 2020, 13:13:14 PM
Good show! For an old fart. :Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2020, 13:23:58 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2020, 13:23:58 PM
Quote from: jwgnc on April 06, 2020, 11:31:13 AMI expected to hear a beer being opened during the video. Did I miss it?
it's about 1/2 way in 9:47 or thereabouts
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on April 06, 2020, 16:35:26 PM
Post by: Phil on April 06, 2020, 16:35:26 PM
Fine stuff, boss! 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: dhjunkie on April 07, 2020, 13:11:46 PM
Post by: dhjunkie on April 07, 2020, 13:11:46 PM
Pretty Work!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 09, 2020, 08:40:32 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 09, 2020, 08:40:32 AM
4/8/20 #17
18:49 that's a strange amount of time, I thought that the video I shot the other day should have been longer but I didn't pay too much attention to it. Today I shot another streamside video and I sat and watched the fish rise eventually I couldn't stand it any longer and I waded toward the head of the pool and caught a fish on the first cast, great I thought it'll be on the video. After releasing the fish I prepped the puff daddy with my three step process, 1 squeeze the fly dry, 2, shake 'n bake, 3, brush out the fibers. Satisfied that it was in tip top shape I cast again. Boom, another fish on, and I'm thinking that all of this was captured on video. Troutrus was sitting on the bank watching. We chatted for a bit and I went to retrieve my camera before resuming fishing.
When I got back home and uploaded the video to the computer to scroll through and watch the catches, I noticed that the length of the video was 18:49 the exact time of the last streamside video, and that I had not captured my back to back trout catching. Awe crap! I don't know if there is a way to override this default, I'm recording 1080p @ 60 fps, maybe it'll go longer at 30 fps. Will be running some test on that today. First world problems.
I was the first car in the lot and it wasn't all that early. I had thought about walking down the tracks for variety but in the end went back to the otter hole. I spied a few risers right away and after rigging up a new leader with 6.5x tippet I went after the closest one. The wind wasn't playing any favorites and I had trouble getting the drift I wanted, put that fish down. Waded up to the next run as another fishermen came down the bank a little ways up from me. I cast and the fish rose and I hooked it, I heard the other guy holler out, "Nice!" The little brown went to the bottom and under a submerged limb and got off.
After retrieving the fly, the angler asked where I was from and how far down was I planning to fish and he asked if it was ok to wade on down. He said he was From Greensboro and fishes this section often. He went on down to the big pool below my run and worked it for a long long time as I moved up and hit some favorite spots. A tree had fallen into the river and choked off the tail of one little pool where I've caught many in the past.
I caught about 6 before taking a beer break and making a streamside video.
Here is what the day looked like
Listened to John Prine on the drive up. Laughed and Cried.
https://youtu.be/HdzdEQOHL_I
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040820-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040820-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040820-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040820-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040820-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040820-6.jpg)
Greensboro guy
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040820-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040820-8.jpg)
Troutrus
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040820-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040820-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/040820-11.jpg)
The damn dam was set to open up at one and I figured the water would be coming up about 2:15 and the fishing slowed down a bit and I was hungry so I was the first back to the cars, followed shortly by Trouts and then the Greensboro guy. I was going to sticker them but forgot. Greensboro left and Trouts and I talked and drank our beers, Miller Lite for him and citradelic for me.
Till next time...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on April 09, 2020, 11:00:50 AM
Post by: itieuglyflies on April 09, 2020, 11:00:50 AM
Sweet.....sorry the vid did not work.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 09, 2020, 12:26:19 PM
Post by: Dougfish on April 09, 2020, 12:26:19 PM
Good stuff. You retired bastards.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ARontheFly on April 09, 2020, 13:06:46 PM
Post by: ARontheFly on April 09, 2020, 13:06:46 PM
Awesome day! JP was a hard loss, still feeling sideways about that days later now. I remember him saying when he wrote Flag Decal and Jesus the missing years he wondered if someone was going to commit him to an asylum. Naked as a clowns eyes, such timeless genius in his writing.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: RiverbumCO on April 09, 2020, 19:52:04 PM
Post by: RiverbumCO on April 09, 2020, 19:52:04 PM
I listened to John Prine today also.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on April 10, 2020, 08:04:08 AM
Post by: troutrus on April 10, 2020, 08:04:08 AM
It was a pleasure running into you Mr. Wooly. Enjoyed chatting, sipping a brew, and watching you fool a few fishies with that puffy little fly.
I did however feel somewhat intimidated by your persistent chant along the lines of "staythefuckawayfromme". 😁
https://youtu.be/OVhA01J0Zsg
BE221812-32A1-4EA4-85FA-0EC8EFAD0165.jpeg
85A96C90-8F3D-43BC-9D52-81106522E16B.jpeg
I did however feel somewhat intimidated by your persistent chant along the lines of "staythefuckawayfromme". 😁
https://youtu.be/OVhA01J0Zsg
BE221812-32A1-4EA4-85FA-0EC8EFAD0165.jpeg
85A96C90-8F3D-43BC-9D52-81106522E16B.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 10, 2020, 10:47:40 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 10, 2020, 10:47:40 AM
here is the video 18:49 :;!
https://youtu.be/EZa3GpPjDYU
it may be a while before youtube finishes processing this for HD playback...
https://youtu.be/EZa3GpPjDYU
it may be a while before youtube finishes processing this for HD playback...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 12, 2020, 10:07:56 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 12, 2020, 10:07:56 AM
4/11/20 #18
https://youtu.be/3rd1Nv4QjX4
Thought it might get crowed so I went early, but not too early because I didn't think the fish / bugs would be all that active. Hit the parking lot at 9, two vehicles already there. Went to the same ole spot, Dusted off the SP, hadn't fished it in a while. Sure is sweet and a pleasure to cast. It was still rigged up with a sulfur comparadun and I gave that a try, but it didn't interest anybody, not that they were showing themselves. The caddis weren't as steady as a couple of day ago. Put on a puff daddy and caught the firs fish of the day. It was a little slow going and after catching three, I had my breakfast of boiled eggs and Lagunitas IPA, then I took photos for a while...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-7.jpg)
More caddis bugs started to some off with the midges and a few stones and a sulfur or two.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-10.jpg)
Caught some fish and then had a beer break – buff for sun not covid-19
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-14.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-15.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-16.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-17.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-18.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-19.jpg)
Some more fishing and catching.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-20.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-21.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-22.jpg)
Then I hiked back to the parking lot for my lunch and to resupply and then I headed on down the tracks to the Trestle Pool, I
hadn't seen any other anglers all morning and now there were five vehicles besides mine in the lot. I stickered them.
These two (father /son?) were just above the pool. The fish were rising to the caddis and I switched to an elk hair and caught a few.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-23.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-24.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-25.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-26.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-27.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-28.jpg)
I went downstream and ran into another fly guy, he was nymping and reported that it was almost too easy. I told him that I only dry fly fish on this river and he said he should make that effort in the future.
I broke off a couple of better fish on a peppery hook set easily snapping the 6.5x
I made my way back up to the bottom of the field at around 7 and things were starting to get exciting as there were lots of bugs and fish rising and in the next thirty minutes I caught almost as many as I had caught all day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-29.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-30.jpg)
This was probably the best fish of the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-31.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-32.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/04/041120-33.jpg)
Back at the lot at 8:15 I was the only one left!
Miles driven 146
Gas per gallon 1.48
Boiled Eggs 2
Cliff Bars 2
Cheese and Summer Sausage
Beer Lagunitas IPA / New Belgian Citradellic
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on April 12, 2020, 10:12:10 AM
Post by: Onslow on April 12, 2020, 10:12:10 AM
Some quality catching!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: greg on April 12, 2020, 10:19:54 AM
Post by: greg on April 12, 2020, 10:19:54 AM
Good day for sure.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: dhjunkie on April 12, 2020, 11:54:04 AM
Post by: dhjunkie on April 12, 2020, 11:54:04 AM
Pretty work Mr. Woolly Bugger.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 12, 2020, 16:35:55 PM
Post by: Dougfish on April 12, 2020, 16:35:55 PM
Solid efforting!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on April 12, 2020, 16:50:53 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on April 12, 2020, 16:50:53 PM
The Woolly don't need no stinking carp to have a good day.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: greg on April 12, 2020, 17:02:01 PM
Post by: greg on April 12, 2020, 17:02:01 PM
That's a good looking reel. I've been trying to find one.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on April 13, 2020, 16:29:45 PM
Post by: Al on April 13, 2020, 16:29:45 PM
Heads up - there is going to be change to this weeks generation schedule due to recent rain. Check the announcement before your go 276-629-2432
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 13, 2020, 21:28:25 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 13, 2020, 21:28:25 PM
Quote from: Al on April 13, 2020, 16:29:45 PMHeads up - there is going to be change to this weeks generation schedule due to recent rain. Check the announcement before your go 276-629-2432
tomorrow 7-9 am and 7-9 pm
starting Wednesday 24/7 until further notice...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 14, 2020, 11:09:54 AM
Post by: Dougfish on April 14, 2020, 11:09:54 AM
and the sluice gates opened at 10 am today.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 14, 2020, 12:41:46 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 14, 2020, 12:41:46 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on April 14, 2020, 11:09:54 AMand the sluice gates opened at 10 am today.
Fuckers — I was on my way when I checked and saw that
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 16, 2020, 16:18:58 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 16, 2020, 16:18:58 PM
sluicing stopped today, hope there is no generation this weekend <-;: d:b
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 16, 2020, 16:50:55 PM
Post by: Dougfish on April 16, 2020, 16:50:55 PM
They dropped it 2 feet. Still sitting at 2 feet above full pond. Waiting on their next week's schedule. :;!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on April 16, 2020, 19:27:07 PM
Post by: troutrus on April 16, 2020, 19:27:07 PM
The lake got a tad high after the recent rains. 😳
8C236123-9F45-434B-A19D-97DED3083DF9.jpeg
8C236123-9F45-434B-A19D-97DED3083DF9.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on April 16, 2020, 19:55:18 PM
Post by: Onslow on April 16, 2020, 19:55:18 PM
Not sure how much rain fell in VA, but at least 5 inches fell around the BRP @ Watauga/Wilkes, and 3.5" was in my rain gage in Elkin.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 16, 2020, 19:59:37 PM
Post by: Dougfish on April 16, 2020, 19:59:37 PM
3", up the road in Roanoke.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on April 17, 2020, 11:19:36 AM
Post by: Al on April 17, 2020, 11:19:36 AM
Unless you have a raft you'd better fish elsewhere this coming week b'; Can't fight Mother Nature
Philpott Generation Schedule for April 18-24
Sat. 18th, 6am-11pm
Sun. 19th, 9am-12am midnight
Mon. 20th, 24 hours (all day)
Tues. 21st, 3am-12am midnight
Wed. 22nd, 3am-12am midnight
Thur. 23rd, 3am-12am midnight
Fri. 24th, 3am-12am midnight
*Note:this schedule is subject to change without notice
Philpott Generation Schedule for April 18-24
Sat. 18th, 6am-11pm
Sun. 19th, 9am-12am midnight
Mon. 20th, 24 hours (all day)
Tues. 21st, 3am-12am midnight
Wed. 22nd, 3am-12am midnight
Thur. 23rd, 3am-12am midnight
Fri. 24th, 3am-12am midnight
*Note:this schedule is subject to change without notice
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on April 30, 2020, 13:53:09 PM
Post by: Al on April 30, 2020, 13:53:09 PM
Don't look for it to get any better next week - this just in....................
Following heavy overnight rain in the upper Roanoke Basin, flood operations are being declared for Kerr and Philpott (in addition to ongoing Fish Spawning Operations at Kerr).
PHILPOTT: Beginning continuous generation at Philpott; declaring 1035 MWH secondary, for a total of 1260 MWH.
KERR: Declaring 18105 MWH secondary, for a total of 20355 MWH. Following coordination with fishery agencies, releases from Roanoke Rapids are being increased to 20,000 cfs starting Saturday. Declaration only reflects 20,000 cfs thru Tuesday (followed by 15,000 Wed and 10,000 cfs Thu-Fri); however, it is our intent to issue a revision on Monday to extend 20,000 cfs through the remainder of the week after confirming inflows are sufficient. In addition, Dominion is being allowed to go ahead and begin increasing releases up to 20,000 cfs today and Friday to handle heavy local inflows.
Following heavy overnight rain in the upper Roanoke Basin, flood operations are being declared for Kerr and Philpott (in addition to ongoing Fish Spawning Operations at Kerr).
PHILPOTT: Beginning continuous generation at Philpott; declaring 1035 MWH secondary, for a total of 1260 MWH.
KERR: Declaring 18105 MWH secondary, for a total of 20355 MWH. Following coordination with fishery agencies, releases from Roanoke Rapids are being increased to 20,000 cfs starting Saturday. Declaration only reflects 20,000 cfs thru Tuesday (followed by 15,000 Wed and 10,000 cfs Thu-Fri); however, it is our intent to issue a revision on Monday to extend 20,000 cfs through the remainder of the week after confirming inflows are sufficient. In addition, Dominion is being allowed to go ahead and begin increasing releases up to 20,000 cfs today and Friday to handle heavy local inflows.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 07, 2020, 06:12:08 AM
Post by: Al on May 07, 2020, 06:12:08 AM
It looks like more of the same for next week - Be sure you check the announcement before you go 276-629-2432
"Following recent heavy rainfall runoff in the upper Roanoke Basin, flood operations continuing until this Friday, 8 May, for Kerr and Philpott (in addition to ongoing Fish Spawning Operations at Kerr).
PHILPOTT: Continuous generation (650 cfs) at Philpott Monday through Friday, next week. This weekend, 9-10 May, expect near 500 cfs Philpott outflow . Declaring 945 MWH secondary, for a total of 1170 MWH."
"Following recent heavy rainfall runoff in the upper Roanoke Basin, flood operations continuing until this Friday, 8 May, for Kerr and Philpott (in addition to ongoing Fish Spawning Operations at Kerr).
PHILPOTT: Continuous generation (650 cfs) at Philpott Monday through Friday, next week. This weekend, 9-10 May, expect near 500 cfs Philpott outflow . Declaring 945 MWH secondary, for a total of 1170 MWH."
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on May 07, 2020, 15:48:47 PM
Post by: creakycane on May 07, 2020, 15:48:47 PM
Thanks for posting, Al. These days, can't even get a break to fish in the early AM once in a while. Oh well, I guess it is time to explore the obscure blue lines - definitely, the well known little creeks in NC and VA seem to be getting hammered. Some days I am relieved to see so much interest in trout fishing, thinking it is good for the future of the streams. Other days, I just wish people would evolve beyond the blood sports (too late for me b'; ). Anyway........
Be safe/healthy everyone.
Be safe/healthy everyone.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 13, 2020, 19:28:38 PM
Post by: Al on May 13, 2020, 19:28:38 PM
I think they are going to give us a break next week. Check the schedule due out late Thursday or early Friday @ 276-629-2432
Here is latest info ...
PHILPOTT: Declaring 405 MWH secondary, for a total of 630 MWH.
KERR: Declaring 3915 MWH secondary, for a total of 6165 MWH to support spawning releases of 5500 cfs from Roanoke Rapids.
***NOTE: Declaration assumes 300 MWH from Dominion's energy storage account in Kerr to support fish flows.***
Here is latest info ...
PHILPOTT: Declaring 405 MWH secondary, for a total of 630 MWH.
KERR: Declaring 3915 MWH secondary, for a total of 6165 MWH to support spawning releases of 5500 cfs from Roanoke Rapids.
***NOTE: Declaration assumes 300 MWH from Dominion's energy storage account in Kerr to support fish flows.***
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 18, 2020, 13:12:10 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 18, 2020, 13:12:10 PM
May 18, 2020 #19
Had visions of sulfurs hatching, tried to go Saturday, that was a bust, then on Sunday I was almost at the river when I got phone call that dad had fallen -- by the time I got back, he was in hospital and x-rays confirmed a broken hip. Well damn.
Surgery went well last night and they are starting therapy today.
Driver was up on sunday and he said to "get up there if you can" So I left the house at 6 and was on the water just before 8, as I rigged up the rod I noticed fish rising and saw the little yaller bugs coming off the water.
https://vimeo.com/420005319
It took a bit to get into them. Had to change flies and add some tippet to get them interested. Several better fish were caught and it was a lot of fun from 8 - 10, before things began to slow down a bit
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/05/051820-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/05/051820-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/05/051820-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/05/051820-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/05/051820-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/05/051820-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/05/051820-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/05/051820-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/05/051820-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/05/051820-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/05/051820-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/05/051820-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/05/051820-13.jpg)
Some of you may observe that there is a new line on the 3 wt.
the usual mix of punes but a good number of beefier trouts were caught too, One hit hard and the CFO drag screamed for a bit It was a good morning and well worth the trip. The rain started falling as I was packing up to leave.
A pair of palliated woodpeckers chipped and joined me along the river high up in a tree before flying off on their daily business.
Later in the morning, around 10:30 or so, the sky brightened a bit and I heard the drone of cicada above the roar of the river. On the walk out I could clearly hear them in the wood up on the hill.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 18, 2020, 15:09:10 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 18, 2020, 15:09:10 PM
Good show, sir. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on May 18, 2020, 15:37:39 PM
Post by: Phil on May 18, 2020, 15:37:39 PM
Fine. Yessiree. Just plain ol' finery.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 18, 2020, 20:34:17 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 18, 2020, 20:34:17 PM
Gotta get out while the getting is good
(https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/qpf/p120i.gif?1589852286)
Phil it looks like it's going to dump 16 inches on your place!
(https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/qpf/p120i.gif?1589852286)
Phil it looks like it's going to dump 16 inches on your place!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 19, 2020, 09:45:39 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 19, 2020, 09:45:39 AM
B43C11D9-3115-45DD-A592-2252A5E92BF2.jpeg
2 inches and counting :o
2 inches and counting :o
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 21, 2020, 11:00:08 AM
Post by: Al on May 21, 2020, 11:00:08 AM
Probably no need to suggest you look elsewhere to fish for the next week or so. This just in from COE
"Be advised that an additional 81 MWH is being declared for Philpott to support continuous generation that began late yesterday in response to high pool levels. Sluicing operations at Philpott are also being initiated today as well to manage high pool levels".
I've also seen pictures and reports that low lying areas of Martinsville are flooding and a state of emergency has been declared for Henry County.
"Be advised that an additional 81 MWH is being declared for Philpott to support continuous generation that began late yesterday in response to high pool levels. Sluicing operations at Philpott are also being initiated today as well to manage high pool levels".
I've also seen pictures and reports that low lying areas of Martinsville are flooding and a state of emergency has been declared for Henry County.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 21, 2020, 13:52:46 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 21, 2020, 13:52:46 PM
F6194DEE-BFDA-4739-B77A-468A8584DC81.jpeg
That's a lot of water, it looks like it may still rise up to the spillway at 985' at last report the lake was 983 and rising
That's a lot of water, it looks like it may still rise up to the spillway at 985' at last report the lake was 983 and rising
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on May 21, 2020, 18:08:46 PM
Post by: driver on May 21, 2020, 18:08:46 PM
I heard SML is going over the spillway.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: ryguy on May 21, 2020, 19:34:39 PM
Post by: ryguy on May 21, 2020, 19:34:39 PM
A guy I work with lives on Smith Mountain Lake and mentioned that today. He said the lake has risen 2' in the past few days. Lots of rain that is for sure.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 22, 2020, 05:58:31 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 22, 2020, 05:58:31 AM
She's gone over the top!
https://www.facebook.com/740241476003294/posts/3516714705022610/
https://www.facebook.com/740241476003294/posts/3516714705022610/
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on May 22, 2020, 06:36:20 AM
Post by: troutrus on May 22, 2020, 06:36:20 AM
Yep. Just one more thing the "experts" said would never happen.
Now we can't fish the river or the lake with the ramp closed.
364A1BE6-2782-49DD-A630-C05661E92D4F.jpegE530F525-0D5C-4227-BD54-8A0F15C633CA.jpeg
Now we can't fish the river or the lake with the ramp closed.
364A1BE6-2782-49DD-A630-C05661E92D4F.jpegE530F525-0D5C-4227-BD54-8A0F15C633CA.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 22, 2020, 07:25:38 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 22, 2020, 07:25:38 AM
https://www.facebook.com/740241476003294/photos/a.2090214264339335/3517067478320666/?type=3
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 22, 2020, 07:41:43 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 22, 2020, 07:41:43 AM
And linville too
https://www.instagram.com/p/CAdh5vlh43S/?igshid=6rmk01mslonc
https://www.instagram.com/p/CAdh5vlh43S/?igshid=6rmk01mslonc
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 22, 2020, 09:10:24 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 22, 2020, 09:10:24 AM
looks like the lake is topped out at about 4" above the spillway. The rain has stopped for the time being.
Most recent instantaneous value: 985.31 05-22-2020 09:45 EDT
USGS.02071900.147569.62614..20200515.20200522..0..pres.gif.png
Most recent instantaneous value: 985.31 05-22-2020 09:45 EDT
USGS.02071900.147569.62614..20200515.20200522..0..pres.gif.png
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 22, 2020, 10:10:28 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 22, 2020, 10:10:28 AM
the [ake has created and falling to 985.29 at 10:45 /'/ expect it to be below the spillway late this afternoon. d:b
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 22, 2020, 11:57:47 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 22, 2020, 11:57:47 AM
https://www.instagram.com/p/CAfoy5QnRMb/?igshid=1effp7qrqfuev
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on May 22, 2020, 14:56:00 PM
Post by: troutrus on May 22, 2020, 14:56:00 PM
Got up a tad down here in Eden where it dumps into the Dan. Second time in three months that the golf course at the confluence has been under water.
Sad for the folks with homes along there. 🙁
8241C733-8988-45B0-850F-E93D3F8E3857.jpeg
BF64D22F-4E79-46A6-8472-D847DF49ECEA.jpeg
Sad for the folks with homes along there. 🙁
8241C733-8988-45B0-850F-E93D3F8E3857.jpeg
BF64D22F-4E79-46A6-8472-D847DF49ECEA.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 22, 2020, 15:37:50 PM
Post by: Al on May 22, 2020, 15:37:50 PM
https://www.facebook.com/BTW21/videos/2607006712875507/
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 24, 2020, 08:06:02 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 24, 2020, 08:06:02 AM
Riddle me this, Batman!
Bassett Gauge vs Martinsville
C78570A8-03AF-4879-904F-F8201B6EE57B.png
23A1432C-AA20-487D-9076-8F1814FBF14E.png
Why is there 1320 difference at Martinsville?
Bassett Gauge vs Martinsville
C78570A8-03AF-4879-904F-F8201B6EE57B.png
23A1432C-AA20-487D-9076-8F1814FBF14E.png
Why is there 1320 difference at Martinsville?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 24, 2020, 20:21:36 PM
Post by: Al on May 24, 2020, 20:21:36 PM
I am at my cabin behind the Bassett High School. We have had one hell of a rain storm the past hours. Just got a flood warning for this area and also a text from a friend who said they are evacuating the nursing home down by the Bassett High School.
Don't know anything more but expect the Smith has jumped its banks and flooding that big field by the Stanley Town Bridge.
Glad I am up on higher ground.
Don't know anything more but expect the Smith has jumped its banks and flooding that big field by the Stanley Town Bridge.
Glad I am up on higher ground.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on May 24, 2020, 20:28:01 PM
Post by: Onslow on May 24, 2020, 20:28:01 PM
4 inches of rain just dropped.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 24, 2020, 20:43:51 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 24, 2020, 20:43:51 PM
Almost 4.5 inches
Town creek is raging
C9310339-E8CC-4096-9A91-050DE9503325.png
E497CE2F-B526-41EA-BEA5-6158E1C8B52F.png
BB845497-87C4-413A-83EE-C72BD6EBA0EC.png
Town creek is raging
C9310339-E8CC-4096-9A91-050DE9503325.png
E497CE2F-B526-41EA-BEA5-6158E1C8B52F.png
BB845497-87C4-413A-83EE-C72BD6EBA0EC.png
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 25, 2020, 06:39:03 AM
Post by: Al on May 25, 2020, 06:39:03 AM
Water came over Stanleytown Bridge. Water came into some sections of the nursing home but they decided not to evacuate. Water came into Dollar General store. Cunningham Tire store had one wall collapse. That's all I know so far - I suspect homes tight to the river got flooded.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 25, 2020, 11:06:07 AM
Post by: Al on May 25, 2020, 11:06:07 AM
Just saw on Phipott FB page they had a landslide on the downstream side of the dam which damaged their power house. All control of the water is in the hands of God until they can get power to the device that operates in gates
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 25, 2020, 11:08:46 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 25, 2020, 11:08:46 AM
Quote from: Al on May 25, 2020, 11:06:07 AMJust saw on Phipott FB page they had a landslide on the downstream side of the dam which damaged their power house. All control of the water is in the hands of God until they can get power to the device that operates in gates
Damn!
Posted by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wilmington District on
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 25, 2020, 20:18:09 PM
Post by: Al on May 25, 2020, 20:18:09 PM
Expect if you do a FB search you will see several photos of the rain/flood damage now. I tried to get out at 1000 this morning and many roads were blocked off. I'm told there is a big sink hole on Riverside Drive in Bassett. The ended up not evacuating the nursing home near the Bassett High School although they got up to 4 inches of water down the hallways and into some rooms. Dollar General along Stanleytown Bridge had water in it - Water came over Stanleytown Bridge for awhile. Cunningham Tire had a wall collaspe which in turn collasped the whole room.
Here is a couple photos I took at the Great Road canoe access - Glad I wasn't in the crapper when this all took place
20200525_105651_resized_1.jpg
20200525_105807_resized_1.jpg
This next one is at the big hole at end of Shadyview Rd near the old church
20200525_111015_resized_1.jpg
The last one is at Canoe Ramp just below Martinsville Dam
20200525_152441_resized_1.jpg
Here is a couple photos I took at the Great Road canoe access - Glad I wasn't in the crapper when this all took place
20200525_105651_resized_1.jpg
20200525_105807_resized_1.jpg
This next one is at the big hole at end of Shadyview Rd near the old church
20200525_111015_resized_1.jpg
The last one is at Canoe Ramp just below Martinsville Dam
20200525_152441_resized_1.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 25, 2020, 21:57:19 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 25, 2020, 21:57:19 PM
I find it absolutely ridiculous that the COE didn't reduce flows to compensate for the forecasted rain yesterday evening. Heavy rainfall was in the forecast. So what if a little more water came over the spillway for a few hours. At least homes and business wouldn't have been severely damaged. They should have reduced to one generator at noon yesterday based on the high chance of heavy precipitation and then start sluicing again when the rain passed. Ridiculous.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 27, 2020, 20:04:20 PM
Post by: Al on May 27, 2020, 20:04:20 PM
Well I asked the question and here is the answer ................
PHILPOTT: Due to a mudslide event at Philpott last Sunday evening and debris inside the power plant there will be no generation from either hydropower units for the foreseeable future. Sluicing will be used to maintain Philpott operations.
PHILPOTT: Due to a mudslide event at Philpott last Sunday evening and debris inside the power plant there will be no generation from either hydropower units for the foreseeable future. Sluicing will be used to maintain Philpott operations.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 27, 2020, 22:37:10 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 27, 2020, 22:37:10 PM
:o oh crap! Hope that the temps don't rise too high before they get it fixed! The Smith can't catch a break
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on May 28, 2020, 07:21:53 AM
Post by: driver on May 28, 2020, 07:21:53 AM
The water temp is already in the mid 50's
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 28, 2020, 11:11:06 AM
Post by: Dougfish on May 28, 2020, 11:11:06 AM
Up 7 degrees in 5.5 days. Flow dropped some today and temp is coming back down. Hope that is a trend. b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 29, 2020, 02:03:36 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 29, 2020, 02:03:36 AM
https://www.facebook.com/287890524601091/posts/3138250332898415/
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 03, 2020, 10:42:25 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 03, 2020, 10:42:25 AM
dougfish called, I answered. Maiden voyage of the SS Beasts under power. d:b
I arrived an hour early, Dougfish on the dot of 8:30! Lake was still up a couple of feet!
Quickish transfer of rods and beers and launch. The 2.5hp Yamaha roared to life and we cruised across the lake to explore the racket of cicada. As we entered a cove, Dougfish cut the engine and coasted to a stop. There we saw some bugs flying low in the trees and a few landed in the water where bluegills nipped at there legs and eventually consumed the bug piece by piece. No carp to be seen. We were going to motor on down the lake and Dougfish tried to start the Yamaha to no avail. The harder he pulled the more the aroma of petrol filled the air. Perhaps it was flooded, perhaps worse. Being a good passenger, I asked the Captain to pass me a beer, it was well before ten am. He rowed the beast around and I drank more beer.
He rowed us down towards where the guides had gone, and I saw two cruising carps, had a shot at one but cast into a tree as the fish moved behind us and down into the depths of the lake.
I did manage to catch a bluegill on a cicada with a #4 salmon hook on the 10 weight.
But that's not why am posting this report.
After we got back to the ramp around noon. I decided to take a look at the Philpott dam to see what was going on at the switch house as far as repairs were concerned. They are sluicing 1600+ CFS of pure mud and the river is a milk chocolate mess right now. I drove up the River Brook Road (rt 772) and ran into VA DOT crews repairing the roadway as there were several washed out culverts and small landslides.
I came to the end of the road and was greeted with a closed gate and posted signs.
I hope that the repairs don't take too long and that the fish survive this mess.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/06/060220-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/06/060220-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/06/060220-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/06/060220-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on June 03, 2020, 18:51:08 PM
Post by: troutrus on June 03, 2020, 18:51:08 PM
Nice sunny. 👍🏻
I don't target carps up there, but if I was going to, I would check out the grass flats along south end of Turkey Island.
I don't target carps up there, but if I was going to, I would check out the grass flats along south end of Turkey Island.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 06, 2020, 21:07:14 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 06, 2020, 21:07:14 PM
the muddy smith...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/06/060620-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/06/060620-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 09, 2020, 22:32:03 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 09, 2020, 22:32:03 PM
Anybody got intel on repairs at the damn dam?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 10, 2020, 08:47:35 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 10, 2020, 08:47:35 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on June 09, 2020, 22:32:03 PMAnybody got intel on repairs at the damn dam?
The park ranger I saw monday said they are still getting mud out of the house. He thinks late fall/early winter.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on June 10, 2020, 13:17:29 PM
Post by: troutrus on June 10, 2020, 13:17:29 PM
Went up that way this morning. Figured the Army Corps office would be open, but no luck. Paved road to the dam was closed. All the walking trails were closed. Couldn't get up the gravel road on river left as VA DOT was doing grading and graveling.
Drove down to #1 ramp at the lake. Can't believe how many boat trailers were there on a week day. Doesn't anybody work anymore? Drove back up to the overlook park. Still quite a few big bugs making noise up there and flying about. Lots of evidence of the grand emergence. Bet the carp are gourging themselves out on the lake. 😁
19173A59-4390-4A47-9682-E2DE14C457BA.jpeg6699C1E1-944B-4D89-B807-D8C79DF25FC8.jpeg9EB9DCF3-CA1C-4048-A571-253CF8FCE131.jpegEC8A1C11-42A3-48B6-989D-521F3C1C0D91.jpegD82F925E-8188-4E5B-AD27-D1172CA3A527.jpeg0BA0B398-8A36-4E93-BB80-52B36E778F75.jpeg2E2FEA26-B45E-474E-9693-3C8F6074C138.jpegA58DC8F9-7B44-499A-B03D-90403561D259.jpeg
Drove down to #1 ramp at the lake. Can't believe how many boat trailers were there on a week day. Doesn't anybody work anymore? Drove back up to the overlook park. Still quite a few big bugs making noise up there and flying about. Lots of evidence of the grand emergence. Bet the carp are gourging themselves out on the lake. 😁
19173A59-4390-4A47-9682-E2DE14C457BA.jpeg6699C1E1-944B-4D89-B807-D8C79DF25FC8.jpeg9EB9DCF3-CA1C-4048-A571-253CF8FCE131.jpegEC8A1C11-42A3-48B6-989D-521F3C1C0D91.jpegD82F925E-8188-4E5B-AD27-D1172CA3A527.jpeg0BA0B398-8A36-4E93-BB80-52B36E778F75.jpeg2E2FEA26-B45E-474E-9693-3C8F6074C138.jpegA58DC8F9-7B44-499A-B03D-90403561D259.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on June 10, 2020, 14:07:41 PM
Post by: creakycane on June 10, 2020, 14:07:41 PM
The flow is equivalent to a generator now.... is it still very muddy (like the pic above) , or just dicolored, as in a typical 1 gen release? Many thanks!!!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 10, 2020, 14:26:08 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 10, 2020, 14:26:08 PM
Quote from: creakycane on June 10, 2020, 14:07:41 PMThe flow is equivalent to a generator now.... is it still very muddy (like the pic above) , or just dicolored, as in a typical 1 gen release? Many thanks!!!
I wouldn't call it muddy. It's pretty stained though. All that rain still has the lake stirred and the dissolved solids are still settling in the lake. That's what you're seeing coming down the river right now, very similar to fall turnover when the lake "flips" over. It's getting cleaner by the day though and should be back to normal in a couple weeks. It's fishable though and they are being caught.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on June 10, 2020, 21:04:35 PM
Post by: creakycane on June 10, 2020, 21:04:35 PM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on June 10, 2020, 14:26:08 PMQuote from: creakycane on June 10, 2020, 14:07:41 PMThe flow is equivalent to a generator now.... is it still very muddy (like the pic above) , or just dicolored, as in a typical 1 gen release? Many thanks!!!
I wouldn't call it muddy. It's pretty stained though. All that rain still has the lake stirred and the dissolved solids are still settling in the lake. That's what you're seeing coming down the river right now, very similar to fall turnover when the lake "flips" over. It's getting cleaner by the day though and should be back to normal in a couple weeks. It's fishable though and they are being caught.
Sounds like things are looking up (somewhat). Appreciate the update! Glad some folks are getting out.....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on June 11, 2020, 06:48:53 AM
Post by: troutrus on June 11, 2020, 06:48:53 AM
https://youtu.be/hkxZwHgN-1I
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on June 12, 2020, 06:09:58 AM
Post by: troutrus on June 12, 2020, 06:09:58 AM
Down here on the lower end the color changed from hot chocolate to tea with cream. If ya look hard you can almost see bottom at 2 feet.
Even the local otters seem bewildered by the continuous high flows.
D4155B6E-2066-4550-8007-C6E98BB09941.jpeg24B41FA2-7EAE-4714-A632-A499AD72B38B.jpeg8D82D4D0-92D0-4038-BAD8-F480BB816A1D.jpeg
Even the local otters seem bewildered by the continuous high flows.
D4155B6E-2066-4550-8007-C6E98BB09941.jpeg24B41FA2-7EAE-4714-A632-A499AD72B38B.jpeg8D82D4D0-92D0-4038-BAD8-F480BB816A1D.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on June 15, 2020, 17:00:07 PM
Post by: Al on June 15, 2020, 17:00:07 PM
For those that have been wondering about things at the Philpott powerhouse ........
"the damage is fairly significant. Half of the new switch gear building was demolished, and the equipment inside will have to be assessed to see what if anything is salvageable. Without that equipment we cannot generate. So I cannot give you an exact time frame yet but it could be quite some time before we can generate again. Good news is we made a lot of headway the last 2 weeks getting mud out of the entrance and inside on the Erection Bay. This was not easy as in some places it was over 3 feet deep."
My guess is we have to learn to live with it through the summer and likely into the fall and beyond.
"the damage is fairly significant. Half of the new switch gear building was demolished, and the equipment inside will have to be assessed to see what if anything is salvageable. Without that equipment we cannot generate. So I cannot give you an exact time frame yet but it could be quite some time before we can generate again. Good news is we made a lot of headway the last 2 weeks getting mud out of the entrance and inside on the Erection Bay. This was not easy as in some places it was over 3 feet deep."
My guess is we have to learn to live with it through the summer and likely into the fall and beyond.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 15, 2020, 19:20:03 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 15, 2020, 19:20:03 PM
Ugh.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 16, 2020, 14:41:20 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 16, 2020, 14:41:20 PM
And then it rained, and rained and rained some more. The lake began to fill up and reach historic levels. It didn't look good for wading the river for a month or longer
Huge releases from the dam made fishing impossible as the river crested and flooded low lying areas.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/06/may%20june%20flow.gif)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/06/may%20rain.gif)
14.5 inches of rain in just 6 days filled the lake up to the brim and for the first time in its history the water flowed over the spillway.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/06/spillway-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/06/spillway-2.jpg)
On May 24 a severe thunderstorm dumped 4.5 inches of rain in an hour! The caused more flooding and a landslide at the powerhouse which knocked out the new switchgear building, backup generator and damaged the surrounding equipment and buildings.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/06/may%2024%20rain.gif)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/06/mudslide.png)
Repairs to the river road as sections were washed out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/06/060220-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/06/060220-3.jpg)
Park at the foot of the dam remains closed.
Landslide damage.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/06/philpottDam-1.jpg)*
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/06/philpottDam-2.jpg)*
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/06/philpottDam-3.jpg)*
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/06/philpottDam-4.jpg)*
*Photos courtesy of
Brian W. Stewart
Assistant Manager
Philpott Lake
The length of the repairs is unknown at this time, perhaps stretching into the fall or early winter.
" ...photos of the damage from the landslide at the Philpott Powerhouse. These were all taken a day or two after the event, and the area looks significantly better since the cleanup. As of now, there is no estimated time of restoration for generator services. For the time being, we will continue to release water through the sluice gates. As inflows to the lake drop, we may need switch to low flow valves to conserve water. This means that that river flows below Philpott Dam will remain more consistent than while generation is taking place. Typically our releases will mirror inflows to the lake to try to keep the lake level near the established guide curve." – Brian W. Stewart
For those with access to rafts, fishing has been good. For those without a boat to float it hasn't been possible but that may change if the lake level drops and they cut back the flow, so keep an eye on the river gauge.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on June 17, 2020, 10:36:42 AM
Post by: creakycane on June 17, 2020, 10:36:42 AM
Thanks for all the updates, gents!
Looking at my records from the last 27 years, we are usually starting to complain of lack of rain (fear of summer drought/water T's) about now.
Judging from the increasing lake level today, and the forecast for next 10 days, it will be after July 4 before wading becomes generally possible. b';
UPDATE Well, they just now upped the release to 1400. Maybe we'll be wading through the Trestle Pool before the 4th? If the rain gods cooperate.
Looking at my records from the last 27 years, we are usually starting to complain of lack of rain (fear of summer drought/water T's) about now.
Judging from the increasing lake level today, and the forecast for next 10 days, it will be after July 4 before wading becomes generally possible. b';
UPDATE Well, they just now upped the release to 1400. Maybe we'll be wading through the Trestle Pool before the 4th? If the rain gods cooperate.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 17, 2020, 17:14:31 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 17, 2020, 17:14:31 PM
Hopefully, I doubt you will be wade fishing the trestle pool before the 4th. Lots of us are hoping the lower river makes it though this crazy whirlwind of circumstances with some water going over their heads. The coe doesnt give a shit about the lower river fish and the temps, so the only thing that will save the majority of them is consistent rain through the summer. Not to mention, we(SRTU, DRBA), and vdgif just stocked 13,600 fingerling browns down there who CAN reproduce. We want to give them the best shot a living. Unfortunately we don't know the exact slucing cfs coming out of philpott dam that keeps the lower river fish alive in the dead of summer.
Plenty of places to fish besides the smith.
Plenty of places to fish besides the smith.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on June 18, 2020, 06:54:20 AM
Post by: driver on June 18, 2020, 06:54:20 AM
The lower is done! The water coming out of the dam is 57 degrees, to much water has passed through the lake pushing all the cold water out. We are one good heat wave from all the fish below Martinsville turning belly up. And being there are probably only a quarter of the fish left from 3-4 years ago... it's done. Grab you smallie gear, cause thats all there is going to be down there.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on June 18, 2020, 07:03:31 AM
Post by: driver on June 18, 2020, 07:03:31 AM
Summer 2011 This follows the yellow average marks
(https://nadww01.er.usgs.gov/nwisweb/data/img/USGS.02072000.147581.00010..20110611.20111018..0.p50.gif)
Summer 2016
(https://nadww01.er.usgs.gov/nwisweb/data/img/USGS.02072000.147581.00010..20160611.20161018..0.p50.gif)
Summer 2017
(https://nadww01.er.usgs.gov/nwisweb/data/img/USGS.02072000.147581.00010..20170611.20171018..0.p50.gif)
Summer 2018
(https://nadww01.er.usgs.gov/nwisweb/data/img/USGS.02072000.147581.00010..20180611.20181018..0.p50.gif)
Summer 2019
(https://nadww01.er.usgs.gov/nwisweb/data/img/USGS.02072000.147581.00010..20190611.20191018..0.p50.gif)
2020 So far
(https://nadww01.er.usgs.gov/nwisweb/data/img/USGS.02072000.147581.00010..20200101.20200630..0.p50.gif)
(https://nadww01.er.usgs.gov/nwisweb/data/img/USGS.02072000.147581.00010..20110611.20111018..0.p50.gif)
Summer 2016
(https://nadww01.er.usgs.gov/nwisweb/data/img/USGS.02072000.147581.00010..20160611.20161018..0.p50.gif)
Summer 2017
(https://nadww01.er.usgs.gov/nwisweb/data/img/USGS.02072000.147581.00010..20170611.20171018..0.p50.gif)
Summer 2018
(https://nadww01.er.usgs.gov/nwisweb/data/img/USGS.02072000.147581.00010..20180611.20181018..0.p50.gif)
Summer 2019
(https://nadww01.er.usgs.gov/nwisweb/data/img/USGS.02072000.147581.00010..20190611.20191018..0.p50.gif)
2020 So far
(https://nadww01.er.usgs.gov/nwisweb/data/img/USGS.02072000.147581.00010..20200101.20200630..0.p50.gif)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on June 18, 2020, 07:25:38 AM
Post by: Fin on June 18, 2020, 07:25:38 AM
As Driver's graph clearly shows, 2018 was the beginning of the end for the lower river... as a trout fishing destination. Bring on the musky?!? PS...Roanoke Log Perch might be a problem.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 18, 2020, 10:25:19 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 18, 2020, 10:25:19 AM
dunno know why the graphs aren't showing up ...
2011.gif
2012.gif
2013.gif
2014.gif
2015.gif
2016.gif
2017.gif
2018.gif
2019.gif
2020.gif
2011.gif
2012.gif
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Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: gonephishin' on June 18, 2020, 11:18:24 AM
Post by: gonephishin' on June 18, 2020, 11:18:24 AM
Quote from: Fin on June 18, 2020, 07:25:38 AMAs Driver's graph clearly shows, 2018 was the beginning of the end for the lower river... as a trout fishing destination. Bring on the musky?!? PS...Roanoke Log Perch might be a problem.
I have been gone from the area for several years now.... What happened in 2018? Whatever it was... Sad to hear about the lower....I loved that stretch just below the mville dam
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on June 18, 2020, 13:13:48 PM
Post by: driver on June 18, 2020, 13:13:48 PM
The graphs showed when i posted them
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on June 18, 2020, 17:40:29 PM
Post by: creakycane on June 18, 2020, 17:40:29 PM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on June 17, 2020, 17:14:31 PMHopefully, I doubt you will be wade fishing the trestle pool before the 4th. Lots of us are hoping the lower river makes it though this crazy whirlwind of circumstances with some water going over their heads. The coe doesnt give a shit about the lower river fish and the temps, so the only thing that will save the majority of them is consistent rain through the summer. Not to mention, we(SRTU, DRBA), and vdgif just stocked 13,600 fingerling browns down there who CAN reproduce. We want to give them the best shot a living. Unfortunately we don't know the exact slucing cfs coming out of philpott dam that keeps the lower river fish alive in the dead of summer.
Plenty of places to fish besides the smith.
Was it ever discussed that early June after all these issues at Philpott might not be a good time to put the fingerlings in the lower river? Some of the Fish guys in NC asked me about this, and I have no idea. I was told by vdgif that the 10% 1 year survival is fairly optimistic, even during a normal year. Some always survive, 'tis true, but they might be better off saving some water for release during the real hot days, rather than "keeping water going over their heads" when the weather is relatively mild. Fingers crossed that some make it to winter. Sure was nice 4/5-ish years ago down below.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 18, 2020, 19:22:43 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 18, 2020, 19:22:43 PM
Quote from: creakycane on June 18, 2020, 17:40:29 PMQuote from: streamereater_101691 on June 17, 2020, 17:14:31 PMHopefully, I doubt you will be wade fishing the trestle pool before the 4th. Lots of us are hoping the lower river makes it though this crazy whirlwind of circumstances with some water going over their heads. The coe doesnt give a shit about the lower river fish and the temps, so the only thing that will save the majority of them is consistent rain through the summer. Not to mention, we(SRTU, DRBA), and vdgif just stocked 13,600 fingerling browns down there who CAN reproduce. We want to give them the best shot a living. Unfortunately we don't know the exact slucing cfs coming out of philpott dam that keeps the lower river fish alive in the dead of summer.
Plenty of places to fish besides the smith.
Was it ever discussed that early June after all these issues at Philpott might not be a good time to put the fingerlings in the lower river? Some of the Fish guys in NC asked me about this, and I have no idea. I was told by vdgif that the 10% 1 year survival is fairly optimistic, even during a normal year. Some always survive, 'tis true, but they might be better off saving some water for release during the real hot days, rather than "keeping water going over their heads" when the weather is relatively mild. Fingers crossed that some make it to winter. Sure was nice 4/5-ish years ago down below.
Well..yes and no. George palmer was basically given the fingerlings and had to put them somewhere to make room in the hatchery for grow out tanks. Basically these fingerlings are byproduct of a successful year of rearing and have to leave the facility. Good news is they are believed to be more hardier than triploids, but who really knows. They surely cant be heartier than moving established fish in the system in my opinion.
To answer your other question regarding flow, while the powerhouse is currently down and sluicing, it is NOT easy to move the sluice gate up and down. It is moved by manual operation, therefore the coe only moves the gate up and down as lake levels increase/decrease(dramatically)...Basically all that to say, we cant have more flow(lower gate) between 4am-10am and then be able to wade the rest of the day..they(coe) just wont do it. At the going rate, I think they want to do as least as possible until they get at least one turbine up and operational. Unfortunately, it's all about the $$$$$$$$$$$$
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 18, 2020, 19:38:28 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 18, 2020, 19:38:28 PM
Short story:
If you want to wade, it has to stop raining buckets.
Meanwhile, the temps creep up as the cold water gets dumped and gets replaced by the not so cold water.
Not good, my friends.
If you want to wade, it has to stop raining buckets.
Meanwhile, the temps creep up as the cold water gets dumped and gets replaced by the not so cold water.
Not good, my friends.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 06, 2020, 11:17:58 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 06, 2020, 11:17:58 AM
This just in!
Smith River flows cut to 301 cfs at Philpott
Smith River flows cut to 301 cfs at Philpott
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on July 07, 2020, 19:33:11 PM
Post by: troutrus on July 07, 2020, 19:33:11 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on July 06, 2020, 11:17:58 AMThis just in!
Smith River flows cut to 301 cfs at Philpott
Gave it a try this morning. 300 sounded good but was more than I was up to dealing with. Didn't stay long and can say I definitely had more mosquito bites than fish bites.
Guess I'll wait for 200 cfs before trying again.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 07, 2020, 19:34:30 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 07, 2020, 19:34:30 PM
Quote from: troutrus on July 07, 2020, 19:33:11 PMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on July 06, 2020, 11:17:58 AMThis just in!
Smith River flows cut to 301 cfs at Philpott
Gave it a try this morning. 300 sounded good but was more than I was up to dealing with. Didn't stay long and can say I definitely had more mosquito bites than fish bites.
Guess I'll wait for 200 cfs before trying again.
Town Creek is adding another 100 cfs...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on July 08, 2020, 17:14:02 PM
Post by: creakycane on July 08, 2020, 17:14:02 PM
At 400 cfs below Town Creek, it is still a very healthy flow. Today it was still pretty discolored, and is getting warmer than we would all like. Water's not dropping below 60F in Bassett at night and it is only a tad bit cooler coming out of Phlipott. I guess with the screwed-up dam, and whatever gate they are using, the days of low 50Fs 100 cfs water are not possible?
Now, July 11 Sat, its back to over 600cfs in Bassett (560cfs from Philpott).
Now, July 11 Sat, its back to over 600cfs in Bassett (560cfs from Philpott).
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 15, 2020, 14:30:29 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 15, 2020, 14:30:29 PM
they tightened up the spigot the other day ... 301 cfs...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on July 15, 2020, 17:55:55 PM
Post by: driver on July 15, 2020, 17:55:55 PM
68 degrees at Bassett
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 15, 2020, 20:03:52 PM
Post by: Al on July 15, 2020, 20:03:52 PM
I helped DWR sample from Bassett to Fieldale yesterday. Look for detailed report tomorrow. Couple of bottom lines
1. Lots of fish - Browns doing much better than in years past. They are fat and not so many dinks. Also lots of rainbows from recent stocking - some HUGE. Rainbows also seem to be doing well - not skinny like in years past.
2. No generation in the foreseeable future - At least a couple years. There is even speculation that Philpott may revert to flood control status with not generation at all - just sluicing with the water being converted to electricity further downstream, ie at Kerr.
1. Lots of fish - Browns doing much better than in years past. They are fat and not so many dinks. Also lots of rainbows from recent stocking - some HUGE. Rainbows also seem to be doing well - not skinny like in years past.
2. No generation in the foreseeable future - At least a couple years. There is even speculation that Philpott may revert to flood control status with not generation at all - just sluicing with the water being converted to electricity further downstream, ie at Kerr.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on July 16, 2020, 06:21:52 AM
Post by: troutrus on July 16, 2020, 06:21:52 AM
I suppose the yakkers are happy.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 16, 2020, 06:34:45 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 16, 2020, 06:34:45 AM
Quote from: Al on July 15, 2020, 20:03:52 PM2. No generation in the foreseeable future - At least a couple years. There is even speculation that Philpott may revert to flood control status with not generation at all - just sluicing with the water being converted to electricity further downstream, ie at Kerr.
Well that sux, the lower river hit 71.2 F below Martinsville dam over the last couple of days with the 300cfs philpott release — I guess that the lower river is going to be totally fubared fer trouts, smallies in the future?
Quote from: troutrus on July 16, 2020, 06:21:52 AMI suppose the yakkers are happy.
Maybe time to buy a fishing raft
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on July 17, 2020, 14:06:56 PM
Post by: Al on July 17, 2020, 14:06:56 PM
OK, you Smith River guys listen up - plan your schedule accordingly
Town of Eden is doing some "in-stream" work on a water pipe which necessitates little or no flows for a couple days. Philpott will shut off the sluicing gates middle of Monday afternoon and not open them back up until Wednesday afternoon. They will maintain minimum flows through the low-flow valves but likely nothing more than 30cfs.
Get out there and get-em. Lots of nice browns seen in our recent samples from the dam all the way down to Hwy 220 Bypass. I won't waste much time much lower that Hwy 220. Bring a stringer or basket for those stocked rainbows. There are a ton of them still in the river. Good time to harvest a few for the skillet.
(Unfortunately I have doctors appointments and can't take advantage of this b'; b'; )
Town of Eden is doing some "in-stream" work on a water pipe which necessitates little or no flows for a couple days. Philpott will shut off the sluicing gates middle of Monday afternoon and not open them back up until Wednesday afternoon. They will maintain minimum flows through the low-flow valves but likely nothing more than 30cfs.
Get out there and get-em. Lots of nice browns seen in our recent samples from the dam all the way down to Hwy 220 Bypass. I won't waste much time much lower that Hwy 220. Bring a stringer or basket for those stocked rainbows. There are a ton of them still in the river. Good time to harvest a few for the skillet.
(Unfortunately I have doctors appointments and can't take advantage of this b'; b'; )
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on July 17, 2020, 15:51:40 PM
Post by: Onslow on July 17, 2020, 15:51:40 PM
Good timing. It will be hotter than hell Monday.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on July 17, 2020, 19:07:06 PM
Post by: driver on July 17, 2020, 19:07:06 PM
welp. There goes whats left of the fish from 220 down
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: NCsporksman on July 18, 2020, 15:56:31 PM
Post by: NCsporksman on July 18, 2020, 15:56:31 PM
Quote from: driver on July 17, 2020, 19:07:06 PMwelp. There goes whats left of the fish from 220 down
wanna go stand in the river and scoopem up, we might finally bag that 30" p;-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on July 21, 2020, 13:16:32 PM
Post by: troutrus on July 21, 2020, 13:16:32 PM
Looks like they're doing about 90 cfs at the dam. ~270 down here in Eden. Town has been noisy all morning with the helicopter hauling stuff back and forth to/from the work site.
Appears they pulled quite a bunch of dead wood out from the river.
73BD2730-E442-40D6-B53D-B1F95A132C91.jpegD2388E87-D79F-4C52-A1C7-5456C4A265E7.jpeg4E37E670-246E-41CF-B019-CA8A03B89A82.jpeg
Appears they pulled quite a bunch of dead wood out from the river.
73BD2730-E442-40D6-B53D-B1F95A132C91.jpegD2388E87-D79F-4C52-A1C7-5456C4A265E7.jpeg4E37E670-246E-41CF-B019-CA8A03B89A82.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 21, 2020, 16:08:22 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 21, 2020, 16:08:22 PM
Flow at Philpott bumped back up to 825! they must have completed the work ahead of schedule
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on July 21, 2020, 16:23:04 PM
Post by: troutrus on July 21, 2020, 16:23:04 PM
They had enough guys out there to build a pyramid. And a couple sphinx to trim it out.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 21, 2020, 17:08:46 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 21, 2020, 17:08:46 PM
Quote from: troutrus on July 21, 2020, 16:23:04 PMThey had enough guys out there to build a pyramid. And a couple sphinx to trim it out.
No shit. And to top it all off, the minimal flow was the most unnecessary request I've ever seen. I easily wade that section at 500-600cfs, which is barely enough water to come over the dam. Some lazy fuks just want to keep their toes dry.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 14, 2020, 19:31:27 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 14, 2020, 19:31:27 PM
riverbum talked me into going to the upper smith. he wanted to strip his boogieman and I was willing to check out the river and swing some flies.
350 cfs isn't exactly wader friendly, especially with a heavy stain. I was hoping for clear water out of the damn but the sluice is pretty damn muddy.
We found a spot fished it for a while and then left before the rain came...
that it all...
other than another half-inch of rain fell at Philpott
350 cfs isn't exactly wader friendly, especially with a heavy stain. I was hoping for clear water out of the damn but the sluice is pretty damn muddy.
We found a spot fished it for a while and then left before the rain came...
that it all...
other than another half-inch of rain fell at Philpott
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on August 15, 2020, 19:00:05 PM
Post by: Fishbug on August 15, 2020, 19:00:05 PM
The Smith is on the struggle bus b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 15, 2020, 21:22:19 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 15, 2020, 21:22:19 PM
2.5 " of rain today... I forgot to mention all of the schumtz floaing and fouling our flies...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on August 17, 2020, 15:19:46 PM
Post by: creakycane on August 17, 2020, 15:19:46 PM
Stained at 350, the fish are there below the dam, but pretty hard to fish/wade - some places just unpleasant in muddy flows.... Caught quite a few on big caddis and nymphs. If you know stretches very well, it is doable, but unless you know every rock, it seems more ominous than it is. Boy, am I getting old.
Just bumped to 750, so done for a while.....
Just bumped to 750, so done for a while.....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 19, 2020, 15:07:56 PM
Post by: Al on August 19, 2020, 15:07:56 PM
There will be a wading opportunity on Friday, Aug 21.
My sources tell me they will be reducing flows on Friday for about half a day so they can perform some maintenance - expect this to occur about 9:00am but nothing locked in - watch the gauges. Also be in an area where you can get back out once the flow starts back up.
Water will likely remain muddy but the fish are there and have to eat mud or no mud.
My sources tell me they will be reducing flows on Friday for about half a day so they can perform some maintenance - expect this to occur about 9:00am but nothing locked in - watch the gauges. Also be in an area where you can get back out once the flow starts back up.
Water will likely remain muddy but the fish are there and have to eat mud or no mud.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 21, 2020, 08:25:15 AM
Post by: Al on August 21, 2020, 08:25:15 AM
Quote from: Al on August 19, 2020, 15:07:56 PMThere will be a wading opportunity on Friday, Aug 21.
My sources tell me they will be reducing flows on Friday for about half a day so they can perform some maintenance - expect this to occur about 9:00am but nothing locked in - watch the gauges. Also be in an area where you can get back out once the flow starts back up.
Water will likely remain muddy but the fish are there and have to eat mud or no mud.
Just got word the low flow has been canceled for today. Will likely occur next week. I will keep you posted if I hear anything about when it will be rescheduled.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 23, 2020, 09:13:09 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 23, 2020, 09:13:09 AM
more rain at philpott.. n!n
High water in Henry County blocked off several roads including Route 220.
https://www.wsls.com/video/news/2020/08/21/dangerous-flooding-across-henry-county/
n!n
https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2020/08/21/flash-flood-emergency-declared-for-parts-of-henry-county/
High water in Henry County blocked off several roads including Route 220.
https://www.wsls.com/video/news/2020/08/21/dangerous-flooding-across-henry-county/
n!n
https://www.wsls.com/news/local/2020/08/21/flash-flood-emergency-declared-for-parts-of-henry-county/
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 31, 2020, 18:45:20 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 31, 2020, 18:45:20 PM
and another 2+ inches of rain fell at Philpott
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on September 01, 2020, 08:03:11 AM
Post by: troutrus on September 01, 2020, 08:03:11 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on August 31, 2020, 18:45:20 PMand another 2+ inches of rain fell at Philpott
b'; 😢
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on September 02, 2020, 15:37:45 PM
Post by: creakycane on September 02, 2020, 15:37:45 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on August 31, 2020, 18:45:20 PMand another 2+ inches of rain fell at Philpott
True, but it had a surprisingly small impact on Bassett flows as well as little impact in raising philpott levels. Maybe the two inches+ was localized, and not much in surrounding hills?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 09, 2020, 11:33:29 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 09, 2020, 11:33:29 AM
Smifff dropped to 280 cfs
14700781-B4A0-483E-923F-80531F807D18.jpeg
Get on it!
14700781-B4A0-483E-923F-80531F807D18.jpeg
Get on it!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on September 10, 2020, 18:16:54 PM
Post by: troutrus on September 10, 2020, 18:16:54 PM
Still too strong for this old guy to fight with. 🙁👎
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 11, 2020, 09:25:08 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 11, 2020, 09:25:08 AM
Quote from: troutrus on September 10, 2020, 18:16:54 PMStill too strong for this old guy to fight with. 🙁👎
Had to go check it out... headed up in the afternoon, went to the Mirror Plant... Three anglers were comeing out across the field as I was headed in. Two men and a woman with out-of -state plates, one guy came over and we talked for a bit, he caught a couple of SRPBT (Smith River Pune Brown Trout) and the women had reported seeing some risers...
I went in at the head of the riffles below the big sycamore that hangs over the water. Well dang it sure looked muddy, I was hoping that things might have cleared up with the 280 cfs release, but it was yohoo brown.
No risers were spotted and only midges were flying around, so I sat down and drank a beer while rigging up a rusty trombone on a shortened leader.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/09/091120-1.jpg)
I watched the cedar waxwings stage on the river's edge and swooping off their pearches to intercept some unseen flying insect. Several times it looked as if two birds were going after the same bug and only averted a collission at the last moment after the bug was snatched out of the air. Midges, midges and more midges. A pileated woodpecker called in the distance and kingfishers patrolled the river.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/09/091120-2.jpg)
I tossed the streamer for a while without any luck, wading wasn't too difficult except for the poor visibility and the uneven rocks of the riverbed. I shoulda took the "old man stick". I noticed that there appeared to be a lot of sediment trapped in the aquatic vegetation, I guess all the Philpott mud is making a real mess of the river, but perhaps it will provide imporved habitat or maybe smouther trout spawning gravel. I want cold clear water again.
I hooked a fatty stocker rainbow on the dangle at the end of a swing before sitting down and consuming my second beer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/09/091120-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/09/091120-4.jpg)
I spied a few risers and hoped for some evening activity, so I tied on the fly and leader that I had severed for the streamer with a blood knot. I worked a couple of fish but they weren't looking for my fly, then I cast to one that was rising up close to the bank on the far side of the current. Decent cast, let it drift, then right as the fly was going to start to drag the fish rose and took the fly and I snapped it off on the hook set, damn it.
I think I should been tossing beetles under the rhodos on 5x but no, I had to use 6.5x on a #18bwo....
oh well. I stood in the river and waited for something to change, but all it did was get dark. Oh, there were a few #18 cream colored mayflies that came off.
The deer were out in the field when I hiked out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/09/091120-5.jpg)
Voodoo Ranger, sardenes with hot sauce, and kalamata olives for dinner again!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/09/091120-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 11, 2020, 18:00:33 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 11, 2020, 18:00:33 PM
Still beats working or sitting at home.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on September 11, 2020, 18:44:39 PM
Post by: driver on September 11, 2020, 18:44:39 PM
I'm jealous.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on September 11, 2020, 20:06:55 PM
Post by: Fishbug on September 11, 2020, 20:06:55 PM
:Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on September 13, 2020, 14:40:00 PM
Post by: Fishbug on September 13, 2020, 14:40:00 PM
anybody live nearby know what the water looks like?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on September 13, 2020, 18:52:04 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on September 13, 2020, 18:52:04 PM
Quote from: Fishbug on September 13, 2020, 14:40:00 PManybody live nearby know what the water looks like?
Went by today. Still dingy and stained.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on October 01, 2020, 18:07:53 PM
Post by: creakycane on October 01, 2020, 18:07:53 PM
Yep, this dingy stained water has been pretty constant for months. Still about the same. Amazing it has lasted this long. Is the whole reservoir just stirred up from the spring heavy rains, and its taking this long to clear? Or is it due to where they are pulling from with no power generation happening. On the rare occasion that have reduced to 70cfs or so, it is still pretty stained? Thanks for any input!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 01, 2020, 20:06:53 PM
Post by: Dougfish on October 01, 2020, 20:06:53 PM
Me thinks there is a thick layer of muddy water in the lake we are continuously drawing from.
Ugly.
Ugly.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on October 02, 2020, 04:41:13 AM
Post by: Onslow on October 02, 2020, 04:41:13 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on October 01, 2020, 20:06:53 PMMe thinks there is a thick layer of muddy water in the lake we are continuously drawing from.
Ugly.
Smith= Man made gheyness. I'd rather fish the South Fork Mayo for smallmouth.
Kerr Scott does this at certain flows. Wasn't as bad this year as it was in 2018.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on October 05, 2020, 06:39:25 AM
Post by: Al on October 05, 2020, 06:39:25 AM
I helped with several DGIF samples this summer. Even with the muddy water the fish appear to be doing well. Lots of healthy browns and tons of stocked rainbows. I remember in years past the rainbows all seemed skinny - that is no longer the case. There seems to be plenty of food and the fish are still finding it.
Having said that - the number of fish seem to start petering out once you get past Hwy 220 bypass. Expect that has to do with raising water temperatures. They plan to sample below Martinsville Dam soon - we will see.
Having said that - the number of fish seem to start petering out once you get past Hwy 220 bypass. Expect that has to do with raising water temperatures. They plan to sample below Martinsville Dam soon - we will see.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on October 09, 2020, 17:47:00 PM
Post by: Fishbug on October 09, 2020, 17:47:00 PM
Maybe the mud will be good if they ever fix the damn dam.
Mud = nutrients = plants = bugs = less puny trouts
Mud = nutrients = plants = bugs = less puny trouts
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on October 20, 2020, 12:00:31 PM
Post by: Al on October 20, 2020, 12:00:31 PM
This just in --- "Due to Maintenance the Smith River Releases were reduced to both low flow valves around 70 cfs. Maybe an opportunity to fish".
I checked a little further and was told this might continue for 2 days - but as always check your surroundings and be prepared get out if faster water comes your way.
I checked a little further and was told this might continue for 2 days - but as always check your surroundings and be prepared get out if faster water comes your way.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on October 21, 2020, 17:03:14 PM
Post by: troutrus on October 21, 2020, 17:03:14 PM
Thanks for the tip Al. First time I've seen some of these rocks since springtime. Beautiful day. Even caught a few fish and got to say Hi to the Bossman.
6BC91953-F625-449E-9A57-60789178B3A6.jpegA8143B4F-3C34-415F-ABC8-2EF48A067A5B.jpegD78EE461-BD6E-412F-8BF3-729FC61216ED.jpeg
6BC91953-F625-449E-9A57-60789178B3A6.jpegA8143B4F-3C34-415F-ABC8-2EF48A067A5B.jpegD78EE461-BD6E-412F-8BF3-729FC61216ED.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 21, 2020, 18:42:04 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 21, 2020, 18:42:04 PM
Trouts had just fished though my pool!
I played my dry fly game, caddis, hi-vis parachute bwo, and puff daddies all took fish! Well into double digits if you count punes!
The word was out- four cars in the lot, I was the only wet wader. Air temp 80, water 65.. perfect!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/10/102120-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/10/102120-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/10/102120-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/10/102120-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/10/102120-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/10/102120-6.jpg)
Thanks Al for the heads up!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on October 21, 2020, 19:50:17 PM
Post by: troutrus on October 21, 2020, 19:50:17 PM
Though you may have been the only one without waders, be assured you were not the only one that was wet. 🤣 My pin hole leaks apparently went full blown while setting idle in the closet all summer.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: RiverbumCO on October 21, 2020, 20:34:17 PM
Post by: RiverbumCO on October 21, 2020, 20:34:17 PM
Crazy the water can be that warm still.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 21, 2020, 20:49:58 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 21, 2020, 20:49:58 PM
Quote from: RiverbumCO on October 21, 2020, 20:34:17 PMCrazy the water can be that warm still.
I think they sucked all the cold water out of the bottom of the dam... the water that is coming out now is mid=level... the whole damn river is fucked up...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 21, 2020, 22:54:00 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 21, 2020, 22:54:00 PM
They have resumed the damn new normal flow from the dam at 272 cfs! p;-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on October 23, 2020, 04:42:48 AM
Post by: Onslow on October 23, 2020, 04:42:48 AM
It needs to get cold during the Winter, otherwise there will be no cold water introduced to the lake. I didn't bother to use waders last Winter, and was nuts deep in January without them. The polar vortex years experienced about 5 years ago are not the norm. We're also seeing more rainfall during the tropical season. It also seems east slope watersheds from Doughton to Rocky Knob are seeing more Summer precip due to T storms in recent years. I bet Devils Garden area received well over 100 inches of rain this year. All of this warm water entering Philpot will make a huge difference.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on October 23, 2020, 10:59:22 AM
Post by: troutrus on October 23, 2020, 10:59:22 AM
Check out these nice stickers someone left behind my wipers the other day. 👍🏻
234AFD68-B4BC-4DC3-AEE7-1CBE868AB585.jpeg
234AFD68-B4BC-4DC3-AEE7-1CBE868AB585.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on October 25, 2020, 06:30:40 AM
Post by: troutrus on October 25, 2020, 06:30:40 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on October 01, 2020, 20:06:53 PMMe thinks there is a thick layer of muddy water in the lake we are continuously drawing from.
Ugly.
Yes. ~ 70 years worth of sediment has built up behind the dam. Not sure if there has ever been a conscious effort to dredge or otherwise address it, but running through the sluice gates is likely the only times there has been any significant flushing.
Here's a cool video that exemplifies this sort of action to an extreme. The purpose was to empty the lake.
https://youtu.be/4LxMHmw3Z-U
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 25, 2020, 09:06:40 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 25, 2020, 09:06:40 AM
and philpott gets another 1.5" of rain.. :wave
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on October 26, 2020, 17:32:56 PM
Post by: creakycane on October 26, 2020, 17:32:56 PM
Back up to 700, today, and more water coming thurs/fri.
Philpott back down to 360cfs. But........... Bassett over 4000 cfs with the rains today (thurs 29 Oct)!
Philpott back down to 360cfs. But........... Bassett over 4000 cfs with the rains today (thurs 29 Oct)!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 01, 2020, 07:17:18 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 01, 2020, 07:17:18 AM
Looks like we're going to need a (bigger) boat! To float the smith — the Raleigh guide dude is putting fish in da boat
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 01, 2020, 07:44:52 AM
Post by: Dougfish on November 01, 2020, 07:44:52 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on November 01, 2020, 07:17:18 AMLooks like we're going to need a (bigger) boat! To float the smith — the Raleigh guide dude is putting fish in da boat
(https://i.imgur.com/kXJfQ4Sl.jpg)
Let me get a major project behind me.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on November 01, 2020, 08:51:15 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on November 01, 2020, 08:51:15 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on November 01, 2020, 07:17:18 AMLooks like we're going to need a (bigger) boat! To float the smith — the Raleigh guide dude is putting fish in da boat
EJ Stern? And does he really have music blasting while fishing?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 01, 2020, 09:10:39 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 01, 2020, 09:10:39 AM
Quote from: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on November 01, 2020, 08:51:15 AMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on November 01, 2020, 07:17:18 AMLooks like we're going to need a (bigger) boat! To float the smith — the Raleigh guide dude is putting fish in da boat
EJ Stern? And does he really have music blasting while fishing?
Yes - I don't know about I the music —
https://www.instagram.com/p/CGsNSrcDN9d/?igshid=xwreb70ii7j5
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on November 01, 2020, 09:41:58 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on November 01, 2020, 09:41:58 AM
Yes to the music..blasting b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 01, 2020, 09:48:31 AM
Post by: Dougfish on November 01, 2020, 09:48:31 AM
I'm a fan of blasting some tunes.
(https://i.imgur.com/GoZEH9Pl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GoZEH9Pl.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on November 01, 2020, 10:18:57 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on November 01, 2020, 10:18:57 AM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on November 01, 2020, 09:41:58 AMYes to the music..blasting b';
So, he does blast music? If true, you guys need to get some control of this dude, and others like Doug, and all those other defilers of nature's rhythmic sounds.
Let me know if you need assistance. No worries. Ask Fin, but I believe some of my earlier indiscretions and lack of tact surrounding the Smith and the so-called stewards of the tailwater have followed me more than a hundred miles north to the mountains of Bath.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 01, 2020, 10:44:09 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 01, 2020, 10:44:09 AM
@DRIFTS is a music blastin', river floain', fisherman too... :o :drum /'/ :Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on November 01, 2020, 20:23:25 PM
Post by: driver on November 01, 2020, 20:23:25 PM
I agree with Muddy on this one. I got to the river to get away from the noise.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 01, 2020, 20:24:24 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 01, 2020, 20:24:24 PM
In his current Instagram story you can hear some CCT playing
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 12, 2020, 11:43:53 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 12, 2020, 11:43:53 AM
With 4.5 inches of rain so far philpott lake is on the rise, up 5 feet already — ain't gonna wade that River no more, no more. No we ain't gonna wade the river no more!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on December 08, 2020, 08:21:38 AM
Post by: Al on December 08, 2020, 08:21:38 AM
This just in from COE @ Philpott...................
"There is work needs to be done in the tailrace area Thursday requiring low flows for the majority of the day. This could be a great time for some wade fishing. The current thought is to have one low flow valve open from 0800-1600. As we get closer to that time if anything changes from that plan I will let you all know. If you will, please help spread this information to your interest groups."
"There is work needs to be done in the tailrace area Thursday requiring low flows for the majority of the day. This could be a great time for some wade fishing. The current thought is to have one low flow valve open from 0800-1600. As we get closer to that time if anything changes from that plan I will let you all know. If you will, please help spread this information to your interest groups."
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on December 09, 2020, 16:05:52 PM
Post by: troutrus on December 09, 2020, 16:05:52 PM
Thanks for the info Al.
Wish I had a pair of waders that don't leak. Ordered a pair online that didn't fit right and had to return. Tough shopping waders online. 🙁
Went to Sportman's Whse in GSO yesterday and found none that I liked that were in my size. Was looking for waist high type and they had none.
Anybody know of a good place to shop within 50 miles of Eden?
Maybe I'll go up and fish from the bank with minners on a noodle rod. V:;
Wish I had a pair of waders that don't leak. Ordered a pair online that didn't fit right and had to return. Tough shopping waders online. 🙁
Went to Sportman's Whse in GSO yesterday and found none that I liked that were in my size. Was looking for waist high type and they had none.
Anybody know of a good place to shop within 50 miles of Eden?
Maybe I'll go up and fish from the bank with minners on a noodle rod. V:;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 09, 2020, 17:04:11 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 09, 2020, 17:04:11 PM
Pushing your mileage, but.... Whoris in downtown Roanoke. They have an outlet store attached to their warehouse, too. And we have a Sportsman's Warehouse, too.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on December 09, 2020, 19:38:03 PM
Post by: troutrus on December 09, 2020, 19:38:03 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on December 09, 2020, 17:04:11 PMPushing your mileage, but.... Whoris in downtown Roanoke. They have an outlet store attached to their warehouse, too. And we have a Sportsman's Warehouse, too.
Thanks Doug.
Do they normally carry much inventory? I've tried the Orvis shop in GSO in the past and found they didn't offer many choices for waders/boots.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 09, 2020, 19:47:09 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 09, 2020, 19:47:09 PM
Small store. I'd call ahead. They have a big ass warehouse full of waders on the east side of town.
That's where the outlet store is.
That's where the outlet store is.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 11, 2020, 16:19:45 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 11, 2020, 16:19:45 PM
12-10-20
Gas $1.89
Since Al was nice enough to give us a "heads up" on the damn dam flows being shut down to just the low flow valve I had to make plans to get up and fish the ole gal. With all the rain and damn dam issues it's been a rare event to be able to wade her.
I let the sun come up and begin to warm the day up before I hit the road. Hit the empty parking lot at 11 and hiked in to Sally's Pool, tried a BWO emerger until I realized it was fruitless and then went with a nymphing rig, splitcase / rs2 combo. The wild browns took the fly ever so gently and I'm certain that many strikes went undetected, but enough came to hand to keep it interesting and I was glad that I made the trip.
I wondered what the trout would be thinking after about 7 months of flows ranging from 400 to several thousand cfs suddenly being cut to 45 cfs, the previously "normal" low flow wade fishing level. Would they all hunker down and freak out at the low water? It took a bit, but I found them along the seams of fast water and in some of the deeper slower runs. It was great to be back fishing the old spots again. I did get into a pod of stockers, normally I haven't found many down this far from the stocking points, but I guess with the increased flows they have been dispersed further down along the river.
Around 3 a couple of other anglers showed up, on crashed through the woods, low holeing me, why he didn't take one of the many cut throughs is beyond me, and then he turned around and reentered further downstream at one of the paths. And then Roy, from SRTU high holed me, I could tell it was him by his hat. Hemmed in now I called it quites and headed back to the car for some sardines doctored up with some hot sauce,
The day sort of looked like this...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/12/121020-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/12/121020-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/12/121020-3.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/489982858
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/12/121020-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/12/121020-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/12/121020-6.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/489983873
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/12/121020-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/12/121020-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/12/121020-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/12/121020-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/12/121020-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/12/121020-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2020/12/121020-13.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 11, 2020, 18:47:25 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 11, 2020, 18:47:25 PM
I'm jelly. 'c;
Work, work, work.
Work, work, work.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on December 11, 2020, 19:28:36 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on December 11, 2020, 19:28:36 PM
Glad you got back and reacquainted with an old friend.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on December 11, 2020, 19:52:27 PM
Post by: Onslow on December 11, 2020, 19:52:27 PM
Christmas came early!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on January 13, 2021, 14:05:54 PM
Post by: Al on January 13, 2021, 14:05:54 PM
This just in from the COE at Philpott ...............
"Attention Trout Fisherman:
The Philpott Dam Sluice Gate has been closed while both Low Flow Valves have been opened. This should provide some favorable bank/wade fishing in the Smith River. There has not been many opportunities to fish the Smith River, so get out there while you can. Flows around 80 cubic feet second (CFS) will continue through Thursday (1/14/21) afternoon before the Sluice gate will reopen. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources has stocked several times so there should be plenty of fish to catch. Please call the generation schedule at (276) 629-2432 for current water releases."
(FYI expect more of this in the future. COE & DWR are talking and it is looking favorable. I will try to keep you updated)
"Attention Trout Fisherman:
The Philpott Dam Sluice Gate has been closed while both Low Flow Valves have been opened. This should provide some favorable bank/wade fishing in the Smith River. There has not been many opportunities to fish the Smith River, so get out there while you can. Flows around 80 cubic feet second (CFS) will continue through Thursday (1/14/21) afternoon before the Sluice gate will reopen. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources has stocked several times so there should be plenty of fish to catch. Please call the generation schedule at (276) 629-2432 for current water releases."
(FYI expect more of this in the future. COE & DWR are talking and it is looking favorable. I will try to keep you updated)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 14, 2021, 18:56:36 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 14, 2021, 18:56:36 PM
#2
With the late notice, I thought I would not be able to head down today. But I slept like shit, so I got up early and banged out some work and got my weekly early AM trip to Kroger taken care of. Looked at the time, and said eff it, I'm going.
Hit the water at 11:15. Only vehicle in the lot.
Took out a beer and left my little cooler at Sally's Hole.
Hiked down a bit further and jumped in.
Euro'd. Left my camera in my haste. Got as many phone pics as I could.
(https://i.imgur.com/J4kK4myl.jpg)
Took a while to get dialed it. They did not want the 12-14 sure thing anchor flies. Or the 16-18 upper flies. Put on a chunky #6 3x long girdlebug and they ate.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZzXtXRpl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/7ScGQLtl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/NSmeLogl.jpg)
Fish were strong and chunky. Missed a few, lost some more. Shitty hooksets, probably.
A lot of the casts were long, with a greased leader on top of the water. Not the best scenario.
Clarity was good to very good. Lots of gravel has moved around. Fish lies and channels have shifted. And if that was 80 cfs at the gauge....I was getting pushed pretty good.
I saw one guy stick his head in above me with his dog. We waved and he headed down below me.
I appreciated that. I heard some whooping, so he must have got into them too.
(https://i.imgur.com/SKg1kFRl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/geWrElzl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xI5vQPUl.jpg)
Cheeburger.
(https://i.imgur.com/NdfIEDO.jpg)
Sat down to warm up, eat lunch, and check emails.
That tuna is the tits.
(https://i.imgur.com/iTpoIyrl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/49turyll.jpg)
Caught a couple more, wound up and hiked out.
It was worth the 1:40 round trip.
Got home and got my 4 mile neighborhood walk in.
Thanks for the heads up, Al.
:cheers
With the late notice, I thought I would not be able to head down today. But I slept like shit, so I got up early and banged out some work and got my weekly early AM trip to Kroger taken care of. Looked at the time, and said eff it, I'm going.
Hit the water at 11:15. Only vehicle in the lot.
Took out a beer and left my little cooler at Sally's Hole.
Hiked down a bit further and jumped in.
Euro'd. Left my camera in my haste. Got as many phone pics as I could.
(https://i.imgur.com/J4kK4myl.jpg)
Took a while to get dialed it. They did not want the 12-14 sure thing anchor flies. Or the 16-18 upper flies. Put on a chunky #6 3x long girdlebug and they ate.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZzXtXRpl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/7ScGQLtl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/NSmeLogl.jpg)
Fish were strong and chunky. Missed a few, lost some more. Shitty hooksets, probably.
A lot of the casts were long, with a greased leader on top of the water. Not the best scenario.
Clarity was good to very good. Lots of gravel has moved around. Fish lies and channels have shifted. And if that was 80 cfs at the gauge....I was getting pushed pretty good.
I saw one guy stick his head in above me with his dog. We waved and he headed down below me.
I appreciated that. I heard some whooping, so he must have got into them too.
(https://i.imgur.com/SKg1kFRl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/geWrElzl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xI5vQPUl.jpg)
Cheeburger.
(https://i.imgur.com/NdfIEDO.jpg)
Sat down to warm up, eat lunch, and check emails.
That tuna is the tits.
(https://i.imgur.com/iTpoIyrl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/49turyll.jpg)
Caught a couple more, wound up and hiked out.
It was worth the 1:40 round trip.
Got home and got my 4 mile neighborhood walk in.
Thanks for the heads up, Al.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on January 14, 2021, 19:14:06 PM
Post by: troutrus on January 14, 2021, 19:14:06 PM
Drove up into Virginia to snoop around. Went to Fairystone and walked around some. Several guys fishing and one guy catching some stocker rainbows. Pretty little lake.
Down at Smith River saw two vehicles parked at upper mirror plant. Drove up to the dam and counted seven cars parked along the road. Haven't been up that way in a couple years and was surprised to see the trailer park up at the old Hollingsworth property😳. Nobody fishing off the wall up by the dam. Guess the low flow valve release chased them off. Drove back down the road and stopped at the canoe launch at the lower mirror plant. One guy pan frying a couple rainbow and one fly fisherman leaving.
Nice day.
Recording indicates they reopened a sluice gate one foot =~ 500 cfs
FA3C8DEA-47C6-4F2F-A54E-71E9D1C5BA32.jpeg186118C3-C6D0-4214-9013-4C60CE1D5CDE.jpegE9470354-3981-4C92-9758-D966B0025334.jpeg
Down at Smith River saw two vehicles parked at upper mirror plant. Drove up to the dam and counted seven cars parked along the road. Haven't been up that way in a couple years and was surprised to see the trailer park up at the old Hollingsworth property😳. Nobody fishing off the wall up by the dam. Guess the low flow valve release chased them off. Drove back down the road and stopped at the canoe launch at the lower mirror plant. One guy pan frying a couple rainbow and one fly fisherman leaving.
Nice day.
Recording indicates they reopened a sluice gate one foot =~ 500 cfs
FA3C8DEA-47C6-4F2F-A54E-71E9D1C5BA32.jpeg186118C3-C6D0-4214-9013-4C60CE1D5CDE.jpegE9470354-3981-4C92-9758-D966B0025334.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 14, 2021, 21:59:58 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 14, 2021, 21:59:58 PM
Not liking the trailer park - don't know how the county zoned that n!n
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 15, 2021, 10:55:24 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 15, 2021, 10:55:24 AM
January 13
Sunny 55* at the start...
Al gave the heads up on the spigot being tightened on the damn dam yesterday and today.
It was late when I saw the notice, but not having anything better to do I rode on up for an hour and a half of fishing. The sun was well behind the ridge when I got on the water and it looked cold and uninviting. The rod was rigged with a dry, so I through the BWO into the run, but nothing came of that.
I switched over to nymphing and worked the usual spots, but that wasn't working either so when I broke off that rig in the rhodos, I tied on a streamer and saw an aggressive brown chase it down and smash it.
after that I lost the fly on a snag and I din't have another small streamer with me.
That was the only fish to hand that evening. The temps plummeted after sunset and it was in the 30s when I got back to the car. I was great to be out on the "Home Waters" once again.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/01/011421-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/01/011421-2.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 15, 2021, 11:33:23 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 15, 2021, 11:33:23 AM
I caught 3, lost one, stung one and one missed through there.
You're welcome.
You're welcome.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 15, 2021, 11:56:28 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 15, 2021, 11:56:28 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on January 15, 2021, 11:33:23 AMI caught 3, lost one, stung one and one missed through there.
You're welcome.
I almost went back up top...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 28, 2021, 23:26:51 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 28, 2021, 23:26:51 PM
Philpott flow cut to 45.5 cfs today
Don't know how long it will last
I'm scheduled for my vaccination tomorrow
Don't know how long it will last
I'm scheduled for my vaccination tomorrow
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 04, 2021, 20:02:00 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 04, 2021, 20:02:00 PM
Smiffer is cut back to 340cfs
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 04, 2021, 20:44:07 PM
Post by: Dougfish on February 04, 2021, 20:44:07 PM
That's still stout for most mortals.
My fat ass stays anchored more than your 160 lb self.
My fat ass stays anchored more than your 160 lb self.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on February 05, 2021, 16:10:27 PM
Post by: Al on February 05, 2021, 16:10:27 PM
I'm no longer nimble like you young guys but even back in my prime anything above 150 kept me spending more time balancing then fishing. Don't go in much above your knees and use a wading staff. Find some wide spots and you are ok. This time of the year I recommend going with someone else just in case you take a dunking - hypothermia will kill you even if you don't drown.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 12, 2021, 22:08:44 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 12, 2021, 22:08:44 PM
they cut the water back to 81 cfs today... I just randomly checked early this morning, passed a lot of in-town fishermen, spin and fly.
The mirror plant parking was empty, but another guy pulled in jest before I headed down to the river.
Midges, and a few BWOs and an occasional Little Black Stones were coming off, and I saw six fish rise during the day. Went dirty with a rubber legs and caught good numbers of browns and a few rainbows...
bonus pic from the house.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/031221-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/031221-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/031221-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/031221-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/031221-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/031221-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/031221-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/031221-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/031221-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/031221-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/031221-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/031221-12.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on March 13, 2021, 07:49:45 AM
Post by: Big J on March 13, 2021, 07:49:45 AM
Look at that flow! And I'm not talking about the water!
(https://media0.giphy.com/media/10r1dTZJEAvKpO/giphy.gif)
(https://media0.giphy.com/media/10r1dTZJEAvKpO/giphy.gif)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on March 13, 2021, 08:41:25 AM
Post by: Phil on March 13, 2021, 08:41:25 AM
He's still a hippie V:;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on March 13, 2021, 22:24:52 PM
Post by: driver on March 13, 2021, 22:24:52 PM
@Big J 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on March 15, 2021, 13:12:02 PM
Post by: creakycane on March 15, 2021, 13:12:02 PM
Gents: Be careful out there. Please stay safe.
https://martinsvillebulletin.com/news/local/man-drowns-while-fishing-in-the-smith-river-in-henry-county/article_a700efaa-8438-11eb-9296-cf3b8f1fda1f.html
https://martinsvillebulletin.com/news/local/man-drowns-while-fishing-in-the-smith-river-in-henry-county/article_a700efaa-8438-11eb-9296-cf3b8f1fda1f.html
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 24, 2021, 22:17:35 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 24, 2021, 22:17:35 PM
March 24, 2021 #12
Gas $2.59
66 partly cloudy
Word was that there may be a break in the flow today, so I kept my eye on the gauge. Trouble is that the reporting is delayed and by the time I saw that they had cut the flow to 90 cfs at 9 am, it was almost 11 before I got out the door.
There were people getting ready to fish in town as the water was falling and the lot was empty when I pulled in. I grabbed the rod that was rigged with rubber legs and headed to the river after wadering up.
When I go to the water damn if I didn't see several fish rises several times, I was a hard decision to make but I felt like I needed to switch up to dries. By the time I switched out leaders and tied on a puff daddy, the sun had come out and the fish stopped rising. I tried for a while but couldn't entice or trick a fish to take my fly. So back to the dark side.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/032421-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/032421-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/032421-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/032421-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/032421-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/032421-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/032421-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/032421-8.jpg)
Little black stones, small caddis, even smaller bows, and midges were abundant but not enough to get a steady rise. A fish here and there was about all I saw the rest of the day.
Later in the afternoon I was keeping an eye on the water level in case they opened the damn dam back up. I heard a siren that I thought would be coming from the dam, less than 1.5 miles as the crow flies. I've never heard it before, but I was thinking it might be possible. I called it a day.
Once home I realized that they still haven't cut the water back on. Maybe another chance tomorrow?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Michael Toris on March 25, 2021, 00:33:09 AM
Post by: Michael Toris on March 25, 2021, 00:33:09 AM
Them smiff browns are colored properly.
I like the all day ipa, but olive is a color, not a fucking food.
I like the all day ipa, but olive is a color, not a fucking food.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 25, 2021, 07:34:55 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 25, 2021, 07:34:55 AM
Quote from: WMT on March 25, 2021, 00:33:09 AMI like the all day ipa, but olive is a color, not a fucking food.
matching the hatch...
and color coordinated with the founders...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 25, 2021, 21:14:50 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 25, 2021, 21:14:50 PM
https://youtu.be/jAgFR_wmLiY
3/25/2021
60 clouds turning to drizzle to downpour
I had some actual work to get done in the morning so I didn't get an early start. Trouts was casting in my run. I walked on down to the edge of the water and then cried out, "License Check!" Scared the begezeeies out of him! There were a few fish rising and he reported catching a couple on a griffith's gnat.
We talked for a moment, then it started to rain and Trouts split.
I worked a rising fish for a while before he wouldn't rise no more.
Switched to what has been working and then promptly broke off two flies. Damn Damn.
Caught a few fish but they weren't' as active as the other day.
Lost the dropper and then broke off a fish. that was the last of the rubber legs.
I hung out in the rain and took some photos, saw a turkey fly down from the ridge into the field.
Then I tried to get a fish to rise. It didn't work, then it started raining harder and I left.
here is the photo dump:
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/032521-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/032521-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/032521-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/032521-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/032521-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/032521-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/032521-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/032521-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/032521-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/032521-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/032521-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/03/chicken.gif)
Micky D's Spicy Chicken Snad isn't half bad...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 07, 2021, 15:41:33 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 07, 2021, 15:41:33 PM
May 5, 2021 report from the damn dam
https://youtu.be/dSflwN_HvSo
https://youtu.be/dSflwN_HvSo
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on May 07, 2021, 15:50:27 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on May 07, 2021, 15:50:27 PM
well damn!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 07, 2021, 16:27:20 PM
Post by: Al on May 07, 2021, 16:27:20 PM
Saw that on their site as well. It is going to be a long time before we are back to normal, and there is not telling what the "new normal" will be.
In the meantime I am still waiting for them to implement the flow schedule which was agreed to between COE and DWR earlier this year. If I understood it correctly it would give us a day or two of wadeable water each week. It would also give the paddlers some good water several days a week.
The hold up has been "too much rain", ie what flows in must flow out. Now there appears to be a manpower scheduling challenge - The low flow valves must be manually operated. I am cautiously optimistic the manpower issue can be resolved.
In the meantime I am still waiting for them to implement the flow schedule which was agreed to between COE and DWR earlier this year. If I understood it correctly it would give us a day or two of wadeable water each week. It would also give the paddlers some good water several days a week.
The hold up has been "too much rain", ie what flows in must flow out. Now there appears to be a manpower scheduling challenge - The low flow valves must be manually operated. I am cautiously optimistic the manpower issue can be resolved.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 08, 2021, 13:01:43 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 08, 2021, 13:01:43 PM
They could care less about fishing or the fishery. That "flow" agreement is a joke. We all know the coe will only make adjustments based on water coming in.
And no bob, paddlers didn't "win", they won't be happy if we enter a drought, but you will. Double edged sword.
And no bob, paddlers didn't "win", they won't be happy if we enter a drought, but you will. Double edged sword.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 11, 2021, 09:42:35 AM
Post by: Al on May 11, 2021, 09:42:35 AM
My source says expect low flow starting Thursday and running through Sunday. Not exactly sure of timing. Check the gage and the recording.
Should be opportunity for some wading
Should be opportunity for some wading
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on May 11, 2021, 09:43:14 AM
Post by: Al on May 11, 2021, 09:43:14 AM
My source says expect low flow starting Thursday and running through Sunday. Not exactly sure of timing. Check the gage and the recording.
Should be opportunity for some wading
Should be opportunity for some wading
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 11, 2021, 15:17:03 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 11, 2021, 15:17:03 PM
unable to take advantage of the upcoming low flows, I hit the Great Road Boat Access Run with the spray pole...
trying to get back into the swing of things...
That run is wadable at these levels... Bassett 372CFS...
I had one grab on the first time through...
Another on the second...
Switched out flies and got another grab on the third walk through
Nothing on the fourth trip... and then it was time to hit the road...
Topped off the tank @ $2.63 some lines at some stations, at least one was out of regular...
Caddis were coming off, and I saw a couple of sulfurs as well...
Fish were rising too...
That is all...
trying to get back into the swing of things...
That run is wadable at these levels... Bassett 372CFS...
I had one grab on the first time through...
Another on the second...
Switched out flies and got another grab on the third walk through
Nothing on the fourth trip... and then it was time to hit the road...
Topped off the tank @ $2.63 some lines at some stations, at least one was out of regular...
Caddis were coming off, and I saw a couple of sulfurs as well...
Fish were rising too...
That is all...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 19, 2021, 06:52:44 AM
Post by: Dougfish on May 19, 2021, 06:52:44 AM
The word is that they are cutting down to low flow today for some maintenance work.
Not sure what hour it will happen.
Anybody fish the upper river this past weekend?
Not sure what hour it will happen.
Anybody fish the upper river this past weekend?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 19, 2021, 20:38:53 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 19, 2021, 20:38:53 PM
Word got out that there was going to be a low flow event during some work up at the damn dam. Dougfish sent a text saying he was headed out. I left a short time later after finishing up some chores.
We were the only ones at the mirror plant....
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/05/051921-1.jpg)
birds doing bird things...
The field was grown up and there was no clear path through the high grass. I made my way to the upper reach of the riffely water and jumped in. I tossed a rubber legs for a bit but then I saw some risers along with sulfurs popping off.
Tied on a #16 comparadun and targted a riser. boom!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/05/051921-2.jpg)
I then proceeded to put some fish down. The flow was a measley 42cfs at the dam with about the same coming in from Towns creek. Low and clear made it tough.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/05/051921-12.jpg)
Dougfish was below me and I waded down towards him to stash my beer in the river. He came up and took a break for lunch and offered up space in his little cooler. We heard a couple of pileated woodpeckers along with many other unidentified birds.
We drank a beer and watched the hatch with fish rising steadily as the sulfurs continued to pop off. It looked like easy pickings, and I said to dougfish, "we should be fishing now, instead of drinking beer." As soon as we got up the fish stopped rising and the bugs were sparce.
I put a couple of fish down but saw another one that took the fly willingly.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/05/051921-3.jpg)
Then it was time for another beer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/05/051921-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/05/051921-5.jpg)
Shortly after popping the tops, we noticed the fish rising again.
I managed to pick off one after our second beer break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/05/051921-6.jpg)
I was hoping to stay late as it looked like there could be an epic evening rise.
We sat down again and drank our last beer and once again watch fish rise. I picked one out and told dougfish to get after it as soon as his beer was finished.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/05/051921-7.jpg)
He made a valiant attempt, but the fish was not interested. He had to leave and left the water to me.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/05/051921-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/05/051921-9.jpg)
As soon as he was up the trail into the field I caught the fish he left behind.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/05/051921-10.jpg)
I caught another one shortly after that and I thought things might start to improve. But the water started to come up and that ended the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/05/051921-11.jpg)
five hours, five fish, three beers.
best part of the day was sitting on the bank talking to dougfish and drinking beer like old times...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on May 19, 2021, 22:08:33 PM
Post by: driver on May 19, 2021, 22:08:33 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on May 19, 2021, 20:38:53 PMbest part of the day was sitting on the bank talking to dougfish and drinking beer like old times...
I miss that as well. We three should do a float soon.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 20, 2021, 06:42:32 AM
Post by: Dougfish on May 20, 2021, 06:42:32 AM
Don't make me tear up. :'(
:laugh:
It twas good to see the river, and the Bugger.
The flows were stupid low, the bugs were inconsistent, the fish were spooky.
I got there an hour or so before Keith and spent most of that time watching the water. When I was fishing, I was switching flies constantly trying to find the winning ticket.
They were taking emergers. I finally fooled one before I saw Keith upstream.
(https://i.imgur.com/IAgfUUGl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/gwaKEfO.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Ae7ywoal.jpg)
We didn't solve all the problems in the world or catch buckets of feesh, but it was most enjoyable watching the variety of bugs, tracking the floating or dapping bugs and calling out their demise.
Then we tried to catch the marked fish. Rarely happened.
Have a seat, drink a beer, and wait for them to start feeding again.
Rinse and repeat.
(https://i.imgur.com/29imrL9l.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Z1jFK2Il.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/VOGhuz5l.jpg)
I clipped off about 4:30, said my good byes and headed up the road.
And yes, lets float soon.
(https://i.imgur.com/gPJZ3vWl.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 20, 2021, 06:45:45 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 20, 2021, 06:45:45 AM
I'm not sure what was up with that deer, it stuck round down there drinking water until 5 when the water came up.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on May 20, 2021, 08:06:16 AM
Post by: Big J on May 20, 2021, 08:06:16 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on May 19, 2021, 20:38:53 PMbest part of the day was sitting on the bank talking to dougfish and drinking beer like old times...
Fishing must of really sucked :P
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 01, 2021, 20:38:02 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 01, 2021, 20:38:02 PM
1494 Pflueger, ftw. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 07, 2021, 09:32:57 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 07, 2021, 09:32:57 AM
Partly cloudy Temp 85* Gas $2.69
With the reduced flow I thought I'd check out the river and see if the Sulfurs were coming off.
Was pleased to see that the field was mowed for the walk across it to the river. I was wet wading. Would hate to hike in waders in this heat.
I stashed my beer in the river which is flowing at the ideal temperature of 46 degrees. Then I saw a fish rise and there were some bugs in the air. Wading is a bit dodgy at the higher flows and it took a while to find the fish and get them to rise as the day progressed the hatch became more prolific and more rising fish were targeted and caught, although a good number of them either missed the fly or jumped clear over it in an enthusiastic attempt to snatch it.
Unfortunately I had to leave just as things were rally getting exciting. Back at the lot I ran into a guy from Chapel Hill who was rigging up a bamboo rod and hoping to see a spinner fall at duck. I'm planning on going back this evening.
photo dump:
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060621-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060621-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060621-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060621-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060621-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060621-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060621-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060621-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060621-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060621-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060621-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060621-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060621-12.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on June 07, 2021, 10:36:45 AM
Post by: troutrus on June 07, 2021, 10:36:45 AM
Wow! Wet wading at 46F. Must be nice to be young. As for me, the older I get, the colder I get.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on June 07, 2021, 19:36:37 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on June 07, 2021, 19:36:37 PM
I wonder if Woolly caught any on a Comparadun?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 08, 2021, 07:53:00 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 08, 2021, 07:53:00 AM
partly cloudy 84* - 64* Gas $2.76
Since I had to reluctantly leave early the other night I promised myself to go back and fish into the evening and stay until o'dark thirty hoping for a spinner fall. I arrived at the lot around 3:30 and made the trek across the field in the heat of the afternoon. I was wet wading again. There were bugs and risers when I got to the water, so I cast the comparadun which was still on the rod from the day before. The fish were being a little picky and I missed a few, before I decided that I needed to lengthen the tippet. From about 4:00 to 6:00 they took the comparadun, but as the hatch picked up they refused it and I had to switch to a puff daddy. The sulfur soft hackle did the trick as well. https://vimeo.com/69535012
As the evening wore on the cool mist formed on the river and at first it was refreshing but as the sun was down behind the ridge it chilled my and my feet were becoming numb. It's one thing to be wet wading in 84 degree sunshine, another thing when the sun goes down and I was tempted to end the day, but the fish were rising and it was getting stupid simple catching. Then I heard thunder and used that as my exit cue. I didn't stick around for the spinner fall. I hope to go again soon, and I'll be wearing waders next time.
photo dump:
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060721-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060721-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060721-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060721-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060721-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060721-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060721-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060721-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060721-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060721-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060721-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060721-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060721-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060721-14.jpg)
A little hydroplaning action on the drive home, one car was flipped over and the other was 180°.
https://vimeo.com/560432101
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 10, 2021, 11:43:48 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 10, 2021, 11:43:48 AM
Sunny to overcast to stormy 84 – 74 degrees
Gan $289
I was watching Tom Rosenbauer's episode on euro nymphing with George Daniels and learned that either Tom is short, or George is rather tall, and that euro nymphing might be something that I'd like to try, especially on some particular stretches of water. So, with a LL Bean credit and a 15% discount I bought a Double L euro nymph outfit, being sold on the "newly redesigned, lighter and stronger" marketing hype.
I tied up some pheasant tail frenchies and headed out to the local to give it a try. Reel came rigged with euro line and a SA 2x leader and a tippet ring.
Decided to give the boat ramp run a shot and I tied on some 6x fluoro with a point fly and a dropper tied on with a triple surgeon's knot. It wasn't too long before I felt a solid tug and had a nice brown on.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-1.jpg)
I thought I had it all figured out, but that was the only trout caught in the whole dam run that I worked for about an hour. One horny head took the fly but that was it.
On to the main attraction.
There was a truck parked, oh crap, I hope they're not in my spot! I rigged up. Oh btw I can fit the 10'6" euro rod in the CR-V without breaking it down! I saw two guys walking out across the field and headed off in their direction. We had the usual conversation about bugs and fish and catching and then it got weird. After stating that they had been fishing this river for 33 years and I told them that I was a newcomer only have fished it for 28 years. So they stated name dropping and hit upon Hiner, they inquired about his status at VT, they were somewhat dismayed when I told them that he was retired. Rob (or Ron) and Benny are getting close to retirement too. We parted and I continued across the field in my pant waders carrying two rods.
When I got to my spot, I unloaded the beer and water from my vest and placed it in the river to keep it cold. The walk in was brutally hot so I refreshed with a cold one, while I was drkining I saw a fish or two rise. I whipped out the TG for a photo and got this...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-2.jpg)
iPhone to the rescue...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-3.jpg)
I went after the rising fish leaving the euro rod behind and proceeded to catch a few on the surface with a sulfur soft hackle.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-4.jpg)
The weather was unsettled and for the next several hours I could hear the booming thunder on the other side of the ridge. I was humid and the air was filled with tension, the fog formed on the river and I expected rain at any moment.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-6.jpg)
Then it was time to give the euro rig a try on a run that has frustrated me in the past. Cast and drift, again and again. I wouldn't really call it casting, its just flipping and manipulating the angle or pull of the line as the flies drift over their targets. I don't think I felt the fish take, I may have sensed a pause in the leader, something different than the bumps from hitting the bottom. In any
cast I had a fish on.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-7.jpg)
Several more fish were hovered out of this run.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-9.jpg)
In another spot I found the rainbros...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-10.jpg)
Then it was time for a break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-13.jpg)
I was hoping for a sulfur hatch that had been coming off the last several times I've been out, but that wasn't really happening now, so I stuck with the euro rod working different runs and pools and catching more fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-14.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-15.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-16.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-17.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-18.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-19.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-20.jpg)
I slipped on a rock and took a dip in the river, sat down in two feet of swift current. My left side got wet up to my shoulder and water seeped into the waist of the waders. When I got my footing back the water ran down my pants putting a chill on the jewels and on down to the toes.
It was time for another break. This is from the dogfish boombox variety pack.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-21.jpg)
I wanted to see if there would be a spinner fall or an evening hatch. I waited and waited, and nothing changed, in fact it was quieter with only an occasional fish taking an emerger. I was about done at 8 o'clock when I decided to go after a fish that had risen twice in the last 10 minutes.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-22.jpg)
That was the last fish of the day. I stayed until 8:20... technically not past sunset but late enough for me to call it a day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/060921-23.jpg)
I don't know anything about euro rods, so I can't say much about the Double L other than it gets the job done. I think it's all about tip sensitivity (that's what she said) and while I didn't always detect strikes some of that may be learning curve. It played the fish well and protected the 6x tippet. Do I like euro nymphing? Not really, but it does catch fish and may be more enjoyable than bobber fishing.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 10, 2021, 11:53:23 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 10, 2021, 11:53:23 AM
Quote from: troutrus on June 07, 2021, 10:36:45 AMWow! Wet wading at 46F. Must be nice to be young. As for me, the older I get, the colder I get.
I wear Simms wet wading socks with the gravel guards pulled up my calves. Also avoiding waters more than thigh deep :o
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 10, 2021, 16:16:27 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 10, 2021, 16:16:27 PM
Practice, practice, practice.
A tight line and a quick hook set on anything you perceive is a halt or bump.
I get a little better every time out.
'c;
A tight line and a quick hook set on anything you perceive is a halt or bump.
I get a little better every time out.
'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 10, 2021, 16:30:06 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 10, 2021, 16:30:06 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on June 10, 2021, 16:16:27 PMPractice, practice, practice.
A tight line and a quick hook set on anything you perceive is a halt or bump.
I get a little better every time out.
'c;
makes me feel dirty ... but maybe in a good way -+;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on June 10, 2021, 19:33:57 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on June 10, 2021, 19:33:57 PM
Please just stick to your dry flies and maybe a nymph on a dropper when no one is looking. Tight line nymphing is below you and if it makes you feel dirty now just stop and do it soon while you can.
Unfortunately six years or so ago I bought my first long rod and it ruined my fishing. First it was a 10ft rod and super long leaders, next the lowly tippet ring. Then it was really down hill... sighters of many colors lengths and descriptions, and flies that don't resemble any thing, but with much attention to sink rate with bead sizes from 1.5 to 4.0mm. When things got really bad..... line sag in the guides was a concern. Hell, now I don't even use FLY LINE on my favorite 11ft.3wt. rod but 10lb. mono. Is 8lb. in my sad future? I beg of you to not report on this low form of fishing so you and others may be spared.
** and yes Tom Rosenbauer is very height deprived and George Daniel at least 6 ft.
Unfortunately six years or so ago I bought my first long rod and it ruined my fishing. First it was a 10ft rod and super long leaders, next the lowly tippet ring. Then it was really down hill... sighters of many colors lengths and descriptions, and flies that don't resemble any thing, but with much attention to sink rate with bead sizes from 1.5 to 4.0mm. When things got really bad..... line sag in the guides was a concern. Hell, now I don't even use FLY LINE on my favorite 11ft.3wt. rod but 10lb. mono. Is 8lb. in my sad future? I beg of you to not report on this low form of fishing so you and others may be spared.
** and yes Tom Rosenbauer is very height deprived and George Daniel at least 6 ft.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 10, 2021, 20:27:37 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 10, 2021, 20:27:37 PM
Don't worry Fred, I only caught a dozen on my first outing. I lost one fly while trying to photo a fish and it broke me off.
Pros;
Flies are easy to tie
Rod protects light tippet
Catches fish
No more split shot
Competition hooks
Cons;
Not really fly fishing
Potential to lose flies on the bottom
Covers only short sections at a time
Need a variety of different weights of flies
Dropper may tangle
Pros;
Flies are easy to tie
Rod protects light tippet
Catches fish
No more split shot
Competition hooks
Cons;
Not really fly fishing
Potential to lose flies on the bottom
Covers only short sections at a time
Need a variety of different weights of flies
Dropper may tangle
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 10, 2021, 21:54:20 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 10, 2021, 21:54:20 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on June 10, 2021, 20:27:37 PMDropper may tangle
Anchor fly catches 90%, imho.
And I feel dirty every day. No biggie.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on June 11, 2021, 07:55:12 AM
Post by: Big J on June 11, 2021, 07:55:12 AM
You took the bait man! The whole "do you know Hiner" bit is to try and get to know what rung of society you are apart of. If you say "I've heard of him", they will know you aren't that big of a fly fisherman, because everyone has heard of him, but serious anglers have had an unpleasant experience with Hiner at one point or another. If you say "yes he is a good friend of mine", they will do uncanny things to your vehicle when you step out of sight. If you say "yes I know that A-hole", they will accept you and tell you what they are catching trout on and give you beer.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on June 11, 2021, 08:21:12 AM
Post by: Phil on June 11, 2021, 08:21:12 AM
Quote from: itieuglyflies on June 10, 2021, 19:33:57 PMPlease just stick to your dry flies and maybe a nymph on a dropper when no one is looking. Tight line nymphing is below you and if it makes you feel dirty now just stop and do it soon while you can.
Unfortunately six years or so ago I bought my first long rod and it ruined my fishing. First it was a 10ft rod and super long leaders, next the lowly tippet ring. Then it was really down hill... sighters of many colors lengths and descriptions, and flies that don't resemble any thing, but with much attention to sink rate with bead sizes from 1.5 to 4.0mm. When things got really bad..... line sag in the guides was a concern. Hell, now I don't even use FLY LINE on my favorite 11ft.3wt. rod but 10lb. mono. Is 8lb. in my sad future? I beg of you to not report on this low form of fishing so you and others may be spared.
** and yes Tom Rosenbauer is very height deprived and George Daniel at least 6 ft.
Here's the interesting thing to me -- when I started "fly fishing," I learned by going out with locals. We used fiberglass "noodle action" rods, a closed face fly reel, a level fly line, a Stren leader, a Hildebran spinner to get to the bottom quickly, and a red wiggler worm. Sometimes we used a spinning rod, but that wasn't "fly fishing."
I still have a Hildebran spinner left that I saved for memories.
(https://i.imgur.com/xcZLk7l.jpg)
Now I need to spend at least $500 for a new 3 weight soft-tip Euro rod, a new reel, spools of Maxima mono,and tungsten bead "jig" flies.
It's a durn conundrum. This shit keeps me awake at night.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 12, 2021, 08:17:59 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 12, 2021, 08:17:59 AM
Cloudy 84 – 74
Gas $2.64
Weather wasn't looking to good with a good chance of some strong storms later in the day, so I went a bit earlier than before. Since I was planning on staying a while I packed in some food and beverages. There was a truck in the lot when I arrived. Thought it might have been railroad workers.
Hiked across the mown field, they still haven't bailed it, it's gone to waste now. But the time I got to the water I was sweating and after stashing the beer, I popped the top on one.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061121-1.jpg)
I saw a few fish rise and got the skunk off with a pune on the emerger.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061121-2.jpg)
Then I switched over to euro. I waded out holding the rod in one hand and the beer in the other. I glanced upstream and noticed a guy on the gravel at the head of the run. I don't know if I low holed him, or if he had just high holed me. I think he was giving me a evil eye. My bad if I was guilty of the encroachment. I put the empty can away and was getting ready to fish when I noticed I had gotten the leader wrapped around a zipper on my vest. I struggled with that and by the time I got it free the flies had become wickedly tangled. I worked on this for five or ten minutes, before cutting the whole damn birds nest off and started building the tippet / dropper rig from scratch. What a pain. Finally, with the flies back in place, I began to fish. I had watched a few euro nymphing tutorials on the tube of you and put some of those lessons into play. My "casting" or lobbing is now more directed and controlled which helped cover the water from near too far. I did manage to catch a few fish. This one was a particularly nice trout for this stream.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061121-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061121-4.jpg)
I couldn't choose between these shots for posted both...
After catching a handful of trouts I took a break before switching back to dry fly action as fish were starting to rise everywhere.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061121-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061121-6.jpg)
The weather was unsettled, and I head thunder to the south and east, it threatened to rain several times, but I never had to break out the rain jacket.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061121-7.jpg)
But the fish were feeding, and the catching was easy.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061121-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061121-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061121-10.jpg)
I sat down for a while watching the birds feeding on the sulfurs and had a snack.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061121-11.jpg)
Then it was back to catching. I got a text from driver that he was on the way.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061121-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061121-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061121-14.jpg)
I had caught fish all up and down this reach and it was, pornographic, over the top, lights out, fishing for an hour between three and four. I called the driver to get his eta, hoping he would arrive shortly before the hatch subsided.
But thing had slowed way down by the time he got to the stream. I gave him a sulfur soft hackle that had worked so well for me and he tied it on with 7x. Casting his newly built 7'6' glass rod he finally got a rise and then broke off as he tried to hook set the fish into the field. Way too much pepper.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061121-16.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061121-17.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061121-18.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/562164277
I watched him for a while and then went back to euro and catch a few more fish before the end of the day. We were hoping for some late action and there were a sizable number of sulfurs floating on the surface, but the fish were pretty much ignoring them.
https://vimeo.com/562164535
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061121-15.jpg)
We left at dusk.
I was good to see the driver out and about, it's been over a year, but things are slowly returning to normal.
The bottom dropped out on the way home. It was good to have some rain, but the drive was miserable.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on June 12, 2021, 11:34:55 AM
Post by: Onslow on June 12, 2021, 11:34:55 AM
Glad to see you get back in the top water game. Nice catching!
For those not paying attention, water temps were 56 degrees :o last year at this time. I supposed this is all due to excessive warm runoff entering the lake. 46.5 this year.
For those not paying attention, water temps were 56 degrees :o last year at this time. I supposed this is all due to excessive warm runoff entering the lake. 46.5 this year.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 13, 2021, 08:38:39 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 13, 2021, 08:38:39 AM
It was much cooler today, and the clouds persisted, distant thunder was herd, and a few rain drops fell. I was surprised that the lot was empty when I arrived around on o'clock. I rigged a new tippet / dropper on the euro and then hiked on down to my spot. The feeder creek was staining the river and the flow was up a bit. Fished with the euro for a bit until I FUBARed the rig. Funny, I did well on the first two outings, but now, that I've gone past beginners' luck I've gotten into some massive tangles that require clipping everything off and starting fresh.
Fortunately, there was some bug activity, and the fish were somewhat cooperative. I didn't stay late, as that hadn't been productive. The only company I had on the river were the pileated woodpeckers, cedar waxwings, a great blue heron, and about a dozen kayakers.
I broke out the gopro and got some shots but later in the day the camera was angled too low, and I missed the best action of the day.
https://vimeo.com/562423067
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061221-1.jpg)
Not the first, but the worst euro tangle of the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061221-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061221-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061221-4.jpg)
While releasing a fish underwater, I ended up getting stuck.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061221-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061221-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061221-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061221-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061221-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061221-10.jpg)
Yesterday, Jason and I saw a nice sized brown jump out of the water chasing a natural at the head of a run. I had tried to nymph it up, but that didn't work. Returning later in the day it succumbed to the comparadun.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061221-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061221-12.jpg)
Can't stay away, I actually like the river at the current flows. Sure, the wading is a bit tougher, but it fishes well. Going back for more today, despite the forecast for 90+ degrees...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on June 13, 2021, 18:56:42 PM
Post by: creakycane on June 13, 2021, 18:56:42 PM
Great pictures and update. Looks like the euronymphing is quite effective for the ones not taking dries/emerges. That last fish is pretty good sized! Thanks for posting. I've been there less in the past 3 weeks than earlier in spring. Great to see what I am missing b'; !
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 14, 2021, 10:28:25 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 14, 2021, 10:28:25 AM
My streak of having the whole place to myself ended on Sunday, there were three vehicles in the lot. A blue honda, brown F150 with VA TU license, and another trout bro truck with magnetic rod holders on the hood, I don't think I'd leave them out while fishing, but that's just me.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061321-100.jpg)
I was afraid that my spot would be occupied, and I wasn't sure where I'd end up fishing, so I didn't take the euro rod. Just as I was ready hit the trail a fisherman came out, he was from Roanoke and got into a few fish during a sulfur hatch with a #18 parachute, but he said they were very picky.
The walk across the field in waders feels like crossing a desert, and the smell of the rotting day made it smell like a barn.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061321-99.jpg)
I opened a barley pop and waded into the cold water to cool off and watched the water for fish and bugs. The water had cleared from yesterday's rain.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061321-3.jpg)
I spied a fish rising to a dun and when I finished my beer I waded into position and cast, the fish rose and was landed. That's the way to do it.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061321-1.jpg)
Unfortunately the goPro wasn't rolling at the time and once I turned it on the fishing or catching slowed way down. It was brutal. I did get a number of fish to rise to the fly but in three hours I only caught a handful.
It was a high UV day (11), so I buffed up. I was at the dermatologist the other day and had a few suspect spots frozen. So I'm trying to keep further damage at bay.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061321-2.jpg)
With a sparse hatch of caddis, micro bwos, midges and sulfurs, I wished I had brought the euro rod as very few fish were rising. I did manage to work and connect with some difficult fish. On was under a fly snatching rhodo in an eddy just up from a snag and I worked one fish with 7 different patterns and it ignored every single one while snatching naturals that floated right besides, in front of and behind my fly over and over. It was maddening! Not only did I change flies but I changed my position as well hoping to get a better angle and drift.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061321-4.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/562603930
The bro truck was gone when I got back, never saw another person on my beat. Don't know what reach everybody else was fishing.
Rain over night has the lake rising, but I think they will maintain the current flow for a while.
[/report
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 15, 2021, 08:00:45 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 15, 2021, 08:00:45 AM
Highlight of the day...
https://vimeo.com/563218009
https://vimeo.com/563218009
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 15, 2021, 09:34:13 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 15, 2021, 09:34:13 AM
tough evening on the river, went back to euro the runs...
i worked and worked and only caught one. only plus was zero tangles. <-;: oh and the sunrays piercing through the trees into the misty river.
then I worked some rising fish for the rest of the evening... i posted the video in the previous post. I suck, my flies suck.
so I go from 40 fish a couple of days ago to just two, how sad is that?
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061421-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061421-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061421-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061421-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061421-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061421-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061421-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061421-8.jpg)
guide raft came down around 6, was surprised at the late start... followed by boom box yahooing kayakers...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on June 15, 2021, 16:55:19 PM
Post by: Phil on June 15, 2021, 16:55:19 PM
"so I go from 40 fish a couple of days ago to just two, how sad is that?"
They jist plain wasn't a'bitin'. That happens to me more often than not. b';
They jist plain wasn't a'bitin'. That happens to me more often than not. b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on June 17, 2021, 10:25:00 AM
Post by: troutrus on June 17, 2021, 10:25:00 AM
Went yesterday to try the reduced flow (260 cfs). Last trip there at 340 was very uncomfortable for this old guy. Since then I've added studs to the boots and a wading staff and now I'm wondering why it took me so long to add these tools.
Arrived the upper mirror plant lot about 11:30 and was on the river around noon. Fair amount of bugs in the air, most of which resembled a Sulfur Comparadun imitation I had so I started with that. Enough fish rising to hold my interest, so I hung with that and a couple other similar imitations for an hour and a half resulting in nothing but a couple near misses. Frustrated, I changed to a nymph and bobber rig for the rest of my time with similar results. 🙁
Left at 3pm. CPUE = 0
No other cars in the lot and I saw but one lone angler and he was in a drift boat (raft) that came through about 12:30.
Woolly, please let me know if you start giving lessons.
Arrived the upper mirror plant lot about 11:30 and was on the river around noon. Fair amount of bugs in the air, most of which resembled a Sulfur Comparadun imitation I had so I started with that. Enough fish rising to hold my interest, so I hung with that and a couple other similar imitations for an hour and a half resulting in nothing but a couple near misses. Frustrated, I changed to a nymph and bobber rig for the rest of my time with similar results. 🙁
Left at 3pm. CPUE = 0
No other cars in the lot and I saw but one lone angler and he was in a drift boat (raft) that came through about 12:30.
Woolly, please let me know if you start giving lessons.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Yallerhammer on June 17, 2021, 18:58:44 PM
Post by: Yallerhammer on June 17, 2021, 18:58:44 PM
Quote from: troutrus on June 17, 2021, 10:25:00 AMWent yesterday to try the reduced flow (260 cfs). Last trip there at 340 was very uncomfortable for this old guy. Since then I've added studs to the boots and a wading staff and now I'm wondering why it took me so long to add these tools.I find myself much more often looking around on the bank to find me a stout stick to cross the creek with nowadays. With the Rock treads on the boot soles.
Arrived the upper mirror plant lot about 11:30 and was on the river around noon. Fair amount of bugs in the air, most of which resembled a Sulfur Comparadun imitation I had so I started with that. Enough fish rising to hold my interest, so I hung with that and a couple other similar imitations for an hour and a half resulting in nothing but a couple near misses. Frustrated, I changed to a nymph and bobber rig for the rest of my time with similar results. 🙁
Left at 3pm. CPUE = 0
No other cars in the lot and I saw but one lone angler and he was in a drift boat (raft) that came through about 12:30.
Woolly, please let me know if you start giving lessons.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: greg on June 17, 2021, 20:42:18 PM
Post by: greg on June 17, 2021, 20:42:18 PM
I finally broke down and bouts a wading staff last year.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 18, 2021, 08:43:07 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 18, 2021, 08:43:07 AM
Quote from: troutrus on June 17, 2021, 10:25:00 AMWoolly, please let me know if you start giving lessons.
well the river isn't on fire right now... i went yesterday. 5 on the euro and 5 on the dry fly...
casting to the occasional riser, it looked and sounded like this...
https://vimeo.com/564635335
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 19, 2021, 08:22:27 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 19, 2021, 08:22:27 AM
https://youtu.be/N2BuP-NcJ5Q
https://vimeo.com/564991072
I stayed way too late -- no fish action at all but the critters came out to play. Pretty sure those are muskrats in the video... a little humping action in there too...
across the river the otters came out to play and beaver slaapped its tail and was swimming about too... not only that but I jumped a deer when I walked into my spot earlier in the day.
full reports soon....
https://vimeo.com/564991072
I stayed way too late -- no fish action at all but the critters came out to play. Pretty sure those are muskrats in the video... a little humping action in there too...
across the river the otters came out to play and beaver slaapped its tail and was swimming about too... not only that but I jumped a deer when I walked into my spot earlier in the day.
full reports soon....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 19, 2021, 09:32:21 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 19, 2021, 09:32:21 AM
74 - 84 mostly sunny, gas $2.64
https://youtu.be/s_21p14TAXM
Damn, if I don't write down the events of one trip before the next, my thoughts just get jumbled and I forget some of the things I wanted to mention. Oh well, here's what I think happened on Thursday.
As I crossed over the 674 bridge, I noticed Smith River Outfitters' raft anchored up by the water intake facility. The trailer was parked just past the bridge. Do they launch there?
It has been a bit cooler, and the humidity is low, so it felt good with a little breeze as I walked across the field. As I entered the path to the river, I roused a bedded down dear 10 feet away. So quick did it move that I just got a glace of its tail through the undergrowth.
I didn't notice any risers, so I started of euroing, and hooked a typical pune brown trout on the first cast!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061721-1.jpg)
I'm surprised that I don't pick off more fish in this run, but it's been one and done here, so I moved on down to the deep pool. I've not figured out the best way to euro fish this spot but I always pick off a couple rainbows and a brown or two as well.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061721-2.jpg)
After catching a handful of fish I took a break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061721-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061721-4.jpg)
I'm going with the Dogfish variety pack for summer, I'm enjoying the session IPAs and the others as well.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061721-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061721-6.jpg)
SRO floated on down, stopping in all of my runs and holes along the way. It took them a surprisingly long time to get from the bridge down to my spot and then they anchored up in the long flat down below for a long time.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061721-7.jpg)
There they are downstream at 5 PM.
Then these clowns floated down in their smithfly or flycraft or whatever. They were flailing away with bobber rigs, thrashing the water repeatedly with a bright red bobber the size of a clown's nose, with the raft sitting on top of fish the whole time. The guy in the bow actually caught a fish and then it was a brofest, fish bumping, yahooing, picture taking, fish killing event.
https://vimeo.com/564987527
I wasn't happy about these floaty boats coming down my river.
I waited for an evening rise or spinner fall, but that didn't happen. I was off the river by 7:30. I think the tally for the day was 10 or 12 to hand with 50/50 euro vs dry fly. Funny how they can be so damn picky on the dry but well eat those frenchies with gusto.
I checked the lower boat ramp, and both the rafts were still on the water as I drove home.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 19, 2021, 10:00:43 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 19, 2021, 10:00:43 AM
https://youtu.be/s_paZpQvca0
Back to the river...
Filled up at $2.99 temps warming up 84 at least...
I tried to get to the river early but it was afternoon when I pulled into the empty lot.
I euroed up some fish, perhaps a dozen or so. Missed a few, the takes are every so delicate, most of the time I'm just watching the sighter and notice it pause, can't tell you how many times I set on the bottom, or how many times I cleared the fly of rock snot.
https://vimeo.com/564983054
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061821-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061821-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061821-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061821-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061821-5.jpg)
Some sulfurs came off, the fish showed no interest in the emegers, or duns. There were a lot of #22 bwos hatching along with some caddis.
The SRO raft was on the water, I didn't see it as I was headed home by 4.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 19, 2021, 22:30:37 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 19, 2021, 22:30:37 PM
how many days in i row is it now...
:cheers
two cars in the lot, a dude from raleigh showed up and asked a ton of questions before heading up towards the dam. I never saw the other fishermaan. Most fish came on the euro... bwo, caddis, sulfurs in small size and numbers. it was HOT, until wading into the river.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061921-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061921-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061921-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/061921-4.jpg)
major plastic hatch caused a lot of grief, I watched and waited a lot.
https://vimeo.com/565154193
I noticed that the water was up about an inch and a half when I stashed my beer in the river among some rocks that I had used to hold them down. One of them slipped out and floated in downstream. When I got home I checked the usgs gauge and saw that they upped the flow 100 cfs to 350 at the dam and 423 at the next gauge — I didn't think they would be making adjustments on the weekend, I guess they needed to get a jump on the rain coming on Sunday. Made for a little tougher wading but it's still fishable.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on June 21, 2021, 08:11:54 AM
Post by: Big J on June 21, 2021, 08:11:54 AM
Bossman getting after the Smith V:;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 21, 2021, 08:18:00 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 21, 2021, 08:18:00 AM
Quote from: Big J on June 21, 2021, 08:11:54 AMBossman getting after the Smith V:;
as long as the low flows continue I'll be pounding her hard...
damn dam dropped back down to 250 today.... new report to follow... <-;:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 22, 2021, 10:27:28 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 22, 2021, 10:27:28 AM
6/21/2021
Partly cloudy 87 degrees
The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly!
Rain is on the way and that's a good thing as it's been terribly dry the last month. I was thinking about the success I had had the other was with the increased flow, Brian said that they had opened the low flow valve and wanted to get back before the rain set in possibly forcing them to release more water.
I arrived at the lot with one KIA suv with VA tags in the lot. I placed some stickers under the windshield wiper before hiking in across the desert. Damn it was hot, and I questioned my decision not to wet wade.
As I walked the path to the river, the cool air felt refreshing. I unpacked my vest and sat down to eat lunch. "The Big Kahuna" sandwich from Lowe's Foods was the choice for today.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/snad.gif)
The Ugly;
So I'm listening to the birds and watching the water and then I notice a creepy crawler on the back of my hand, a friggin tick. Damn it, I hate those bastards. In disgust I picked it off. Gave me the heebee jeebees for the rest of the day. Its better to find them sooner than later, but I couldn't help but wondering if any of his pals were around. And no, I didn't take a photo. Thought about it after the fact.
I rigged up the euro rod, tied on about 6 feet of fleuro, and another foot and a half for the dropper. I used my freshly tied perdagon as the point fly.
The day was spent switching between euro and dry fly fishing, it was slower than the other day but I managed to get into double digits.
The Bad;
The other day I fished a Zebco out of a run and today I found another. I saw a blue object at the end of a run and went to investigate. Another Zebco! I pulled it out and began navigating my way back to shallow water. I took a big step to land on rock and I slipped and crashed down into the cold water. My legs folded under me and my back was in the water. I struggled to regain my footing as the water seeped into the waist of my waders. Back at the gravel bar I emptied out my vest pockets that had filled with water, pretty sure I didn't lose anything. I blame the damn Zebco on this folly.
The good;
The last fish of the day came on a dry. There were several sulfurs coming off around 4 or 5 o'clock but most of the fish ignored them. I should have quite right after this fish, but I stayed still hoping that some magic would happen as the sun went down. Cool mist started forming on the water and warm breezes blew in from the field as the water changed colors in the dimming light.
Photo dump and a bleeping video....
I took the Zebco, along with the other one that I had left in the parking lot, to Smith River Outfitters, hoping that they would find some use. The shop was closed, but Brian was still working and came to the door when I knocked. We chatted for a while and he lamented that the sulfur hatch had not been as good as past years.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062121-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062121-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062121-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062121-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062121-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062121-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062121-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062121-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062121-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062121-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062121-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062121-12.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/566108103
I forgot to mention that another fly fisherman high holed me up on the flat water, I never saw any risers there, midge water usually. He had I real nice long cast to the get under the rhodos on the far bank, but I never saw him hook a fish. He didn't stay there too long...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 22, 2021, 11:37:25 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 22, 2021, 11:37:25 AM
Got every fish in that 200yd stretch named yet?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 22, 2021, 12:51:35 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 22, 2021, 12:51:35 PM
QuoteGot every fish in that 200Fixed.ydft stretch named yet?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 22, 2021, 13:16:24 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 22, 2021, 13:16:24 PM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on June 22, 2021, 11:37:25 AMGot every fish in that 200yd stretch named yet?
I'm naming the otters, muskrats, and beavers too... jis say'in d:b
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 22, 2021, 13:19:19 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 22, 2021, 13:19:19 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on June 22, 2021, 12:51:35 PMQuoteGot every fish in that 200Fixed.ydft stretch named yet?
actually cover 1100 feet.... several times... lol <-;:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on June 22, 2021, 18:35:47 PM
Post by: Fishbug on June 22, 2021, 18:35:47 PM
You using a dedicated euro rod and carrying two sticks or just swapping leaders?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on June 22, 2021, 18:58:34 PM
Post by: creakycane on June 22, 2021, 18:58:34 PM
Been quite a few of the epeorus types on the water this spring. Testament to good water quality on the Smith.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 22, 2021, 21:11:30 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 22, 2021, 21:11:30 PM
Quote from: Fishbug on June 22, 2021, 18:35:47 PMYou using a dedicated euro rod and carrying two sticks or just swapping leaders?
Yup two rods — Double L 10'6" 3 wt outfit and and old Sage 9' for the dries
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 22, 2021, 22:47:41 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 22, 2021, 22:47:41 PM
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on June 23, 2021, 04:37:57 AM
Post by: Onslow on June 23, 2021, 04:37:57 AM
Saw a brown drake on the local brook pisser a couple weeks ago.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on June 24, 2021, 13:49:48 PM
Post by: creakycane on June 24, 2021, 13:49:48 PM
Vitreus or related minor species if it is a 16. Smaller may be a subspecies. Male spinners have those big dark eyes. Barring more profound than I would expect. When the duns are around in numbers, the fish will hit any wet fly on the swing/rise. I don't see them much above town Cr.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 25, 2021, 21:07:02 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 25, 2021, 21:07:02 PM
Cooler today, partly cloudy
Gas $2.89
Here is my message to all you haters...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062521-105.jpg)
After a day recovering from a long day on the SoHo, I needed to get my fix, so back to the local for the day. Started off low and fished from the ramp down to the bottom of the island. I caught a couple of chubs before I found a trout. I didn't hover them up either, only two to hand for this effort.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062521-99.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062521-100.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062521-101.jpg)
Then I moved on up the river and down the track.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062521-102.jpg)
Bugs were on the water and I got a few to rise and also caught several on the euro outfit.
By 6, I had enough abuse and hiked on out.
Say hello to me new friends...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062521-103.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062521-104.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/567725704
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on June 26, 2021, 06:32:43 AM
Post by: Phil on June 26, 2021, 06:32:43 AM
'c;
Another 10 years and you might get that spot figured out, Woolly. :laugh:
Another 10 years and you might get that spot figured out, Woolly. :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 26, 2021, 09:40:40 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 26, 2021, 09:40:40 AM
Quote from: creakycane on June 24, 2021, 13:49:48 PMVitreus or related minor species if it is a 16. Smaller may be a subspecies. Male spinners have those big dark eyes. Barring more profound than I would expect. When the duns are around in numbers, the fish will hit any wet fly on the swing/rise. I don't see them much above town Cr.
@Trout Maharishi ant the peeps at Troutnut.com say Maccaffertium vicarium (Match Brown)
http://www.troutnut.com/hatch/601/Mayfly-Maccaffertium-vicarium-March-Brown
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on June 26, 2021, 14:51:04 PM
Post by: creakycane on June 26, 2021, 14:51:04 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on June 26, 2021, 09:40:40 AM@Trout Maharishi ant the peeps at Troutnut.com say Maccaffertium vicarium (Match Brown)
http://www.troutnut.com/hatch/601/Mayfly-Maccaffertium-vicarium-March-Brown
Could be - what size is the one you showed pics of (12/14?)? Yes, the Barring on the legs implies Gray Fox/MB-ish, as does the look of the wing.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 26, 2021, 17:17:07 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 26, 2021, 17:17:07 PM
Quote from: creakycane on June 26, 2021, 14:51:04 PMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on June 26, 2021, 09:40:40 AM@Trout Maharishi ant the peeps at Troutnut.com say Maccaffertium vicarium (Match Brown)
http://www.troutnut.com/hatch/601/Mayfly-Maccaffertium-vicarium-March-Brown
Could be - what size is the one you showed pics of (12/14?)? Yes, the Barring on the legs implies Gray Fox/MB-ish, as does the look of the wing.
Another shot showing rear wingsCBAFCFF6-A747-49A6-B0FC-F9D993CD0C51.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on June 26, 2021, 22:36:49 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on June 26, 2021, 22:36:49 PM
I was able to ID it to the family level fairly easy, but the genus was a lot more difficult. The markings on the femurs, and the cross venations in the primary and hind wings were key elements in the ID. So many genus keep changing names and most of my reference materials are like me, old. The differences are so small I almost always need references from printed material and experts, and I'm not comfortable trying to identify to the species level period. Troutnut and Taxon were the ones that made that call.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 29, 2021, 07:01:12 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 29, 2021, 07:01:12 AM
Partly cloudy.
86 and rising. gas $2.64
I was planning to go back down to the trestle pool again today, but when I pulled up there was an angler all geared up and ready to go, I asked where he was planning on fishing. When he told me, I replied, "I guess I should have come earlier".
I headed out to the old familiar water across the field. It was damn hot, so when I unpacked my vest I popped the top of a Summer Break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062821-1.jpg)
It took a spell to find fish. I began picking off punes left and right and a couple of better fish too.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062821-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062821-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062821-5.jpg)
With food like this around, I still don't completely understand the reason that the trout are stunted in the upper river.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062821-6.jpg)
DSFK
I was eating my lunch when this guy came along and anchored up on top of the fish once again. First cast and he was in the trees. He retied and then flailed away before moving on down. I quickly moved down to the lower pool before he got in there and fubared it too. I saw that his daughter had on water wings or the like and when they floated by, I called out that she was required to wear a life jacket. He replied that she did. Ok, I replied and wished them a pleasant afternoon.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062821-7.jpg)
This rainbow was so richly colored up that I first thought it to be a brown.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062821-8.jpg)
I worked a short but deep run that I had passed over before not realizing it's potential until I had waded through it. I studied it's structure and placed a cast and was rewarded with a nice brown.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062821-9.jpg)
Time for a break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062821-10.jpg)
Back to catching
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062821-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062821-12.jpg)
There were tons of these tiny bwo coming off along with a few caddis and sulfurs.
The fish appeared to be keying in on the yellow bugs but a few were sipping the small stuff.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062821-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062821-14.jpg)
Around 4 or so, I noticed a drop in the water as my beer was left high and dry. A quick call to the damn dam revealed that the flow had been cut from 268 to 80!
The bugs activity slowed down and the fish shut down too, although a few more were caught. Every time I got ready to leave another fish jumped and I stalked them, most of the time they never rose again but occasionally I got one to rise to the fly. This game went on for an hour or two before I finally called it quits sometime after 7
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062821-15.jpg)
A deer came down to keep me company and get a drink of water.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062821-16.jpg)
'till next time
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062821-17.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 29, 2021, 17:30:15 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 29, 2021, 17:30:15 PM
I'm not a fan of the current 80 cfs, but you play the cards you are dealt.
Walked down the overgrown trail along the river to start at the trestle hole.
Some asshole has not done any maintenance on it in a year. ;D
There were a few scattered risers. Tied on a new comparadun and threw ten or more casts.
No looky loos. Dropped a smaller emerger 3 ft off the comparadun, greased it up and caught a couple of fish.
The small town newspaper industry in a nutshell.
(https://i.imgur.com/0oV433al.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/b8E5jQil.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/D9k0d4Vl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Y0GsiThl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/2UWg7AXl.jpg)
The flow was low, the sun was bright and not many fish were feeding.
Moved up to good run and tied on a girdlebug. Stuck a good fish that came unbuttoned before I could net em.
A few casts later, a bigger one? broke the 6x. b';
Moved up, lots of nothing back on top.
(https://i.imgur.com/xbBy0iNl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/KNy2Lszl.jpg)
I started to move up to the next good run and stopped for a beer. I looked up stream and saw a beer can on a rock about 15 feet above. Sent a pic upstream to the newly arrived bossman and he confirmed it was a run away beer from 2 days ago.
(https://i.imgur.com/Z66Ev7Zl.jpg)
No dry fly love at the next run, so I went back to a stonefly.
Dredged up a pretty good one.
(https://i.imgur.com/rZCrIIVl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Y0GsiThl.jpg)
Worked up the Keith and found out about Anita. It was bittersweet to learn of her passing while fishing the river Al loves so much. Big hugs, Al. He and I don't have too much in common, even though he is a friend. The one big thing we have in common is that we both were on wife number three.
If nothing else, we could chuckle that we finally got it right!
More big hugs, dude. She was a lovely woman.
Keith and I stood in the shade and talked. Sat in the shade and talked. Drank a beer and had a snack in the shade. We decided we should torment ourselves some more and we proceeded to venture out into the sun and not catch any more fish.
I left the Bugger to flog alone.
(https://i.imgur.com/Nz0CoqNl.jpg)
Pour one out.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on June 29, 2021, 18:37:05 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on June 29, 2021, 18:37:05 PM
Fishing seems so trivial with this news. Few people walking I respect more than Al Kittridge.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 29, 2021, 21:05:22 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 29, 2021, 21:05:22 PM
Sad day indeed...
Thoughts and prayers for Al and his family.
I wasn't planning on fishing because I had gotten used to the higher flow, but when doug said he was going I went just to fish a bit with him.
He started low and I was going to go there also but there were trains on the tracks so I headed in across the field where doug had stashed his cooler.
I had a refreshment and studied the water looking for bugs and risers. I found a couple of fish that were coming up semi regularly but I couldn't see what they were taking. I threw a half dozen different emergers at them with no success. I switched over to euro the deep pool and didn't catch anything.
Doug found a beer that I had lost a few days back when an additional dam release (one low flow valve added to the mix) floated it away. I told him, "finders / keepers" but he doesn't care for IPAs.
After doug left I worked a slow shallow run and finally picked off a good looking but small rainbow, definitely not a stocker.
Poured a sip for Anita.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062921-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062921-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062921-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062921-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062921-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062921-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062921-7.jpg)
Thoughts and prayers for Al and his family.
I wasn't planning on fishing because I had gotten used to the higher flow, but when doug said he was going I went just to fish a bit with him.
He started low and I was going to go there also but there were trains on the tracks so I headed in across the field where doug had stashed his cooler.
I had a refreshment and studied the water looking for bugs and risers. I found a couple of fish that were coming up semi regularly but I couldn't see what they were taking. I threw a half dozen different emergers at them with no success. I switched over to euro the deep pool and didn't catch anything.
Doug found a beer that I had lost a few days back when an additional dam release (one low flow valve added to the mix) floated it away. I told him, "finders / keepers" but he doesn't care for IPAs.
After doug left I worked a slow shallow run and finally picked off a good looking but small rainbow, definitely not a stocker.
Poured a sip for Anita.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062921-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062921-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062921-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062921-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062921-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062921-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/06/062921-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 30, 2021, 15:45:38 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 30, 2021, 15:45:38 PM
NO FISHING TODAY -- TOO DAMN HOT!
so it's fly tying wednesday and I made a little video for y'all...
<-;:
https://vimeo.com/569559977
so it's fly tying wednesday and I made a little video for y'all...
<-;:
https://vimeo.com/569559977
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on June 30, 2021, 16:06:03 PM
Post by: Phil on June 30, 2021, 16:06:03 PM
Yer accent done got refined. :o
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on June 30, 2021, 16:57:09 PM
Post by: creakycane on June 30, 2021, 16:57:09 PM
It was very hot. I fished the early AM session, and took a few browns and rainbows, mostly on weighted pheasant tails or the odd one on an Elk Hair Caddis. Water was still down this AM (weds) 90cfs, and while some pools fish nicely at this level, many are too low, IMO. Virtually no flow from Town Cr. When I checked a few minutes ago, they have now turned on the flows back to 260ish out of Philpott. Now, many pools are a bit higher than optimum. Back to heavy bead heads.... I guess I can't be pleased. Maybe if they could let 145cfs out all the time I would stop complaining 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 01, 2021, 06:33:47 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 01, 2021, 06:33:47 AM
She's back to 260 d:b
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 01, 2021, 16:56:00 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 01, 2021, 16:56:00 PM
Fished today—
2 nice brownies
One on a streamer :drum
Bring back crapatalk and ill share pics
2 nice brownies
One on a streamer :drum
Bring back crapatalk and ill share pics
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 01, 2021, 17:34:09 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 01, 2021, 17:34:09 PM
0pen Imgur, load pics, copy Imgur link to image posting.
Want me to do it for you? :P
I have your pics.
Want me to do it for you? :P
I have your pics.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 01, 2021, 19:29:49 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 01, 2021, 19:29:49 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on July 01, 2021, 17:34:09 PM0pen Imgur, load pics, copy Imgur link to image posting.
Want me to do it for you? :P
I have your pics.
it's so easy even Doug can do it...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 02, 2021, 15:22:51 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 02, 2021, 15:22:51 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on July 01, 2021, 17:34:09 PM0pen Imgur, load pics, copy Imgur link to image posting.
Want me to do it for you? :P
I have your pics.
Lol—-is that an option?!
Can you include pics of flowers and beer?! :Dance
Ill work on the flickr-imgur-photobucket thingy.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 02, 2021, 17:02:02 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 02, 2021, 17:02:02 PM
Busted out the computer----ugh too many tabs and clicky back and forth.....
Weeks adventures.
Haven't waded the Smith in months....?a year.
No flower pics Doug. Got some sweet kudzu growing in summer heat b';
Went this weekend.
Appropriate beer for weather
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51285714706_5a5da5c0be_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2m8WGds)
Only one in the lot.
Evening is cooler.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51284964157_06ceae3435_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2m8SR6X)
Walked up to a hatch.....bugs errrwhere. :cheers
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51285755296_53dbf4b0de_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2m8WUhh)
Didn't take long.....
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51284963802_8c24dea942_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2m8SQZQ)
Was dry or die. Caught some more. Lost some. Lost some flies. Drank some beer. Twas good.
Off work early in heat and returned. Different spot. Easy/lazy access. Never seen fish rise in this section of river. Meant euro...
Didnt take long:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51286731085_3cfa337970_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2m92Ume)
Headed to a run that always holds a big Leroy. Did not disappoint.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51285883983_076406c4b6_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2m8Xyx2)
Know its big when the line drops then the fish hangs low.
Pretty rainbow across the way:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51284965032_16bf4565f9_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2m8SRn3)
Best catch runner up-
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51284965407_b4c9c77e1d_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2m8SRtv)
Sent Doug a txt. Him and Wooly were upstream catching punes. Twas halfway home.
Junkie style, returned later in week. Storm rolling in got the fish excited. Fished for an hour; caught 2. Will take that any day:
This one came on the euro---took fly then plunged; Good Smiff fish:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51286434239_0724711f7d_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2m91o7c)
Fished some other runs with no connection. Changed to a streamer and got some flashes. Bass-musky men will attribute the incoming front. Pressure gradients and stuff. Only got time to fish the cards I get. Anyway went back to same run I caught last guy. Same eact spot. Took a streamer thrown on the euro rig:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51285716186_03d2134469_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2m8WGDY)
Thought it was same fish at first.... :o..........had to compare spots later. They must have been hanging out.
Left with storm coming in. Hopefully the downpour didn't -+; the weekend.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 02, 2021, 18:05:44 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 02, 2021, 18:05:44 PM
Bravo! :Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on July 02, 2021, 19:16:31 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on July 02, 2021, 19:16:31 PM
Nice fish FB, and best of all no photo of some half high homeless looking dude gripping and grinning with some sissy beer. Well done :bow Dougie and Woowee do take some nice floura and fauna photos. Now if I could just get them to quit taking selfies like teenage girls.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on July 02, 2021, 19:21:03 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on July 02, 2021, 19:21:03 PM
Those are much bigger fish than Woolly and Doug catch....just saying. Very nice!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on July 02, 2021, 19:31:22 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on July 02, 2021, 19:31:22 PM
:cheers I was trying to be positive uglyfly man :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 02, 2021, 20:06:27 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 02, 2021, 20:06:27 PM
Quote from: itieuglyflies on July 02, 2021, 19:21:03 PMThose are much bigger fish than Woolly and Doug catch....just saying. Very nice!
He has little hands, like Big J.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2021, 20:12:03 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2021, 20:12:03 PM
Quote from: itieuglyflies on July 02, 2021, 19:21:03 PMThose are much bigger fish than Woolly and Doug catch....just saying. Very nice!
location is everything...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2021, 20:19:36 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2021, 20:19:36 PM
Since most of the river was mud, I was forced to fish the upper reach close to the damn dam.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070221-11.jpg)
I've never been up here with these flows other that the time RiverBum and I tried to fish with if running even higher.
One other guy in a BMW wagon was fishing there just below where I put in.
My freshly tied caddis larva took about half of the fish I caught, which were all rainbows except for one pune brown.
I was in a waist deep run and fished until my knees froze up, if I go back I'll be wearing some fleece pants for sure.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070221-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070221-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070221-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070221-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070221-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070221-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070221-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070221-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070221-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070221-10.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 03, 2021, 07:13:03 AM
Post by: Fishbug on July 03, 2021, 07:13:03 AM
those some pretty rainbows—-had to double check this wasnt a Soho report
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 03, 2021, 07:27:21 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 03, 2021, 07:27:21 AM
Quote from: Fishbug on July 03, 2021, 07:13:03 AMthose some pretty rainbows—-had to double check this wasnt a Soho report
they looked wild to me... no typical hatchery nubbed fins, beautiful colored and good fight...
I didn't think they were reproducing in the Smith, but I may be wrong...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 03, 2021, 15:08:31 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 03, 2021, 15:08:31 PM
https://youtu.be/JeFwaWFTGYU
didn't think I'd go today -- fear of crowds...
not too many out -- fished the same run with great success, moved on up and the bite turned off... idk, water looked fishy to me..
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070321-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070321-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070321-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070321-5.jpg)
a fly and spin guy low holed me, unable to go back down to the honey hole, I tried the water upstream without success.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 04, 2021, 14:12:49 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 04, 2021, 14:12:49 PM
They look pretty wild...
Tied a few rainbow warriors, look awesome- never catch anything w em.
Tied a few rainbow warriors, look awesome- never catch anything w em.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 06, 2021, 07:12:15 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 06, 2021, 07:12:15 AM
https://youtu.be/ZNaqBBjrIZw
80 degrees, Gas $2.74
After taking care of the morning chores, I headed up the road listening to another podcast.
I went back up top to the deep productive run that I've fished before, but this time I had fleece pants.
The river must have been pounded on the 4th, not too many fish were caught so I moved on down and fished some new water for a while.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070521-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070521-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070521-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070521-3.jpg)
After catching a couple more, I put up the euro rod, took off the fleece and headed further on down. There was one car in the lot, so I didn't walk the tracks and went on into the usual spot.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070521-5.jpg)
It was now around 4 o'clock and there were enough sulfurs popping off to get some of the fish excited. I sat on the bank, drank a beer, and studied them for a while.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070521-6.jpg)
I couldn't stand it any longer and headed out to catch one. On the second cast it took the comparadun.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070521-7.jpg)
I caught a good number of the pune brown trout and also would have had enough footage for an extensive bleeping video if I had the gopro with me.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070521-8.jpg)
The otters were out at the head of the pool and were joined by a great blue heron as woodpeckers called in the distance. I took a dinner break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070521-9.jpg)
Then it was back to catching more on the surface as the sulfurs sailed on down the river.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070521-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070521-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070521-12.jpg)
An angler was approaching from downstream and I worked the run up agaainst the bank on the far side. There were several fish rising and I managed to bleep three. I continued to work the run and also kept a eye on the guy below me. He took a spill in a thigh deep run but bounced right back up.
I worked the run for twenty minutes and finally hooked a fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070521-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070521-14.jpg)
The other guy had was walking in behind me and I turned and recognized John from chapel hill who fishes bamboo. We talked for a while as I was finished for the day. He went up to fish some more and I walked out.
There in the lot was a Pretentious Snobby Bastard...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070521-15.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070521-16.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 07, 2021, 09:35:13 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 07, 2021, 09:35:13 AM
pounding away... -+; V:; :;! :cheers
90+ degrees, sunny.
Gas – tomorrow...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-1.jpg)
In the heat of the day, I drove up to the river. There in the lot, off to the side, was a white Chevy Volt, the aborted Detroit hybrid auto. I geared up and headed down the tracks, I questioned my sanity and my choice of wearing waders, I knew I would be in waist deep water most of the afternoon and I didn't know how late I would stay. The rail bed baked in the sun, and it felt like an oven. The only relief on the mile long trek was a brief spot of shade on the curve before the long straight stretch. The rails shimmered as heat waves rose from the tracks.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-2.jpg)
There were bugs in the air and fish rising. I set the euro rod down and fished the comparadun that was rigged on the Sage SP. It went something
like this...
https://vimeo.com/572126701
The shade of the trees led to the cool air by the river, but with no shade on the water, I pulled up my buff for protection from another high uv day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-10.jpg)
I took a break from the sun and heat
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-11.jpg)
I picked up the euro rod and caught one fish...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-12.jpg)
Then it was back to dry fly fishing for the rest of the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-14.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-15.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-16.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-17.jpg)
The fog began to appear in the evening and whisps of the mist obscured the view from time to time making it difficult to clears see the fish rising distance.
I was pretty much done by 6:30 even though it appeared that the bugs were really starting to come off I didn't want to get home too late. I decided that I would return tomorrow a bit later in the day and stay until the sun went down.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-18.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-19.jpg)
The walk out was cooler, and I stayed on the shady side.
Back in the lot, the Volt fisherman was putting away his gear and came over to talk. He looked a lot like Fred, but is from Chapel Hill, He fished the upper reach across the field where I usually go and had a pretty good day too. We talked about his vehicle and the future of electric vehicles for a while, his other car is a bio diesel jeep, go figure on that one...
Until tomorrow..
90+ degrees, sunny.
Gas – tomorrow...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-1.jpg)
In the heat of the day, I drove up to the river. There in the lot, off to the side, was a white Chevy Volt, the aborted Detroit hybrid auto. I geared up and headed down the tracks, I questioned my sanity and my choice of wearing waders, I knew I would be in waist deep water most of the afternoon and I didn't know how late I would stay. The rail bed baked in the sun, and it felt like an oven. The only relief on the mile long trek was a brief spot of shade on the curve before the long straight stretch. The rails shimmered as heat waves rose from the tracks.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-2.jpg)
There were bugs in the air and fish rising. I set the euro rod down and fished the comparadun that was rigged on the Sage SP. It went something
like this...
https://vimeo.com/572126701
The shade of the trees led to the cool air by the river, but with no shade on the water, I pulled up my buff for protection from another high uv day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-10.jpg)
I took a break from the sun and heat
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-11.jpg)
I picked up the euro rod and caught one fish...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-12.jpg)
Then it was back to dry fly fishing for the rest of the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-14.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-15.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-16.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-17.jpg)
The fog began to appear in the evening and whisps of the mist obscured the view from time to time making it difficult to clears see the fish rising distance.
I was pretty much done by 6:30 even though it appeared that the bugs were really starting to come off I didn't want to get home too late. I decided that I would return tomorrow a bit later in the day and stay until the sun went down.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-18.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070621-19.jpg)
The walk out was cooler, and I stayed on the shady side.
Back in the lot, the Volt fisherman was putting away his gear and came over to talk. He looked a lot like Fred, but is from Chapel Hill, He fished the upper reach across the field where I usually go and had a pretty good day too. We talked about his vehicle and the future of electric vehicles for a while, his other car is a bio diesel jeep, go figure on that one...
Until tomorrow..
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on July 07, 2021, 13:17:59 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on July 07, 2021, 13:17:59 PM
I am sure glad you figured out that guy wasn't me.
(can their be a fish in the upper Smith that Woolly hasn't caught?)
(can their be a fish in the upper Smith that Woolly hasn't caught?)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 07, 2021, 20:44:11 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 07, 2021, 20:44:11 PM
And we whacked em pretty good today. Just got home. :Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 08, 2021, 12:29:57 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 08, 2021, 12:29:57 PM
34
https://youtu.be/1tCc--3xw10
I was going down before the next rain event. Woolly indicated he'd join me.
I got down the steamy tracks before the train. He came down behind me. I had gone down stream a bit to see if any bugs were happening down there.
Nada.
(https://i.imgur.com/Jjij6Yll.jpg)
Came back up through kayakers and found rising fish, with WB in the middle of them.
And a raft approaching.
Of course, they anchored up right in the middle of the fishy head of the pool. b';
I retreated to the bank and got a beer.
After they whooped and hollered and caught a couple of fish, they finally moved on.
Bugs came, bugs went.
We whacked em when the bugs came back, drank a beer when they left.
Pretty simple plan.
(https://i.imgur.com/FIVrgV9l.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/5Gw6v0Ul.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Pjjwlkql.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/jGGTf8Cl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/I1lhAlvl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4Vb78Icl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/oJMJyUol.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ER47jKel.jpg)
It was getting dark, and the bite slowed considerably.
We waded in and I broke out a proper toast and sip poured.
(https://i.imgur.com/usl8RIzl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/2ynhwrZl.jpg)
:cheers
https://youtu.be/1tCc--3xw10
I was going down before the next rain event. Woolly indicated he'd join me.
I got down the steamy tracks before the train. He came down behind me. I had gone down stream a bit to see if any bugs were happening down there.
Nada.
(https://i.imgur.com/Jjij6Yll.jpg)
Came back up through kayakers and found rising fish, with WB in the middle of them.
And a raft approaching.
Of course, they anchored up right in the middle of the fishy head of the pool. b';
I retreated to the bank and got a beer.
After they whooped and hollered and caught a couple of fish, they finally moved on.
Bugs came, bugs went.
We whacked em when the bugs came back, drank a beer when they left.
Pretty simple plan.
(https://i.imgur.com/FIVrgV9l.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/5Gw6v0Ul.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Pjjwlkql.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/jGGTf8Cl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/I1lhAlvl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4Vb78Icl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/oJMJyUol.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ER47jKel.jpg)
It was getting dark, and the bite slowed considerably.
We waded in and I broke out a proper toast and sip poured.
(https://i.imgur.com/usl8RIzl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/2ynhwrZl.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 08, 2021, 14:59:49 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 08, 2021, 14:59:49 PM
Boat and Bugs
Gas $2.79 85+ degrees, slight overcast to sunny
Dougfish text asking when I was going back to the river, "Tomorrow!" was my reply...
I said I was going to go in late and stay until o'dark thirty to see what the evening rise looked like. When I left the other day it looked like things were just starting to get underway.
Doug arrived before me and had hiked in, I geared up in the lot and waited for the train to pass before marching down the tracks, it was a bit cooler today and there was a little more shade on the hike in.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070721b-1.jpg)
As I approached the path to the river I could hear kayakers yahooing and playing their boom box. I was hoping that they would have gone by when I got to the water but I found them having a party at the head of the run.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070721b-2.jpg)
They finally left and dougfish came up from down below and headed up to the top of the run and caught a few.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070721b-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070721b-4.jpg)
We fished and drank beer and enjoyed the evening until a raft came through and anchored up on top of the run. I tried to wade up into a blocking position before they got there, but I ran out of freeboard on my pant waders and retreated to shallower waters as the raft moved into position
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070721b-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070721b-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070721b-7.jpg)
I caught a few fish too, and they looked especially pretty in the evening light.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070721b-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070721b-10.jpg)
More kaykers came on through as the evening fog crept up the river in cool whisps.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070721b-9.jpg)
Things shut down by eight and we poured it sip and headed out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070721b-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070721b-11.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/572703149
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 08, 2021, 18:42:56 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 08, 2021, 18:42:56 PM
Damn yakers
Those are some poor rafter manners. n!n
Slighlty jealous -- need to float the Smith
Fancy toasts
Those are some poor rafter manners. n!n
Slighlty jealous -- need to float the Smith
Fancy toasts
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 08, 2021, 19:05:09 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 08, 2021, 19:05:09 PM
Off work early with time/weather to fish. Storm rolling in again.
Browns are usually the target of choice, but WB's rainbow pics had me wanting some.
Knew a spot near the damn that has a productive run. Park in a ditch and slide down the bank kinda of place.
BTW got new boots, that I havent started fishing with till last week. Got from a well known VA fly shop. Owner convinced me to go felt. Says hes tested every rubber boot available and the best ones suck compared to the worst felt. First time trying; He is spot on. Feel like I could dance in the river. Only thing I dont like is the gravel guard strap is very low. Maybe fits Simms waders better. Simms fly weight - 9.5/10
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51299183661_885dd2fdf2_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ma8J4P)
First problem---net was caught in truck and broke line.
Blood knot didn't work; Perfection loop for the win:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51300196000_780d198a42_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2madUZW)
Speaking of knots --- Started using this drop shot knot for first fly on the euro rig. I like it.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51299891984_d0a190ab2a_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2macmCh)
Landed at run. Water definately colder here. Flows higher than advertised. Didn't take too long. Feisty wild looking bows.
Pretty bows, ugly browns; go figure.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51298440342_4852733971_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ma4V6Y)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51299182376_dd7095371e_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ma8HFE)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51298440612_cfcdc27005_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ma4VbC)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51299893444_da6db9d02e_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2macn4s)
Across the run was flatter water. Risers were tempting me and finally gave in. Euro-pros say you can cast a euro leader - Ive found it sucks miserably. Swapped leaders to use fly line and got a few.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51299183491_4d7b403c1d_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ma8J1T)
Rest eluded me with the crossing flows.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51298441117_3310d9deb0_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ma4Vkk)
Browns are usually the target of choice, but WB's rainbow pics had me wanting some.
Knew a spot near the damn that has a productive run. Park in a ditch and slide down the bank kinda of place.
BTW got new boots, that I havent started fishing with till last week. Got from a well known VA fly shop. Owner convinced me to go felt. Says hes tested every rubber boot available and the best ones suck compared to the worst felt. First time trying; He is spot on. Feel like I could dance in the river. Only thing I dont like is the gravel guard strap is very low. Maybe fits Simms waders better. Simms fly weight - 9.5/10
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51299183661_885dd2fdf2_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ma8J4P)
First problem---net was caught in truck and broke line.
Blood knot didn't work; Perfection loop for the win:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51300196000_780d198a42_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2madUZW)
Speaking of knots --- Started using this drop shot knot for first fly on the euro rig. I like it.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51299891984_d0a190ab2a_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2macmCh)
Landed at run. Water definately colder here. Flows higher than advertised. Didn't take too long. Feisty wild looking bows.
Pretty bows, ugly browns; go figure.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51298440342_4852733971_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ma4V6Y)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51299182376_dd7095371e_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ma8HFE)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51298440612_cfcdc27005_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ma4VbC)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51299893444_da6db9d02e_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2macn4s)
Across the run was flatter water. Risers were tempting me and finally gave in. Euro-pros say you can cast a euro leader - Ive found it sucks miserably. Swapped leaders to use fly line and got a few.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51299183491_4d7b403c1d_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ma8J1T)
Rest eluded me with the crossing flows.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51298441117_3310d9deb0_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ma4Vkk)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 08, 2021, 19:50:25 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 08, 2021, 19:50:25 PM
You da man. We'll get together next week?
Just spooled up a second reel for the euro rod.
No switching leaders, switching reels. :Dance
Just spooled up a second reel for the euro rod.
No switching leaders, switching reels. :Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 08, 2021, 20:25:43 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 08, 2021, 20:25:43 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on July 08, 2021, 19:50:25 PMYou da man. We'll get together next week?
Just spooled up a second reel for the euro rod.
No switching leaders, switching reels.
:cheers
For sure if work/weather cooperates.
Switching reels is prob the best albeit most costly way to go. My cheap ass needs to come to terms with that 😂
I cant do the two rod thing while wading; too much to carry. Now on the bote that's perfect.....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 08, 2021, 20:28:01 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 08, 2021, 20:28:01 PM
I have reels. Lots. Cheap. Lower your expectations.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 10, 2021, 11:32:50 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 10, 2021, 11:32:50 AM
I've been telling the Driver that the sulfurs were still coming off the river in the evening.
Elsa had stayed to the south and the damn dam had not changed its release and we both decided to go up in the afternoon, we both encountered thunderstorms on the drive, but radar indicated that they were staying south and east of our destination.
I arrived at my usual spot before the Driver, and he was waffling about which section to fish, but decided to join me instead of parking at the downstream sketching meth lot.
Fish were rising when I got on the water but kayakers banged through as I was drinking my cool off beer. That put the fish down for a while. I got back on the water and missed a few fish. The Driver arrived and being a bit smarter than I, had carried his waders in his pack, instead of hiking down the track in the scorching sun like I've done the past four times.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070921-8.jpg)
We worked the picky fish and he explored on down river.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070921-1.jpg)
I heard a boat motor upstream but couldn't see it in the glare. Then to my surprise, two motorized kayaks drover right through the run I was fishing, "What the fuck!" I muttered as they passed.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070921-2.jpg)
As the evening wore on, the bugs started popping in numbers that got the fish to rise and the catching began.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070921-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070921-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070921-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070921-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070921-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070921-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070921-10.jpg)
After 8, it totally switched off and we hiked out around 8:30.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070921-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/070921-12.jpg)
It was another grand day on the river.
Bleepin' my life away...
https://vimeo.com/573409830
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 10, 2021, 17:05:48 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 10, 2021, 17:05:48 PM
35
I had not planned on fishing today, but Fin messaged me.
Well, those opportunities are rare, so I told him AM, half day, Smiff.
And he agreed.
We'll see if the terrestrial bite can be confirmed.
Morning smoke on the water was dense.
(https://i.imgur.com/492FxdGl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/uWDpH6Il.jpg)
Right about then I realized, "where's my wading staff"?
I had walked in with it and now its gone.
I had not clipped it to my belt and had dropped it take the pics. b'; b'; b';
A quick scurry downstream and no sign of it in the limited visibility.
It's good that they are cheap to build.
We split up a bit and I dry/droppered. Caught a small brown on the dropper.
Hooked a much nicer one that tried to take me into some submerged wood. I put too much pressure on him and the hook came out. The sun was on the water now and I switched to a beetle and dropper.
Nuttin.
Euroed a while.
Nuttin.
Neal showed back up and we pushed on up where some risers were happening,
The legend.
(https://i.imgur.com/42XmO7al.jpg)
He missed 4 or more before he caught a couple. I struggled to find the right fly.
Some kayakers went through us. None motorized, none bobber fishing.
Finally got into some eager risers and stuck a rainbow right as Neil was hopping out.
(https://i.imgur.com/o3EFh1kl.jpg)
Tried one of my go to runs.
Nuttin.
(https://i.imgur.com/1jNWupjl.jpg)
Met in the parking lot and agreed to try and meet again for a no catching day. :laugh:
The AM, ain't the PM. Fer sure.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 11, 2021, 11:00:28 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 11, 2021, 11:00:28 AM
I've become convinced that the otters have decimated that stretch :o
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 11, 2021, 14:45:39 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 11, 2021, 14:45:39 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on July 11, 2021, 11:00:28 AMI've become convinced that the otters have decimated that stretch :o
I couldn't agree more. I've seen a ton of sign. I'd be willing to trap with some help from some fellow members.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 12, 2021, 07:24:11 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 12, 2021, 07:24:11 AM
Gas $2.79 80 ~ 89 Degrees T-Storms.
Looking at the radar, the storms stayed south of the river, so I headed up in the afternoon.
I had that section of the river to myself. I debated whether to carry or wear my waders. It was a damn hot walk down the tracks in waders. The cold water was refreshing. Fog blanketed the entire river. It was a challenging day. A handful of fish were caught. The bugs came off and the fish rose, but they were picky, and I was out of #16 comparaduns, which is the fly they seem to prefer. I left at eight.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071121-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071121-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071121-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071121-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071121-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071121-6.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/574022785
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on July 13, 2021, 10:58:07 AM
Post by: Big J on July 13, 2021, 10:58:07 AM
Frick me, Neil fished the Smith?!?!? Guess everyone fishing it finally encouraged him to fish in his backyard.
Glad to see that river getting fished again, seems like it's been a good while.
Glad to see that river getting fished again, seems like it's been a good while.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on July 13, 2021, 11:54:21 AM
Post by: Onslow on July 13, 2021, 11:54:21 AM
The very mild winter and tropical rains really had a profound impact on the ambient water temperature at PhilpottScreenshot_20210713-124738.png last year.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on July 13, 2021, 16:24:52 PM
Post by: creakycane on July 13, 2021, 16:24:52 PM
Quote from: Onslow on July 13, 2021, 11:54:21 AMThe very mild winter and tropical rains really had a profound impact on the ambient water temperature at PhilpottScreenshot_20210713-124738.png last year.
Yep - Over the last 15 or 20 years, there have generally only been very brief periods in fall (days to a couple of weeks) where the water temps of out of Philpott exceeded high 50s.
Last year, the temp jumped dramatically in mid May and stayed above 60 for months until Dec.
Hopefully the trajectory holds, and we don't exceed 55F in fall before the cold weather comes.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 13, 2021, 17:21:20 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 13, 2021, 17:21:20 PM
Last year they dumped all the cold water out of the bottom of the lake when it overfilled in May.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 13, 2021, 19:19:49 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 13, 2021, 19:19:49 PM
3pm tomorrow. The usual.
Message me if you want to join.
Or just show the F up.
Message me if you want to join.
Or just show the F up.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 14, 2021, 09:15:11 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 14, 2021, 09:15:11 AM
Gas $2.79 Temps in the upper 80s, occasional clouds and a bit of rain.
The river was calling me, I tied up a couple of #16 comparaduns, and headed off in the early afternoon.
I went in up top with the euro and struggled to catch a fish. I missed some bumps and one unbuttoned. As I was working the run, I heard someone calling, "Sir, sir... " I couldn't hear the rest over the water, so,I turned in the direction of the voice, and just as I did a fish hit, but of course I was in no position to set the hook and it got off. WTF, does this guy want, I thought. "Can't hear you", I hollered. "Where did you get the rod rack in your car?", "On the internet...." , geeze. p;-
There were sulfurs on the water and I saw a couple of fish rise. So after working the run twice I retrieved the dry fly rod from the car. First cast up the run, which is about 4-5 feet deep, I nice fish whacked the fly. I was a heavy fish, but I may have played it too hard and the fly popped out. I caught a couple more smaller fish and while brining them in I noticed a large trout chasing after it in the deep water.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071321-1.jpg)
An Osprey and a fighter jet roared up the valley and I clicked off a few shots, got the slower Osprey, but missed the low flying jet.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071321-2.jpg)
Browns on the dry fly!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071321-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071321-4.jpg)
The SRO raft was putting in at 3 o'clock and I asked EJ what time he expected to be at the pool downstream as I was planning to be there around 5, he replied that since it was late, he would be blowing through and would fish around me if necessary. He asked my name, I in a slip of judgement, I replied. <-;:
I drove to the lot and hiked the rails carrying both rods. Despite fish rising I nymphed the head off the run and caught a couple of nice fish. Hooked and broke off a better fish on the 6x. Oh snap!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071321-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071321-8.jpg)
And then it was dry fly fishing for the rest of the evening. A few fish came to hand but as the evening wore on the fish refused almost all of my offerings.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071321-9.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/574932007
Things shut down by eight and I hiked out on failing felts... I don't think these are two years old and haven't been used all that much.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071321-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071321-11.jpg)
time for some barge cement d:b ....
The river was calling me, I tied up a couple of #16 comparaduns, and headed off in the early afternoon.
I went in up top with the euro and struggled to catch a fish. I missed some bumps and one unbuttoned. As I was working the run, I heard someone calling, "Sir, sir... " I couldn't hear the rest over the water, so,I turned in the direction of the voice, and just as I did a fish hit, but of course I was in no position to set the hook and it got off. WTF, does this guy want, I thought. "Can't hear you", I hollered. "Where did you get the rod rack in your car?", "On the internet...." , geeze. p;-
There were sulfurs on the water and I saw a couple of fish rise. So after working the run twice I retrieved the dry fly rod from the car. First cast up the run, which is about 4-5 feet deep, I nice fish whacked the fly. I was a heavy fish, but I may have played it too hard and the fly popped out. I caught a couple more smaller fish and while brining them in I noticed a large trout chasing after it in the deep water.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071321-1.jpg)
An Osprey and a fighter jet roared up the valley and I clicked off a few shots, got the slower Osprey, but missed the low flying jet.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071321-2.jpg)
Browns on the dry fly!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071321-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071321-4.jpg)
The SRO raft was putting in at 3 o'clock and I asked EJ what time he expected to be at the pool downstream as I was planning to be there around 5, he replied that since it was late, he would be blowing through and would fish around me if necessary. He asked my name, I in a slip of judgement, I replied. <-;:
I drove to the lot and hiked the rails carrying both rods. Despite fish rising I nymphed the head off the run and caught a couple of nice fish. Hooked and broke off a better fish on the 6x. Oh snap!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071321-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071321-8.jpg)
And then it was dry fly fishing for the rest of the evening. A few fish came to hand but as the evening wore on the fish refused almost all of my offerings.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071321-9.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/574932007
Things shut down by eight and I hiked out on failing felts... I don't think these are two years old and haven't been used all that much.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071321-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071321-11.jpg)
time for some barge cement d:b ....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 15, 2021, 09:35:40 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 15, 2021, 09:35:40 AM
36
I was planning on heading down for the ol 3pm til dark catching.
But a few lines of thunderstorms blew up. I watched them on the radar and finally pulled the trigger. Drove through a helleous downpour at Rocky Mount. But the rumbles were to the North of me as I pulled on the waders. Another hot, but tolerable hike in on the tracks.
Cracked a beer and waded in to cool off. A few risers were active and I tied on a Puffdaddy.
Took a couple before things got quiet.
Extra foggy river!
(https://i.imgur.com/Do9dEHDl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1BuaoWil.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/7ItZHrzl.jpg)
Ospreys.
(https://i.imgur.com/vXOjDRsl.jpg)
I decided to experiment and swing a soft hackle.
A flashy beadhead peacock #14. Started getting strikes at the end of every other cast as I slowly headed downstream. Got a hook up about every third bump. Got about half of them to hand.
(https://i.imgur.com/G4INokUl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/koCoT7wl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/NUWvJE8l.jpg)
After 5 or 6, I had worked my way to the bottom of the run and headed back up for a brew and a view. The risers started up again and the fresh comparadun took some more. Then the soft hackle took some more.
(https://i.imgur.com/UpDmOIel.jpg)
And before you knew it, it was 7:30 and things had shut down.
(https://i.imgur.com/lYCSBiMl.jpg)
20 something to hand. The fish are extra strong this year.
And those fuckers at the head of the run have gotten real picky. b';
:cheers
I was planning on heading down for the ol 3pm til dark catching.
But a few lines of thunderstorms blew up. I watched them on the radar and finally pulled the trigger. Drove through a helleous downpour at Rocky Mount. But the rumbles were to the North of me as I pulled on the waders. Another hot, but tolerable hike in on the tracks.
Cracked a beer and waded in to cool off. A few risers were active and I tied on a Puffdaddy.
Took a couple before things got quiet.
Extra foggy river!
(https://i.imgur.com/Do9dEHDl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1BuaoWil.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/7ItZHrzl.jpg)
Ospreys.
(https://i.imgur.com/vXOjDRsl.jpg)
I decided to experiment and swing a soft hackle.
A flashy beadhead peacock #14. Started getting strikes at the end of every other cast as I slowly headed downstream. Got a hook up about every third bump. Got about half of them to hand.
(https://i.imgur.com/G4INokUl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/koCoT7wl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/NUWvJE8l.jpg)
After 5 or 6, I had worked my way to the bottom of the run and headed back up for a brew and a view. The risers started up again and the fresh comparadun took some more. Then the soft hackle took some more.
(https://i.imgur.com/UpDmOIel.jpg)
And before you knew it, it was 7:30 and things had shut down.
(https://i.imgur.com/lYCSBiMl.jpg)
20 something to hand. The fish are extra strong this year.
And those fuckers at the head of the run have gotten real picky. b';
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on July 15, 2021, 11:59:00 AM
Post by: troutrus on July 15, 2021, 11:59:00 AM
Beautiful fish.
I plan to get back up there when the flow drops about 100cfs and the air temp drops about 20F. 🤣
I plan to get back up there when the flow drops about 100cfs and the air temp drops about 20F. 🤣
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 15, 2021, 17:54:52 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 15, 2021, 17:54:52 PM
Guess I should have gone.... b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 16, 2021, 07:45:52 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 16, 2021, 07:45:52 AM
Quote from: troutrus on July 15, 2021, 11:59:00 AMBeautiful fish.
I plan to get back up there when the flow drops about 100cfs and the air temp drops about 20F. 🤣
I have embraced the flows. The fish like 260 cfs.
I can adjust how and where I wade and fish.
350 was a serious struggle, 80 is too low. 180-200 would be ideal.
Now, when Townes Cr. is dumping in another 100 cfs of muddy water, the dynamics change.
But you play the hand you are dealt.
And when I'm standing in 48 degree water, the 90 degree air isn't so bad.
Come join us, the water is fine.
:Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 16, 2021, 08:30:44 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 16, 2021, 08:30:44 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on July 16, 2021, 07:45:52 AMQuote from: troutrus on July 15, 2021, 11:59:00 AMBeautiful fish.
I plan to get back up there when the flow drops about 100cfs and the air temp drops about 20F. 🤣
I have embraced the flows. The fish like 260 cfs.
I can adjust how and where I wade and fish.
350 was a serious struggle, 80 is too low. 180-200 would be ideal.
Now, when Townes Cr. is dumping in another 100 cfs of muddy water, the dynamics change.
But you play the hand you are dealt.
And when I'm standing in 48 degree water, the 90 degree air isn't so bad.
Come join us, the water is fine.
:Dance
yup... I'm glad I went and checked it out at these flows... gonna take some more photos today after a two day hiatus. The sonorous flow of the river gives me solace.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on July 16, 2021, 18:35:05 PM
Post by: Phil on July 16, 2021, 18:35:05 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on July 16, 2021, 08:30:44 AMThe sonorous flow of the river gives me solace.
Look at Woolly gettin all literary on us. :o
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 17, 2021, 10:43:32 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 17, 2021, 10:43:32 AM
July 16, 2021
Gas $2.89 Partly cloudy, 90 degrees.
I inspected my boot and threw them away after giving SIMMS more of my money. The new boots won't arrive for a while, so I scrounged through my collection of old retired boots and selected a pair in reasonable condition for the conditions.
So, I tried to head out a little earlier than usual and I was clear across town and headed north when I realized that I had forgotten to change and was wearing blue jeans and a t-shirt. So I turned around and that cost me 40 minutes. I would still arrive at the river around noon.
Tom Kept me company most of the way as I listened to troubling news about the mysterious decline of brown trout in the rivers of Montana.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071621-1.jpg)
I went to the upper reach and scouted some other spots I'll try in the future. I was hoping for rising fish. I nymphed instead. Only bringing a few to hand, I moved on down to the lower section.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071621-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071621-3.jpg)
There was a truck parked in the lot and I was concerned about making the hike in with two rods, worried that I wouldn't get my favorite spot, but went on down the tracks with the afternoon sun beating down. The railbed emanating heat like a bed of coals, the shimmering air above tracks distorted the view like a mirage. I marched on, head down, looking for the markers of progress, the transducer with its blue cover marks the beginning on the long straightaway, a discarded Tums container marks the mid-point of the straight, at the beginning of the s curve the sonorous flow of the river reaches your ears, then the pile of discarded buckets as the tracks begin the curve back to the trestle, it won't be long now, and I look up and see that I have arrived at the trail that will take me to the river.
My beer of the day was a Sam Adams lager, which is best served ice cold, so I carried in a little soft side with my snack and beverages on ice. I had another beer escape from under a rock the other day, so the cooler may be the new normal for me...
I took the euro rod up to the head of the run and fished the deep pockets and worked my way down a way catching rainbows and browns before heading back to my stash for a cold beer and the dry fly rod.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071621-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071621-5.jpg)
I broke open a case caddis to check on the color.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071621-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071621-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071621-8.jpg)
When I entered the pool, I didn't see anybody else, but after a while a saw a guy working his way upstream, he was working the water methodically and it took a while for him to get within earshot. "Which way are you fishing", he cried out. "I'm just working this pool", I declared. "I'll just head up around to above the next set of rocks", he replied. We talked for a spell about the river and the fishing and the damn dam. He was down at the island in the morning are reported a decent hatch and dry fly action. I invited him to fish the pool with me, but he declined and bushwhacked around me. Now that is etiquette!
Picking up my rod I put on a new leader and tied on a #16 compradun that I had tied last night. I cast to rising fish and missed three before bringing one to hand. I was pleased that my fly tie was working.
This fish is really pretty I just love the par marks and he deep rich colors.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071621-9.jpg)
And it was a good match for the naturals.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071621-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071621-11.jpg)
The catching was good, but they began to get really selective as the hatch wore on and the number of refusals was maddening. I switched to a puff daddy and caught a few more.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071621-12.jpg)
I was taking another break when SRO showed up, I didn't have time to get back up to the head of the run before they came through and anchored up. Not sure if they caught any, if they did, I didn't see it happen.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071621-13.jpg)
This guy came to visit as I finished my beer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071621-14.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071621-15.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071621-16.jpg)
I was time for me to leave, I wanted to stay a bit longer but had some end of day obligations to take care of at home.
I was going to sticker the guy's truck but he was gone when I got back, maybe he stopped after the SRO raft came through.
PS; Doug is right, for once, about how hard these fish fight. They just don't want to surface, fighting all the way to get down to the bottom!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on July 18, 2021, 07:46:02 AM
Post by: Onslow on July 18, 2021, 07:46:02 AM
Nice! Good to see the river is there for you all to lean on.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 19, 2021, 08:37:49 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 19, 2021, 08:37:49 AM
Quote from: Onslow on July 18, 2021, 07:46:02 AMNice! Good to see the river is there for you all to lean on.
I've missed my "local" and will continue to pound her day after day. Those little browns are scrappy fighters. I caught one at the head of the run and I was sure it was going to be the fish of the day, but when I finally got it to net it was one of the smallest.
July 18, 2021
82 degrees with scattered thunderstorms
Gas tomorrow.
The weather was iffy, thunderstorms in the forecast, but the radar looked clear as I headed up the road.
It was cooler but extremely humid and the air was thick with tension as I geared up. Thunder began to boom over the ridge and I checked the radar again. It looked like the storm would stay to the south, but I packed my rain jacket.
The far bank of the river was obscured by the fog on the water. There was a fair stain in the water despite that the flow from the creeks was back down to normal.
I nymphed up a handful of fish and then switched over to dries.
I caught another handful and then worked the picky fish at the top of the run. I caught couple but they mostly refused my offerings. I've got some ideas, but my fly box doesn't run that deep, so I'm going to have to tie up some new and perhaps smaller emerges to fool these fish. I didn't bring the goPro, but if I did there would have been another bleeping video, "The Director's Cut!"
The storms stayed south but thunder was a constant reminder that things could change quickly. Several kayakers passed through and then it started to rain. It was chilly on the water now and I put on my jacket for warmth as much as protection from the rain. I fished on for a while and then took a beer break, I noticed a fish rising across the way and waded out after it. First cast and fish on, maybe I don't suk after all...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071821-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071821-2.jpg)
I dredged up this tangle of line along with a fly along with a fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071821-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071821-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071821-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071821-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071821-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071821-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on July 19, 2021, 11:53:18 AM
Post by: troutrus on July 19, 2021, 11:53:18 AM
Nice!
Either those fish are getting larger or your hands are shrinking.
Either those fish are getting larger or your hands are shrinking.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 19, 2021, 20:44:41 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 19, 2021, 20:44:41 PM
No change noted on the gauges, so I took the afternoon off and went back to my old favorite spot.
I euroed up a nice brown on the first cast. It came to the net and I paused to reset my grip and the fish got away. I caught a good handful before slipping and getting a bit wet. Fish were rising like I hadn't seen a quite a while, so I switched to the dry fly rod and began catching at least a dozen on the surface. No so picky up here, that's for sure. I left at 6:30 with fish still rising.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071921-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071921-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071921-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071921-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071921-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071921-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071921-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071921-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/071921-9.jpg)
I wish I had seen this property last year....
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/forsale.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 19, 2021, 21:06:00 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 19, 2021, 21:06:00 PM
'c;
Bravo.
Wednesday, for me.
Bravo.
Wednesday, for me.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 19, 2021, 21:19:04 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 19, 2021, 21:19:04 PM
camera didn't focus in the fog, but you can see (count) the rises... <-;:
https://vimeo.com/576996996
How many did you see?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on July 20, 2021, 06:46:25 AM
Post by: troutrus on July 20, 2021, 06:46:25 AM
That little place on Riverbrook Rd is nice, but I'm afraid of the direction the neighborhood is headed.
It is available as a nightly rental on Airbnb.
https://abnb.me/3apVy0SP2hb
It is available as a nightly rental on Airbnb.
https://abnb.me/3apVy0SP2hb
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 20, 2021, 07:54:27 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 20, 2021, 07:54:27 AM
Quote from: troutrus on July 20, 2021, 06:46:25 AMThat little place on Riverbrook Rd is nice, but I'm afraid of the direction the neighborhood is headed.
It is available as a nightly rental on Airbnb.
https://abnb.me/3apVy0SP2hb
it's a bit spendy for just one person -- $125 a night isn't bad, but the $75 cleaning fee plus the taxes make it expensive for one night ....
looks like it stays booked up..
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: brownhunter on July 20, 2021, 10:32:44 AM
Post by: brownhunter on July 20, 2021, 10:32:44 AM
Pretty sure I counted 7, there may have been a number 8 that sipped it in the back.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 20, 2021, 11:20:54 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 20, 2021, 11:20:54 AM
Quote from: brownhunter on July 20, 2021, 10:32:44 AMPretty sure I counted 7, there may have been a number 8 that sipped it in the back.
close :Dance :wave
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on July 20, 2021, 18:38:21 PM
Post by: troutrus on July 20, 2021, 18:38:21 PM
Finally got off my butt and paid a visit to the river. No other cars in the lot at the upper Mirror facility. Got to the water about 9:45. Enough cloud cover and fog on the water to keep the sun off. Started with a nymph and got off to a good start, but after a few it slowed down. At about 11 am, lots of bugs (both mayflies and caddis) started popping off, and it was fun just watching the trouts leaving the water in chase of the bouncing caddis. I switched from the sulfur imitation to a dark puff daddy and the fish approved.
Was the kind of day that will likely get me back up there sooner rather than later.
Took a slip and a dip about 1:30 and after drying off a bit decided to head for home. Lot was still empty at 2:30.
E5A6CFC8-2DD9-4276-B23D-32A1ECE0106C.jpegA52670D7-A5B2-4733-88DE-1A3F59C58847.jpeg84D5CF8B-0494-424A-8F74-0EA10FEA0F91.jpeg
Was the kind of day that will likely get me back up there sooner rather than later.
Took a slip and a dip about 1:30 and after drying off a bit decided to head for home. Lot was still empty at 2:30.
E5A6CFC8-2DD9-4276-B23D-32A1ECE0106C.jpegA52670D7-A5B2-4733-88DE-1A3F59C58847.jpeg84D5CF8B-0494-424A-8F74-0EA10FEA0F91.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 20, 2021, 20:53:28 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 20, 2021, 20:53:28 PM
Nice. I'll see you tomorrow? -+;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 21, 2021, 07:38:15 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 21, 2021, 07:38:15 AM
Gas $2.85
Hazy sky, temps in the low 80s
AT 3:30 I was the only car in the lot, I packed up a snad and some beer in the soft side, rigged the euro and headed down the tracks.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072021-1.jpg)
I did NOT borrow these boots from Dougfish! New G3s coming in Thurday...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072021-2.jpg)
Had to jump off as a train maintenance vehicle came up the tracks. First time that's happened this year. I was 7/10 of mile in when I realized that I had left the cooler back at the car and I BLEEPED myself. I would have to survive on the bottle of water in my vest.
Blue tailed skink on the tracks.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072021-3.jpg)
Euroed up some fish, too bad they weren't browns...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072021-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072021-5.jpg)
Note: I just realized that I caught the same bow twice, twelve minutes apart.
Switched over to dry fly fishing and caught a few browns. they are becoming increasingly selective add the hatch is diminishing over the weeks. Towards the end I would work a fish for quite a while and finally get it to rise, but miss the hookset or get a refusal.
Need to tie up some puffers.. Got a few swinging a soft hackle. Left early to go get a beer and my dinner.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072021-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072021-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072021-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072021-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072021-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072021-11.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 21, 2021, 10:45:17 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 21, 2021, 10:45:17 AM
Heavy fish. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 21, 2021, 11:05:30 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 21, 2021, 11:05:30 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on July 21, 2021, 10:45:17 AMHeavy fish. 'c;
https://vimeo.com/577663471
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 21, 2021, 11:17:24 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 21, 2021, 11:17:24 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on July 20, 2021, 11:20:54 AMQuote from: brownhunter on July 20, 2021, 10:32:44 AMPretty sure I counted 7, there may have been a number 8 that sipped it in the back.
close :Dance :wave
one of these is suspect... but I'm going with 11 after slow motions review... d:b
I've tagged them in this video...
https://vimeo.com/577667597
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 21, 2021, 14:35:11 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 21, 2021, 14:35:11 PM
Delayed report---
Went Saturday evening 7/17
Someone didn;t want to join for fear of the weekend warriors..........only car in the lot.
The aforementioned thunderstorms helped scare the crowds.
Note to self---bring weedwacker next time.
Bushwacked in...
Extra foggy on the water. Hard to see the flies.
Tied some Bionic ants based on recent insta-reviews.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51322653426_c15bd8204e_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mcd1NW)
Couldn't see em on the water n!n
Switched to a rather large foam beetle....also hard to see....but first cast:
[url=https://flic.kr/p/2mcgFHG](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51323369654_5cf8098013_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mcd1NW)
/'/
Lots more risers---Puff daddy much easier to see in the low light.
Got some Doug sized truts :wave :
[url=https://flic.kr/p/2mcgG2h](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51323370674_81dc07077e_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mcgFHG)
And some of WB's friends:
[url=https://flic.kr/p/2mci7DH](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51323648635_f3dac7b2e3_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mcgG2h)
Storms started rolling in; risers stopped.
Tossed a streamer before the lighting struck---got an epic flashy eat.
Took pic backwards cause jaw was messed up on the other side, despite good upper lip hookset. I blame a rapala.
[url=https://flic.kr/p/2mcd1v1](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51322652386_3836558f69_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mci7DH)
Looks smaller in pic, but had real pretty tail spots.
Wandered out before lighting struck....
Micro mission yesterday midday.
Saw a Truck at the usual. Must have been troutrus
Fished an old stretch.
Unusual riser on one of my fav flies...
[url=https://flic.kr/p/2mcxCDL](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51326481126_cac057978f_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mcd1v1)
[url=https://flic.kr/p/2mcyFaN](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51326684708_d59f713032_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mcxCDL)
Usually only catch the bows on nymphs.
Donated some flys to the trees.
Chatted with a bait fisherman while changing. Said he was catching walleye under the damn-dam. Go figure. (https://flic.kr/p/2mcyFaN)
Went Saturday evening 7/17
Someone didn;t want to join for fear of the weekend warriors..........only car in the lot.
The aforementioned thunderstorms helped scare the crowds.
Note to self---bring weedwacker next time.
Bushwacked in...
Extra foggy on the water. Hard to see the flies.
Tied some Bionic ants based on recent insta-reviews.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51322653426_c15bd8204e_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mcd1NW)
Couldn't see em on the water n!n
Switched to a rather large foam beetle....also hard to see....but first cast:
[url=https://flic.kr/p/2mcgFHG](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51323369654_5cf8098013_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mcd1NW)
/'/
Lots more risers---Puff daddy much easier to see in the low light.
Got some Doug sized truts :wave :
[url=https://flic.kr/p/2mcgG2h](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51323370674_81dc07077e_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mcgFHG)
And some of WB's friends:
[url=https://flic.kr/p/2mci7DH](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51323648635_f3dac7b2e3_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mcgG2h)
Storms started rolling in; risers stopped.
Tossed a streamer before the lighting struck---got an epic flashy eat.
Took pic backwards cause jaw was messed up on the other side, despite good upper lip hookset. I blame a rapala.
[url=https://flic.kr/p/2mcd1v1](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51322652386_3836558f69_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mci7DH)
Looks smaller in pic, but had real pretty tail spots.
Wandered out before lighting struck....
Micro mission yesterday midday.
Saw a Truck at the usual. Must have been troutrus
Fished an old stretch.
Unusual riser on one of my fav flies...
[url=https://flic.kr/p/2mcxCDL](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51326481126_cac057978f_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mcd1v1)
[url=https://flic.kr/p/2mcyFaN](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51326684708_d59f713032_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mcxCDL)
Usually only catch the bows on nymphs.
Donated some flys to the trees.
Chatted with a bait fisherman while changing. Said he was catching walleye under the damn-dam. Go figure. (https://flic.kr/p/2mcyFaN)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 22, 2021, 07:39:49 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 22, 2021, 07:39:49 AM
37
https://youtu.be/UMVjToYOjbM
Hot afternoon. Sunny, but hazy from the long traveled smoke.
Down the tracks I go. With too much gear and shit.
Except a net. Restrung both nets over the weekend and left both in the garage.
There were sporadic risers up and down the pool. Don't worry buddies, I'll get to you.
Stashed the second rod and cooler in the shade by the river and crossed, headed down stream with the Euro stick.
I rigged it up reverse of what I normally do. The heavy fly up top and a light soft hackle on the bottom. Maybe I'll get more fluttering action that way?
It did not matter, they still hammered the Frenchie.
My other dumb ass move of the day? I did not check my camera lens.
Dirty as fuk. b'; More than half of my pics were unusable. :;!
(https://i.imgur.com/J4XfifYl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Q00qai2l.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TJbPN2ml.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/SKSMVfzl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/VNZL2kBl.jpg)
I had reached the top of the runs after 10+ fish and the first raft of the day started to float past me. I switched rigs and started on the picky bastards.
I had tied some new "maybe this is what they'll eat" flies.
Negatory. Just one out of 30? rising fish was fooled.
Put a lightly weighted soft hackle and worked my way slowly down.
Landed another 10 or so.
(https://i.imgur.com/h9QSUMfl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/np9bkEql.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/48MKB3Ul.jpg)
Some kayakers approached as I was finishing up. And one dumped in the run above me.
Clearly not prepared for the cold, slippery river.
I was getting ready to help, but they finally got the young lady downstream and were dumping swamped boats out as I hiked up to meet Keith.
Another raft appeared below Keith and I walked the field around them.
Waded in, exchanged pleasantries with the bossman and proceeded to soft hackle up 2 fish below him. We hung it up shortly after that.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZrT40Ihl.jpg)
:cheers
https://youtu.be/UMVjToYOjbM
Hot afternoon. Sunny, but hazy from the long traveled smoke.
Down the tracks I go. With too much gear and shit.
Except a net. Restrung both nets over the weekend and left both in the garage.
There were sporadic risers up and down the pool. Don't worry buddies, I'll get to you.
Stashed the second rod and cooler in the shade by the river and crossed, headed down stream with the Euro stick.
I rigged it up reverse of what I normally do. The heavy fly up top and a light soft hackle on the bottom. Maybe I'll get more fluttering action that way?
It did not matter, they still hammered the Frenchie.
My other dumb ass move of the day? I did not check my camera lens.
Dirty as fuk. b'; More than half of my pics were unusable. :;!
(https://i.imgur.com/J4XfifYl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Q00qai2l.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TJbPN2ml.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/SKSMVfzl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/VNZL2kBl.jpg)
I had reached the top of the runs after 10+ fish and the first raft of the day started to float past me. I switched rigs and started on the picky bastards.
I had tied some new "maybe this is what they'll eat" flies.
Negatory. Just one out of 30? rising fish was fooled.
Put a lightly weighted soft hackle and worked my way slowly down.
Landed another 10 or so.
(https://i.imgur.com/h9QSUMfl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/np9bkEql.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/48MKB3Ul.jpg)
Some kayakers approached as I was finishing up. And one dumped in the run above me.
Clearly not prepared for the cold, slippery river.
I was getting ready to help, but they finally got the young lady downstream and were dumping swamped boats out as I hiked up to meet Keith.
Another raft appeared below Keith and I walked the field around them.
Waded in, exchanged pleasantries with the bossman and proceeded to soft hackle up 2 fish below him. We hung it up shortly after that.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZrT40Ihl.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 22, 2021, 11:02:57 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 22, 2021, 11:02:57 AM
I think this was my third day in a row. I didn't need to go fishing but knew that Thursday was out, so I decided to "go have a beer with Doug" Since I was down low yesterday, I went high. Euroed up some nice fish, flubbed both fish and photos using the iPhone as the TG was left on the fly tying bench. Scorcher of a walk in but the cold water always felt great after that hike in.
Raft alert! I was taking a beer break as they parked on my run, I don't think they even noticed me as I was standing under a tree close to the bank. The SmithFly Trout Bros has a few yehaw, fist bumping, moments when they nymphed up a couple of trouts after flailing away with bobbers while ignoring the rising fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072121-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072121-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072121-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072121-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072121-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072121-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072121-7.jpg)
Fish were caught, beer was drunk, lies were told.
It was good to see Doug again! :cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 22, 2021, 11:38:11 AM
Post by: Fishbug on July 22, 2021, 11:38:11 AM
Wooly—where they putting that big raft in and out of?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 22, 2021, 11:48:50 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 22, 2021, 11:48:50 AM
Quote from: Fishbug on July 22, 2021, 11:38:11 AMWooly—where they putting that big raft in and out of?
assuming the damn dam and below the 666 bridge in basset
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 23, 2021, 18:58:17 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 23, 2021, 18:58:17 PM
I put in mine and took out the same.
Higher flows. Still a bump and grind.
Your drifter is a no go, imho, John.
Higher flows. Still a bump and grind.
Your drifter is a no go, imho, John.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 23, 2021, 20:14:28 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 23, 2021, 20:14:28 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on July 23, 2021, 18:58:17 PMI put in mine and took out the same.
Higher flows. Still a bump and grind.
Your drifter is a no go, imho, John.
Read my mind-
Gotta be possible...
Or the Gheenoe
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 23, 2021, 20:54:59 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 23, 2021, 20:54:59 PM
Quote from: Fishbug on July 23, 2021, 20:14:28 PMQuote from: Dougfish on July 23, 2021, 18:58:17 PMI put in mine and took out the same.
Higher flows. Still a bump and grind.
Your drifter is a no go, imho, John.
Read my mind-
Gotta be possible...
Or the Gheenoe
Ghee No!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 23, 2021, 21:36:10 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 23, 2021, 21:36:10 PM
Gheemaybe V:;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 23, 2021, 22:47:33 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 23, 2021, 22:47:33 PM
https://www.instagram.com/p/CRep_jzD3te/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
dude with the smith fly :;!
dude with the smith fly :;!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 24, 2021, 08:13:52 AM
Post by: Fishbug on July 24, 2021, 08:13:52 AM
*Wooly sliding into his DMs* -+;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 24, 2021, 08:55:12 AM
Post by: Fishbug on July 24, 2021, 08:55:12 AM
As an aside—-lookin into rafts in the past; the Smithfly was low on the list; but that looks nice
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 24, 2021, 10:35:30 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 24, 2021, 10:35:30 AM
hot and sunny with a bit of haze.
A familiar looking Tacoma was in the parking lot. After rigging up the euro rod, I geared up with my new G3 boots and headed on down the tracks in the heat of the day. When I got to the water, I grabbed a beer and waited in waist deep to cool off.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-2.jpg)
I watch the water is a drink my beer I didn't see much activity. There were only a few sulphurs floating on the water and I saw one or two fish rise. I decided to nymph the head of the run first while I waited for the evening hatch.
My first cast picked up a small rainbow and I thought it was going to be an epic day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-3.jpg)
I struggled to find another fish for quite a while, so I decided to explore some new water, and moved up above to the next run.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-7.jpg)
I could see the other angler coming up the river, so I decided to head on back down. It was the same guy I had met on the river a week or so ago and we talked for a while, his name is Nate and he is from Fuquay-Varina, and he's been on the water since 8. I invited him to fish my pool but he declined and moved on up ahead. I drank a beer and waited for the sulphurs to start popping off.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-8.jpg)
The Hatch was mediocre at best and the fish were not cooperative, but a few took the dry fly.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-10.jpg)
Still wating for the hatch to get underway, I took another break for my dinner, Patagonia Spanish Paprika Mackerel; "Slow-cooked onion, red bell pepper, garlic and paprika wild Atlantic mackerel rich in flavor with a hint of heat."
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-11.jpg)
Then it was back to work the few selective risers. Some were taking sulphur duns, but others were hitting some unknown subsurface emerger. I missed a lot and caught a few, enough to be satisfied as the evening drew to a close and the fish activity diminished.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-14.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-15.jpg)
On the way out...
Pawpaw: Small Tree, Big Impact (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)
https://www.nps.gov/articles/pawpaw.htm
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-16.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-17.jpg)
Most likely I'll be back at it on Monday... jis say'in
A familiar looking Tacoma was in the parking lot. After rigging up the euro rod, I geared up with my new G3 boots and headed on down the tracks in the heat of the day. When I got to the water, I grabbed a beer and waited in waist deep to cool off.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-2.jpg)
I watch the water is a drink my beer I didn't see much activity. There were only a few sulphurs floating on the water and I saw one or two fish rise. I decided to nymph the head of the run first while I waited for the evening hatch.
My first cast picked up a small rainbow and I thought it was going to be an epic day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-3.jpg)
I struggled to find another fish for quite a while, so I decided to explore some new water, and moved up above to the next run.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-7.jpg)
I could see the other angler coming up the river, so I decided to head on back down. It was the same guy I had met on the river a week or so ago and we talked for a while, his name is Nate and he is from Fuquay-Varina, and he's been on the water since 8. I invited him to fish my pool but he declined and moved on up ahead. I drank a beer and waited for the sulphurs to start popping off.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-8.jpg)
The Hatch was mediocre at best and the fish were not cooperative, but a few took the dry fly.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-10.jpg)
Still wating for the hatch to get underway, I took another break for my dinner, Patagonia Spanish Paprika Mackerel; "Slow-cooked onion, red bell pepper, garlic and paprika wild Atlantic mackerel rich in flavor with a hint of heat."
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-11.jpg)
Then it was back to work the few selective risers. Some were taking sulphur duns, but others were hitting some unknown subsurface emerger. I missed a lot and caught a few, enough to be satisfied as the evening drew to a close and the fish activity diminished.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-14.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-15.jpg)
On the way out...
Pawpaw: Small Tree, Big Impact (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)
https://www.nps.gov/articles/pawpaw.htm
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-16.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-17.jpg)
Most likely I'll be back at it on Monday... jis say'in
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 24, 2021, 11:00:35 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 24, 2021, 11:00:35 AM
'c;
Me, too. :Dance
Me, too. :Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 27, 2021, 09:34:27 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 27, 2021, 09:34:27 AM
84 and stormy.
The heavy weather was supposed to hit later in the afternoon, but after gearing up, I heard the booming of thunder over the ridge. A quick look at the radar looked ominous, and I decided not to walk across the field with the approaching thunderstorm. I thought it would blow over in a half hour, but every time I checked it was growing in size and intensity and another cell popped up over the Plan B location. I started out three times, only to retreat to the shelter of the car. Finally I called it a day and headed into town for some lunch and check out the third option for fishing. By the time I finished eating the weather had cleared and I headed back to the starting location.
The air was thick with tension and humidity, the potential for another violent storm was still present. I donned my waders and the effin zipper got stuck and then came apart. Damn it! I guess I won't be wading into any of the deep spots today!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072621-10.jpg)
The fog was incredibly thick reducing visibility to about twenty feet on the surface.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072621-3.jpg)
There were only a smattering of bugs coming off and fewer fish rising, combined with the fog, nymphing was the only reasonable choice.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072621-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072621-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072621-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072621-5.jpg)
The weather was still unsettled and there was some clear sky above, but it started to rain. Just a light rain, no need to put the rain jacket on yet...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072621-6.jpg)
And I fished on, the rain let up a bit and promised to stop. My grandmother would say, "The Devil is beating his wife" when it rained with a sunny sky. Then it started to pour down and I put my jacket on over my soaked shirt and I drank a beer while waiting for it to pass.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072621-7.jpg)
A few more fish were caught, before the skies darkened again and thunder approached, prompting me to end the day a bit early, but I got my fix of tugs for the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072621-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072621-9.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on July 27, 2021, 19:24:30 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on July 27, 2021, 19:24:30 PM
Quote(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072321-12.jpg)
This is a very good photo of this critter. I like!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 27, 2021, 21:41:03 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 27, 2021, 21:41:03 PM
another day, another trip to the river.
temps 90+ degrees, with humidity extremely high too.
there were four vechcles parked in the lot, one was doug's, two were Roanoke TU members, and the fourth had NC plates. I stickered most of them. As I was gearing up the TU contingency came out across the field, having finished up their day. Three women and a man, and all reported catching fish. They asked if I would take a group photo, which I did for them. Then I marched across the field, working up a good sweat on the way. When I reached the water, I popped a beer open and waded out into a deep run to cool off.
There didn't appear to be any bug activity on the surface, so I went dark. Hooked a nice fish but it tangled in the weeds, and I broke it off as it was a difficult situation.
I worked some marginal water and caught a number of punes. Dougfish was downlow and had a couple of hookups too.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072721-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072721-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072721-3.jpg)
I saw a fish rise frequently and when Doug came up, I told him to catch it as I watched. (Insert long video of Doug casting and not catching)
We drank a beer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072721-4.jpg)
Doug tried his emergers and I flailed away at an impossible fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072721-5.jpg)
I moved up and cast to rising fish in another run. A number rose to the fly, and 6 took it, 4 unbuttoned, one came to hand, and the other broke off. After losing a fly to the shrubbery I headed back down and joined Doug as we consumed our last beers before hiking out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072721-6.jpg)
When I got back to the lot I discovered that two of the BRFFF stickers had been stuck under my windshield!
smoked from the western forest fires is making for some spectacular sunsets
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072721-7.jpg)
temps 90+ degrees, with humidity extremely high too.
there were four vechcles parked in the lot, one was doug's, two were Roanoke TU members, and the fourth had NC plates. I stickered most of them. As I was gearing up the TU contingency came out across the field, having finished up their day. Three women and a man, and all reported catching fish. They asked if I would take a group photo, which I did for them. Then I marched across the field, working up a good sweat on the way. When I reached the water, I popped a beer open and waded out into a deep run to cool off.
There didn't appear to be any bug activity on the surface, so I went dark. Hooked a nice fish but it tangled in the weeds, and I broke it off as it was a difficult situation.
I worked some marginal water and caught a number of punes. Dougfish was downlow and had a couple of hookups too.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072721-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072721-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072721-3.jpg)
I saw a fish rise frequently and when Doug came up, I told him to catch it as I watched. (Insert long video of Doug casting and not catching)
We drank a beer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072721-4.jpg)
Doug tried his emergers and I flailed away at an impossible fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072721-5.jpg)
I moved up and cast to rising fish in another run. A number rose to the fly, and 6 took it, 4 unbuttoned, one came to hand, and the other broke off. After losing a fly to the shrubbery I headed back down and joined Doug as we consumed our last beers before hiking out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072721-6.jpg)
When I got back to the lot I discovered that two of the BRFFF stickers had been stuck under my windshield!
smoked from the western forest fires is making for some spectacular sunsets
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/072721-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 28, 2021, 13:59:10 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 28, 2021, 13:59:10 PM
38
https://youtu.be/WPTfIPHLUcw
The three vehicles threw me a curveball. I knew who one belonged to, and I know she preferred to fish lower. And there was an idling train on the tracks.
So across the knee high field I went.
Five cans of beer and a bottle of water were in tow.
I popped a beer and waded out to cool off and look for risers.
Keith gave me a ring and wanted to know where I was. The usual, dammit.
After I cooled down some, I strung up the euro reel and waded down to fish the next run.
I missed a couple, stuck a couple, then saw Bossman wade out in the fog.
(https://i.imgur.com/Gpcr9pYl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/uwhV7b5l.jpg)
We drank a beer and solved a couple of problems of the world.
I decided to quit catching fish b'; to experiment with a dry dropper rig.
I had tied up a bunch of emergers I was sure were gonna kill it.
Waded further down to fish back up to the bugger.
About the time I got to my turnaround, 3 kayakers came thru.
I stayed on the bank in the shade and finished my brew.
(https://i.imgur.com/CVZgk41l.jpg)
Spiders have to eat, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/IRcqV66l.jpg)
I flogged my way back upstream. Very few risers, no takers.
The boss is center left.
(https://i.imgur.com/ffssNlBl.jpg)
Reached the shade and beer cooler again.
Retied and tried to catch some fish WB sicced me on.
No bueno.
(https://i.imgur.com/evXKUmul.jpg)
Drank another beer.
Failed again.
Cut our losses and trudged out.
One beer to spare.
Some days the feesh win.
:cheers
https://youtu.be/WPTfIPHLUcw
The three vehicles threw me a curveball. I knew who one belonged to, and I know she preferred to fish lower. And there was an idling train on the tracks.
So across the knee high field I went.
Five cans of beer and a bottle of water were in tow.
I popped a beer and waded out to cool off and look for risers.
Keith gave me a ring and wanted to know where I was. The usual, dammit.
After I cooled down some, I strung up the euro reel and waded down to fish the next run.
I missed a couple, stuck a couple, then saw Bossman wade out in the fog.
(https://i.imgur.com/Gpcr9pYl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/uwhV7b5l.jpg)
We drank a beer and solved a couple of problems of the world.
I decided to quit catching fish b'; to experiment with a dry dropper rig.
I had tied up a bunch of emergers I was sure were gonna kill it.
Waded further down to fish back up to the bugger.
About the time I got to my turnaround, 3 kayakers came thru.
I stayed on the bank in the shade and finished my brew.
(https://i.imgur.com/CVZgk41l.jpg)
Spiders have to eat, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/IRcqV66l.jpg)
I flogged my way back upstream. Very few risers, no takers.
The boss is center left.
(https://i.imgur.com/ffssNlBl.jpg)
Reached the shade and beer cooler again.
Retied and tried to catch some fish WB sicced me on.
No bueno.
(https://i.imgur.com/evXKUmul.jpg)
Drank another beer.
Failed again.
Cut our losses and trudged out.
One beer to spare.
Some days the feesh win.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 31, 2021, 23:00:44 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 31, 2021, 23:00:44 PM
84 degrees, sun and clouds, uv 11.
Squeezing in one more trip in July, I started down the tracks and as I approached the end of the curve I could hear the hum of a diesel and the hissing of air. I looked up and down the straight and there at the end 1500 feet away was a train stopped on the tracks. I've never encountered one stopped at this location. I got off the railbed and down onto the scree to walk the rest of the way. It took a bit longer and was a bit harder to navigate as the crushed rock shifted as I went along.
It really felt good to get into the waist deep cool off run and I downed an ice cold beverage.
Found this guy, a deceased annual cicada.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/073121-1.jpg)
I went dirty while waiting for the fish to rise.
Caught a handful...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/073121-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/073121-3.jpg)
Then this raft floated through ...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/073121-4.jpg)
And I took a break...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/073121-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/073121-6.jpg)
Then I went for the picky little bastards...
I got a few on a #20 bwo and a few more swinging a soft hackle.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/073121-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/073121-8.jpg)
Then these guys floated through...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/073121-9.jpg)
Then it was back to more dry fly action, I got fish to rise, hooks pulled out, I set too hard and broke off, I was denied and refused, but I caught some nice browns on the surface and I found I fly that I think they like. I also caught a fly with about 3' of tippet and a tippet ring, not sure how that happened.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/073121-10.jpg)
Then the fog rolled in and things shut down. I had hoped that the train would have pulled out, but it was still there.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/073121-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/073121-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/073121-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/07/073121-14.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 02, 2021, 08:36:09 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 02, 2021, 08:36:09 AM
With nothing better to do as a thunderstorm approached home, I took off to the river where the skies were clear.
Lately I've been checking the lower lot to gauge the plastic hatch and it appeared to be in full swing.
It was mid-afternoon, a bit too late to make the trek down the tracks, so I headed to the closer water across the field.
Despite a good number of cedar waxwings perching on overhanging branches while waiting for bugs to hatch and swiftly taking off to snatch them with an astonishing swiftness and precision, the surface fo the water was unbroken by rising fish. I quickly nymphed up a couple of brown trout with feisty fight and stunning pulchritude.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080121-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080121-2.jpg)
The susurrus of the river was broking by the shouts of kayakers as they banged their way down through the water. There were at least 10 in this first pack to float through. Time to grab a beer.
I was hoping that sulfurs would pop off and the fish would rise as they had done yesterday on the lower reach of the river. I struggled to entice the sporadic risers to take my fly, the one that had worked well last evening. I was met with refusals with every fly I tied, and I exhausted the offerings in my box.
I managed to get this diminutive guy to take a twitched puff daddy.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080121-3.jpg)
More kayakers and canoes barreled through, and a Hooligan (iceeflies) floated past late in the day.
A scarce few more fish came to hand before the fog rolled in and the sun began to set.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080121-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080121-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080121-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on August 02, 2021, 14:54:51 PM
Post by: troutrus on August 02, 2021, 14:54:51 PM
Little house on the river didn't last long. Market is crazy.
https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/390-Riverbrook-Rd-Henry-VA-24102/107874914_zpid/?
https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/390-Riverbrook-Rd-Henry-VA-24102/107874914_zpid/?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 03, 2021, 07:50:53 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 03, 2021, 07:50:53 AM
39
Dead artist tributes continue:
https://youtu.be/ughlBC80Iuc
August starting out cooler than July? Lets go!
Met the Bossman at the lot. Two cars there, one fella was leaving.
He had a quick visit, 5 to hand. He told us the other vehicle fishers were up high.
The hobos went down the tracks.
I had not fished a vintage rod in a while, esp on the Smiff.
I grabbed Corncob.
(https://i.imgur.com/soZ70OR.jpg)
Its a 1953 model 1250, 7' 9". It had bad cork, bad guides and wraps and a so so seat when I acquired it.
Re-corked and seated using a cool stabilized corncob Lemke seat.
Re-guided and wrapped with vintage variegated silk.
Great action.
Well....
I have another yellow Wonderod. An original condition 1951 1270, 7'9".
It ended in the rod rack right next to the 1250.
And somehow the tips got mismatched.
So I stood there with a ferrule connection that was not tight. No spare dry fly option.
tore up a Kroger bag and two layers made the connection pretty tight.
(https://i.imgur.com/OdRVyy4.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/7niWVdH.jpg)
Fished good, not great. The action on the tip was not as soft as the 1270.
And I only cast it off once.
Anyhow....started euroing a lower series of runs.
Gave up 10 fish the last go round.
Just 3 today.
(https://i.imgur.com/hsqm1b5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Q5JAO8Z.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/DkiWC8W.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/YL3kSSV.jpg)
Got back up to the Bugger and he was sporting a skunk. :o
We had a fresh beer and I switched to the Frankenrod.
Keith started hooking up above me.
I figured out the casting stroke and started catching some fish on soft hackles.
(https://i.imgur.com/1PNmWQ1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Tmg5BKu.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/jQaKVWi.jpg)
This one was a good bend.
(https://i.imgur.com/wgsX2hG.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/eyQYkgS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8N6jDFS.jpg)
And before you knew it, it was quitting time.
The fishing had slowed, my beer was empty.
And the bugger had serious leaks.
He had to drain his waders and de-gravel his boots before the walk out.
Hobos, indeed.
(https://i.imgur.com/1JDIodq.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on August 03, 2021, 09:15:50 AM
Post by: Phil on August 03, 2021, 09:15:50 AM
Time (or past time) for new waders and boots, eh?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 03, 2021, 09:35:50 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 03, 2021, 09:35:50 AM
80 degrees, partly cloudy
Leaky waders...
With my G3 pants on their way to Simms, I had been using my very old Simms Guide Pants which leak pretty bad and after using them several days in a row they are still wet on the inside, so I went to the wader bin and pulled out a pair of Dan Bailey chesties because they are light weight, I knew they leaked, but didn't know how bad. I had forgotten that they don't have built in gravel guards.
74FDCA92-765F-4679-A0D1-FD451A1EE621.jpeg
I chose the ground deliver for $24, 3 day would have been $40 something, 2 day was over a hundred, by this point I stopped listening to the choices and said, the cheapest rate would suffice.
When I arrived at the lot Dougfish was yammering with another retired angler from the Roanoke area. I geared up and we headed on down the tracks. At the end of the curve, I realized that I had left a box of flies on the front seat along with the TG camera. I berated
myself but didn't turn back, I would make do with what I had.
It was a cooler day, but still hot enough to cool off in the deep run. I immediately noticed the many leaks in the legs and questioned my choice of waders. I went upstream and while fishing a deep run, a stream of cold water shot a stabbing pain into my left testicle and I had to retreat to shallower water. I fished on for an hour distracted by the chilly water that was now sloshing around my feet and I was chilled from being wet from my toes up to my waist combined with the discomfort of pebbles in my boot. I went back down to grab a beer while I removed the gravel from my boots and emptied my waders.
There were some risers now and I went after them. I was refused, and suffered long distance releases, but caught a handful of fish before the hatch shut down like clockwork at 7:30. I dumped my waders again before the hike out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080221-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080221-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080221-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080221-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080221-6.jpg)
so, I'm going to toss the Dan Bailey's and I've trashed two old pair of boots too..
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on August 03, 2021, 12:27:36 PM
Post by: troutrus on August 03, 2021, 12:27:36 PM
Flow cut back to 90 cfs. More my speed. Maybe tomorrow.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 03, 2021, 12:49:39 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 03, 2021, 12:49:39 PM
Dang. headed out the door now. Might change spots.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on August 03, 2021, 21:22:11 PM
Post by: Al on August 03, 2021, 21:22:11 PM
Watch the gauges and recording - Low flow valve for the next few days per source at COE.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 03, 2021, 21:30:04 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 03, 2021, 21:30:04 PM
Yeah, and the fishing sukked.
Come up when it goes back to 260ish.
I'll lash you to me and we'll jack some fish.
Come up when it goes back to 260ish.
I'll lash you to me and we'll jack some fish.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 04, 2021, 08:53:05 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 04, 2021, 08:53:05 AM
77-84 degrees, cloudy uv 4
Damn Dams...
I retrieved another pair of waders from the bin. Zippered Redington's, they leak, but not as bad as the now discarded Daan Baileys. I had spent some time trying to repair the Redington's but never could find the leaks I almost sent them back for repair.
I checked the gauge in the morning, didn't realize that they cut the flow by 2/3 and the river became a creek at the water dropped almost a foot.
I hiked in about a mile, not knowing what to expect. The low clear water looked barren, few bugs, no risers. I sung soft hackels, got a few grabs. It was slow. A pair of fly fishing kaykers banged and dragged through -- Spied some critters.
https://vimeo.com/582931500
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080321-1.jpg)
Took advantage of the low water to explore downstream a bit. Caught a pune on the soft hackle. Got couple more grabs. Did I say it was slow?
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080321-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080321-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080321-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080321-5.jpg)
Back up to the pool, oh what's that? A rise? And another one? Wow! The hatch must be at peak! #16 comparadun. First cast a little short. Second cast in the lane! Bam! I caught a fish on the surface, I'm done!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080321-6.jpg)
Three hours behind the wheel, mile hike in and out, two fish to hand... I'll be back when they open up the spigot again.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on August 04, 2021, 18:43:17 PM
Post by: troutrus on August 04, 2021, 18:43:17 PM
Beautiful morning. Wish farmer Joe would run that bush hog now and then. Not too bad though with the cooler temps.
DCBC9623-7F18-46EA-9C34-19D89C3AEB32.jpeg
Nice to see the water at "normal" levels.
5FE22877-75EC-4BA5-9A32-CCC36A93A36A.jpeg
Got to the water about 9 am and lots of bugs and willing fish till about 10:30.
E2E57E11-C0E7-4F2D-9314-8ABD75655635.jpeg
Had a nice Rainbow run me into and wrap around a sunken limb. Same thing happened last time up there. Took advantage of the low water to do a little clean up.
D939C944-16D6-4559-850E-A2D436E693A3.jpeg
FE436507-1285-4D06-AE2C-7817BE65DB58.jpeg
09111541-4077-45DF-B211-861CE18C6840.jpeg
Once some sun got on the water, the bugs got smaller, the fish got picky, and after having a cold drink I headed out around noon.
A0444748-9E73-4C3F-9BBB-CE5D27B1FC46.jpeg
Left about 12:30 and no other cars in the lot.
DCBC9623-7F18-46EA-9C34-19D89C3AEB32.jpeg
Nice to see the water at "normal" levels.
5FE22877-75EC-4BA5-9A32-CCC36A93A36A.jpeg
Got to the water about 9 am and lots of bugs and willing fish till about 10:30.
E2E57E11-C0E7-4F2D-9314-8ABD75655635.jpeg
Had a nice Rainbow run me into and wrap around a sunken limb. Same thing happened last time up there. Took advantage of the low water to do a little clean up.
D939C944-16D6-4559-850E-A2D436E693A3.jpeg
FE436507-1285-4D06-AE2C-7817BE65DB58.jpeg
09111541-4077-45DF-B211-861CE18C6840.jpeg
Once some sun got on the water, the bugs got smaller, the fish got picky, and after having a cold drink I headed out around noon.
A0444748-9E73-4C3F-9BBB-CE5D27B1FC46.jpeg
Left about 12:30 and no other cars in the lot.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 04, 2021, 20:54:48 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 04, 2021, 20:54:48 PM
Good on ya getting it done! d:b
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on August 05, 2021, 12:01:55 PM
Post by: troutrus on August 05, 2021, 12:01:55 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on August 04, 2021, 08:53:05 AM
77-84 degrees, cloudy uv 4
Damn Dams...
Three hours behind the wheel, mile hike in and out, two fish to hand... I'll be back when they open up the spigot again.
Best info I can get suggests they will go back to sluice gate at 1/2 foot (250 cfs?)later Thursday afternoon and remain that way through the weekend. After that, they are non-committal. As alway, it is subject to change.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 05, 2021, 17:34:36 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 05, 2021, 17:34:36 PM
Back at prior flows.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on August 05, 2021, 18:56:32 PM
Post by: troutrus on August 05, 2021, 18:56:32 PM
Current release is approx. 280. Go get 'em Woolly.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 05, 2021, 20:21:38 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 05, 2021, 20:21:38 PM
40
Miss you, Jeff. Eternal life?
https://youtu.be/OFgHy-ia8RM
Low flows. Ugh.
I used to be resigned to fishing these.
But dammit, the 150+ is so much better for the fish and the fishing.
I showed up anyhow.
Glutton for punishment.
Wanted to fish a long ago fished beat but there were two trucks parked there.
Back I went to a usual.
Decided to fish down and swing soft hackles.
Brought Corncob, with the right tip section!
(https://i.imgur.com/1IaZSzd.jpg)
Beavers are trying.
(https://i.imgur.com/ANSk7lZ.jpg)
Low and slow.
One fish to hand.
(https://i.imgur.com/o98YeC7.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/FeCTAQt.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/UsGzljG.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/sg9iXK0.jpg)
Good flows just returned.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 06, 2021, 21:55:40 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 06, 2021, 21:55:40 PM
41
https://youtu.be/7QU1nvuxaMA
22 hours after the better flows returned, I pulled into the grassy lot.
Keith had beaten me by a few minutes. LOL.
Lets hope the feesh had settled back into their old routine.
He waded out with his euro rod, I waded down with the regular rod.
I fished girdlebugs with New Zealand wool today. Needed to reach across the river.
I got a few bumps, but no love. Dropped a flashy small nymph off and started picking up nice fish.
(https://youtu.be/7QU1nvuxaMA)
(https://i.imgur.com/QOIFHuR.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/rQeURJs.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/2qWiDIg.jpg)
Backtracked to fish the lower run with the new combo.
And promptly lost it on a backcast. b';
Tied on a darker girdlebug and the same small nymph.
Started picking up fish on the girdlebug.
:wave
(https://i.imgur.com/b7Iuba0.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/jI84gHP.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/D6npjae.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MTuyXm5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MXiCI15.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/r7rjDU3.jpg)
I moved up to the supposed dry fly action, got a beer, re-rigged and watched the master whack some fish on little dries.
(https://i.imgur.com/oeibctv.jpg)
I waded out below him and failed. Switched. And failed. Switched,
Failed.
We both waded in and popped a fresh beer.
He said he was done. I waded back up to the picky little bastards and tried again.
Fail. Fail. Fail.
Woolly had waded out behind me to heckle/encourage.
I snipped off the dry and tied on a soft hackle.
I picked up a small fish, missed a couple others.
We waded in, cleaned up and here comes a train.....
And of course the train stopped. :laugh:
Up the bank and away we go.
(https://i.imgur.com/2qo9s5m.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 07, 2021, 09:46:46 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 07, 2021, 09:46:46 AM
Hazy and hot.
Gas $2.95
I was gearing up in the empty lot when Dougfish pulled up. We hiked in and it felt like the hottest day so far. When we reached the river, I immediately waded into the deep water to cool off. I wasn't feeling great as I was having an internal conversation with my stomach. We drank beer and Dougfish headed down and I went up to the top of the run. I wasn't fishing especially well, unable to focus on the water. Soon I was making a mad dash to the shore and climbing the bank to find a suitable spot to take care of business.
After recovering from that explosive decompression, I headed back up to a deep hole. Kayakers were coming down and I noted that there was a good channel behind me, so I wasn't too worried about them. They came on down and made no effort to avoid me and passed five feet in front me while asking "how's the fishing?" "Dude," I exclaimed as he floated by.
I snagged and broke off, so I sat down in the middle of the river on a rock and retied. These mayflies popped up next to me and I spent some time photographing them before they took off.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080621-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080621-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080621-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080621-4.jpg)
After catching a few fish, I went back down to pool and noticed a number of fish rising to unseen bugs. The only thing I could see were size 22 bwos. I was rigged up with a #14 sulfur and there were a few of them around, so I tried to entice these trout with that fly. The hit it, they looked at it, they bumped it, they turned away but they didn't take it. I had nine refusals before finally hooking one.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080621-5.jpg)
Enough of that! I changed flies a couple of times and found a #20 loopwing bwo emerger that fooled a few fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080621-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080621-7.jpg)
Dough was downstream working the picky punes in the slack water and after catching a half dozen I grabbed a beer and watched as dougfish tried his luck with dries and swinging soft hackles.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080621-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080621-9.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 08, 2021, 10:17:45 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 08, 2021, 10:17:45 AM
August 5/7 days so far...
Fishing is all about potential, patterns and patience. I thought that since the yesterday's BWO hatch was strong I would go pursue the picky punes once again. I was armed with few new emeger patters. I was on the water a little after four and watched for risers as I drank my cool off beverage. Not much was happening on the surface, but a few birds were working, snatching bwos and the occasional sulfur as they became airborne. I was following one sulfur as it floated lazily downstream waiting for a fish to snatch it, there were no takers, but as soon as it lifted off the surface a bird swooped in flared it wings and grabbed the fly. How perfectly adept they are to be able to intercept mayflies. Later I saw a hummingbird feeding on the bwos and perhaps midges as it swooped back and forth across the water. This was the first time I've seen one working a trout stream.
I waited and waited for the hatch to gain momentum to entice the fish to rise. I would see a fish rise once and then not again for ten minutes or more. After seeing several different fish take emergers I grabbed the rod and waded up into position. I worked a spot where I had seen a fish earlier. The water was about 3 feet deep dropping off a shelf. The fish was holding at the head, drifting back a foot or two, slowly rising and taking a bug as it emerged. I saw this fish twice in twenty minutes. Cast and mend and watch. Cast and mend and watch over and over. Finally after fifteen or more cast I saw the fish gliding back under the fly and I wondered if it would take it before it would begin to drag. It rose slowly and took the fly and turned away and I set the hook. It was almost five o'clock, I had been watching and waiting for almost an hour before I caught a fish. The bugs just weren't coming off as strong as the day before.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080721-1.jpg)
I could have nymphed up some more fish, but today I was being a dry fly purist and I waited and waited for a rise to target. I would see one and move into position trying to keep the exact spot in my mind as I waded upstream. It's peculiar how we remember where we've caught fish in the past. I had listened to a story about how birds in the winter remember where they have stashed seeds, and how that is important to their survival on cold mornings. https://kuow.org/stories/chickadees-enlarge-brains-for-pnw-winter-staycation
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080721-2.jpg)
The fog came early and thick today, making it impossible to see my fly on the water more than 25 feet away. I caught a few more fish before quitting at 7. It was just a slow but enjoyable evening on the river.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080721-3.jpg)
Only one pair of kayakers floated by me, and the VA tagged F150 that was parked in the lot was gone by the time I got back to the car. Can't decide when I'll go back again...
[/report
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 08, 2021, 20:08:56 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 08, 2021, 20:08:56 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/iiJjtLu.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 08, 2021, 21:48:11 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 08, 2021, 21:48:11 PM
85 and humid... felt like 100, jis sayin.
Gas #2.79
When I got to the lot, one truck was leaving and there were two other vehicles in the lot. I started to rig up the euro, tippet broke, retrieved a spool of 6x and took out my knife to cut it. It was hot and the more I thought about the hike down the rails or across the field I figured I had to come up with a plan B. So, I stashed the euro in the CR-V, all 10.5 feet and drove off. It was only at the end of the day around seven, that I realized that I had left the knife on the hood. I returned, the lot was empty, and I scoured the ground. I was gone. The driver of the pickup with a large orange Simms Fish and VT decals was the most likely to have spied the knife on the lawn. Posted up on the SRTU and RVTU facebook pages...
Anyway, I put in up top and started to euro, but fish started rising in front of me and I switched over to the dry fly rod with a #15 comparadun. A caught a couple, missed a few more and got refused by a few more. Then as quickly as it started it stopped. I could still see bugs on the water, but the fish weren't looking up. I waited. Caught a few more but decided to go downstream into a big riffle and see what was up. It was an excellent choice, bug and fish. A baker's dozen brown trout came to hand along with a chubby rainbow.
When I got back to the car, I realized that my knife wasn't in my pocket, and I drove down to look for it...
Oh well....
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080821-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080821-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080821-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080821-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080821-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080821-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080821-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080821-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080821-10.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 08, 2021, 22:26:27 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 08, 2021, 22:26:27 PM
Woowee-Nice photos of the Iso mayflies /"\ I'm sorry about the knife.
Doug- nice shoes <-;:
Doug- nice shoes <-;:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 09, 2021, 20:36:34 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 09, 2021, 20:36:34 PM
86 degrees partly cloudy
What am I going to forget or lose today? That was my thought as I pulled out of the drive today on the way to the river. It was going to be a hot one, so I went up top where the water is deep and cold. I bought my best pair of waders.
I got there a bit earlier than yesterday, and the bug activity appeared to be downstream a way, but after an hour thing started popping in the run I was working.
It was a bit of a cat and mouse game for a while, but as more and more bugs came off the fish started feeding with more gusto.
I worked near and far, upstream, and down, left and right. Itwas pretty solid dry fly action for at least a couple of hours and by that time I was ready to get out of the cold water as my feet began to complain.
Mostly diminutive browns with the occasional beefier bow. Broke off a couple on the 7x and a couple of head shakers unbuttoned themselves. Tug fix satiated for another day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080921-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080921-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080921-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080921-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080921-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080921-6.jpg)
There was a lot of diddymo suspended in the flow and just about every time I caught a fish it came in with a gob of goo, it required a lot of fly cleaning and drying. This last fish was sipping underneath an overhanging limb about 45 feet across the run. d:b
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/080921-7.jpg)
Finished Countdown 1945 by Chris Wallace on the drive up and started Jim Harrison's The Ancient Minstrel on the drive home.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creekfreak on August 10, 2021, 09:03:01 AM
Post by: creekfreak on August 10, 2021, 09:03:01 AM
Yeah that was me in my BIL's F-150 on saturday. Finished up by the mirror plant at 7pm, fog starting to set as well as frustration. Caught many punes on dries, nothing to post. Wish I'd seen the knife on the way out, but nothing.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 10, 2021, 10:08:47 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 10, 2021, 10:08:47 AM
That has me questioning where the knife and tippet slid off the car.... might be on the road to the damn dam. <-;:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 11, 2021, 19:43:37 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 11, 2021, 19:43:37 PM
I was sandwiched between thunderstorm cells when I arrived the river. I was hoping it would pass in about 20 minutes. I donned my waders and walked to the river. Thunder boomed all around and the sky was darkening, I retreated and waited another 30 minutes and then I made my way downstream to the riffle. The fog was thick, and I could hear the fish rising but couldn't quite see them. A fairly decent hatch was underway, and I worked the rising fish for the next hour. It was epic for that brief time. Caught a bunch, broke off two on the 7x with peppery hooksets. Didymo was terrible, and it took a long time to clean a fly when they became covered with the crud.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081121-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081121-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081121-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081121-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081121-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081121-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081121-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081121-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081121-9.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 12, 2021, 05:22:34 AM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 12, 2021, 05:22:34 AM
Spider webs are always interesting to me and I see that's the wood spider (champion web builder). https://youtu.be/sHzdsFiBbFc
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 12, 2021, 19:05:57 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 12, 2021, 19:05:57 PM
As soon as I cast the fly I knew I should have retied after pulling it out of the rhodo.. I was stunned that I snagged the fly in the rhodo on 7x and with a tight line and a tug managed to retrieve the fly and perhaps that led me to think that that knot was strong. But I should have retied, I would have, but the tippet was getting short, so short that I would have to change it out with a longer section, and I've been having a bit of trouble tying the 5 to 7x blood know, so I skipped it and cast. The cast was a bit short but just inside the fastest water, it had potential. I saw the fish rise and take the fly, it looked like a good fish, I set the hook and the tipped gave and I lost the fish and fly.
I had driven up to my usual spot, there was a car parked, but it didn't necessarily look like a fisherman's car, if you know what I mean. I could have walked down to the river to look downstream before I put on my waders, but I geared up and went down to the river and there I saw not one but two anglers standing in my run. I explored up stream and made some exploratory cast, but nothing was happening on the surface. So, I got back in the car and drove down to a spot that I wanted to check out.
There was a pool with a nice set of rapids and riffles above it. The water pushed to the steep bank on the far side, and I saw a couple of fish rise right next to a half-submerged tree and a couple more under overhanging rhodo. Tough cast for sure. I went for it but after a dozen cast, one or two that were on the money, I decided to check up the top of the riffles where all the bird activity appeared to be concentrated. There were some thunder cells over the ridge, but I didn't think they were headed my way. The riffle was shallow and fast, and I didn't see any fish rise. It started to rain but the storm passed after twenty minutes and after a while I moved back down to the rising fish and picked off a few that were hugging the bank and structure.
After breaking off, I was getting ready to tie on new tippet when Boom, Boom, Boom. The sound of the approaching storms from multiple directions had me headed back up the trail and I called it a day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081221-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081221-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081221-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081221-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081221-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081221-6.jpg)
Neil sent me this alert from Brent Watts WDBJ7
QuoteLightning struck ~10 miles away from the nearest strike inside the storm. This "bolt from the blue" is what can be most deadly because it can be sunny outside the storm. If you're at Philpott Lake, get indoors now!
lightening.jpg
I was long gone when this event happened....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 15, 2021, 08:08:30 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 15, 2021, 08:08:30 AM
93 degrees - gas $2.74
The unsettled weather kept me off the water yesterday, I knew there would be more storms today but I went anyway. Listening to Thomas Jefferson and the Tripoli Pirates on the drive. Rigged the rods in the parking lot and wadered up before driving down to location x since no one else was there on a Saturday afternoon.
Cloudy and foggy and threatening rain it was still early and there weren't any bugs on the water. I nymphed up a rainbow and then was startled when another angler shouted greetings. Awe fuk, it was a bait fisherman who waded into the bottom of the run where the fish would rise. Scratch that idea.
He added rainbows to his stringer as I caught and released brown trout from the undulating water at the head of the run. When I went to retrieve my other rod, I noticed a dead fish floating away just below the salmon egg tosser. Not sure if he was releasing the deep hooked browns that are in the protected slot or what.
I moved up and caught a handful of punes from the next riffle and then since mr. salmon egg tosser was hogging the dry fly water. I hiked out and drove up to the top and fished the upper riffle. There were only few bug and even fewer risers, but a caught a couple on the surface before things shut down completely at 5.
More stormy weather forecast for the upcoming week as Fred moves through the state.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081421-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081421-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081421-3.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 16, 2021, 09:15:59 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 16, 2021, 09:15:59 AM
best part of the day was that there was no thunder or rain.
I needed a fix, drove up late in the afternoon, thought about
hiking down the tracks but there were vehicles parked in the
lot, so I drove on up top to his the last of the sulfur hatch.
There were a few fish working the surface. Plenty of bugs
on the water were mostly ignored. Caught a handful of fish
before it shut down completely at 5.
I stayed for another fatuous hour.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081521-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081521-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081521-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081521-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081521-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081521-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081521-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 16, 2021, 11:18:53 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 16, 2021, 11:18:53 AM
That's why I stayed home.
Saw that coming.
Saw that coming.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Yallerhammer on August 16, 2021, 12:34:10 PM
Post by: Yallerhammer on August 16, 2021, 12:34:10 PM
Don't know how much Fred will impact y'all, but we were already under flash flood warnings here this morning.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 16, 2021, 12:57:03 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 16, 2021, 12:57:03 PM
1" + in Martinsville.
3.8" an hour up the road. And counting. At least the garden and small streams are digging it.
3.8" an hour up the road. And counting. At least the garden and small streams are digging it.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 16, 2021, 13:15:27 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 16, 2021, 13:15:27 PM
Quote from: Yallerhammer on August 16, 2021, 12:34:10 PMDon't know how much Fred will impact y'all, but we were already under flash flood warnings here this morning.
French Broad is rocking
https://www.instagram.com/p/CSoxI6sL-H9/
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Yallerhammer on August 16, 2021, 14:35:25 PM
Post by: Yallerhammer on August 16, 2021, 14:35:25 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on August 16, 2021, 13:15:27 PMQuote from: Yallerhammer on August 16, 2021, 12:34:10 PMDon't know how much Fred will impact y'all, but we were already under flash flood warnings here this morning.
French Broad is rocking
https://www.instagram.com/p/CSoxI6sL-H9/
Yep. There were some places up here got 6"+ last night.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 16, 2021, 14:40:35 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 16, 2021, 14:40:35 PM
Quote from: Yallerhammer on August 16, 2021, 14:35:25 PMYep. There were some places up here got 6"+ last night.
That's what she said!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 16, 2021, 16:37:52 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 16, 2021, 16:37:52 PM
Quote from: Yallerhammer on August 16, 2021, 14:35:25 PMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on August 16, 2021, 13:15:27 PMQuote from: Yallerhammer on August 16, 2021, 12:34:10 PMDon't know how much Fred will impact y'all, but we were already under flash flood warnings here this morning.
French Broad is rocking
https://www.instagram.com/p/CSoxI6sL-H9/
Yep. There were some places up here got 6"+ last night.
I think you are going to have quite a bit more. WNC looks to be dead center for the storm.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 16, 2021, 17:32:34 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 16, 2021, 17:32:34 PM
Quote from: troutrus on August 16, 2021, 10:52:21 AMI've been awaiting reduced flow, but currently it has been increased to 350. 😩
Looks like they dropped it back to 260
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 16, 2021, 22:07:48 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 16, 2021, 22:07:48 PM
A487BAA0-4081-413B-B7A6-36D2690C6F26.png
Fred's brining some rain
Fred's brining some rain
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 19, 2021, 11:13:49 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 19, 2021, 11:13:49 AM
Gas $2.89 86 degrees...
Fred forced me off the water for two days and I was feeling the itch to get out. Roadtrip audio for the day; Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. I only had a couple of hours to fish so I went up top with the intent to nymph. There was only a smattering of caddis coming off and I only saw one trout rise.
I thought this would be easy catching but I didn't find fish where I thought they should be. Caught a couple of handfuls, mostly rainbows. Where were all the browns hiding out.
Despite low humidity there was plenty of fog on the water, sometimes limiting visibility to 20 feet.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081821-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081821-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081821-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081821-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081821-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/081821-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 19, 2021, 21:14:04 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 19, 2021, 21:14:04 PM
42
https://youtu.be/HTDjD_UdJYs
The world needed more Chester.
Fred spent most of it's fury in NC. We got a good shot of rain, but the lake was already down 3 feet, so flows did not bump up. Now the creeks dumped some muddy water on the usual haunts, so I moved up.
Explored up an down. Looking at the water, the access, the flora.
(https://i.imgur.com/bbZB061.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Vz2g00F.jpg)
Seed head of Green Dragon.
(https://i.imgur.com/WURjXP5.jpg)
Settled into a good run. Woolly may or may not have fished this yesterday? :P
No risers. Yarn indicator nymphing.
(https://i.imgur.com/OokcjBy.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XgElqAC.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1Hf9lLW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/LJYEtQi.jpg)
Soft hackled up some more working back down.
(https://i.imgur.com/OyrIxc0.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GpJVu6L.jpg)
Noticed some red whatevers on the bottom. Scooped some up.
(https://i.imgur.com/2ZcNzJ7.jpg)
A seedling plum, near as I can tell.
(https://i.imgur.com/O2WlVoj.jpg)
Lunch break.
(https://i.imgur.com/8UKypvq.jpg)
Moved up to the next runs and straight line nymphed.
Picked up a couple, but wtf?
Should be better. WB sore mouthed them?
Hooked into a strong bow and quit after that as thunder and storm clouds moved in.
(https://i.imgur.com/EkJnMgw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/SAcLztb.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XviEEgD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/JDswq1Y.jpg)
:cheers
https://youtu.be/HTDjD_UdJYs
The world needed more Chester.
Fred spent most of it's fury in NC. We got a good shot of rain, but the lake was already down 3 feet, so flows did not bump up. Now the creeks dumped some muddy water on the usual haunts, so I moved up.
Explored up an down. Looking at the water, the access, the flora.
(https://i.imgur.com/bbZB061.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Vz2g00F.jpg)
Seed head of Green Dragon.
(https://i.imgur.com/WURjXP5.jpg)
Settled into a good run. Woolly may or may not have fished this yesterday? :P
No risers. Yarn indicator nymphing.
(https://i.imgur.com/OokcjBy.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XgElqAC.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1Hf9lLW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/LJYEtQi.jpg)
Soft hackled up some more working back down.
(https://i.imgur.com/OyrIxc0.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GpJVu6L.jpg)
Noticed some red whatevers on the bottom. Scooped some up.
(https://i.imgur.com/2ZcNzJ7.jpg)
A seedling plum, near as I can tell.
(https://i.imgur.com/O2WlVoj.jpg)
Lunch break.
(https://i.imgur.com/8UKypvq.jpg)
Moved up to the next runs and straight line nymphed.
Picked up a couple, but wtf?
Should be better. WB sore mouthed them?
Hooked into a strong bow and quit after that as thunder and storm clouds moved in.
(https://i.imgur.com/EkJnMgw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/SAcLztb.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XviEEgD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/JDswq1Y.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 19, 2021, 22:34:38 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 19, 2021, 22:34:38 PM
Woowee is the Smiff master :cheers But you take some nice photos too. I espeically enjoy the flora and the fauna.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 20, 2021, 19:37:09 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 20, 2021, 19:37:09 PM
that low flow is no bueno for me... go get 'em trouts...
suspect it will be 50cfs or less.
suspect it will be 50cfs or less.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 21, 2021, 11:29:12 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 21, 2021, 11:29:12 AM
Running 354 at the moment — cooling down the river before the Monday low flow event
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 21, 2021, 12:48:13 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 21, 2021, 12:48:13 PM
Cutting back to 260 at noon.
Bump for the Riverfest boats.
Bump for the Riverfest boats.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 24, 2021, 10:33:03 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 24, 2021, 10:33:03 AM
Gas $2.79 temperature - fireball hot
With scheduled damn dam construction looming I checked the gauges and decided I would try and sneak in a day of fishing before the flow is reduced to a trickle.
The hike down the tracks was brutal in the heat of the afternoon. There is a bit more shade in the early afternoon as the sun is lower in the sky these days. As usual I waded out into a belly deep hole and drank a cool off beverage. There was a smattering of bugs, mostly midges, small bwos and a few sulfurs. I had tied up some loop wing #20 blue wings anticipating that the sulfur were done down this low on the river.
The fishing was slow, I tried the sulfur that was still strung on the rod. I had four of five refusals, they were definitely interested and I watched them drift back under the fly and then nose up but stop short of taking the fly. I was just fun to watch them. I switched to the bwo and the catching began.
The fog rolled in as the sun was setting. I was surprised when an otter popped up and stared at me for a moment before joining the romp in the undulating water. Ten seconds later I saw that two of them had caught their dinner. I tried to video them, but the camera wouldn't focus in the fog. I left the pool to them and hiked out along the tracks.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082321-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082321-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082321-3.jpg)
Cardinal flower - Lobelia cardinalis
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082321-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082321-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082321-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082321-7.jpg)
Orange jewelweed - Impatiens capensis
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082321-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082321-9.jpg)
Appalachian Ironweed - Vernonia glauca
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082321-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082321-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082321-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082321-13.jpg)
this is all I got on video...
https://vimeo.com/591666107
what is chirping?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 24, 2021, 10:40:38 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 24, 2021, 10:40:38 AM
down to 86 cfs now.....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 24, 2021, 16:29:23 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 24, 2021, 16:29:23 PM
Perfectly named beer for you :cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutrus on August 26, 2021, 07:58:25 AM
Post by: troutrus on August 26, 2021, 07:58:25 AM
Looks like they've been shockin' up some good ones at Smith R.
https://www.facebook.com/740241476003294/posts/4888670521160348/
https://www.facebook.com/740241476003294/posts/4888670521160348/
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 27, 2021, 08:52:46 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 27, 2021, 08:52:46 AM
#74 Gas $2.89 92 degrees, partly cloudy
Who knows what the damn dan maintenance schedule will be? They said that they would be keeping an eye on the river temperatures and maybe they realized that August wan't the best month to shut the water off, I saw that the lower river reached 73 degrees with the low flow. The water is back on at 280 and the upper river is a comfortable 50 degrees. Not wanting to waste the opportunity I drove on up with Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas playing on the radio.
Nobody was in the lot, so I hiked on down the tracks. Very sparce bug activity with only the occasional sulfur, bwo and midge floating by. The birds were perched streamside and would swoop in now and then for a snack. A pair of kingfishers patrolled the river alerting others with there noisy chattering.
I worked my way upstream and found some productive water that I hadn't been to in years. A lone kayaker worked his way downstream tossing his lure to the bank.
More bug started popping around 4 and I caught a few on the surface, some risers were targeted but most were caught just searching likely spots.
I was wading in a deep run and tried to catch a small mayfly and as I reached out to grab it, I stumbled on a submerged rock and face planted in the cold deep water. As I recovered water rushed down into my waders. I was soaked and decided to call it a day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082621-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082621-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082621-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082621-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082621-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082621-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082621-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082621-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082621-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082621-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082621-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082621-12.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 27, 2021, 23:05:25 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 27, 2021, 23:05:25 PM
#75
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082721-1.jpg)
you would think I would learn. I'm a creature of habit. The other week I was fishing with doug and it was a brutal hike in, I went directly to the cool off pool and stood in the deep water to cool off. I let go of my wading staff and only later realized that it wasn't attached to my belt loop. Doug spied it snagged in an eddy and retrieved it for me. Well today I did the same damn stupid thing and while enjoying a cool off beer my staff floated away only this time I was further out in the current and it went on down the river. Time to make another one.
Thunder was booming over to the north and I tried to pull up the radar to see what was headed my way.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082721-2.jpg)
I didn't like the looks of the clouds, so I called weather station Doug for a radar read out. He assured me that I was good and the storm was headed to the north and east.
I didn't find a lot of fish in the closest run, so I worked my way up to the next set of pools. Not having a staff made the going a bit slower and I really missed it to find my footing in several spots. The catching was much better and I caught enough to make the trip worth while.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082721-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082721-4.jpg)
Later in the day I went back down and waited for a hatch. It never materialized, I didn't see any sulfurs today only tiny bow and midge flies.
https://vimeo.com/593592440
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082721-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 29, 2021, 08:04:50 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 29, 2021, 08:04:50 AM
# 76 Gas $2.89, it'll probable go up with Ida knocking on the Louisiana coast. Temps in the 90s and humid.
The hay filed has been mowed making that walk much easier, I've been avoiding that area for a while, but it's mowed now. It is still hot walking across, might be hotter than the railroad tracks.
Standing in the shade I watched the water for sighs of life, only tiny bwos and miniscule black caddis among the midges. Birds were occasionally swooping in to pick off the random sulfur. I didn't see a rise.
I headed up to a waist deep run and picked off a couple as a group of kayakers floated behind me. They were a bit surprised to see a fisherman standing in the middle of the river in an isolated section.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082821-1.jpg)
I heard an Osprey approaching and whipped out the camera and pointing to the sky and snapped away.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082821-2.jpg)
I worked this section from top to bottom, catching the usual suspects in the usual spots. A few more rainbows than browns.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082821-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082821-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082821-5.jpg)
Season is changing and Oktoberfest beers are arriving in the stores. This offering from Texas has a hazy amber color with an off-white head and bready aroma. Slightly sweet with a hint of spice and moderate carbonation.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082821-6.jpg)
It was around 5 and it was cooling off a bit, still no surface activity. But they were eager to take the nymph.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082821-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082821-8.jpg)
Another floaty bote casting its way down the river.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082821-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082821-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082821-11.jpg)
I saw a fish rise three times and another one tight to the bank, that was enough for me to switch over and try and catch one on the surface. I couldn't decern what they were taking but I had a #18 comparadun tied on and went with that. Waded into position, cast and got a fish to rise and was denied. No other fish were showing themselves and my idea of casting dry flies at this point was downright risible.
Back at the car I had a snad before the drive home.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082821-12.jpg)
Following up after the 1972 ending of Fear and Loathing, I jumped into 1973 with All the President's Men
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 29, 2021, 10:50:25 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 29, 2021, 10:50:25 AM
some one asked for a closer look at the bote...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/bote-1.jpg)
:Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on August 29, 2021, 12:49:21 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on August 29, 2021, 12:49:21 PM
Woolly fishes to view the bikini scenery
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 29, 2021, 21:32:04 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 29, 2021, 21:32:04 PM
# 77 Gas #2.89 damn hot
I think it keeps getting hotter. I couldn't face the track in waders, so I packed them in. It was still a hot hike in. Wadered up and drank am ice cold beverage before starting to fish. I missed the first four or five fish that struck the nymphs. Argggg.
A bald eagle flew overhead and I saw s humming bird feeding on the jewel weed. A muskrat swam past me as I moved up to another spot where the catching commenced.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082921-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082921-2.jpg)
A group of kayakers approached and I warned them of a sweeper in the rapid below and to stay left. One of them got hung up on a rock. I watched him struggle to scoot off the rock, I thought he might make it, but he dipped the upstream side of the yak and pinned it. The rest of his group was 40 yards downstream and I was about the same distance upstream. I waded on down and helped him get out. He was having some issues standing on the streambed and complained about his bad legs. I got him over to the bank and then pulled the yak into the eddy to dump. The dude has issues moving and ended up taking a spill and had a bit of difficulty standing back up. I couldn't very well let go of the yak as it would have run right over him. Fortunately he had is life jacket on, and managed to get his footing back after a few moments. One of the men from the group had made his way up as I was emptying out the yak. He got back in and the other guy guided him down to a gravel bar where they emptied out the remaining water in the yak. 328 cfs on that river is more that enough to get you in trouble in a heartbeat. Be careful out there and know your limits. The river is no place for hubris.
Back to fishing and catching. I had planned on going up higher, but the yak excursion made me thirsty and I headed back to my stash. On the way I noticed several fish slashing unseen emergers. So after drinking my Oktoberfest, I tied on a bwo and wacked a few on the surface for the hour or so before things slowed down and the evening fog rolled in.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082921-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082921-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082921-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082921-6.jpg) (https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082921-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/082921-8.jpg)
Back at the lot was a white jeep wrangler which had pulled in after I arrived, I stuck some stickers under the windshield and the started packing up. The owner arrived shortly and we spoke for a while, his name is Joe (Joseph Brock Photography) and he follows me on IG – he reported catching a few before slipping on a rock and stumbling into the water filling up his waders.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 29, 2021, 22:15:51 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 29, 2021, 22:15:51 PM
Shiner Bock is an underated beer. Their Octoberfest is really good.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 29, 2021, 22:31:07 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 29, 2021, 22:31:07 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on August 29, 2021, 10:50:25 AM
some one asked for a closer look at the bote...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/bote-1.jpg)
:Dance
What the hell is my girlfriend doing in the boat with those -p- hillbilly looking dudes -p- At least she has her top on this time.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 30, 2021, 21:28:50 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 30, 2021, 21:28:50 PM
one last trip for the month. #78
Only caught one on a dry, there just wasn't much going on at all on the surface.
Snagged a rip PawPaw, bad photo.
Looks like they/re going to get some hay up soon...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/083021-1.jpg)
caught some nice fish...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/083021-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/083021-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/083021-4.jpg)
fog rolled in, threatening clouds were building and thunder boomed in the distance.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/083021-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/083021-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/083021-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/08/083021-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 30, 2021, 21:33:57 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 30, 2021, 21:33:57 PM
Very nice renderings, chief.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 31, 2021, 00:41:05 AM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 31, 2021, 00:41:05 AM
How is "All the Presidents Men" going? That was an interesting era in American History. It was a time when the press still held politicians accountable and sought out the truth. The whole house of cards for Nixon may have never fallen if not for Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein. The movie was pretty good to.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 31, 2021, 05:46:54 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 31, 2021, 05:46:54 AM
Quote from: Trout Maharishi on August 31, 2021, 00:41:05 AMHow is "All the Presidents Men" going? That was an interesting era in American History. It was a time when the press still held politicians accountable and sought out the truth. The whole house of cards for Nixon may have never fallen if not for Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein. The movie was pretty good to.
I read the book a long time ago and I've watched the movie more than a few times.
The audio book, narrated by Richard Poe, is engaging and suspenseful. I only listen while driving, the recording is 13 hrs and I'm about 3/4 of the way through.
There is also All The President's Men, Revisited movie on YouTube
https://youtu.be/Xo7KWzOgnf8
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 31, 2021, 05:59:44 AM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 31, 2021, 05:59:44 AM
I'll have to check that out. I still remember him walking out onto the law a the White House and getting on Marine One. He came to the Naval hospital in San Diego when the first POWs were released from the Hanoi Hilton. I was in for some intestional parasites I had caught somewhere on the way home. I think it may have been Thiland :P He came around and shook everyones hand.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 31, 2021, 20:36:38 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 31, 2021, 20:36:38 PM
44
https://youtu.be/kb-yB4OxGBA
Miss you, Lowell.
I couldn't come back Monday, but I could on Tuesday.
Had the river seemingly to myself. Went in earlier than usual to get out earlier.
Ida remnants might start by 5?
The hike down the tracks was cooler. I was thankful.
(https://i.imgur.com/hLB2kcc.jpg)
I waded in with beer one to cool off and survey the action.
Nothing happening. That I could see. Thick mist!
Waded in, tied on a soft hackle and headed up to the head of the pool.
Started catching as I worked down.
(https://i.imgur.com/tIgSiTA.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/LYFA7zh.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/rcxElcV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Z3numkY.jpg)
And I caught the smallest brown trout I've ever caught on the Smith.
Recruitment is good!
(https://i.imgur.com/58Jdo3Y.jpg)
Waded back up. Still very little top action happening.
Switched flies. Whacked some more before wading in for lunch.
And a game change.
(https://i.imgur.com/YnDYNW5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tWhOfDs.jpg)
I decided to dredge under a wool indicator. Dirty.
Dirty wins.
(https://i.imgur.com/YbnrVxL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/SvK1spp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/i8maBJR.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4chTY0J.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/hMixrOr.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/offHdxn.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/YEypZSA.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/5IOPXNL.jpg)
Hiked out at 3:30. Happy.
The new Orvis Lightweight boots are a hit.
I have to be a little more careful on the rubber soles.
I don't bounce when I fall anymore.
The one thing about the Vibram soles...
they like to spit out the studs, especially in the toes.
Replaced 3 before I started. 2 missing at the end of day.
Meh, I'll just order another bag of 250 Kold Kutters.
(https://i.imgur.com/l3jUdOW.jpg)
Look out September.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 31, 2021, 20:52:53 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on August 31, 2021, 20:52:53 PM
Finally a good music choice :drum I think Dixie Chicken is my favorite Little Feat song. I love Emmylou Harris and Bonnie Raitt signing it with LG.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 02, 2021, 11:28:03 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 02, 2021, 11:28:03 AM
they are working today 80 cfs
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on September 02, 2021, 17:26:14 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on September 02, 2021, 17:26:14 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on September 02, 2021, 11:28:03 AMthey are working today 80 cfs
It's not because of the work. Filling the lake back up. Lower air temps the next few days. Will be low again tomorrow. Possibly back up Saturday/Sunday.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on September 03, 2021, 16:38:28 PM
Post by: Fishbug on September 03, 2021, 16:38:28 PM
Nice trouts Doug.
Got a bag of studs you can have.
Rubbers out - felts in.
Got a bag of studs you can have.
Rubbers out - felts in.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 03, 2021, 17:10:26 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 03, 2021, 17:10:26 PM
I have 250 coming, lol.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on September 03, 2021, 17:11:33 PM
Post by: creakycane on September 03, 2021, 17:11:33 PM
Fished pretty good today in low water. They are still looking for small sulphurs and even big cahill types in the ripples. Sporadic rises; better chance with beadheads and other weighted nymphs if it appeals. Now it is back up!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 04, 2021, 08:18:27 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 04, 2021, 08:18:27 AM
#79, gas $2.74 temps in the 80s
First September trip, I'm below average, but y'all already knew that.
With the low flows the river is a different animal, and I didn't especially want to fish it, but needed some stream time. Two cars in the lot, and a fisherman sitting on the ground next to one, He came over while I was gearing up. Don from Floyd had brought five friends to fish and he was waiting for their return. He had been skunked on the day, and thought the river had fished better on the new normal higher flow. I offered him a beer and he thanked me for the Oktoberfest.
I decided to wet wade, figuring that I wouldn't get much deeper than knee depth. Many bwos coming off, virtually no fish rising, a smattering of sulfurs, and an occasional yellow drake and even fewer grey drakes. I caught no fish.
A beer break was in order and I noticed one fish rise while enjoying a G'Knight. I also noticed an angler up above me slowly working his was down the river. He cast with authority and was hitting all the right spots, but still not connecting.
I spied a couple of risers in a run below and went after them, finally connecting with fish. Skunk off!
It was Chuck, Icflies on the insta, we lamented the low flows and discussed the damn dam situation. He told me that he had been fishing this river all his life and how his dad would drop him off in the morning and come and pick him up in the evening. One time he was squirrel hunting on the far side of the river when the water came up. When his father came to get him he located him of the other side and told him to build a fired and he'd be back in the morning. Chuck roasted squirrel on a stick and spent the night on the river at the age of 13.
We went on to talk about how we thought the long continuous flows had benefited the bug life and the fish and how the new normal was much better than the historic wide swings in flow from the dam generating.
After all our gasconade, Chuck moved on downstream and I worked the closer water. The best I could do was get a few fish to rise to the fly, I caught nothing.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090321-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090321-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090321-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090321-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090321-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090321-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090321-7.jpg)
Also saw a Green Heron for the first time in this location and the piliated woodpeckers were calling back and forth in the evening.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 06, 2021, 08:44:38 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 06, 2021, 08:44:38 AM
#80
Mostly cloudy, 80s, gas $2.99
I was afraid that there would be crowds on the river and that the usual spots would be occupied . On the drive I found a new podcast, Good Assassins – Hunting the Butcher, based on the book The Good Assassin: How a Mossad Agent and a Band of Survivors Hunted Down the Butcher of Latvia. It's a riveting spy story and horrifically true, and it brings the horrors of WWII back from the past into the present in a way that will haunt you. I was glad I was headed to the river.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090521-1.jpg)
I was surprised to find an empty lot when I arrived at 2:30. The day was a bit cooler and there was plenty of cloud cover too.
I watched the water for 15 minutes while enjoying a Sierra Nevada Oktoberfest, a well balanced amber with a sweet bread flavor with a hint of spice and bitterness of hops.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090521-2.jpg)
The only bugs that I saw were miniscule bwos, and no trout rose.
I moved up into some of the more productive runs and the catching was good. Fish steadily came to hand.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090521-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090521-4.jpg)
A pair of kayakers passed behind me shouting out hellos, I was a bit surprised that there weren't dozens of them on this holiday weekend.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090521-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090521-6.jpg)
It was time for a beer break and I headed back down to my stash taking some pics along the way.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090521-10.jpg)
Some species of aster... maybe @Dougfish will know...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090521-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090521-8.jpg)
After my refreshment I tried my luck with a dry fly as I had seen one fish rise once. I had a #18 comparadun on the rod and I had seen a few sulfurs on the water. On the second cast I got a fish to rise and was refused. A bit later I broke the 7x on a hook set. I was retying a fly when another group of yakers came down hollering out, "Having any luck?" "Sure thing," I replied. "hey, mind if I ask you how you got in hear, you don't have to answer if you don't want to," he inquired. "A long walk down the tracks," was my honest reply.
I broke off another fish before landing one.
This brown took a #18 dry on the 7x and came out of the water three feet like a Polaris missile, I was stunned, and
It jumped twice more before being netted.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090521-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090521-11.jpg)
This rainbow was sipping under the trees and I could barely see the take through the thickening evening fog that had started to roll in.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090521-12.jpg)
The evening was gorgeous and it felt good to be out alone on the water. The chill in the air and the shorter day is a reminder that summer is almost over.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090521-13.jpg)
A women floated by and called out, "Do you know where we are?"
"Yes," was my reply. Then after a pause, she inquired, "How far is it to Papa's Pizza?" I told her, "Another mile or two!" Then I added, "Are you alone?" "No, there are three others behind me" I think she was anxious to get off the river. They came paddling down about five minutes later.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090521-14.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090521-15.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090521-16.jpg)
More sulfurs were popping off but I was done, satisfied with the day and left the adamantine flow of the river and began the long walk out into the setting sun.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090521-17.jpg)
Fin
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on September 06, 2021, 10:54:11 AM
Post by: Phil on September 06, 2021, 10:54:11 AM
Nice, indeed! 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 06, 2021, 12:59:55 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 06, 2021, 12:59:55 PM
Very nice. The bastards had calmed down and got hungry again. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on September 06, 2021, 13:11:19 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on September 06, 2021, 13:11:19 PM
Lots of Turkey Tail, seeing any Chicken of the Woods or Lion's Mane?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on September 06, 2021, 20:59:16 PM
Post by: Al on September 06, 2021, 20:59:16 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on September 06, 2021, 08:44:38 AM
It was time for a beer break and I headed back down to my stash taking some pics along the way.
One of these day someone is going to pull a "Neal & Old Rawhide" on you and steal your stash like happened to Paul and Norman in "A River Runs Through it"
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 06, 2021, 22:28:21 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 06, 2021, 22:28:21 PM
#81
You shoulda been here yesterday! Wait, I was here yesterday <-;:
I got fooled into thinking that the few fish that I saw rising would be easy prey on a bwo! I was wrong. I spent an inordinate amount of time trying to convince them to take the damn fly. I shadow casted my ass off, no results. All I can say is that I did get two of them to rise to the fly but I was denied each time.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090621-2.jpg)
I switched rods and moved on up a ways, catching a number of trout that didn't want photos taken. I did get some in the net that were more cooperative. After catching a handful or two, it was time for a beer break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090621-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090621-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090621-4.jpg)
The real action started after five. I worked hard for the fish I caught, broke one off with a peppery hookset.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090621-5.jpg)
Frip and frap came on down, the only yakers of the day. "Any luck", they inquired. "All the time," I replied, "All the time."
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090621-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090621-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090621-8.jpg)
It shut down at seven, although more sulfurs appeared to be hatching, I didn't see many, if any risers.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090621-9.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on September 06, 2021, 22:41:32 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on September 06, 2021, 22:41:32 PM
Quote from: Al on September 06, 2021, 20:59:16 PMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on September 06, 2021, 08:44:38 AM
It was time for a beer break and I headed back down to my stash taking some pics along the way.
No one would steal that crappy hippie beer he drinks. p;-
One of these day someone is going to pull a "Neal & Old Rawhide" on you and steal your stash like happened to Paul and Norman in "A River Runs Through it"
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 07, 2021, 13:12:24 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 07, 2021, 13:12:24 PM
45, 46
https://youtu.be/HAjeSS3kktA
Kool Kat.
That's what I'm talking bout.
Drove down last Friday to fish a bit with Al and Brian.
Al picked a spot he was comfortable with and they both jumped in ahead of me into the best run.
(https://i.imgur.com/o3pJUAv.jpg)
They both picked a fish or two. I flogged some meh water above them and all I accomplished was a lost freshly tied girdlebug. b';
(https://i.imgur.com/DQSiEve.jpg)
We moved up to another spot. This was low flow, I note.
They fished up a long slow run. I went down through a flock of geese and fished a tasty run.
Should have been guaranteed at least 6-10 fish. Nothing. Lock jaw.
Caught back up to the boyz and caught a decent bow that they had overlooked.
(https://i.imgur.com/qCVXfPZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1lH5LvU.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/nk81M3j.jpg)
We hiked out shortly after and had a beer at Al's cabin.
(Well, I had already had a couple on the river.)
I told Brian I would see him on the river the next morning on the higher flows.
But I was not rushing to get down there. Al was going out in the early AM to start his 2021 bloodshed, via urban archery season.
Sure as shit, he bagged a big doe. Fresh meat in da house.
Down the tracks with renewed studs.
(https://i.imgur.com/fxCDRt4.jpg)
I caught 2 fish in the first 15 minutes and then nothing.
(https://i.imgur.com/phIxCJL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/0cJz6aS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/K7K6WjC.jpg)
No action on top. A couple of soft hackle bumps.
Homie showed up after sleeping in and proceeded to flog the water to no avail.
(https://i.imgur.com/2Hm8mBf.jpg)
I drank a beer and watched him fish.
He got a message that they had a boat ride at one o'clock, so he cut out on me.
I was gonna go fish the lower runs,
but another guy slipped in below me and fukkered that up.
Moved up and could not catch anything. I did break off the only fish that bit.
And it was a load. I'll be back for that hoss.
Aster, Keith.
(https://i.imgur.com/JFE0yYt.jpg)
Sally.
(https://i.imgur.com/xn9UggO.jpg)
A fellow was fishing the next targeted run. I watched him from the bank for a few minutes before he noticed me.
I didn't want to call out and scare the shit out of him.
But I wanted some pics of the Blue Gentian on the bank behind him.
Got my shots and moved on. Woot!
(https://i.imgur.com/HqnrBof.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/p1bNHc4.jpg)
Ended up at Sally's Hole.
Fished below. Nothing. Fished the main run. Nothing.
Sat on the bank. Drank a beer.
Got buzzed by a hummingbird for the third time of the day.
Jewelweed and Cardinal Flowers were getting hammered.
(https://i.imgur.com/kXQPAw0.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/5MUDmCW.jpg)
Cut my losses and headed home.
Lesson learned. Too soon after the flow changed.
It used to be the shittiest corn field. Now it's the shittiest hay field.
(https://i.imgur.com/iDncZp7.jpg)
:cheers
https://youtu.be/HAjeSS3kktA
Kool Kat.
That's what I'm talking bout.
Drove down last Friday to fish a bit with Al and Brian.
Al picked a spot he was comfortable with and they both jumped in ahead of me into the best run.
(https://i.imgur.com/o3pJUAv.jpg)
They both picked a fish or two. I flogged some meh water above them and all I accomplished was a lost freshly tied girdlebug. b';
(https://i.imgur.com/DQSiEve.jpg)
We moved up to another spot. This was low flow, I note.
They fished up a long slow run. I went down through a flock of geese and fished a tasty run.
Should have been guaranteed at least 6-10 fish. Nothing. Lock jaw.
Caught back up to the boyz and caught a decent bow that they had overlooked.
(https://i.imgur.com/qCVXfPZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1lH5LvU.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/nk81M3j.jpg)
We hiked out shortly after and had a beer at Al's cabin.
(Well, I had already had a couple on the river.)
I told Brian I would see him on the river the next morning on the higher flows.
But I was not rushing to get down there. Al was going out in the early AM to start his 2021 bloodshed, via urban archery season.
Sure as shit, he bagged a big doe. Fresh meat in da house.
Down the tracks with renewed studs.
(https://i.imgur.com/fxCDRt4.jpg)
I caught 2 fish in the first 15 minutes and then nothing.
(https://i.imgur.com/phIxCJL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/0cJz6aS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/K7K6WjC.jpg)
No action on top. A couple of soft hackle bumps.
Homie showed up after sleeping in and proceeded to flog the water to no avail.
(https://i.imgur.com/2Hm8mBf.jpg)
I drank a beer and watched him fish.
He got a message that they had a boat ride at one o'clock, so he cut out on me.
I was gonna go fish the lower runs,
but another guy slipped in below me and fukkered that up.
Moved up and could not catch anything. I did break off the only fish that bit.
And it was a load. I'll be back for that hoss.
Aster, Keith.
(https://i.imgur.com/JFE0yYt.jpg)
Sally.
(https://i.imgur.com/xn9UggO.jpg)
A fellow was fishing the next targeted run. I watched him from the bank for a few minutes before he noticed me.
I didn't want to call out and scare the shit out of him.
But I wanted some pics of the Blue Gentian on the bank behind him.
Got my shots and moved on. Woot!
(https://i.imgur.com/HqnrBof.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/p1bNHc4.jpg)
Ended up at Sally's Hole.
Fished below. Nothing. Fished the main run. Nothing.
Sat on the bank. Drank a beer.
Got buzzed by a hummingbird for the third time of the day.
Jewelweed and Cardinal Flowers were getting hammered.
(https://i.imgur.com/kXQPAw0.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/5MUDmCW.jpg)
Cut my losses and headed home.
Lesson learned. Too soon after the flow changed.
It used to be the shittiest corn field. Now it's the shittiest hay field.
(https://i.imgur.com/iDncZp7.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on September 07, 2021, 14:10:44 PM
Post by: creakycane on September 07, 2021, 14:10:44 PM
Yep. They seem to take a day to reorient
After move up or down. Great report!
After move up or down. Great report!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 07, 2021, 20:36:39 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 07, 2021, 20:36:39 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on September 07, 2021, 13:12:24 PM
Aster, Keith.
(https://i.imgur.com/JFE0yYt.jpg)
Too soon after the flow changed.
It used to be the shittiest corn field. Now it's the shittiest hay field.
Species Doug on the aster
8E3D0519-5295-496E-A744-D7A087EDCE81.jpeg
Hey!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 07, 2021, 20:47:16 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 07, 2021, 20:47:16 PM
Probably, Aster puniceus.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 07, 2021, 21:39:36 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 07, 2021, 21:39:36 PM
#82
I was afraid they were going to shut the water off and I've got some upcoming events this week that will keep me off the water for a while so I checked the gauge and headed on up. Empty lot, took the short walk, wish I had gone on down and the fishing was slow. Picked of one here and there but it wasn't easy.
lost a few flies and tied a lot of knots.
Got a few fish to hit the dry. Worked one fish for about 20 minutes. I only saw it rise once but I was convinced that I could catch it. It finally took a #14 comparadun, but i peppered the hookset and snapped the 7x tippet. I cussed. I caught other fish. I missed some others too. It shut down completely by 7.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090721-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090721-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090721-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090721-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090721-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090721-6.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/599941785
rough count 40 rounds of hay!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/090721-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 09, 2021, 18:53:43 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 09, 2021, 18:53:43 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/MZung7z.jpg)
They are tasty, too.
They are tasty, too.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on September 10, 2021, 01:14:23 AM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on September 10, 2021, 01:14:23 AM
Baked brown trout? :-X Leave the heads on, the eyeballs and cheek meat is some of the best.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 10, 2021, 07:36:01 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 10, 2021, 07:36:01 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on September 09, 2021, 18:53:43 PM(https://i.imgur.com/MZung7z.jpg)
They are tasty, too.
https://youtu.be/FzUpBAuxJGk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on September 10, 2021, 16:26:55 PM
Post by: creakycane on September 10, 2021, 16:26:55 PM
Today was a beautiful day; fishing was a little slow......FWIW
Noticed The lake level is really starting to drop fast. I would assume they would start holding back water in the coming weeks, probably midweek to keep weekend kayakers happy? I don't know when people of philpott lake start to get concerned about low levels....
Noticed The lake level is really starting to drop fast. I would assume they would start holding back water in the coming weeks, probably midweek to keep weekend kayakers happy? I don't know when people of philpott lake start to get concerned about low levels....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 15, 2021, 07:43:02 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 15, 2021, 07:43:02 AM
#83
88 degrees, gas $2.99 or $3.99 if you start pumping the hi-test
One thing lead to another and I was late leaving, I got all the was across town, twenty minutes, before I realized there were no rods in the car. Almost canceled, but I hadn't been fishing in a week.
Doug was coming out as I went in.
I drank The Oktoberfest while I studied the water.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091421-2.jpg)
I was thinking that I would have to nymph, but then I saw a fish rise. I went after it. Second cast.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091421-1.jpg)
More fish were caught on the surface, most were small but a couple were above average.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091421-3.jpg)
I was just enjoying being back on the water, listening to the birds and the water as the sun set and the heat of the day faded into the darkening sky.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091421-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 16, 2021, 08:59:10 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 16, 2021, 08:59:10 AM
#84
85 cloudy
got to the river earlier than yesterday. Thought about going down river a ways, but decided to go across the field again.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091521-3.jpg)
this Asheville brew is very tasty, malty with a hint of honey sweetness and a clean finish, one of my top American Oktoberfest beers so far.
I spied some caddis dancing on the water and saw a couple of trout nab them as they fluttered on the surface. I went after them, got a couple to rise but failed to connect and put them all down. I went to the pool and tried to nymph up a fish when I noticed an interloper coming downstream fishing the water I planned to hit a bit later in the afternoon. He was tossing streamers but I didn't see him hookup.
It was John whom I've met several times before. I switched back to dries and brought a few punes to hand.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091521-2.jpg)
Sulfurs were still around although not in any significant numbers. Midges, bwo and caddis made up the majority of the sparce hatch.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091521-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091521-4.jpg)
John moved on down and disappeared into the evening fog, I was alone once more. The dry fly bite wasn't happening so I went back to nyphing and stuck a few more before the sun set.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091521-5.jpg)
there is a hint of color in the trees and fall isn't far away.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 16, 2021, 10:57:11 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 16, 2021, 10:57:11 AM
Nice. I started on a 6 pack of that Hi Wire Fest, too. I concur, very good.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 18, 2021, 08:17:42 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 18, 2021, 08:17:42 AM
#85
With cooler water temperatures and a cloudy morning I hit some lower river spots. Nymphing away I brought some browns to hand and as I worked my way across to the far side I hit pockets of chub all of which had full bellies. It was about 50/50 ratio of trout to chub. I moved on down a ways and caught a few more trout.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-3.jpg)
Down at a deep run I hooked a good fish and played it against the fast current, I got a glimpse of its size before the tippet broke at a suspect knot which I had retied earlier. I continued to work that water an caught a small chub and as I was pulling it in a large brown, possibly the one I hooked earlier, took a swipe at the chub.
I cast to that area and hooked that trout.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-4.jpg)
Plenty of PawPaws, but not quite ripe.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-6.jpg)
The sun was out now and the day was warming up, so I headed up river to colder water. But took a fugacious break with some old world flavor, a Spaten Oktoberfest, the original. Very tasty and smooth, malty and aromatic with a clean finish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-21.jpg)
The rest of the afternoon passed quickly in solitude, and I was packing it in when the phone rang. It was Devvisdad inquiring about my planned attendance at the Fall PFF. Prior to Delta I was certain to go, the new variant had given me pause, but I was still planning to go. He recruited me to cook on Saturday night. Yo' Mama's Red Beans and Rice!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-14.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-15.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-16.jpg)
What's going on here?
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-17.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-18.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-19.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091721-20.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on September 18, 2021, 08:26:00 AM
Post by: Phil on September 18, 2021, 08:26:00 AM
A Fine brown!!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 18, 2021, 10:21:58 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 18, 2021, 10:21:58 AM
Nice!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 20, 2021, 10:19:09 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 20, 2021, 10:19:09 AM
#86
hot and humid with some clouds 86 degrees
I started listening to the radio and I was in Stokesdale when I realized that I had left my phone at home. This is the first time in decades that I've traveled without it. There was a bit of withdrawal but I managed. I was going to start listening to a new book, Hillbilly Elegy.
One car in the lot and the sun was too hot to even think about hiking into the lower spots. It felt good to get to the cold water and some shade. This Radar Oktoberfest from a local brewery is spot on with a malty flavor and smooth finish with a hint of hops bitterness.
Notes on Oktoberfest beers:
Oktoberfest Biers have been reclassified into Style 4B Festbier in Category 4 Pale Malty European Lager which contains malty, pale, Pilsner malt-driven German lagers of vollbier to starkbier strength. While malty, they are still well-attenuated, clean lagers, as are most German beers.
The Oktoberfest beer style is no longer only brewed in the spring. Today, they can be brewed any time the brewer wants.
They are no longer aged for 6 months like they once were. To age a beer that long would be an expensive proposition for a brewery these days.
If the beer has the name "Oktoberfest" on the label, it is now aged for 12-16 weeks. If the beer is only called a Märzen, it only has to be aged for 6-8 weeks.
There are other amber lagers that have their own style designation and aren't grouped in the European Amber Lager category, the bocks for example.
Oktoberfest Biers have been reclassified into Style 4B Festbier in Category 4 Pale Malty European Lager which contains malty, pale, Pilsner malt-driven German lagers of vollbier to starkbier strength. While malty, they are still well-attenuated, clean lagers, as are most German beers.
The Oktoberfest beer style is no longer only brewed in the spring. Today, they can be brewed any time the brewer wants.
They are no longer aged for 6 months like they once were. To age a beer that long would be an expensive proposition for a brewery these days.
If the beer has the name "Oktoberfest" on the label, it is now aged for 12-16 weeks. If the beer is only called a Märzen, it only has to be aged for 6-8 weeks.
There are other amber lagers that have their own style designation and aren't grouped in the European Amber Lager category, the bocks for example.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091921-1.jpg)
The river was quiet, no activity save for birds chirping. I struggled to find fish willing to be hooked. I lost some flies and spent time retying tippet and flies.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091921-2.jpg)
Got caught in a shower without a rain jacket for the first time in years. It cooled things off and the fog rolled in after the rain stopped cooling the air.
https://vimeo.com/609941913
A handful of fish were caught.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091921-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091921-4.jpg)
I stopped fishing and took photos for the rest of the evening.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091921-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091921-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091921-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091921-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091921-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091921-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091921-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091921-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091921-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/091921-14.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 20, 2021, 19:38:34 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 20, 2021, 19:38:34 PM
#87
Short trip, partly sunny, cooler day
Drove up to watch Dougfish work a run, just to see how another angler would approach this section. I arrived late and he was moving on. I was wearing my brand spanking new Guide Pants for the first time, and when I reached the run I realized that I should have been wearing chesties, I couldn't cover all the water but I did connect with a couple that Dougfish had missed.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092021-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092021-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092021-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092021-4.jpg)
Listened to Hillbilly Elegy on the drive. Interesting story and gives insight to how weapons could be drawn at a baby shower.
Short trip, partly sunny, cooler day
Drove up to watch Dougfish work a run, just to see how another angler would approach this section. I arrived late and he was moving on. I was wearing my brand spanking new Guide Pants for the first time, and when I reached the run I realized that I should have been wearing chesties, I couldn't cover all the water but I did connect with a couple that Dougfish had missed.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092021-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092021-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092021-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092021-4.jpg)
Listened to Hillbilly Elegy on the drive. Interesting story and gives insight to how weapons could be drawn at a baby shower.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 26, 2021, 07:37:03 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 26, 2021, 07:37:03 AM
https://youtu.be/AL8chWFuM-s
8B03CE8D-6ABD-485D-899F-7A82A5518B2A.jpeg
8B03CE8D-6ABD-485D-899F-7A82A5518B2A.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on September 26, 2021, 11:32:06 AM
Post by: creakycane on September 26, 2021, 11:32:06 AM
Huh. There used to be one there In the past. Frankly I didn't know it was gone.
At least no one's been hitching a ride on the train to save the walk. To my knowledge. And not to give any ideas.
At least no one's been hitching a ride on the train to save the walk. To my knowledge. And not to give any ideas.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 26, 2021, 20:00:32 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 26, 2021, 20:00:32 PM
Quote from: creakycane on September 26, 2021, 11:32:06 AMHuh. There used to be one there In the past. Frankly I didn't know it was gone.
At least no one's been hitching a ride on the train to save the walk. To my knowledge. And not to give any ideas.
#88 Gas $2.95 clear blue skies 72 degrees
I don't remember ever seeing a sign in the 30 years I've fished there.
I did a bit of trail maintenance today. Stopped short of the Trestle Creek. I lost the trail where a little branch comes in. It looked like the trail either went right along the bank or turned in a bit. I was done at that point as I wanted to fish a bit.
Caught a few fish and called it a day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/whack.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on September 27, 2021, 11:57:11 AM
Post by: creakycane on September 27, 2021, 11:57:11 AM
They are still looking on the surface, and while I saw more olives that sulphur types, the 16 sulphur is still effective in shady runs....
As far as the sign, there was one in the overgrown area many years ago. There was a guy who i discussed about walking the tracks with who used to be there a lot. He Worked for Arovik signs in Mville and drove an old beaten up country-squire wagon and fished black leach type patterns down deep, especially in winter, to (apparently)great effect. I recall discussing the sign with him. I actually might have had brown hair at the time, it feels long ago... Told me to watch for track security, but that the guys on the train wouldn't bother you if you stayed off when they were on approach. This was during my 1st life on the Smith, 1991-1996 ish.
As far as the sign, there was one in the overgrown area many years ago. There was a guy who i discussed about walking the tracks with who used to be there a lot. He Worked for Arovik signs in Mville and drove an old beaten up country-squire wagon and fished black leach type patterns down deep, especially in winter, to (apparently)great effect. I recall discussing the sign with him. I actually might have had brown hair at the time, it feels long ago... Told me to watch for track security, but that the guys on the train wouldn't bother you if you stayed off when they were on approach. This was during my 1st life on the Smith, 1991-1996 ish.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 27, 2021, 20:03:22 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 27, 2021, 20:03:22 PM
#89
I've loving the cooler weather. Hit the river a bit earlier than usual, shorter days...
this rainbow looks very clean...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092721-1.jpg)
not to many browns came out to play.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092721-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092721-3.jpg)
Hooked and played a big fish for a while, thought I had it under control. It was fighting the current in a fast run and I was thinking it might be about time to reach for the net. The fish thought otherwise and bolted down stream snapping the 6x. I thought it might have been a knot issues but close inspection revealed the tippet broken mid point. Don't know if it had been nicked.
this was the consolation fish, it wasn't very cooperative in posing for the photo.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092721-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092721-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092721-6.jpg)
I read creaky'a report, I tried the dry fly game. It was slow but I made a connection.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092721-7.jpg)
I've been listening to Jim Harrison's Brown Dog, I read it a few years back, but it's good company on the road.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on September 28, 2021, 03:23:17 AM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on September 28, 2021, 03:23:17 AM
I like Jim Harrison's work. Just watched Legends of the Fall a couple nights ago.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 28, 2021, 08:35:30 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 28, 2021, 08:35:30 AM
Quote from: Trout Maharishi on September 28, 2021, 03:23:17 AMI like Jim Harrison's work. Just watched Legends of the Fall a couple nights ago.
the book is much better than the movie... jis say'in
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on September 28, 2021, 17:06:48 PM
Post by: driver on September 28, 2021, 17:06:48 PM
Brown Dog would make a good movie. But the movie would be horrible because of all the non-PC scenes.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on September 28, 2021, 19:03:23 PM
Post by: creakycane on September 28, 2021, 19:03:23 PM
I liked Sundog and Warlock, though most of Harrison is very entertaining. Farmer is a very simple tale, also superbly conveyed. A bit of fishing described: the doctor reminds me of an old curmudgeon I used to know......
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 30, 2021, 07:59:40 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 30, 2021, 07:59:40 AM
#91
80 degrees, mostly sunny
I went back for one fish, the one that broke me off the other day and to get my fix of Brown Dog also knowing that I won't be able to fish on Thursday.
I passed over a lot of opportunities and headed directly to the spot, with a freshly tied rid.
Nothing! Nada! Nobody home!
I moved on down. Found some fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092921-1.jpg)
Repaired the tippet.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092921-2.jpg)
Looked up.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092921-3.jpg)
Looked down.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092921-4.jpg)
Moved around.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092921-5.jpg)
Enjoyed the solitude and sounds of the river in the evening.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092921-6.jpg)
Snapped a few more pics.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092921-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/09/092921-8.jpg)
and got back in the car with Brown Dog for the ride home.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 30, 2021, 12:57:01 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 30, 2021, 12:57:01 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on September 28, 2021, 08:35:30 AMQuote from: Trout Maharishi on September 28, 2021, 03:23:17 AMI like Jim Harrison's work. Just watched Legends of the Fall a couple nights ago.
the book is much better than the movie... jis say'in
Always....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on September 30, 2021, 15:05:53 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on September 30, 2021, 15:05:53 PM
Most of the time now days if it's not an audio book I have trouble getting through it.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 02, 2021, 19:56:29 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 02, 2021, 19:56:29 PM
#92
Gas $3.09
76 degrees, but I worked up a good sweat anyway.
Wasn't sure where I was going to fish, but ended up doing some trail maintenance. I found a path to the river just above the beaver creek and was whacking my way through. I could hear some kayakers as I made my way down the bank they hollered out, "Oh, I'm glad you're not a bear". I guess the Parkway attack was on their mind. I waded down to the mouth of the creek and got back on the trail and hiked it to where I stopped last time then waded down to the creek and looked around for signs of a trial. Grabbed the machete and started whacking away, almost got to the place where I had left off, but stopped short and hiked back down to do a little fishing.
Had trouble locating fish, no surface activity to speak of. I caught a handful of punes and moved around a bit and caought another handful before regrouping with an Oktoberfet.
Didn't want to stay too late as I still had to finished the trail. There is a maze of trails in those woods and I picked one and whacked my way up to the little branch and made the connection to the rest of the trail.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100221-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100221-2.jpg)
/
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100221-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100221-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100221-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 04, 2021, 08:15:47 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 04, 2021, 08:15:47 AM
#93
80 degrees partly cloudy.
I could have stopped after catching this fish. After struggling and failing to hook a fish working a different run, which I'm puzzled by at the current flows, I moved on down to the usual spot. The bugs are gone and I'm starting to think sink tips and streamers. I had hiked in on the trail and stopped at the first rapid past the creek, sliding down the steep bank, I'll worry about climbing out later. After about 30 minutes, losing flies and retying leader I headed to where I thought I got in. Nope, not there, couldn't find my red cooler on the bank, I had passed it and had to double back, but when I tried to climb that bank I realized that I would have to find an easier slope to get out. Down at the usual while working the run I noticed an angler upstream at the spot where the tiny branch comes in. There was another person hiking down the trail. People!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-2.jpg)
Not the best images of this fish but I was having a photo fish flub day.
The couple had hiked in below me and were headed on to the big hole. The man was fishing, the women was carrying a rod, but I never saw her cast, come to think of it, I once saw the man switch rods with her and continued fishing with that rod. She didn't' look comfortable wading. Later in the evening as they were coming back upstream, I thought that they might pass by and get on the trail, and I was going to ask them how they had done, but they must have cut up to the tracks.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-8.jpg)
The browns look like they are coloring up and caught a good number during the afternoon.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-3.jpg)
The Leinenkugel Oktoberfest is crisp and light, drinkable but not inspiring. Thin and watery with a malty bread aroma.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-10.jpg)
Back at the lot I met the Audi driver with the euro tag "24 BWO 8X", he's from High Point and has been fishing the river for 35 years, "I've seen it all", he stated, when I asked how long he had been fishing the river. He was wet wading and likes to fish the flat water behind the field. With the higher flows, he's now switched to 7x. He also remarked that he had seen the couple and that the women didn't look comfortable on the hike in. What was it that Mudwall said about taking wives and girlfriends fishing?
I stopped for my mackerel dinner on the way home.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-11.jpg)
Forgot to mention that I may have underestimated my trail blazing ability, as much as I thought I whacked, the lower part of the trial, which twist and turns isn't as discernable as I thought. It could still use some more machete work.
Also finished listening to Brown Dog and went back to The Orvis Fly-Fishing Podcast for my drive.
80 degrees partly cloudy.
I could have stopped after catching this fish. After struggling and failing to hook a fish working a different run, which I'm puzzled by at the current flows, I moved on down to the usual spot. The bugs are gone and I'm starting to think sink tips and streamers. I had hiked in on the trail and stopped at the first rapid past the creek, sliding down the steep bank, I'll worry about climbing out later. After about 30 minutes, losing flies and retying leader I headed to where I thought I got in. Nope, not there, couldn't find my red cooler on the bank, I had passed it and had to double back, but when I tried to climb that bank I realized that I would have to find an easier slope to get out. Down at the usual while working the run I noticed an angler upstream at the spot where the tiny branch comes in. There was another person hiking down the trail. People!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-2.jpg)
Not the best images of this fish but I was having a photo fish flub day.
The couple had hiked in below me and were headed on to the big hole. The man was fishing, the women was carrying a rod, but I never saw her cast, come to think of it, I once saw the man switch rods with her and continued fishing with that rod. She didn't' look comfortable wading. Later in the evening as they were coming back upstream, I thought that they might pass by and get on the trail, and I was going to ask them how they had done, but they must have cut up to the tracks.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-8.jpg)
The browns look like they are coloring up and caught a good number during the afternoon.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-3.jpg)
The Leinenkugel Oktoberfest is crisp and light, drinkable but not inspiring. Thin and watery with a malty bread aroma.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-10.jpg)
Back at the lot I met the Audi driver with the euro tag "24 BWO 8X", he's from High Point and has been fishing the river for 35 years, "I've seen it all", he stated, when I asked how long he had been fishing the river. He was wet wading and likes to fish the flat water behind the field. With the higher flows, he's now switched to 7x. He also remarked that he had seen the couple and that the women didn't look comfortable on the hike in. What was it that Mudwall said about taking wives and girlfriends fishing?
I stopped for my mackerel dinner on the way home.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100321-11.jpg)
Forgot to mention that I may have underestimated my trail blazing ability, as much as I thought I whacked, the lower part of the trial, which twist and turns isn't as discernable as I thought. It could still use some more machete work.
Also finished listening to Brown Dog and went back to The Orvis Fly-Fishing Podcast for my drive.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on October 04, 2021, 09:20:21 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on October 04, 2021, 09:20:21 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on October 04, 2021, 08:15:47 AMWhat was it that Mudwall said about taking wives and girlfriends fishing?
Wives, girlfriends, sisters, aunts, mothers, concubines, doxies – the rule applies to all! Daughters are the only exception. Stretching the statute, if utilized correctly and with honest intent, can be employed; take the female angling once, one time only, on a horrendous, miserable trip to embed in her the desire to never accompany you on a fishing trip ever again.
I wish all of you the best of luck, and frankly I am surprised that most male anglers lack familiarity with this principle. Damn the male libido! Damn the milk toast male angler! Damn the metrosexual, overly compassionate, spineless male angler! Damn the male that has not perfected masturbation on fishing trips!
PS: I am off to help with the local food bank, in hopes of some small atonement for my sins, including a few misogynistic tendencies.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on October 04, 2021, 14:10:51 PM
Post by: Al on October 04, 2021, 14:10:51 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on October 02, 2021, 19:56:29 PMBoy am I so glad I still have PX gas privilege's. Up until the time gas prices took a hike at the beginning of the Biden era, gas on post was within a few cents of off post. When things started up the PX gas stations did not follow - at least not as quickly. I bought it today for $2.70 a gallon. Most places off post are like Woolly paid and beyond.#92
Gas $3.09
Just think - a year ago it was less than $2.00. That's a big hunk of change and it is effecting everything we purchase. Everyone is passing it on the the end user.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 04, 2021, 16:59:37 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 04, 2021, 16:59:37 PM
Gas price 1972 $0.39
Inflation = $2.55 today
Not to mention increased fed and state taxes, gas is still a bargain especially when compared to other countries
Inflation = $2.55 today
Not to mention increased fed and state taxes, gas is still a bargain especially when compared to other countries
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 07, 2021, 09:33:49 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 07, 2021, 09:33:49 AM
#94
75 and cloudy until I started hiking in, then the sun came out and it heated up with the humidity approaching 90%
I told dougfish that the next time they dropped the flow I would go in and cut out the snag that was blocking the run at the head of the pool. I didn't think the fishing would be good but I rigged up the euro for the hike in. this was a mistake. It ended up a tangled mess that had to be cut off and rigged again. I whacked here and there on the first leg and then worked harder on the last section of the trail. I veered off my trail and cut away before relocating the proper trail.
I had planned to fish before tackling the snag, but since I had to redo the rig I went ahead and waded into the head of the pool. With only a small folding hand saw I was able to cut just enough off to clear the chute, which will open it back up for fishing and kayaks too.
With my chore done, I had a beer and then rigged up the rod, going to the top of the pool and hooking a nice fish in the now open run.
The low flow had me puzzled as some productive spots now looked like frog water. But some spots were productive.
I went up a ways and then back down to the lower pool. I wouldn't say that it was on fire, but fish were caught. A train labored down the track and stopped well below me. I left at about 5:30 and trail whacked a little more on the way out. Another train came along in the same direction and passed the stopped one which was about a mile long.
Here's the photo dump.
Bear poop?
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100621-1.jpg)
This Local brew is very drinkable, clean finish and slightly malty. Maybe a little thin on the mouthfeel, but a solid fest beir.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100621-2.jpg)
Plenty of bumbles doing their thing with the last of the flowers.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100621-3.jpg)
Whay settle for just one?
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100621-4.jpg)
The Woolly Bugger in his natural environment.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100621-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100621-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100621-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100621-8.jpg)
This dragon/damsel fly popped off in front of me.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100621-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100621-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100621-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100621-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100621-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100621-14.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/100621-15.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutboy_II on October 07, 2021, 09:58:14 AM
Post by: troutboy_II on October 07, 2021, 09:58:14 AM
Great photo at the end with the leaves in the river. Very "arty".
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 07, 2021, 10:33:59 AM
Post by: Dougfish on October 07, 2021, 10:33:59 AM
Very nicely done. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 11, 2021, 18:34:52 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 11, 2021, 18:34:52 PM
#97
Filled up on the way to PFF @$3.03, 75 degrees and cloudy
I shoulda thrown streamers, but I was confident in my nymphs. I was chasing after one fish, I did not connect.
caught some other trouts, drank a beer, it was good to be back on my home waters.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101121-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101121-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101121-3.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on October 11, 2021, 19:33:14 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on October 11, 2021, 19:33:14 PM
Last time I drank porter I experienced dark, rich, and sexy for 2 days.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 11, 2021, 21:49:32 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 11, 2021, 21:49:32 PM
Quote from: Trout Maharishi on October 11, 2021, 19:33:14 PMLast time I drank porter I experienced dark, rich, and sexy for 2 days.
And then a round of penicillin?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 14, 2021, 08:13:58 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 14, 2021, 08:13:58 AM
#98
Gas $3.04 Partly cloudy, upper 70s
The river was quiet where I stood watching the undulating currents. I couldn't hear it as it flowed. The sound of the rapids above and below drowned out the subtle gurgles in the swirls close by. Insects buzzed and a Kingfisher chattered. A redtail hawk flew overhead, the sunlight illuminating its identifying feathers. It was good to be alone on the water again.
I cast and watched, waiting for a strike, to feel the line and rod come alive with tension, connected to a trout. It is easier to find them when they are feeding on mayflies, but the major hatches are done for the year and the trout are resting deep among the rock that offer shelter from the current.
The river appeared off color, no recent rains to blame, I figure that the lake might be beginning to turnover. The flow was just below normal, but the poor visibility made wading difficult, its more uncomfortable when you can't see where you are placing your feet.
Fish were caught, they fought hard considering their size, they are adept at using the swift flow to their advantage. I faile. to hook a trout in a favorite spot and while I was pondering my next move a large trout came completely out of the water chasing a #24 bwo as it became airborne. It rose only once. Go figure.
Fall weather is approaching and the day was pleasant, but there was a chill in the air down by the river.
t
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101321-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101321-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101321-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101321-4.jpg)
For Fred! Get 'em while they last.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101321-5.jpg)
Coming in I was able to follow the trial and only had to backtrack once. I've tried to mark this turn and will remember it now.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 14, 2021, 09:56:54 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 14, 2021, 09:56:54 AM
additional photo dump...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101321b-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101321b-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101321b-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101321b-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101321b-6.jpg)
33K / year adds up...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101321b-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on October 14, 2021, 18:21:54 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on October 14, 2021, 18:21:54 PM
I don't care if they are photographed with a tasty beer, Paw Paws taste like crap....but the same guy that says they
are good does eat stinky Ginko nuts...
are good does eat stinky Ginko nuts...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 15, 2021, 09:36:05 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 15, 2021, 09:36:05 AM
#99
I drove to the dam to confirm what I had suspected that the lake is turning over. I didn't think that the nights were cool enough to state the process, but it is the middle of October.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101421-1.jpg)
The day was slightly overcast but temperature was approaching 80 and I worked up a good sweat walking across the field. I took no wrong turns on the way in, but I had to stop and study at a couple of points.
The shadows from the trees on the far bank now cast shadows across the river and I was able to stay cool in the shade while studying the water.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101421-2.jpg)
The fish were hanging close to the bottom and taking the fly ever so gently, hook sets were made on the slightest pause.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101421-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101421-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101421-5.jpg)
Time for a late lunch of roasted garlic mackerel with Texas Pete and a beer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101421-6.jpg)
I swung flies in the late afternoon. I did find a nice fish that blew up on a Jeff Hickman's Fish Taco intruder. I got a small brown on the swing and had another solid grab.
I worked my way back up the trail and stopped at several spots to swing the fly.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101421-7.jpg)
Plenty of bumbles out collecting pollen from the last of the asters.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101421-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 15, 2021, 15:01:08 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 15, 2021, 15:01:08 PM
Quote from: itieuglyflies on October 14, 2021, 18:21:54 PMI don't care if they are photographed with a tasty beer, Paw Paws taste like crap....but the same guy that says they
are good does eat stinky Ginko nuts...
FYI
George Washington wrote in his diary on March 7th, 1785 that he, "Planted all my Cedars, all my Papaw, and two Honey locust Trees in my Shrubberies and two of the latter in my groves--one at each 'side' of the House and a large Holly tree on the Point going to the Sein landing."
Journals of Lewis and Clark
September 18, 1806
[Clark]Thursday 18th of September 1806
we rose early Capt McClellin wrote a letter and we took our leave, and proceeded on passed the Grand river at 7 A M. a Short distance below we came up with our hunters, they had killed nothing. at 10 oClock we Came too and gathered pottows to eate we have nothing but a fiew Buisquit to eate and are partly compelled to eate poppows which we find in great quantities on the Shores, the weather we found excessively hot as usial. the lands fine particularly the bottoms. a charming Oake bottom on the S E Side of the Missouri above the 2 Charletons rivers [1] we find the Current of this part of the Missouri much more jentle than it was as we assended, the water is now low and where it is much confin'd it is rapid. we saw very little appearance of deer, Saw one bear at a distance and 3 turkeys only to day. our party entirely out of provisions Subsisting on poppaws. we divide the buiskit which amount to nearly one buisket per man, this in addition to the poppaws is to last is down to the Settlement's which is 150 miles the party appear perfectly contented and tell us that they can live very well on the pappaws. we made 52 miles to day only. one of our party J. Potts complains very much of one of his eyes which is burnt by the Sun from exposeing his face without a cover from the Sun. Shannon also complains of his face & eyes &c. Encamped on an Island nearly opposit to the enterance of Mine river. [2]
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 19, 2021, 10:00:19 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 19, 2021, 10:00:19 AM
#100
cooler day had me thinking it was time to switch to streamers.
two cars in the lot had me concerned but they were fishing up in Sally's pool.
I had some grabs and a few fish blew up on the fly, only hooked a few on the swing. the most memorable part of the day was having a large brown trout swipe at the fly. I'll be back.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101921-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101921-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/101921-3.jpg)
one solitary yellow drake, about size #12, floated on down, 10 feet, 20, 30, and damn if a trout didn't rise and snag it.
water may be a tad bit clearer...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 19, 2021, 20:49:27 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 19, 2021, 20:49:27 PM
#101
Gas $3.17 67 degrees as the sun was setting.
One car in the lot, what's up with that? All of a sudden peeps be up fishing during the week. took the hike in. Looked back upstream at the creek, didn't see anybody. At the little branch I saw a dude in my run. Damn it. I jumped in and high holed him and went straight to the spot where I moved a good fish the other day. I had on a yellow Zoo Cougar. The fish swiped at the fly but didn't connect. I'll be back.
Had some grabs and connected with one as the dude was walking the bank around me. We spoke for a while, he started low in the skinny water by the field and had caught "a few" I hit the next hole and lost a couple of fish to the barbless firestick hooks that I use on a Rusty Trombone.
Gathered up my stuff that I stashed on the bank and took the trail on down. More bumps and grabs and a few that almost made it to the net.
Took a lunch break and then went on down to the next big run where I caught a number of fish and I snapped a couple of pics.
I hiked out as the sun was setting.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/102021-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/102021-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/102021-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/102021-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on October 19, 2021, 22:44:59 PM
Post by: Al on October 19, 2021, 22:44:59 PM
Low flows planned by COE all next week - doing some work on the dam. Some of you folks will be mad while the old folks who can't wade like a teenager anymore will be happy.
As always call the recording 276-629-2432 and check the gauges
As always call the recording 276-629-2432 and check the gauges
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 20, 2021, 23:07:30 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 20, 2021, 23:07:30 PM
#102 67 degrees, bluebird skies
I was 30 minutes up the road when I reached for my phone to listen to my latest audio book, All The Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr, oh snap! I left it on the charger at home and the camera is next to the computer where I left it yesterday. Too far down the road to turn around.
I planned switch things up today and throw streamers. I waded out to a run and got into position, stripping line off the reel. I cast and the fly began to swing and a brown trout grabbed it. "Wow, it could be a great day", I thought or a compete disaster as I may have jinxed myself. I worked the rest of that run and moved on down, I got a blow up on the fly but no connection and then at the bottom of this beat I hooked a stockbow of around 14" and that was all she wrote. I thought about moving further down but the clear bright skies had me thinking of looking for a shady run.
I moved on up near the dam and hiked in. The closer to the dam the more it was stained, it looked like tea with milk. I worked and worked the water with only one grab. I threw in the towel and headed to a spot to dewader. 24 BWO 8x, was in the lot gearing up. He was spraying OFF on his pants and explained how he got eaten up by chiggers the last time he fished here. I shared my chigger story and then I wished him good luck before I took off and headed home.
(https://media0.giphy.com/media/jHk54auaCekP2YxiVV/giphy.gif)
gas on the way up $3.09, same station on the way back, $3.28
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 22, 2021, 09:54:49 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 22, 2021, 09:54:49 AM
#103
I got off to a late start, almost too late to make the trip worth while.
I'm haunted by some fish and I keep going back to make a connection with them. They appear to be above average and I think I know where they are hanging out.
A pair of kingfishers patrol the river, one skimming the surface and its wingman 20 feet above, both chattering their territorial alert. The water is still turbid, a greyish green, with perhaps 18" of visibility. I don't like it. But the fish gotta eat, right? Any one would think that streamers would be the ticket, right?
I started out nymphing just to get a few fish on the board before switching to streamers. I got a few grabs but nobody was showing up for my tasty offering. Then I snagged a fallen tree on the far bank and decided to wade across to retrieve it after my roll cast failed to dislodge it. I made note of the depth as it was deeper than I thought, and it gave me a better look at the bottom of that run.
On up to the next several spots, they failed to produce, but I did move a fish at the fourth location. It took an immediate swipe at the fly as it hit the water, it didn't come back to look again.
I took a break and thought about going down to the bottom run as dusk approached, but the thought of wading back up gave me pause and I packed it in with the idea of revisiting a trio of spots on the hike out. I tied on a sex dungeon for the final attempts. It didn't produce.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/102121-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/102121-2.jpg)
I heard the Osprey approaching and grabbed the camera and quickly pointed it up and repeatedly pressed the shutter button in an attempt to capture the image as they flew overhead.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/102121-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/102121-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/102121-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 24, 2021, 19:37:53 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 24, 2021, 19:37:53 PM
#104
Sunny, 70s
I usually don't go on the weekends, other things occupy my time, but I had no plans for Sunday and it looks like Monday could turn to shit.
Still thinking streamers, I broke out the 6 wt and a 30 foot tip. I had a couple of ideas where I wanted to fish, but I needed a place to rig and decided to fish there despite a spin guy fishing down below.
I had only caught one fish when my daughter called and we talked for a half hour, I continued to cast and swing the fly through the rung and by the time the call was over I had covered most of the lower section. Turning back upstream I ran into a couple of trout bros, one was bobber nymphing and the other was casting a small streamer I think. They hadn't caught any so far. PEOPLE!
I went to another spot and there were more PEOPLE, so I decided to drive on home.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/102421-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 29, 2021, 20:21:06 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 29, 2021, 20:21:06 PM
#105
68 and partly cloudy
One car in the lot, up or down I didn't know. It was after 2 o'clock and the water was dingey and about 6" lower that the new normal flow. I was thinking streamers, but took along the nymphing rod too. Sure was a pretty day, and it was amazing to see how much the leaves had turned in only five days.
When I got down the trail to where I could get a clear view downstream I saw a dude fishing one of my runs, thought for a moment to high hole the intruder, but he was too close for that.
We spoke, me hollering from the bank, I thought he was throwing streamers, but was nymphing without luck, I wasn't sure of his technique and neither was he, a young fellow. I left him casting away and headed on down below where he said he had started.
Couldn't find a fish nymphing, so switched to the trusty rusty trombone and went on down to the lower run of this reach. They liked it and I caught a handful in short order. Dredged the bottom with a nymph and caught a pune.
here is what the afternoon looked like...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/102921-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/102921-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/102921-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/102921-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/102921-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/102921-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/102921-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/102921-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/102921-9.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on October 30, 2021, 12:40:00 PM
Post by: driver on October 30, 2021, 12:40:00 PM
Great pics boss!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on October 30, 2021, 13:09:01 PM
Post by: Onslow on October 30, 2021, 13:09:01 PM
Lucky dawg. Early foliage and Fall leaf turn season are are my favs to be the woods. No time for play in this worker stretched environment. Praying for a recession.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 30, 2021, 21:03:10 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 30, 2021, 21:03:10 PM
#106
The streamer bite was slow. Someone might have been in earlier. I did catch a fish.
It was a feckless day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/103021-a-1.jpg)
Fresh footprints n!n PeopLE!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/103021-a-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/103021-a-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/103021-a-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/103021-a-5.jpg)
Nice place to camp on an island
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/103021-a-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/103021-a-7.jpg)
I enjoyed this festbier while listening to the river and looking at the fall colors
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/103021-a-10.jpg)
The crunch of fall on the way out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/103021-a-8.jpg)
The arsenal
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/103021-a-9.jpg)
Spectacular sunset on the drive home
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/10/103021-a-11.jpg)
I finished listening to All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr https://amzn.to/3ExY4qk
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 01, 2021, 17:56:10 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 01, 2021, 17:56:10 PM
#107
worked a lower reach with a streamer, got a bump and a bite, no fish to hand. I was planning to girdle bug on the way back up but the effects of the Moderna Booster that I got 4 hours early zapped my motivation.
On the drive I saw a Google Street View vechicle.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/110121-1.jpg)
On the river I saw a bald eagle
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/110121-2.jpg)
and some DSFK
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/110121-3.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 01, 2021, 19:13:56 PM
Post by: Dougfish on November 01, 2021, 19:13:56 PM
'c;
Got my Pfizer booster this AM. Meh.
Got my Pfizer booster this AM. Meh.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 05, 2021, 21:00:22 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 05, 2021, 21:00:22 PM
#110
54 degrees. Partly cloudy.
Getting in a few more hours before I head out to Harkers for some Albie fishing next week... d:b
Hit the lower reach, hooked several, a few came to hand, and one let me get a photo...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/110521-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/110521-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/110521-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/110521-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/110521-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 15, 2021, 08:53:00 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 15, 2021, 08:53:00 AM
#115 temp in the low 50s Gas $3.24
The rain made the river unfishable on Friday, but it was looking better on Saturday, so I took a chance and hit a lower section of the river. It was still heavily stained and flowing strong. I still thought streamers would produce. They didn't.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111321-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111321-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111321-3.jpg)
The rain made the river unfishable on Friday, but it was looking better on Saturday, so I took a chance and hit a lower section of the river. It was still heavily stained and flowing strong. I still thought streamers would produce. They didn't.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111321-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111321-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111321-3.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 15, 2021, 09:24:10 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 15, 2021, 09:24:10 AM
#116
Back to the usual beat. It's definitely fall and layers were required. The wind was wicked at the start but diminished when I got on the water. Full shade on the water in the afternoon now. I tied on a clouser and went to work.
I was feeling defeated after an hour without a strike, well maybe I had a grab or two. Then I started getting into some fish.
DSFK
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-1.jpg)
Abandoned vehicles
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-3.jpg)
The water was cold enough to bring out the nytril gloves.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-7.jpg)
A good evening of fishing with a handful of fish on a streamer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-15.jpg)
Back to the usual beat. It's definitely fall and layers were required. The wind was wicked at the start but diminished when I got on the water. Full shade on the water in the afternoon now. I tied on a clouser and went to work.
I was feeling defeated after an hour without a strike, well maybe I had a grab or two. Then I started getting into some fish.
DSFK
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-1.jpg)
Abandoned vehicles
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-3.jpg)
The water was cold enough to bring out the nytril gloves.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-7.jpg)
A good evening of fishing with a handful of fish on a streamer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111421-15.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 15, 2021, 19:14:48 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 15, 2021, 19:14:48 PM
#117 Sunny 48 degrees
mo·men·tum
the strength or force that something has when it is moving
forward momentum
The clouser I'm fishing is bigger than any that we used for the albies. The trout seem to like it. I got a good handful plus 4 or 5 more grabs in a couple of hours.
I was on my way down to the last run when I stumbled and as I tried to catch myself my momentum carried me forward and after falling to my knees I continued forward and broke my fall with my arms going in up past my elbows. As I regained my footing I scooped up a couple of gallons on water and I felt them run down and fill up my booties.
I was about mile from the car and almost quit, but I went on down and fished the last run. I didn't even get a bump.
Hiked out before the sunset
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111521-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111521-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111521-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/111521-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 15, 2021, 19:20:30 PM
Post by: Dougfish on November 15, 2021, 19:20:30 PM
Steady, big boy. Steady.
Don't want to be crayfish food.
Don't want to be crayfish food.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on November 15, 2021, 20:10:40 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on November 15, 2021, 20:10:40 PM
Good thing the river bottom stopped you quickly when you slipped :cheers I went in like that once and got a bunch of water in my waters and couldn't get back up the bank and was standing in waist deep water. I cut them open with a knife and was finally able to wallow back up the bank. I drove back to the campground naked in my truck.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 15, 2021, 20:46:20 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 15, 2021, 20:46:20 PM
Quote from: Trout Maharishi on November 15, 2021, 20:10:40 PMI drove back to the campground naked in my truck.
Isn't that the way you always roll? :Dance :Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on November 15, 2021, 22:54:22 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on November 15, 2021, 22:54:22 PM
No pants, my nuts always get caught up when I sit in one postion too long.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 23, 2021, 19:53:21 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 23, 2021, 19:53:21 PM
#118 40 degrees mostly sunny but I was in the shade...
Needed to stretch my legs, thought about boing low, but didn't want to run into people...
Lost some flies... two to sunken logs and one was a bad knot... fingers were cold...
Beavers have been busy, gnawing, blocking the trail and building a damn dam...
Had several better fish gulp, swipe and unbutton, before the one that hit the fly and found the weakness in my knot.
Finally caught a overachieving pune and called it a day as the sun was setting...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/112321-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/112321-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/112321-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/112321-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 26, 2021, 20:43:26 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 26, 2021, 20:43:26 PM
https://youtu.be/Vft5Az54r7g
#119 Gas $3.14
45 going in 40 coming out and windy
With the wind the only logical choice was to throw a streamer, but I kept seeing the trout rise to miniscule BWOs and after several blow ups and bumps on the streamer I rigged up a 6x leader and tied on a #20 fly only then did I realize that all of my floatant and magic dust was missing from my vest as I had removed all that stuff when I started concentrating on streamers. Anyway, I gave it shot and I did get a couple of fish to rise to my fly but it was difficult to see my fly on the water and the wind was brutal at times. I crossed over into some sunshine on the far bank and rerigged with a #2 clouser and headed to the last run of the day.
I hooked up and landed what is the best fish I've caught on this section in over 28 years. d:b
https://vimeo.com/650480965
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/112621-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/112621-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/112621-3.jpg)
I fished on for a while and got a couple more grabs and bumps but it was a one fish day.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on November 26, 2021, 21:26:17 PM
Post by: Onslow on November 26, 2021, 21:26:17 PM
Love that color. What a beauty!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on November 26, 2021, 22:54:04 PM
Post by: creakycane on November 26, 2021, 22:54:04 PM
Heck of a fish for that section. Darn rare. Congrats!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on November 27, 2021, 08:32:24 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on November 27, 2021, 08:32:24 AM
Nice brown!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on November 27, 2021, 09:25:27 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on November 27, 2021, 09:25:27 AM
One fish day is great when the one is a beauty like that. Congrats!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on November 27, 2021, 16:58:50 PM
Post by: Fishbug on November 27, 2021, 16:58:50 PM
V:;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 27, 2021, 19:34:21 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 27, 2021, 19:34:21 PM
https://youtu.be/DmcYTShN4Fk
#120 50s
I looked for another unicorn, nobody was interested, I got hung up on some submerged structure and my versa leader broke at a wind knot. instead of repairing it I switched over to fish the bwo/midge hatch, size 24. Lots of fish were sipping in the slack water. It required a lot of patience, perfect drifts and some luck. The bugs would come in spurts, with mini frenzies followed by spells of inactivity. I got chilled standing still in the run and quit after catching enough to stop for the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/112721-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/112721-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/112721-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/112721-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/112721-5.jpg)
These fish were just as rewarding as the one I caught the other day. Perhaps even more so, since I was casting to each of them and watched them take the fly.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 29, 2021, 09:09:32 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 29, 2021, 09:09:32 AM
#121 Gas $3.16 58 and partly cloudy
I smelled the smoke from the Pilot Mt. fire as I drove up to the river. I was hoping it would be under control, but it continues to burn in the dry windy conditions.
I went in down low and was searching optimistically but didn't see a fish all afternoon. Skunk number 3 on the year.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/112821-1.jpg)
the sunset was spectacular, assume that the smoke from the fire helped with this display.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/112821-2.jpg)
overnight the Grindstone fire at Pilot Mountain climbed the knob...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/pmf.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/pmf2.jfif)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/pmf3.jfif)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/pmf4.jfif)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on November 29, 2021, 18:30:00 PM
Post by: driver on November 29, 2021, 18:30:00 PM
I hate humans. (Pilot Mtn fire)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on November 29, 2021, 20:04:21 PM
Post by: Onslow on November 29, 2021, 20:04:21 PM
Fires are still very visible from I 77 as if this evening.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 29, 2021, 23:03:15 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 29, 2021, 23:03:15 PM
Quote from: driver on November 29, 2021, 18:30:00 PMI hate humans. (Pilot Mtn fire)
[instagram] https://www.instagram.com/p/CW4rwUjgvUx/?utm_medium=copy_link[/instagram]
QuoteHolt reiterated earlier reports that the fire, which started Saturday near the park's Grindstone Trail, was "human caused in some form." Law enforcement officers with the fire service will investigate in an effort to pinpoint what sparked the blaze, he added.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 30, 2021, 19:46:02 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 30, 2021, 19:46:02 PM
#122 58 - 48 partly cloudy Gas $3.14
Last day of November was mild. It's a challenge to get the layers right as most of the fishing is done in the shade.
War birds in the sky, three of them jetted overhead as I was gearing up.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/113021-1.jpg)
I headed on down to the lower run and swung and stripped streamers. I had a blow-up and a coupled of grabs which came right at the end of a strip.
Beavers are extending their damn dam
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/113021-2.jpg)
There weren't many midge / bwo sippers out today, so I continued the streamer game and then began my hike out. I stopped at one of the last riffles and watched the water. There were a lot of fish actively feeding on the surface. Mostly punes I figured, but not wanting another skunk I rigged the rod with 6x and a pink parachute bwo. The fish liked the fly and the catching began. For the next hour I whacked a good number of fish and then after the official sunset the hatch diminished and no more fish were seen rising. Browns on dry flies on the last day of the eleventh month.
:Dance V:; -+;
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/113021-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/113021-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/113021-5.jpg)
They are all so pretty...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/11/113021-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 30, 2021, 20:40:25 PM
Post by: Dougfish on November 30, 2021, 20:40:25 PM
Bravo.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 01, 2021, 08:39:08 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 01, 2021, 08:39:08 AM
The Pilot Mountain fire has reached the 1000 acre mark at this point from what I have seen advertised. Initially, this was a little unnerving as I only live a few miles down Hwy 52 from the mountain. It seems as if they may have it under some degree of control, I sure hope so.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 03, 2021, 22:43:17 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 03, 2021, 22:43:17 PM
https://youtu.be/z4rQVnFF5zk
#123 70 degrees and sunny.
It was hot, the weather, not the fishing.
Riverbum wanted to check out the smifff and we met up on the river around 10 and hit some low spots. There was a bit of hazy cloud cover to begin but that burned off and it turned into a hot bright high UV day. The Bum went with a streamer, and I was throwing a tandem stonefly rig. We worked the water methodically and came up empty handed, well almost. I did catch one fish.
After about three hours, we broke for lunch and went with plan b as in bwo and we headed upriver to find finicky fish rising to impossibly small flies.
The bum got on the board and caught a few, missed a few while I managed to bring several to hand.
here is what the day looked like..
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120321-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120321-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120321-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120321-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120321-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120321-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120321-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120321-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120321-9.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on December 04, 2021, 11:05:32 AM
Post by: Onslow on December 04, 2021, 11:05:32 AM
Spawning time y'all...I guess. Bow time.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 04, 2021, 21:44:50 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 04, 2021, 21:44:50 PM
#124 64 with a slight overcast.
On the drive up I got a text from @Dougfish, he was fishing and had commented on the trail work that had been done by sending a photo of the river and a beer. I said I would be there in an hour.
There were two vehicles in the lot, one was Doug's, and as I hiked in, I found a net lying in the trail. I figured it was the "other" guy's. I saw him up above Doug and hollered out, "Is this your net" as I held it up. He replied in the affirmative and I walked over and placed it on the bank before continuing on down to the run Doug was working. His name is Will and he's from Durham.
There were plenty of bugs on the water and a lot of fish were sipping them in the flat slow glide. I tried to catch on with the fly I had on from last night, and one took a swipe at it on the first cast, but after that initial positive sign the other fish ignored it.
I finally gave up and declared it "Beer Thirty" and we took a break, changed flies ate a snad, and drank a beer.
Then it was back to casting and trying to hook these picky fish on a #22 bwo parachute. I missed a bunch and finally hooked one in a pectoral fin. Later redeemed myself with several in the lip. Then a bunch unbuttoned and I finally inspected the fly. The mustad hook had bent open, and as Croaker would say, "You were fishing on credit"
After a good handful of fish it was time for another beer and we watched the river boil with rising fish. Will passed on the way down to the lower run and we chatted for a while, he was fishing a #16 BWO, way to big, so I gave him one of my #22s and he was on his way.
Doug was swinging a soft hackle and I continued to get fish to rise to my fly, some got hooked and some of those came to hand.
Dough had to leave early and I walked out with him, stopping as the diagonal run where I fished yesterday. It wsn't haappening this day and after working the area blind casting for a while I headed on back down to where I started, "Don't leave fish to find fish"
I caught three more and then called it quits as the sun had set all activity on the water ceased.
it sort of looked like this....
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120421-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120421-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120421-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120421-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120421-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120421-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120421-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120421-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120421-10.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 05, 2021, 09:42:16 AM
Post by: Dougfish on December 05, 2021, 09:42:16 AM
54
I had been away too long.
Saturday crowds be damned.
I did not rush out the door and found one vehicle in the lot. Did not see him along the river, but did see two kayak fishermen as I hiked down WB's newly hacked path.
Stashed the beer cooler and waded down.
Euro day. First fish took a while. Damn low flows!
(https://i.imgur.com/uWlsaFw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/m7OW456.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/AaeW23M.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xMnX7Wi.jpg)
Stuck 4 and waded back up to meet WB. Saw someone else going in (to high hole us?).
so I waded back out to claim the territory. :P
WB appeared shortly with the lost net and the tiny BWO assault began.
(https://i.imgur.com/anTEmDE.jpg)
He went dry, I switched reels to the regular fly line and swung a little soft hackle.
(https://i.imgur.com/z8Rus4p.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TiTnnTt.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/uS4swTB.jpg)
I had to boogie at 3:30 for family obligations.
Finished with double digit feesh, good times with woowie,
a smile on my face and a clear head.
(https://i.imgur.com/4WRo5y3.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 06, 2021, 21:38:32 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 06, 2021, 21:38:32 PM
#125 68 degrees partly cloudy
I needed to finish an audio book, so I took a drive and ended up on the river.
Was feeling a bit sluggish, and didn't hike too far, I thought I'd catch a fish and go home.
I caught two on the surface #18 CDC bwo...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120621-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120621-2.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 09, 2021, 19:36:51 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 09, 2021, 19:36:51 PM
#126 40 and cloudy
spent a couple of hours tossing a tandem rubber legs - drop shot rig and came up empty handed. Thought about going in for some BWO action, and started in that direction, but the hour was late and I headed to some closer water.
First fish was the best, but not so good on the photos, three more came to hand and I headed home.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120921-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120921-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/120921-3.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 11, 2021, 09:50:53 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 11, 2021, 09:50:53 AM
https://youtu.be/TiQUnxNEDqk
#127 52 and heavy overcast
It looked like a BWO day for sure and I got on the road. I was on the trail by 1:00. There was a car in the lot.
I saw a lot of sippers on the walk in along with several new redds.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121021-1.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/655571629
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121021-2.jpg)
As I approached my destination, I saw that there was a fisherman in my run. He was euro nymphing. I hit the holes up above him with the rubber legs that I had on from yesterday. I caught a couple.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121021-3.jpg)
I moved on down and the kid in the run came up on the trail wearing his ORVIS waders to talk to me. He is from outside Roanoke and was fishing his new ORVIS euro rod trying to figure it out. He was switching ORVIS leaders and trying dry / dropper after having issues with "feeling" the fish when euro fishing. I mentioned the George Danials / Tom Rosenbauer video and he said he had watched it, I told him to watch it again... and I moved on down.
The beavers have been busy and there is a good chance they will complete their dam across the entire river if the flows remain constant.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121021-4.jpg)
I caught a couple more on the rubber legs before switching over to the tiny stuff. I tied on a #22 BWO parachute and cast to the sippers in the slack water across the run. A handful rose to the fly and sipped it in.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121021-5.jpg)
I moved up around the kid who was working one spot for a long time and hit another run that was lit up with rising fish. Most were taking emergers but they readily took the parachute and I caught another handful in short order.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121021-6.jpg)
Things began to slow down, and I was having difficulty seeing my fly on the water. I checked the time, 4:50. I hiked out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121021-7.jpg)
The kid was about 15 minutes behind me.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on December 12, 2021, 09:59:40 AM
Post by: Fishbug on December 12, 2021, 09:59:40 AM
I wonder what kind of wading boots he had?
River looking healthy
River looking healthy
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 12, 2021, 10:25:00 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 12, 2021, 10:25:00 AM
Quote from: Fishbug on December 12, 2021, 09:59:40 AMI wonder what kind of wading boots he had?
River looking healthy
Clarity has improved a lot
I didn't look but I'd bet he had orvis boots on — his other rod is a Helios <-;:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on December 12, 2021, 11:02:19 AM
Post by: Fishbug on December 12, 2021, 11:02:19 AM
Whorvis got him hook, line, and sinker—-hope they serve him good.
Got a love hate w Orvis. Some good stuff, a lot overpriced, GREAT customer service/warranty, the Roanoke store gives me the creeps.
Test casted the Helios at a demo thing a year or so ago—-wasn't that impressed.
Got a love hate w Orvis. Some good stuff, a lot overpriced, GREAT customer service/warranty, the Roanoke store gives me the creeps.
Test casted the Helios at a demo thing a year or so ago—-wasn't that impressed.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on December 12, 2021, 17:30:24 PM
Post by: Phil on December 12, 2021, 17:30:24 PM
Quote"I moved on down and the kid in the run came up on the trail wearing his ORVIS waders to talk to me. He is from outside Roanoke and was fishing his new ORVIS euro rod trying to figure it out. He was switching ORVIS leaders and trying dry / dropper after having issues with "feeling" the fish when euro fishing."
I'm having trouble "feeling" the fish, seeing if the leader moves or stops, casting, and everything else with the Euro rig. So far, every time I've used mine -- I end up switching reels to a conventional setup so I can keep from getting skunked. Prolly gonna just go back to my 9' 5 weight. b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 12, 2021, 21:57:06 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 12, 2021, 21:57:06 PM
@Phil
https://youtu.be/IIjEIogvzHM
#128 low 50s, sunny skies...
Oh crap, two cars in the lot; one VA and the other NC...
I was headed down the trail and hadn't seen anybody, stopped at the first good riffle and watched the water for a while. There were a few trout rising and as I moved closer, I could see tons of tiny BWO mayflies on the water. The trout were mostly sipping emergers and only occasionally taking a dun. I cast away and got three to hand in no time at all.
Then they started getting picky and I may have pushed the fish out to the far side. My catch rate slowed way down and I changed flies while battling the wind and trying to get a decent drift. It was maddening as they would rise and take a natural just inches from my fly. I caught a couple more before heading on downstream.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121221-1.jpg)
Before I got to the next spot, I saw two anglers working their way upstream so that put a halt to my plans
I turned around and headed back to the spot where I had just come from. I spent a lot of time just watching and only manages to get a couple more to take my fly.
https://youtu.be/ZHwVBirqD2s
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121221-2.jpg)
Checked out a few more spots on the way out but it had shut completely down.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121221-3.jpg)
Back at the lot, I ran into the anglers that were below me, Will from Durham and his cousin Ben from Raleigh. The other day I had given Will one of my #22 BWO parachutes, which he said he had caught a couple of fish with but broke it off on a hook set.
https://youtu.be/IIjEIogvzHM
#128 low 50s, sunny skies...
Oh crap, two cars in the lot; one VA and the other NC...
I was headed down the trail and hadn't seen anybody, stopped at the first good riffle and watched the water for a while. There were a few trout rising and as I moved closer, I could see tons of tiny BWO mayflies on the water. The trout were mostly sipping emergers and only occasionally taking a dun. I cast away and got three to hand in no time at all.
Then they started getting picky and I may have pushed the fish out to the far side. My catch rate slowed way down and I changed flies while battling the wind and trying to get a decent drift. It was maddening as they would rise and take a natural just inches from my fly. I caught a couple more before heading on downstream.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121221-1.jpg)
Before I got to the next spot, I saw two anglers working their way upstream so that put a halt to my plans
I turned around and headed back to the spot where I had just come from. I spent a lot of time just watching and only manages to get a couple more to take my fly.
https://youtu.be/ZHwVBirqD2s
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121221-2.jpg)
Checked out a few more spots on the way out but it had shut completely down.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121221-3.jpg)
Back at the lot, I ran into the anglers that were below me, Will from Durham and his cousin Ben from Raleigh. The other day I had given Will one of my #22 BWO parachutes, which he said he had caught a couple of fish with but broke it off on a hook set.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 14, 2021, 09:19:32 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 14, 2021, 09:19:32 AM
#129 Gas $3.12 Mid 50s to 45 as the sun went down.
I've always had cold toes even in the milder fall days my feet are freezing by the end of the day. I've looked at all sorts of electric socks but wasn't ready to strap a li-ion battery, with the potential to catch fire) to my calf inside my waders. Then there would be the issue of comfort, feeling wires inside the sock would drive me nuts. Recently a friend posted a photo of his app controlled heated socks and touted their design, comfort and the ability to control them with an app. Now I've looked at all of these things coming out of China and have been skeptical but decided to take the plunge and ordered a pair and gave them a tryout on a relatively warm day, but the water is still cold, right?
The batteries are housed in a hard plastic shell with an on/off/power-control button, so the socks can be operated without the app. They came 1/2 charged and took a while to reach full capacity using the included dual usb charging cord. I plugged it into an iPad charger for several hours.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121321-1.jpg)
These are a medium weight acrylic blend with plenty of stretch and held weight of the battery without slipping down.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121321-2.jpg)
With the app, it was easy to turn the heat on and off and even raise the temperature as needed. I was in the water for about three and a half hours with the heat set on low most of the time, only raising it up to check out the app and feel the warmth. My toes stayed toasty. I just hope that the socks last and the wires don't break with all the use I plan to give them.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121321-3.jpg)
Yesterday there were plenty of bwos on the water, today, not so much and I didn't see any trout rise. I moved on down and tied on a streamer and worked my way back up to where I hoped there would be a hatch in the evening. I caught three browns and lost two clousers to wood on the bottom.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121321-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121321-5.jpg)
I switched over to a dry fly after losing the second streamer and waited for a fish to rise. I spotted a trio way down below reach and a couple within possible range. I moved into position and made my cast. I caught one on a dry fly and called it a day, it was 4:40.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121321-6.jpg)
The socks had performed well and were comfortable and had about 1/2 charge left. They are supposed to be washed by hand or machine washed in the provided garment bag, although hand washing is recommended. I'll probably use a wicking liner sock with them in the future. I don't plan to wash them after every use. d:b
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121321-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 14, 2021, 10:03:32 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 14, 2021, 10:03:32 AM
here you can see a number of fish on the redds. These steady flows without damn dam releases are sure to produce a bumper crop.
https://vimeo.com/656614965
https://vimeo.com/656614965
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 14, 2021, 22:07:25 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 14, 2021, 22:07:25 PM
https://youtu.be/-s9UgrFHPMY
#130 Gas $3.05 mid 60s, not a cloud in the sky
It was almost too late to go, but I went anyway with plans to hit the closer sections of the river. When I arrived at the first spot I found a fly fisherman standing in the main run. I took some time to watch him while I rigged up, before moving on down to a hit or miss spot. Today it was a miss.
I ran down with rubber legs and then again tossing a streamer.
I bailed that section and hit one last spot.
I was beginning to think this would be a skunk day, when I got a little bump. A pune took the clouser.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121421-1.jpg)
And that was all that happened as the day was winding down.
I headed back up to the head of the run and gave it one last shot.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121421-2.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on December 15, 2021, 02:08:22 AM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on December 15, 2021, 02:08:22 AM
Skynyrd is under rated.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 15, 2021, 17:04:34 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 15, 2021, 17:04:34 PM
Fished near the damned dam this morning. Imagine that, I caught a beat up stocker 'bow. Pretty well happens every time.
There has to be some huge browns in that spillway area. I fished some bigger stuff for a while. My waders leak horribly bad.
While sitting in my truck, a baby raccoon crossed the road. Neato.
13B13468-2782-4D51-9F21-60BB61712996.jpeg
D3F5CA5D-6A65-47C3-A024-87322EAA81FD.jpeg
376BAB14-2BC7-4C83-AAE5-D0FB38C0AF3B.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 16, 2021, 00:10:03 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 16, 2021, 00:10:03 AM
There was a good-sized dead flathead catfish floating at the spillway yesterday morning. I wonder how many of those are in the river eating trout?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 16, 2021, 19:21:12 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 16, 2021, 19:21:12 PM
Hit it again this morning. Fished hard from about 9:30-3:15.
Had some success. A few good gusts of wind brought some really noticeably warm air to the river almost immediately after it done its blowing.
Sized down tippet and flies today. Also trying to be much more mindful of casting direction, direction of approach to the run for spooking purposes (shadow), and trying not to muddy up anything close to the area I plan to work with the fly.
A fella told me he hooked a 13-14lb brown sort of recently. He held his hands out to demonstrate the fish's length. He said it got off and that he'd hooked it on a plug with spinning gear.
Seen a handful of fishermen total in the river. Also, the spillway looked like the pier at the ocean with all the guys sitting at it staring at spinning rods with bait chunked in the water at the base of the dam.
Good day today. After about 11:00 or so the fish seemed to turn off. Maybe it was just me.
C7743BA4-E5DE-4AF2-AB35-6D0F1AD0BA36.jpeg
21920403-BCE2-448E-8C8F-76BBC61087D7.jpeg
B9E73B20-8572-40F4-A0C8-B48289FA27B7.jpeg
CCE0EE70-9A03-494B-B010-18C9FA889557.jpeg
075C95B5-3D3D-4083-9FA4-40E2F752E78B.jpeg
88C8DAA7-2757-4751-A0CB-0C03C585F977.jpeg
8CD9EF25-24A2-4859-BFF9-787EFE10B12D.jpeg
F4D8FA20-73EC-48DA-96BE-5801FF5629B4.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 16, 2021, 20:01:46 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 16, 2021, 20:01:46 PM
#131 Gas $3.05 68 degrees, mostly sunny.
Driver and I met up on a lower reach of the river and he went in after a fish with a new fly. He had a score to settle.
I rigged up the euro with a new tie for me, the Get Down Pat's, a tungsten bead, lead wrapped, jig hook version of Pat's Rubber Legs.
I worked the likely spots for quite a while before connecting with a trout.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121621-1.jpg)
We didn't see another fish and the Driver headed out to another location while I stayed behind and covered some more water. I caught another trout and then headed out to fish up with the Driver.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121621-2.jpg)
He was coming out as I arrived and he headed on home, he had caught one. I fished for a while but it was impossible to see the sighter in the low light, so I called it and headed on home.
We were hoping for some BWO hatches, but with the hot and sunny weather it may not happen.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 17, 2021, 08:29:08 AM
Post by: Dougfish on December 17, 2021, 08:29:08 AM
56
It was forecasted to be overcast. And I had tied up some #24 BWO's.
It was not overcast. b'; I went anyhow. :laugh:
Not in a hurry. Arrived at 11:15.
Three vehicles in the lot. No one seen on the river.
Euro rod with the two reels.
Took my pruners and cleaned up the new section of Woolly's trail.
Also flushed a bunch of turkeys that flew across the river.
Not much happening on top. A smattering of midges and BWO's.
More winter stones were active than anything else.
But, I've never seen a fish take an adult.
Can you throw me a bone?
(https://i.imgur.com/VV2jN6s.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/kgR8msA.jpg)
Huge redds.
(https://i.imgur.com/ALguwqK.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/5JFG6T0.jpg)
Ho, ho, ho.
(https://i.imgur.com/eqQp06l.jpg)
The gaggle.
(https://i.imgur.com/o4vtiA9.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Gkzqpb7.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ZNVBguN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QbIpbb8.jpg)
The gaggle squawked below me and I turned to see an eagle flying upstream.
(https://i.imgur.com/WSud32C.jpg)
I worked up the river and swung a brace of soft hackles below, and through a good run.
Landed one and missed a couple more. I broke off a really nice fish in the money run.
Too much pepper? Bad knot? I'll be back for that bad boy.
Licked my wounds and hiked out at 4:30.
5 to hand, approaching 10 stung or lost.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 17, 2021, 12:13:42 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 17, 2021, 12:13:42 PM
Of all the outdoor time I've spent in my life, I've still yet to see a bald eagle in person.
I did see plenty of turkeys yesterday. And I'm kicking my own ass for not going today. Things happen.
I did see plenty of turkeys yesterday. And I'm kicking my own ass for not going today. Things happen.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 17, 2021, 18:12:14 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 17, 2021, 18:12:14 PM
Also meant to make mention of that didymo factor in the Smith. I hate that shit.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 17, 2021, 18:40:21 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 17, 2021, 18:40:21 PM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on December 17, 2021, 12:13:42 PMOf all the outdoor time I've spent in my life, I've still yet to see a bald eagle in person.I've seen dozens of eagles. Rivers and lakes out here, lots along the salty sections of the Potomac. Rapp, York and James. One of my favs was a big boy sitting on a road kill deer in the right lane of a 4 lane state highway. Would not move, unlike the vultures.
I did see plenty of turkeys yesterday. And I'm kicking my own ass for not going today. Things happen.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 17, 2021, 19:57:51 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 17, 2021, 19:57:51 PM
57
Too warm. Overcast sky was finally moving in. Rain showers?
I was planning on going, so I did.
Beat WB there by 1 1/2 hour.
Decided at the last minute to take the 9' 4 wt.
Got to the destination riverside and discovered I needed to build my leader out.
3x to 4x, 4x to 5x, 5x to 6x.
Waded down to indicator nymph the lower run.
Took a while, but scored a really heavy, strong fish to start.
(https://i.imgur.com/BTiJZI1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XOHforC.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/E2oFArO.jpg)
Don't be cared to fish big shit.
(https://i.imgur.com/qHfIdib.jpg)
Hodgmans suck. Humans suck.
(https://i.imgur.com/1DQV2YJ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/m0a5742.jpg)
A young fella hopped in above me. He was lazer focused.
Not sure he noticed me for a while.
WB appeared on the trail above him.
I treated him a Mad Elf beer and the wife's undefeated gingerbread cookie.
Tied on some 7x and the stupid small fly.
(https://i.imgur.com/rgAJm4E.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MaN7Mbf.jpg)
I moved up to the run I lost the nice fish on yesterday.
(https://i.imgur.com/B5OE8Fe.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Q0SbjTs.jpg)
I got nothing. Not a sniff.
WB joined me for some unrequited flogging for picky fish.
We hiked out at 4:20.
A lot less fish rising. A lot less looks at our flies.
Time to work on emerger patterns.....
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 17, 2021, 21:59:47 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 17, 2021, 21:59:47 PM
#132 Gas $3.12 65 and overcast
The cloud cover was perfect, and I was hoping for some major BWO activity, but as Dougfish said, it was way too warm for December.
There were a bunch of vehicles in the lot, so a number of fair-weather anglers were taking advantage of the conditions.
I had a streamer tied on, so that's what I started out with in the first riffle I came to. Third cast and I hooked a nice brown.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121721-1.jpg)
On the next cast I watched a fish take a swipe at the fly and then after a few more cast I had another grab. I landed another trout and had one more bump before I covered all of that section.
I moved on down and spied the young guy working the water above Doug. I wanted to high-hole him and hit a couple of spots, but after studying him for a while I realized he was moving upstream.
When I got down to Doug it was beer thirty and we drank and watched the water as fish began to rise. I hit the head of the run with the streamer to see if anybody was interested. Nobody took a look today and I switched to a dry fly to fish to the risers below. They were punes and picky at that so after a good effort I decided it was time to try the Mad Elf that Doug had brought for me.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121721-2.jpg)
Dough continued to fish, and I waded out to chat. I was listening to him and watching as he began to reel his right-hand retrieve reel counterclockwise. I thought that was strange but so is right-hand retrieve. What do I know? After a while he realized what he had done as his line was now totally back lashed all the way down to the backing. He took it to the bank and sat down and spent the next fifteen minutes straightening his jumbled line out. I wanted to take a photo, but he was adamant that I now show this fiasco. So I told him I would just write about it.
I played around with the slow water risers for a while as Doug ventured back upstream.
Nothing was happening up there, so we hiked out.
I figured those Hodgman waders might have belonged to Eric with a K and were "waders of shame" d:b
The cloud cover was perfect, and I was hoping for some major BWO activity, but as Dougfish said, it was way too warm for December.
There were a bunch of vehicles in the lot, so a number of fair-weather anglers were taking advantage of the conditions.
I had a streamer tied on, so that's what I started out with in the first riffle I came to. Third cast and I hooked a nice brown.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121721-1.jpg)
On the next cast I watched a fish take a swipe at the fly and then after a few more cast I had another grab. I landed another trout and had one more bump before I covered all of that section.
I moved on down and spied the young guy working the water above Doug. I wanted to high-hole him and hit a couple of spots, but after studying him for a while I realized he was moving upstream.
When I got down to Doug it was beer thirty and we drank and watched the water as fish began to rise. I hit the head of the run with the streamer to see if anybody was interested. Nobody took a look today and I switched to a dry fly to fish to the risers below. They were punes and picky at that so after a good effort I decided it was time to try the Mad Elf that Doug had brought for me.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121721-2.jpg)
Dough continued to fish, and I waded out to chat. I was listening to him and watching as he began to reel his right-hand retrieve reel counterclockwise. I thought that was strange but so is right-hand retrieve. What do I know? After a while he realized what he had done as his line was now totally back lashed all the way down to the backing. He took it to the bank and sat down and spent the next fifteen minutes straightening his jumbled line out. I wanted to take a photo, but he was adamant that I now show this fiasco. So I told him I would just write about it.
I played around with the slow water risers for a while as Doug ventured back upstream.
Nothing was happening up there, so we hiked out.
I figured those Hodgman waders might have belonged to Eric with a K and were "waders of shame" d:b
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 17, 2021, 22:14:27 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 17, 2021, 22:14:27 PM
I am an idiot. That is all. :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 17, 2021, 23:05:43 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 17, 2021, 23:05:43 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on December 17, 2021, 18:40:21 PMQuote from: Dee-Vo on December 17, 2021, 12:13:42 PMOf all the outdoor time I've spent in my life, I've still yet to see a bald eagle in person.I've seen dozens of eagles. Rivers and lakes out here, lots along the salty sections of the Potomac. Rapp, York and James. One of my favs was a big boy sitting on a road kill deer in the right lane of a 4 lane state highway. Would not move, unlike the vultures.
I did see plenty of turkeys yesterday. And I'm kicking my own ass for not going today. Things happen.
There's a popular eagle's nest not too far from me high in a tree on the banks of the Yadkin. I've seen the nest. No eagle.
Also, several months ago, a friend of mine seen one flying over his yard multiple times. That's only a few miles from my residence.
I really wish I would've fished today.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 18, 2021, 10:58:46 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 18, 2021, 10:58:46 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on December 17, 2021, 22:14:27 PMI am an idiot. That is all. :laugh:
You were just absentminded and under the influence of Mad Elf! <-;:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on December 18, 2021, 15:51:48 PM
Post by: Phil on December 18, 2021, 15:51:48 PM
Nah, Doug was just getting his just reward for setting his reel up wrong side/ wrong way.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 19, 2021, 23:04:53 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 19, 2021, 23:04:53 PM
https://youtu.be/V7xWCqLNDc0
#133 45 overcast to sunny
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121921-1.jpg)
I was hoping that a couple of days of gloomy weather would kick the bwos into high gear. I left home in the rain with the anticipation of arriving just as the worst of the weather passed. I had tied up some emerger patterns and I put the #24 barr's and #20 sippers on the threaders in the C&F box. Then I finished gearing up with some layers as it was 20 degrees cooler than the last time I was here.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121921-2.jpg)
I hiked on in, stopping at a deep run to study the water, it was running clear and there were several fish hitting the surface. You might say, "Things are looking up".
I looked at the redds and watched a dominate fish chase all other away from a female that was holding steady.
https://vimeo.com/658452044
I looked at the next riffle and didn't see too much activity, so I went on down where I saw a good number of fish working the hatch.
I had some early success catching some punes with the bwo parachute that was already on the rod, but I wanted to try one of the new emergers that I had tied. I went to open my vest pocket, Oh, crap. I left the fly box in the car. Now I was a mile down the river with only one fly. Damn. I briefly entertained the idea of hiking out to get it. That thought evaporated and I continued to fish with my one fly brining in a handful of picky punes.
https://vimeo.com/658453836
The sun was coming out and the fish were slowing down all too soon. I began to work my way out and caught several more at the first run before things shut down completely.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121921-4.jpg)
Fly box was right where I left it...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/121921-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on December 20, 2021, 10:04:58 AM
Post by: Fishbug on December 20, 2021, 10:04:58 AM
Sz 24; 7x --- what is this the SOHO?! How you old farts seeing those tiny things :o
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on December 20, 2021, 10:11:43 AM
Post by: Phil on December 20, 2021, 10:11:43 AM
Quote from: Fishbug on December 20, 2021, 10:04:58 AMSz 24; 7x --- what is this the SOHO?! How you old farts seeing those tiny things :o
:o 'c; X2. I can't see 'em, tie 'em on, or fish 'em. Tried a few days ago on the Watauga. Jeeze. I'll wait until there's some durn HATCHES.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on December 20, 2021, 11:04:27 AM
Post by: Big J on December 20, 2021, 11:04:27 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on December 17, 2021, 21:59:47 PMFirst time fishing with Doug? :P
After a while he realized what he had done as his line was now totally back lashed all the way down to the backing. He took it to the bank and sat down and spent the next fifteen minutes straightening his jumbled line out. I wanted to take a photo, but he was adamant that I now show this fiasco. So I told him I would just write about it.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on December 20, 2021, 19:15:22 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on December 20, 2021, 19:15:22 PM
Very neat videos of the spawning activity. 👍
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 20, 2021, 21:52:04 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 20, 2021, 21:52:04 PM
#134 37 sunny
As I was walking out along the field I started to slip and slide, it took a moment to realize that ice was forming on the felt soles of the boots and sliding on the grass. It was a quarter past five, hard to believe how fast the temperature dropped.
With no wind and strong sun, the 37 degrees felt warm on the walk in. I checked all the spots going in and didn't see any risers so I decided to go with streamers.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122021-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122021-2.jpg)
I worked it hard for over two hours and all I came up with was 2 or 3 grabs. Down at the last run, I spied some sippers on the far side. I switched out to a Frog's Fanny 9.5' 7x leader and tied on a Sipper BWO Emerger. They liked it and I caught a handful. Standing balls deep in the run I concluded that it's time to start wearing fleece pants.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122021-3.jpg)
too cold to hold the fish... :o
I moved on up and hit another run with a sizable number of fish rising. I peppered the first hookset and broke that fragile tippet. By the time I tied on a replacement the fish had all but shut down.
I was approaching 5 and the sun was well behind the ridge when I left the river.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122021-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 21, 2021, 10:04:07 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 21, 2021, 10:04:07 AM
I've had a few ass-busters due to the frozen felt in my time. I hope to hit the Smith again on Thursday with @buddy_25_99 if all works out.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 21, 2021, 19:16:23 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 21, 2021, 19:16:23 PM
58
https://youtu.be/weQzykjA7zg
Back in July, Keith I were fishing the crap out the Sulfur hatch. I was hoping to get to 50 trips this year, he to 100. He wasn't too far ahead of me at that time.
Since then, he has mashed the pedal to the metal. I'm at 58, he's at 135.
Reminded me of the scenario in the above episode. Advance to 50:40 - 52:40 if you don't want to watch it all.
(Although, I highly recommend the entire 10 part series.)
Parliment/Funkadelic concerts grew very elaborate.
They were cramming as many people on the stage as possible.
Other groups struggled to keep up.
Here the head man for the Ohio Players admits "P-Funk came with the bomb.
It was too much. We just couldn't hang."
WB came with the bomb this year. :bow :bow :bow
We fished today in perfect weather for a BWO hatch.
Nada. Nothing happening. Very quiet day. Even the kingfisher was silent.
I was very hardheaded and determined to fish some new patterns.
Switched to some sure things. Not today, asshole.
I wear the skunk.
Keith did better because he moved around.
I'll be back for redemption. :laugh:
https://youtu.be/weQzykjA7zg
Back in July, Keith I were fishing the crap out the Sulfur hatch. I was hoping to get to 50 trips this year, he to 100. He wasn't too far ahead of me at that time.
Since then, he has mashed the pedal to the metal. I'm at 58, he's at 135.
Reminded me of the scenario in the above episode. Advance to 50:40 - 52:40 if you don't want to watch it all.
(Although, I highly recommend the entire 10 part series.)
Parliment/Funkadelic concerts grew very elaborate.
They were cramming as many people on the stage as possible.
Other groups struggled to keep up.
Here the head man for the Ohio Players admits "P-Funk came with the bomb.
It was too much. We just couldn't hang."
WB came with the bomb this year. :bow :bow :bow
We fished today in perfect weather for a BWO hatch.
Nada. Nothing happening. Very quiet day. Even the kingfisher was silent.
I was very hardheaded and determined to fish some new patterns.
Switched to some sure things. Not today, asshole.
I wear the skunk.
Keith did better because he moved around.
I'll be back for redemption. :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 21, 2021, 21:41:03 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 21, 2021, 21:41:03 PM
https://youtu.be/NCtzkaL2t_Y
#135 35 ~ 41 cloudy
My audio book loan was due back this afternoon and I had 4 hours left. I managed to finish up by the time I arrived at the river.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122121-1.jpg)
You would think, like Doug and I that this was going to be a banner BWO day with tons of bugs and a plethora of trout gobbling them up.
But that didn't happen. Fortunately, I had a backup plan and I got some bumps on the rubber legs and hooked a nice fish that took me into the weeds and came off the barbless hook. I left a couple of them hooked on submerged wood and did a lot of rerigging before heading down to join Doug for a snad and a beer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122121-8.jpg)
Doug went after the few sippers out on the flat water with his new fly ties and I headed down to a decent run.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122121-7.jpg)
First cast, bam!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122121-2.jpg)
More fish came to hand as I worked over this section.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122121-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122121-4.jpg)
It was getting late in the afternoon and if the bugs were going to come off it should happen soon. I headed back to check on Doug. We began our hike out with plans to check several spots. Nothing was happening there either, so I continued to nymph and only managed one more hand.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122121-6.jpg)
Doug headed up further with hopes of finding a willing fish to break his skunk of a day.
Bugger 8 or 9, Dougfish 0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on December 22, 2021, 10:44:34 AM
Post by: Fishbug on December 22, 2021, 10:44:34 AM
River looks like its fishing goooood-----may head down there Thurs afternoon :wave
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on December 22, 2021, 18:24:53 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on December 22, 2021, 18:24:53 PM
Thanks for sharing your adventures men. I enjoy looking at the pictures and try to figure out where you were.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 22, 2021, 18:52:27 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 22, 2021, 18:52:27 PM
Quote from: trout-r-us on December 22, 2021, 18:24:53 PMThanks for sharing your adventures men. I enjoy looking at the pictures and try to figure out where you were.
Just send a message. :P
Not many secrets, here.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on December 22, 2021, 22:22:39 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on December 22, 2021, 22:22:39 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on December 22, 2021, 18:52:27 PM[
Just send a message. :P
Not many secrets, here.
[/quote]
Thank You for the offer, but no secrets do I seek; only memories. 🤔
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on December 23, 2021, 09:46:44 AM
Post by: Phil on December 23, 2021, 09:46:44 AM
Quote from: Fishbug on December 22, 2021, 10:44:34 AMRiver looks like its fishing goooood-----may head down there Thurs afternoon :wave
Hmmmm. From the recent reports, it looks to me like its fishing good for really expert technical tailwater fishermen. That counts my ass out.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: greg on December 23, 2021, 10:47:30 AM
Post by: greg on December 23, 2021, 10:47:30 AM
Quote from: Phil on December 23, 2021, 09:46:44 AMQuote from: Fishbug on December 22, 2021, 10:44:34 AMRiver looks like its fishing goooood-----may head down me too. there Thurs afternoon :wave
Hmmmm. From the recent reports, it looks to me like its fishing good for really expert technical tailwater fishermen. That counts my ass out.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: greg on December 23, 2021, 10:48:48 AM
Post by: greg on December 23, 2021, 10:48:48 AM
Counts me out as well.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 23, 2021, 11:10:05 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 23, 2021, 11:10:05 AM
Quote from: Phil on December 23, 2021, 09:46:44 AMQuote from: Fishbug on December 22, 2021, 10:44:34 AMRiver looks like its fishing goooood-----may head down there Thurs afternoon :wave
Hmmmm. From the recent reports, it looks to me like its fishing good for really expert technical tailwater fishermen. That counts my ass out.
I look back to the days when the sulfurs were coming off, that was good fishing. This bwo hatch or lack thereof is maddening!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 23, 2021, 18:28:56 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 23, 2021, 18:28:56 PM
Fished it a couple hours this morning. I really suck at this river.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 23, 2021, 18:41:34 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 23, 2021, 18:41:34 PM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on December 23, 2021, 18:28:56 PMFished it a couple hours this morning. I really suck at this river.
There are many, many miles of the river. Move around. You may find sections that meets your style.
I'm going lower tomorrow. Mojo needs a boost.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 23, 2021, 18:59:38 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 23, 2021, 18:59:38 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on December 23, 2021, 18:41:34 PMQuote from: Dee-Vo on December 23, 2021, 18:28:56 PMFished it a couple hours this morning. I really suck at this river.
There are many, many miles of the river. Move around. You may find sections that meets your style.
I'm going lower tomorrow. Mojo needs a boost.
I've fished it in several places. I've caught fish just about every time.
I feel like I need to be in a certain very passive mood to go there and not get aggravated. Learning curve, I reckon.
Having success a few times, then going and feeling like you suck is a kick in the ballsack.
'Tis fishing.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 23, 2021, 19:27:17 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 23, 2021, 19:27:17 PM
Every time I fish, I go in with supreme confidence.
Life rule.
If you don't plan to succeed, you plan to fail.
I might suk, but I don't plan to suk.
Life rule.
If you don't plan to succeed, you plan to fail.
I might suk, but I don't plan to suk.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on December 23, 2021, 19:34:41 PM
Post by: Phil on December 23, 2021, 19:34:41 PM
"I feel like I need to be in a certain very passive mood to go there and not get aggravated. Learning curve, I reckon.
Having success a few times, then going and feeling like you suck is a kick in the ballsack.
'Tis fishing." ~~ DeeVo
That describes me pretty much to a "T" on every tailwater fishery.
Having success a few times, then going and feeling like you suck is a kick in the ballsack.
'Tis fishing." ~~ DeeVo
That describes me pretty much to a "T" on every tailwater fishery.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on December 23, 2021, 19:45:09 PM
Post by: Fishbug on December 23, 2021, 19:45:09 PM
Quote from: greg on December 23, 2021, 10:47:30 AMQuote from: Phil on December 23, 2021, 09:46:44 AMQuote from: Fishbug on December 22, 2021, 10:44:34 AMRiver looks like its fishing goooood-----may head down me too. there Thurs afternoon :wave
Hmmmm. From the recent reports, it looks to me like its fishing good for really expert technical tailwater fishermen. That counts my ass out.
Water color good, avg fish size seems larger, flows are steady——they are still snooty tailwater fish.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 23, 2021, 19:54:37 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 23, 2021, 19:54:37 PM
Snooty bait.
(https://i.imgur.com/DQSiEve.jpg)
Cheeseburgers.
(https://i.imgur.com/DQSiEve.jpg)
Cheeseburgers.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 23, 2021, 20:20:42 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 23, 2021, 20:20:42 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on December 23, 2021, 19:27:17 PMEvery time I fish, I go in with supreme confidence.
Life rule.
If you don't plan to succeed, you plan to fail.
I might suk, but I don't plan to suk.
When I pull the waders on after arriving, I have the utmost confidence. No problem there. I agree with you 100%.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 23, 2021, 21:59:31 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 23, 2021, 21:59:31 PM
One of these days we'll fish .....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 23, 2021, 23:10:58 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 23, 2021, 23:10:58 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on December 23, 2021, 19:54:37 PMSnooty bait.
(https://i.imgur.com/DQSiEve.jpg)
Cheeseburgers.
Doug goes dirty
wb goes dirtier
6F26CB71-CD9A-4BC7-8688-874B08468E7F.jpeg
I call these "Fuck #24 BWOs and 7x"
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on December 24, 2021, 06:44:34 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on December 24, 2021, 06:44:34 AM
When the fish get snooty, ya can't be snobby.
8EDE8677-795D-4A23-91B0-7B67208C2225.jpeg
0B7E8306-6CBC-4AC7-802A-69E7A6CEA04F.jpeg
8EDE8677-795D-4A23-91B0-7B67208C2225.jpeg
0B7E8306-6CBC-4AC7-802A-69E7A6CEA04F.jpeg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on December 24, 2021, 19:38:23 PM
Post by: Fishbug on December 24, 2021, 19:38:23 PM
Quote from: trout-r-us on December 24, 2021, 06:44:34 AMWhen the fish get snooty, ya can't be snobby.
8EDE8677-795D-4A23-91B0-7B67208C2225.jpeg
0B7E8306-6CBC-4AC7-802A-69E7A6CEA04F.jpeg
get on Youtube and search "Field and Stream Mealie Master"
Make you pick up the UL spinning rod
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 25, 2021, 00:57:16 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 25, 2021, 00:57:16 AM
Quote from: Fishbug on December 24, 2021, 19:38:23 PMQuote from: trout-r-us on December 24, 2021, 06:44:34 AMWhen the fish get snooty, ya can't be snobby.
8EDE8677-795D-4A23-91B0-7B67208C2225.jpeg
0B7E8306-6CBC-4AC7-802A-69E7A6CEA04F.jpeg
get on Youtube and search "Field and Stream Mealie Master"
Make you pick up the UL spinning rod
No, it won't. p;-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 27, 2021, 21:07:13 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 27, 2021, 21:07:13 PM
#137
Gas $2.69 :Dance 65 and sunny.
https://youtu.be/x_T8mRnqCwE
I went to a couple of places that I hadn't visited in a while.
I caught punes, might have had a thumper on the line for a couple of seconds.
Moved around a bit and found a pod of suckers, one of which fought harder than the trout.
Flowers blooming on the bank.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122721-3.jpg)
This little black stone is from the other day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122721-1.jpg)
Hovered up a bunch that looked like this... nothing too exciting
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122721-2.jpg)
Not the biggest sucker but, close...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122721-4.jpg)
and another trout among the dozen caught
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122721-5.jpg)
dirty euro trash day
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122721-6.jpg)
I had a snack at the end of the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122721-7.jpg)
Dougfish's post reminded me of how many euro rigs I lost today (3) and how much time was spent untangling dropper fly tangles.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 27, 2021, 21:41:10 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 27, 2021, 21:41:10 PM
59, 60
https://youtu.be/UMVjToYOjbM
I took another skunk on Friday. I had a compressed day and was fishing hard and fast.
Nothing from a "sure thing" run. A real head banger. b';
Fished up through a flat section to picky sippers. :;!
Reached the section where I was going to bag a fish or quit.
Saw 2 nice fishing rising in swifter water. Stuck with the girdle bug.
Hooked the near fish. Nice one. Threw the hook.
Went for the one on the far side. Opps. Lots of wood over there. Lost fly.
Never got a hook up. Moved up and did not get a fish out of numerous good lays.
Finally got another strong take...........and spit the bit. b';
Reeled up and hit the hike out to the truck. Only an hour left. Upstream.
There was another vehicle there, but I never saw anyone after walking in.
Promptly lost another freshly tied bug. Then I had a strong fish break me off.
Lost a third bug. Reeled up and headed home. Kidz were flying in from CO soon.
Went back today for the last(?) trip of 2021.
Started low. Looking for a fresh venue. Euroing.
Lost a few flies straight away.But caught a couple of meh fish.
Got to my turn around to start up through the target water and caught 3 nice, heavy, acrobatic fish.
Lost 2 more rigs. b';
(https://i.imgur.com/LPCUk9o.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/s4LxwPa.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/YGGGRcO.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4WnSmPG.jpg)
I waded in because I was trying to meet up with Scott (consumnfire) on the upper river.
We had not fished together this year.
In the parking lot, a car approached. The driver said, "I know you". Rut roh?!
It was trout-r-us. It was good to meet Bob and his lovely wife and we chatted for a while before I headed upstream.
I hiked in after Scott and I found him happily catching a few chunky risers. His 7 mo old chocolate lab was with him for her first fishing trip.
(https://i.imgur.com/llFTdGl.jpg)
She alternated between well behaved and full blown maniac puppy. No fish were put down, though.
I watched Scott catch a few while I rigged up a dry fly rod.
(https://i.imgur.com/0jsC5y2.jpg)
I waded in behind him and crossed over. Lots of sipping fish. But no sales were completed. Scott had turned to refusals, also. I switched a few times and finally got a hook up. And an SDR. 20 minutes later, no more fish between us, I had to hit the road the road for home.
(https://i.imgur.com/pfCH4d2.jpg)
Cheers all. Happy New Years!
J and I are fishing next Monday to get 2022 kicked off right.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 28, 2021, 09:00:26 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 28, 2021, 09:00:26 AM
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on December 28, 2021, 10:59:55 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on December 28, 2021, 10:59:55 AM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on December 28, 2021, 09:00:26 AMNice work, @Dougfish & @Woolly Bugger & @trout-r-us
Also, nice pup!
Thank You, but I did not participate in the angling adventures. I was merely driving around the neighborhood with my wife and happened to bump into Doug at a parking area.
By the way, it was nice to meet you Doug.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 29, 2021, 20:31:02 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 29, 2021, 20:31:02 PM
#139 66 and cloudy
Last trip of the year... <-;: :cheers :wave -+;
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122921-1.jpg)
When I got down to the Hodgman hole the trout were sipping steadily, that was a good sign.
They were rising in the tailout of the big diagonal run and I played the BWO game for about an hour before it shut completely down. A handful came to the net. Every time I was ready to move on another fish would rise, but it was so sporadic that it was just a frustrating delay.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122921-2.jpg)
Damn beavers blocked my shortcut.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122921-3.jpg)
found this on the detour
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122921-4.jpg)
I moved on down to look at some other runs and tossed the euro rig into the head of the pool. I found a fish, it hangs out under a submerged limb. It missed the fly as it swept by. Difficult cast for sure. Since there were no risers here I moved on down to the bottom run and euroed up a handful of fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122921-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122921-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122921-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2021/12/122921-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 29, 2021, 21:22:45 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 29, 2021, 21:22:45 PM
Cheers, MOFO. The best for 2022.
:cheers
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 30, 2021, 08:43:32 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on December 30, 2021, 08:43:32 AM
Good work, Boss.
Let's all give 'em hell in '22.
Let's all give 'em hell in '22.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 02, 2022, 14:42:12 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 02, 2022, 14:42:12 PM
#1
75 overcast to partly cloudy Gas $2.94
despite being hung-over and tired with only a couple of hours of sleep I went up to the river to get a jump on 2022.
As I began the trek to the lower runs I was moving slower than usual. At the first run I stopped and sat down on the bank and observed the water for a while, there were only a few sporadic risers, but I was rigged with a bwo emeger and so I went with that. I did manage to get a couple of fish to hit the fly but no hookups today. I decided to throw streamers instead, as it was something I could manage. The fish, however, weren't interested in that either today.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/010122-1.jpg)
I moved on down and finally connected with a pune.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/010122-2.jpg)
look at those red spots!
Fished on till past sunset with only a couple of bumps or grabs
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/010122-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/010122-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/010122-5.jpg)
:drum
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on January 02, 2022, 17:00:07 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on January 02, 2022, 17:00:07 PM
The Bugger off and running for 2022.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on January 06, 2022, 16:38:33 PM
Post by: creakycane on January 06, 2022, 16:38:33 PM
Water is up and a bit murky but plenty fishable. 300 in Bassett. Streamers and nymphs will take fish up and down the whole system; streamers seemed better for me yest/today. Nothing for me on small nymphs.
One thing I have noticed for the past month or so are the large numbers of size 14/16 black stoneflies in the air (and some on the water). I didn't see any rise to them today, but at times they will. Typically, we see the little stones closer to Feb, but maybe the warm weather/unusual flows have changed the timing? Happy New Year to all.
One thing I have noticed for the past month or so are the large numbers of size 14/16 black stoneflies in the air (and some on the water). I didn't see any rise to them today, but at times they will. Typically, we see the little stones closer to Feb, but maybe the warm weather/unusual flows have changed the timing? Happy New Year to all.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 06, 2022, 17:52:42 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 06, 2022, 17:52:42 PM
1
https://youtu.be/7AQSLozK7aA
"Just cause you feel it, doesn't mean it's there."
A nice, trippy music video of a great song to start 2022.
Got a leisurely start to the day. Then 20 minutes down the road, I realized I didn't grab my wading staff.
At 300ish cfs, I needed it. Back tracked. Extra leisurely start, now.
One car in the lot. Hiked in, and sure as shit he was in the good run I would have finished up in.
Went in below him. He was a young guy, euroing, fishing deliberately, and catching fish. Good for him.
(https://i.imgur.com/MAGB68Z.jpg)
I started out euroing through the slower deeper water. Got a couple of bumps, no hookups.
Waded back down and ate lunch while watching the water.
A few BWOs were coming off, more midges and waves of winter stones.
They skittered across the surface laying eggs.
Out off a hundred, maybe one would draw a feeding fish.
Adults taste like shit?
I thought about heading downstream to euro the good runs at this higher flow.
It had been very good in the past.
(https://i.imgur.com/hBzJWk1.jpg)
Fish started taking emergers.
About then Bobby, from Roanoke, walked down and we had a good conversation.
He had just started fishing the Smiff a lot.
He had not gone below where we were, so I gave him my 2 cents on how to traverse and fish it.
He headed down and I saw him bag another fish as I switched reels.
I waded out and stuck a couple on a puff daddy.
(https://i.imgur.com/snyQyt8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/FFMrBEL.jpg)
The fish went back to ignoring me.
The beavers are very busy, btw.
(https://i.imgur.com/XqWXNPh.jpg)
Put on a soft hackle and stuck enough fish to make my day.
(https://i.imgur.com/m4EljWz.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/N8bSRpN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/hKwRUQp.jpg)
I was out of beer, the sky had turned dark, and I needed to get up the road.
I wish you all a fishy year.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 06, 2022, 21:18:41 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 06, 2022, 21:18:41 PM
#2, #3
https://youtu.be/shq0PoqGp84
Gas $2.99
I went the other day after the rain and went into the sally pool to throw streamers. It was about 40 degrees colder than trip #1. The water was muddy, but I was there so I went to work. I hate wading the part of the river when the visibility is so poor. Nothing was happening and after about a half hour I started to move on up to another spot. It was about that time that I noticed the water was coming up and since I didn't know how much they had opened the damn dam, I split.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/010422-1.jpg)
I wasn't sure where I was going to end up today, so I checked out some deep runs at the new flow. It was sunny and warm when I geared up so I didn't fleece or layer or go electric on the socks. I hit the run and was waist deep for about an hour or so without a hit, all I got was bottom diddymo and weeds. The sun was gone and there was a chill in the air, felt like snow was coming. I moved on. I was thinking about the upper river, but checked out another run instead.
As I was nymphing the larger side of the spit run I kept hearing a fish jump behind me. I couldn't see any bugs coming off, so I ignored it for the time being and went back to work the main feature. It looked fishy to me and I was getting it down but only caught one brown. The fish behind me hit the surface again, and I switched sides, thinking if there was one fish in the slow run there would be others. I was right. The weather had chilled me and I called it a day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/010622-1.jpg)
nice paddle
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 06, 2022, 21:57:29 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 06, 2022, 21:57:29 PM
Lots of dying veg coming down the river. Not as as bad as I experienced out west one fall, but pretty ugly.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 07, 2022, 08:46:14 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 07, 2022, 08:46:14 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on January 06, 2022, 21:57:29 PMLots of dying veg coming down the river. Not as as bad as I experienced out west one fall, but pretty ugly.
too dang cold to fish today... n!n
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 08, 2022, 21:10:08 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 08, 2022, 21:10:08 PM
#4
I thought it was going to be warmer, but on the drive up the temperature didn't get above freezing! Well, at least it won't be crowded, wait, there's a car in the lot. n!n
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/010822-1.jpg)
I hoped that he wasn't down river, I took the chance. Half of the beaver dam is blow out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/010822-2.jpg)
I caught a couple on a streamer, small but lively, and it was too cold to get a good shot of the fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/010822-3.jpg)
I saw a few fish rise and some larger unidentified bugs on the water. After covering the run with the streamer, I nymphed up a couple. The sun was well below the ridge, and I felt a chill in the air.
Oysters past prime.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/010822-4.jpg)
I began the hike out, stopping at the left-handed pool where I saw just enough activity to get me to rig up a dry fly. It was frigid and the line was icing along with the guides. I managed to catch a few.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/010822-5.jpg)
Mangled the fly, fubared the tippet, blood knotted 6x to 6x, one last pink parachute fly
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/010822-6.jpg)
The odds were diminishing as the light faded and I was done.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/010822-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/010822-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/010822-9.jpg)
I was just getting used to the new low normal flow, I'm now readjusting to the higher normal, still fishable, but puckery in places....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on January 09, 2022, 08:30:26 AM
Post by: Phil on January 09, 2022, 08:30:26 AM
:o I'm trying to remember the last time I fished with ice in my guides, on the line, waders, and mustache. Long ago.
Your dedication is admirable -- or you're just plain crazy. :bow
Your dedication is admirable -- or you're just plain crazy. :bow
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 10, 2022, 19:28:42 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 10, 2022, 19:28:42 PM
#5
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011022-1.jpg)
Cleaner World, a local Dry Cleaner, has teamed up with the Salvation Army in a winter "Give A Kid a Coat" campaign. I rounded up 8 or 9 of Dad's jackets and dropped them off this morning. As I drove off, I teared up a bit.
On to the river. It was ten degrees warmer than the last trip, it should be good with plenty of sunshine, but when I opened the door and felt the wind I almost left. One look at the flag blowing straight out by the whipping wind should have given me a clue. But there I was, in a nearly empty lot, so I wadered and layered up and began the trek downstream.
Well the other guy was working his way up to one of my runs, I stopped and watched him for a while and wondered how he planned to traverse the deep tailout of the pool he was fishing. He whipped out a folding wading staff and began to come across, but he retreated when the water got up to mid chest level. Discretion is the better part of valor.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011022-2.jpg)
I moved on down and nymphed up a couple of fish despite the strong wind making casting and drifting the fly nearly impossible.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011022-4.jpg)
There were a good number of bwo on the water, some were fairly large, about size 18 and others were as small as #24. I did see a few fish rising when the wind died down for a brief moment. I switched rods and went after them. I managed to catch a few targeted.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011022-3.jpg)
Note: the camera was set for focus stacking, and the bug was moving so it appears to have too many legs and two abdomens
The wind blew harder, it was the type of wind that topples widow makers and I was apprehensive on the walk out. I stopped at the left hand pool and tried nymphing for a while but the wind was picking up the line and it was impossible.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 12, 2022, 19:34:14 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 12, 2022, 19:34:14 PM
2
A wee bit chilly start to the day, but I got loaded up and headed down.
I had tied up a bunch of euro flies, and a bunch of new soft hackles.
I had the 6wt, 4wt and euro rod in the truck.
I sorta, kinda knew what I wanted to do today, but I was prepared for whatever I found.
What I did not have was my camera. b';
Fumbled with the cell phone today.
Started on the dirty part of the river.
(https://i.imgur.com/CNmTotf.jpg)
Decided to fish dirty. 6wt, indicator, big girdlebug.
Caught a little one with big ambitions on the way down to the starting point.
Got to where Leroy should give it up.
On about the fifth drift...
(https://i.imgur.com/ccnWCed.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/dWSOIy4.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/0R4mtnn.jpg)
Stepped back into the same spot, about 5 more drifts...
(https://i.imgur.com/Ct7vefK.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TJrvOxA.jpg)
Measured against the rod, 17". Heavy fish.
I mean, I'm gonna kill today, right?
I bushwhacked around a fallen tree and hit the next, beautiful run.
Nothing.
A hundred yards later, nothing.
Another hundred yards, nothing.
Reeled up, waded in and moved on to meet Woolly up higher.
DSFK.
(https://i.imgur.com/031kN0r.jpg)
The legend. Not a fossil. :o
(https://i.imgur.com/Eysx5Te.jpg)
I had decided to fish dries if there was action, soft hackles if not.
Soft hackles, fer sure. :Dance
(https://i.imgur.com/2tt2QdI.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/s6cGkqG.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/CxZtPuR.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ziD4T5K.jpg)
New soft hackles were effective.
Went waist deep for a good while and found some new leaks in the waders.
Finished at 10 fish and Keith and I hiked out as the sun headed down.
A wee bit chilly start to the day, but I got loaded up and headed down.
I had tied up a bunch of euro flies, and a bunch of new soft hackles.
I had the 6wt, 4wt and euro rod in the truck.
I sorta, kinda knew what I wanted to do today, but I was prepared for whatever I found.
What I did not have was my camera. b';
Fumbled with the cell phone today.
Started on the dirty part of the river.
(https://i.imgur.com/CNmTotf.jpg)
Decided to fish dirty. 6wt, indicator, big girdlebug.
Caught a little one with big ambitions on the way down to the starting point.
Got to where Leroy should give it up.
On about the fifth drift...
(https://i.imgur.com/ccnWCed.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/dWSOIy4.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/0R4mtnn.jpg)
Stepped back into the same spot, about 5 more drifts...
(https://i.imgur.com/Ct7vefK.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TJrvOxA.jpg)
Measured against the rod, 17". Heavy fish.
I mean, I'm gonna kill today, right?
I bushwhacked around a fallen tree and hit the next, beautiful run.
Nothing.
A hundred yards later, nothing.
Another hundred yards, nothing.
Reeled up, waded in and moved on to meet Woolly up higher.
DSFK.
(https://i.imgur.com/031kN0r.jpg)
The legend. Not a fossil. :o
(https://i.imgur.com/Eysx5Te.jpg)
I had decided to fish dries if there was action, soft hackles if not.
Soft hackles, fer sure. :Dance
(https://i.imgur.com/2tt2QdI.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/s6cGkqG.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/CxZtPuR.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ziD4T5K.jpg)
New soft hackles were effective.
Went waist deep for a good while and found some new leaks in the waders.
Finished at 10 fish and Keith and I hiked out as the sun headed down.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Yallerhammer on January 13, 2022, 08:25:02 AM
Post by: Yallerhammer on January 13, 2022, 08:25:02 AM
Love the coloration on that biggest brown, very unique.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 14, 2022, 06:47:37 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 14, 2022, 06:47:37 AM
3
https://youtu.be/sDcDCZGcZj8
(https://i.imgur.com/05mzUJ7.jpg)
"Rocky Raccoon, he fell back in his room
Only to find Gideon's bible
Gideon checked out, and he left it no doubt
To help with good Rocky's revival"
Poor guy probably got popped by a car and made it 100 ft before his dirt nap.
Started out sunny and slow. Picky bastards day.
(https://i.imgur.com/VuXjEpT.jpg)
350+ cfs. And cold. The boyz doth protest.
(https://i.imgur.com/InZ3ePn.jpg)
As happens most days, we got buzzed by our armed forces.
I watched the first one, pulled the camera out for the second.
(https://i.imgur.com/txRVtKh.jpg)
Keith got there a little later and we hop scotched downstream.
We finally found a pod of rising and receptive fish.
I fooled a few before I had to had to hike out early.
Finished cloudy and slow.
(https://i.imgur.com/2KrYEV5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pWaNB0L.jpg)
:cheers
https://youtu.be/sDcDCZGcZj8
(https://i.imgur.com/05mzUJ7.jpg)
"Rocky Raccoon, he fell back in his room
Only to find Gideon's bible
Gideon checked out, and he left it no doubt
To help with good Rocky's revival"
Poor guy probably got popped by a car and made it 100 ft before his dirt nap.
Started out sunny and slow. Picky bastards day.
(https://i.imgur.com/VuXjEpT.jpg)
350+ cfs. And cold. The boyz doth protest.
(https://i.imgur.com/InZ3ePn.jpg)
As happens most days, we got buzzed by our armed forces.
I watched the first one, pulled the camera out for the second.
(https://i.imgur.com/txRVtKh.jpg)
Keith got there a little later and we hop scotched downstream.
We finally found a pod of rising and receptive fish.
I fooled a few before I had to had to hike out early.
Finished cloudy and slow.
(https://i.imgur.com/2KrYEV5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pWaNB0L.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on January 14, 2022, 08:28:32 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on January 14, 2022, 08:28:32 AM
Impressive work all around.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 14, 2022, 08:30:29 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 14, 2022, 08:30:29 AM
#6 Wednesday
Gas $2.99 41 and partly cloudy
Well today there were lots of bugs on the water and the trout were rising.
The sippers aren't always the easiest to fool but a number came to hand before @Dougfish joined me.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011222-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011222-2.jpg)
We walked further down, and I fixed my lunch and watched Dougfish swing soft hackles.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011222-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011222-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011222-5.jpg)
Back to fishing and beer breaks.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011222-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011222-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011222-8.jpg)
It was a pretty good day with handfuls of fish caught.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011222-9.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 14, 2022, 09:17:00 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 14, 2022, 09:17:00 AM
#7 51 and mostly sunny
https://youtu.be/nssSIKOrSNk
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011322-1.jpg)
DSFK (it's a Drakian thang...)
I was looking at the water and saw the otters playing (feeding) downstream, I watched them for a while, there were no fish rising.
https://vimeo.com/666006786
I went with a streamer and saw two follows but didn't make a connection.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011322-2.jpg)
Doug came down and watched from the bank and then we moved on down. He fixed his lunch after breaking off. I hit the run, lost one, caught one... streamer skunk off.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011322-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011322-4.jpg)
Doug rerigged with soft hackles and I moved on down further, got some bumps and made a couple more connections.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011322-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011322-6.jpg)
Doug wacked them swinging the flies. It was almost time to leave but I tried the dry fly thing but couldn't get the fussy sippers to take, it convinced that they were taking midges.
https://youtu.be/w5Rkm_dqm7A
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on January 14, 2022, 15:03:42 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on January 14, 2022, 15:03:42 PM
The Woolly Dougie show goes on. Good stuff. Having a like- minded companion on the river certainly adds to the
fun (and safety aspect especially in the winter). Keep catching and reporting.
fun (and safety aspect especially in the winter). Keep catching and reporting.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 14, 2022, 16:27:19 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 14, 2022, 16:27:19 PM
Like minded? Yikes! :o
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 14, 2022, 19:22:46 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 14, 2022, 19:22:46 PM
#8
50s mostly sunny
with a winter storm approaching, I thought I would squeeze a trip in before things shut down.
I was hoping for some dry fly action, but the wind was wicked, and I didn't see any risers anyway.
Streamer time! I worked the pool where I had a couple of follows yesterday. That was yesterday, today the fish weren't interested.
I checked out a spot where I had seen a good fish take a bwo off the surface yesterday. He was hungry.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011422-1.jpg)
The rest of the day was uneventful, with only the usual grabs and bumps.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011422-2.jpg)
50s mostly sunny
with a winter storm approaching, I thought I would squeeze a trip in before things shut down.
I was hoping for some dry fly action, but the wind was wicked, and I didn't see any risers anyway.
Streamer time! I worked the pool where I had a couple of follows yesterday. That was yesterday, today the fish weren't interested.
I checked out a spot where I had seen a good fish take a bwo off the surface yesterday. He was hungry.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011422-1.jpg)
The rest of the day was uneventful, with only the usual grabs and bumps.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011422-2.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on January 14, 2022, 23:01:51 PM
Post by: Fishbug on January 14, 2022, 23:01:51 PM
Them some nice trouts. Fine work :cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 15, 2022, 08:32:05 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 15, 2022, 08:32:05 AM
Back for more in an hour. :Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on January 15, 2022, 18:34:42 PM
Post by: creakycane on January 15, 2022, 18:34:42 PM
That straight section you show in the photo is like a meat locker on cold days. Seems like sun never hits the surface there in winter..... A windy meat locker. I admire your toughness! A bit better downstream in the sun, or upriver out of the shade.
Got a couple to cooperate yesterday up toward the dam, and had a couple risers downstream, but when the wind whipped up I took off. Glad you gents got out before the snows...
Btw, saw a white Jeep with Roanoke handicap plates up there, but never saw the driver....
Got a couple to cooperate yesterday up toward the dam, and had a couple risers downstream, but when the wind whipped up I took off. Glad you gents got out before the snows...
Btw, saw a white Jeep with Roanoke handicap plates up there, but never saw the driver....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 16, 2022, 08:27:19 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 16, 2022, 08:27:19 AM
4
https://youtu.be/JmrGImjmUZk
A solo trip. WB was preoccupied, Fin bailed on me.
Nobody but me on the the cold cold water.
And the feesh.
But I got stopped by the train before I got there.
After all these years driving that route, I had never been forced to stop at that crossing. :o
(https://i.imgur.com/fciIage.jpg)
There was a NC tagged Tacoma in the lot, but I never saw another fisherperson.
I was hiking in by 10. Just above freezing.
(https://i.imgur.com/N29SE7F.jpg)
First fish came shortly after. Nice one. Good sign?
(https://i.imgur.com/GO3IvgP.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/hKRBldp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/H90MySf.jpg)
After a couple more fish, I broke off the new design copper johnish soft hackle in a tree.
I had tied some other new dubbed versions of the same layout.
Tied on a purple.
(https://i.imgur.com/nrCsLkP.jpg)
Kept catching fish. :Dance
(https://i.imgur.com/sgfWhQl.jpg)
Leatherwood. One of our more interesting native shrubs.
Dirca palustris. Palustris means "grows in swamp".
Like the Pawpaw, you'll find it only in creek/river bottoms.
It's supple stems were used by native americans to make baskets and such.
(https://i.imgur.com/RBHL9UO.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/orxaI24.jpg)
Lunch.
(https://i.imgur.com/4bVkSXO.jpg)
Chocolate for a treat.
(https://i.imgur.com/OmrTgEK.jpg)
I waded back in and started to get cold for the first time.
Blood going to the digestion and leaky waders effect.
(https://i.imgur.com/gPOFgEy.jpg)
Caught another nice fish from one of my favorite spots.
Purple ftw.
(https://i.imgur.com/n992Xc8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QFvEyNJ.jpg)
Ended up at 10 fish. Cold and satisfied, I waded in.
(https://i.imgur.com/W2YRXqW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/VuXjEpT.jpg)
Martin MG-7. 60 - 70's vintage hot rod. If you find one, buy it.
(https://i.imgur.com/0jxheuM.jpg)
DSFK. Picked clean.
(https://i.imgur.com/ATPxAVt.jpg)
And the two hand warmer day was done.
38 at the truck.
(https://i.imgur.com/leiV6y1.jpg)
Waiting on the proverbial snow. :P
:cheers
https://youtu.be/JmrGImjmUZk
A solo trip. WB was preoccupied, Fin bailed on me.
Nobody but me on the the cold cold water.
And the feesh.
But I got stopped by the train before I got there.
After all these years driving that route, I had never been forced to stop at that crossing. :o
(https://i.imgur.com/fciIage.jpg)
There was a NC tagged Tacoma in the lot, but I never saw another fisherperson.
I was hiking in by 10. Just above freezing.
(https://i.imgur.com/N29SE7F.jpg)
First fish came shortly after. Nice one. Good sign?
(https://i.imgur.com/GO3IvgP.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/hKRBldp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/H90MySf.jpg)
After a couple more fish, I broke off the new design copper johnish soft hackle in a tree.
I had tied some other new dubbed versions of the same layout.
Tied on a purple.
(https://i.imgur.com/nrCsLkP.jpg)
Kept catching fish. :Dance
(https://i.imgur.com/sgfWhQl.jpg)
Leatherwood. One of our more interesting native shrubs.
Dirca palustris. Palustris means "grows in swamp".
Like the Pawpaw, you'll find it only in creek/river bottoms.
It's supple stems were used by native americans to make baskets and such.
(https://i.imgur.com/RBHL9UO.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/orxaI24.jpg)
Lunch.
(https://i.imgur.com/4bVkSXO.jpg)
Chocolate for a treat.
(https://i.imgur.com/OmrTgEK.jpg)
I waded back in and started to get cold for the first time.
Blood going to the digestion and leaky waders effect.
(https://i.imgur.com/gPOFgEy.jpg)
Caught another nice fish from one of my favorite spots.
Purple ftw.
(https://i.imgur.com/n992Xc8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QFvEyNJ.jpg)
Ended up at 10 fish. Cold and satisfied, I waded in.
(https://i.imgur.com/W2YRXqW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/VuXjEpT.jpg)
Martin MG-7. 60 - 70's vintage hot rod. If you find one, buy it.
(https://i.imgur.com/0jxheuM.jpg)
DSFK. Picked clean.
(https://i.imgur.com/ATPxAVt.jpg)
And the two hand warmer day was done.
38 at the truck.
(https://i.imgur.com/leiV6y1.jpg)
Waiting on the proverbial snow. :P
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on January 16, 2022, 09:08:57 AM
Post by: Onslow on January 16, 2022, 09:08:57 AM
Pretty fish
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on January 16, 2022, 18:12:45 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on January 16, 2022, 18:12:45 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on January 16, 2022, 08:27:19 AM4
https://youtu.be/JmrGImjmUZk
A solo trip. WB was preoccupied,
(https://i.imgur.com/W2YRXqW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/VuXjEpT.jpg)
Martin MG-7. 60 - 70's vintage hot rod. If you find one, buy it.
(https://i.imgur.com/0jxheuM.jpg)
Waiting on the proverbial snow. :P
:cheers
https://www.ebay.com/itm/384599440919?hash=item598be9be17:g:SpcAAOSw6QxhuPEN
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 19, 2022, 19:08:00 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 19, 2022, 19:08:00 PM
5
Between the forecast and my schedule, I decided I needed to fish today.
Upper 30's and about 2-3" of crusty snow.
(https://i.imgur.com/YDbbGmi.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/x3vvNGZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/PSnfZSU.jpg)
Nothing happening on top. One of these days I'll catch a BWO hatch again. b';
Fishing was a bit slow.
(https://i.imgur.com/X8TV5yj.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/awdcm5V.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/R50msHb.jpg)
Worked my way back up and found the bossman.
(https://i.imgur.com/Cdp3x3s.jpg)
We chatted for a while, exchanged some flies, and I boogied.
Only three fish today. Are they on to me? :laugh:
(https://i.imgur.com/TjjiBHp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xm1blXf.jpg)
:cheers
Between the forecast and my schedule, I decided I needed to fish today.
Upper 30's and about 2-3" of crusty snow.
(https://i.imgur.com/YDbbGmi.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/x3vvNGZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/PSnfZSU.jpg)
Nothing happening on top. One of these days I'll catch a BWO hatch again. b';
Fishing was a bit slow.
(https://i.imgur.com/X8TV5yj.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/awdcm5V.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/R50msHb.jpg)
Worked my way back up and found the bossman.
(https://i.imgur.com/Cdp3x3s.jpg)
We chatted for a while, exchanged some flies, and I boogied.
Only three fish today. Are they on to me? :laugh:
(https://i.imgur.com/TjjiBHp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xm1blXf.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on January 19, 2022, 20:01:03 PM
Post by: Fishbug on January 19, 2022, 20:01:03 PM
Brrr
Pacing it good for a fishy 2022
Did the taco blink an eye in the snow?
Pacing it good for a fishy 2022
Did the taco blink an eye in the snow?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 19, 2022, 20:12:07 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 19, 2022, 20:12:07 PM
Taco has the mud and snow tires on it now. It don't care.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 19, 2022, 20:13:53 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 19, 2022, 20:13:53 PM
#9 41+ overcast to partly sunny
https://vimeo.com/668004195
The snowstorm, Izzy, dumped enough snow and ice to keep me home for a couple of days and Thurs was booked so I took off and joined Dougfish on the stream.
It was a little crunchy going in, and my boots accumulated a fair amount of snow on the felt going in.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011922-1.jpg)
I was rigged with aa streamer from the other day so I went with that--- no dice.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011922-2.jpg)
Switched over to a soft hackle rig.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011922-3.jpg)
That did the trick.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011922-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011922-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011922-6.jpg)
Dougfish stopped by on the way out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011922-7.jpg)
I stayed for another hour hoping something would start up, but there wasn't much of a hatch all day.
I picked up one more fish and had a couple of grabs, but it wasn't really happening, so I split.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011922-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011922-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011922-10.jpg)
I had asked Dough for a beer, but he was out, with only a couple back at the truck, I told him to leave one for me.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011922-11.jpg)
He didn't disappoint.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011922-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/011922-13.jpg)
I've never been much of a soft hackle guy, but since picking up the spey rod and swinging flies I've been more receptive to fishing this way, and I plan on doing a lot more of it especially when the trout are snooty and refusing dry flies.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 22, 2022, 20:35:05 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 22, 2022, 20:35:05 PM
#10
Gas $3.07 28 degrees sunny
https://youtu.be/C11MzbEcHlw
We got an inch or two of dry snow in the triad last night, the forecast for today indicated temperatures would be in the mid 30s by the afternoon with a sunny sky. The roads were clear and there wasn't any precipitation to the north.
The only tracks in the parking lot were from Doug and I from the other day. I geared up in the sunshine and it felt warm, but once I hiked in to the shaded run the warmth was gone.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012222-1.jpg)
I swung soft hackles with out any luck, even changed up flies, still nothing. I worked the entire run for top to bottom, near and far, not even a grab. I didn't see any bugs on the water nor any fish rising, not even one. I felt the ice forming on the line as I stripped it in and the guides were freezing up too.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012222-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012222-3.jpg)
I was about to declare a skunk day but decided to hike on down to the next big run.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012222-4.jpg)
Finally a fish on! And just like that it got off. The day was getting long but I fished on hoping to bring at least one to the net.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012222-5.jpg)
One fish and a nice solitary walk in the woods.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012222-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012222-8.jpg)
Gas $3.07 28 degrees sunny
https://youtu.be/C11MzbEcHlw
We got an inch or two of dry snow in the triad last night, the forecast for today indicated temperatures would be in the mid 30s by the afternoon with a sunny sky. The roads were clear and there wasn't any precipitation to the north.
The only tracks in the parking lot were from Doug and I from the other day. I geared up in the sunshine and it felt warm, but once I hiked in to the shaded run the warmth was gone.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012222-1.jpg)
I swung soft hackles with out any luck, even changed up flies, still nothing. I worked the entire run for top to bottom, near and far, not even a grab. I didn't see any bugs on the water nor any fish rising, not even one. I felt the ice forming on the line as I stripped it in and the guides were freezing up too.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012222-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012222-3.jpg)
I was about to declare a skunk day but decided to hike on down to the next big run.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012222-4.jpg)
Finally a fish on! And just like that it got off. The day was getting long but I fished on hoping to bring at least one to the net.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012222-5.jpg)
One fish and a nice solitary walk in the woods.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012222-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012222-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on January 22, 2022, 21:14:20 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on January 22, 2022, 21:14:20 PM
Hard core, just looking at the photos made my legs and feet cold.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 23, 2022, 07:55:57 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 23, 2022, 07:55:57 AM
Going Monday. Gonna temp some new fish in other spots. :Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 23, 2022, 08:49:16 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 23, 2022, 08:49:16 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on January 23, 2022, 07:55:57 AMGoing Monday. Gonna temp some new fish in other spots. :Dance
I counted 7 anglers fishing "in town"
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 25, 2022, 11:12:37 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 25, 2022, 11:12:37 AM
6
I was not in a great rush and let the temps start to rise before heading down.
Decided to try a stretch in town.
Covered a good length of water and only got 4 bumps in an hour.
No hookups. Moving on. b';
Found Keith and Bobby's rides at the usual and hiked in.
Found WB in a long slow run I had whacked them in last week.
Homewrecker.
I hiked down, cracked a beer and ate lunch while watching for activity.
Saw 4 active fish and headed out to tempt them.
Got four good solid bumps where one fish was feeding.
Nothing where the others were.
Cut off the SH and tied on a streamer.
Nada.
Keith had come down to heckle me by then.
And he wanted a beer. :laugh:
After I gave up one of mine, again, I headed downstream.
(https://i.imgur.com/MmNS1jG.jpg)
I streamered the next good run and got nothing.
Clipped off and retied the SH rig on as Bobby passed behind me.
He was doing OK on a small streamer and was headed down further.
I finally started to get some fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/Yg2iqGe.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ij0zMv7.jpg)
They were all small to middling.
After four fish I hung up in a tree across the river.
I broke it off and headed back up.
Keith had started towards me and we both said, F it and hiked out.
(https://i.imgur.com/GSwD4tF.jpg)
Bobby showed up 10 minutes behind us and we shot the shit
for a good while before bogeying.
It's a good thing I did not leave Bobby earlier.
His car was dead and needed a jump.
Hope he got home ok.
Try, try again. Come on BWO's!
:cheers
I was not in a great rush and let the temps start to rise before heading down.
Decided to try a stretch in town.
Covered a good length of water and only got 4 bumps in an hour.
No hookups. Moving on. b';
Found Keith and Bobby's rides at the usual and hiked in.
Found WB in a long slow run I had whacked them in last week.
Homewrecker.
I hiked down, cracked a beer and ate lunch while watching for activity.
Saw 4 active fish and headed out to tempt them.
Got four good solid bumps where one fish was feeding.
Nothing where the others were.
Cut off the SH and tied on a streamer.
Nada.
Keith had come down to heckle me by then.
And he wanted a beer. :laugh:
After I gave up one of mine, again, I headed downstream.
(https://i.imgur.com/MmNS1jG.jpg)
I streamered the next good run and got nothing.
Clipped off and retied the SH rig on as Bobby passed behind me.
He was doing OK on a small streamer and was headed down further.
I finally started to get some fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/Yg2iqGe.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ij0zMv7.jpg)
They were all small to middling.
After four fish I hung up in a tree across the river.
I broke it off and headed back up.
Keith had started towards me and we both said, F it and hiked out.
(https://i.imgur.com/GSwD4tF.jpg)
Bobby showed up 10 minutes behind us and we shot the shit
for a good while before bogeying.
It's a good thing I did not leave Bobby earlier.
His car was dead and needed a jump.
Hope he got home ok.
Try, try again. Come on BWO's!
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 26, 2022, 10:26:42 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 26, 2022, 10:26:42 AM
#11 40s partly cloudy
Monday
I went fishing again, tried to go on Sunday, but mom (96) was having some trouble and I stuck around to make sure she was going to be ok.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012422-1.jpg)
There wasn't any activity in the air or on the water, it looked cold and deserted. I swung soft hackles and worked the run. Doug came in and heckled me before moving on down. I had left my beverages in the Honda and was dry as dirt, so I snuck down to look for Doug's stash, but he was carrying them in his vest.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012422-2.jpg)
He reluctantly came over and offered up a beer. I selected, the Kolsch.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012422-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012422-4.jpg)
Back to fishing, I had given up on swinging flies and went deep and dirty with a rubber legs to salvage the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012422-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012422-6.jpg)
I was headed on down to another spot when Dough came along and I said F@uck it and we hiked out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012422-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012422-8.jpg)
I left him and Bobby in the lot and drove off into the sunset.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012422-9.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 26, 2022, 10:55:23 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 26, 2022, 10:55:23 AM
#12 50s Gas $3.07
I should know better, but I can't stay away and there was a break in the winter temps. I'm not sure how much that helped, as the wind had picked up and was blowing down off the snow-covered western ridge bringing a chill down to the river. Once again there was only the slightest indication of feeding trout. A sparce few black stoneflies skittered across the water and a few trout were working midges in the film. I grew frustrated and took a beer break before moving down to check out another run.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012522-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012522-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012522-4.jpg)
I covered a fair amount of water, swinging flies, tossing streamers, and deep nymphing and only connected a couple of times with below average fish. I took a lot of photos and enjoyed the solitude of the river and some tasty beer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012522-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012522-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012522-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012522-8.jpg)
I stayed later than usual, well past sunset. Hiking out I heard owls hooting and the songbirds were chattering in the brush as the edge of the field as deer sprang for cover as I approached.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012522-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/012522-10.jpg)
'till next time...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on January 26, 2022, 18:45:59 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on January 26, 2022, 18:45:59 PM
Who does your nails Doug? The beaver? :cheers :P :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on January 27, 2022, 16:22:41 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on January 27, 2022, 16:22:41 PM
Very nice pictures. Looks peaceful.
The Plank Bier looks interesting.
Puts me in the mind of my days at Miller Brewing when we brewed some brands (Red Dog, Southpaw, and Icehouse) that were marketed and labeled as products of The Plank Road Brewery, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Merely a marketing ploy in order to appear as a microbrew vs the "factory beer" brands associated with Miller, the beer was actually brewed and packaged in Eden, NC. at Miller.
Plank Road Brewery was the name of the first brew house in Milwaukee where Frederick Miller started up circa 1855. I toured the old facility in the late 70's. It was pretty neat with open top fermenters and underground caves used for keeping beer cold at a time before refrigeration was available.
Cool stuff.
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/wisconsin/underground-beer-cave-wi/
P.S. Your Plank Bier appears to have a much older history.
The Plank Bier looks interesting.
Puts me in the mind of my days at Miller Brewing when we brewed some brands (Red Dog, Southpaw, and Icehouse) that were marketed and labeled as products of The Plank Road Brewery, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Merely a marketing ploy in order to appear as a microbrew vs the "factory beer" brands associated with Miller, the beer was actually brewed and packaged in Eden, NC. at Miller.
Plank Road Brewery was the name of the first brew house in Milwaukee where Frederick Miller started up circa 1855. I toured the old facility in the late 70's. It was pretty neat with open top fermenters and underground caves used for keeping beer cold at a time before refrigeration was available.
Cool stuff.
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/wisconsin/underground-beer-cave-wi/
P.S. Your Plank Bier appears to have a much older history.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 31, 2022, 09:43:42 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 31, 2022, 09:43:42 AM
#13
Gas $3.14 Partly Cloudy and 36 degrees.
Here's a look at the river, moments of zen.
https://vimeo.com/671961037
It was frigid last night with some of the lowest temps this year going into the teens. With the promise of above freezing temps in the afternoon I headed out to the river while listening to The Devil in the White City, https://amzn.to/3KY3Jdi the story of the Chicago World's Fair and what many have called the first modern serial killer, H.H. Holmes.
Should I throw streamers, watch a bobber, or euro my way through the runs and riffles, that was the question.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/013022-6.jpg)
Looked like someone had been in the day before...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/013022-2.jpg)
It was warm enough so that there wasn't any ice on the guides.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/013022-1.jpg)
I went with the euro, and hit the runs and pools hard, but had to make a trip back to the car because I forgot my wading staff. I almost went to another spot but returned to finish fishing this section.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/013022-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/013022-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/013022-5.jpg)
I covered most of the productive spots and the sun was dipping below the ridge, and I felt the temperature drop. Ice was forming on my wading staff and that was a sign for me to end the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/013022-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 31, 2022, 20:31:45 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 31, 2022, 20:31:45 PM
#14 39 degrees and mostly sunny
Doesn't anybody work anymore?
Trout bros down low, spinning guys in the middle and everybody up top, including a Tesla in my usual spot!
I almost quit and even rode up to the damn dam, but there were many people fishing up the river road too.
I ended up taking the low hanging fruit and ended up with a half dozen to hand.
14 days in January isn't bad considering the snow and cold.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/013122-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/013122-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/01/013122-3.jpg)
The bad part was that I left a bunch, way too many, flies in the river.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 31, 2022, 21:18:49 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 31, 2022, 21:18:49 PM
Yeah, I have have tied a lot, lost a lot, too.
:cheers
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 02, 2022, 20:52:03 PM
Post by: Dougfish on February 02, 2022, 20:52:03 PM
7,8
They dropped the flows. The fishing had already slowed.
Really slow now.
It was slow last Friday. First day of the low flow. 2 Feesh.
I needed to get out one more time before the coming rains.
Almost went to a blueline, but I didn't want to fight crusted over snow that I knew would be there.
Went back to the low flow. Maybe the feesh have adjusted and are hungry?
Overcast. BWO's?
No, and no.
I had a leisurely day.
Sat on the bank and watched, listened, and thinked as much as I fished.
An exceedingly quiet day, too.
No trains or maintenance vehicles. No jets.
Some turkeys flew over the river below me.
Pileated Woodpeckers were very active. And noisy. Mating season?
Kingfishers, ducks and geese buzzed me.
Deer and beaver signs.
Started at 35 degrees, finished at 51.
Streamers, girdlebugs, dry/emerger, soft hackles thrown.
2 Whole fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/roG2hCA.jpg)
Hens.
(https://i.imgur.com/s4PEtkM.jpg)
Anybody lose their Lambo?
(https://i.imgur.com/SBD4PfY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QHQ530L.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/PCan1AS.jpg)
Try, try again.
:cheers
They dropped the flows. The fishing had already slowed.
Really slow now.
It was slow last Friday. First day of the low flow. 2 Feesh.
I needed to get out one more time before the coming rains.
Almost went to a blueline, but I didn't want to fight crusted over snow that I knew would be there.
Went back to the low flow. Maybe the feesh have adjusted and are hungry?
Overcast. BWO's?
No, and no.
I had a leisurely day.
Sat on the bank and watched, listened, and thinked as much as I fished.
An exceedingly quiet day, too.
No trains or maintenance vehicles. No jets.
Some turkeys flew over the river below me.
Pileated Woodpeckers were very active. And noisy. Mating season?
Kingfishers, ducks and geese buzzed me.
Deer and beaver signs.
Started at 35 degrees, finished at 51.
Streamers, girdlebugs, dry/emerger, soft hackles thrown.
2 Whole fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/roG2hCA.jpg)
Hens.
(https://i.imgur.com/s4PEtkM.jpg)
Anybody lose their Lambo?
(https://i.imgur.com/SBD4PfY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QHQ530L.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/PCan1AS.jpg)
Try, try again.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on February 03, 2022, 13:23:25 PM
Post by: creakycane on February 03, 2022, 13:23:25 PM
Was there yesterday trying a handful of places up and down. Managed a stocker and a small brown on weighted tungsten marabou jig thing when I got there around 10, then only a few bumps through the day. Water exceedingly clear and river looked beautiful. That water temp staying low really makes all the difference. At least that's my story. As I pulled my waders off, I saw first rise of the day, but I'd had enough!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 06, 2022, 23:39:53 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 06, 2022, 23:39:53 PM
#15
Gas $3.15 Mostly sunny 36 degrees at best.
Rain, cold, obligations, kept me off the water for the first week of February, and when I got a chance to get away I drove off but realized I had forgotten my boots I was a little over a half hour out. I drove back, retrieved the boot and checked the drive time to the river. I was convinced that I could get at least a couple of hours of fishing in, so I drove up to an easy access point, it looked empty, there was a car parked up the road a ways, and I assumed that they would be well above me.
I walked on in, when I got to the water there was a fisherman sitting on the bank, below the pool I had planned to fish. He said he hadn't caught any and was rigging up "to try something different". I wished him luck and turned to fish the head of the pool. Just as I was ready to cast, I noticed two other fishermen in the run above the pool. Damn. I should have just turned around, but it was so late in the day, I figured I would hit the pool with the streamer and then leave. I felt bad about low holeing these guys. I caught nothing. Karma. The three of them left and I rigged up the euro and gave that a shot. I lost some flies. I drank a beer and left.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020522-1.jpg)
#16
Sunny, 36 degrees going in, 29 coming out.
It was cold last night, in the low 20s. I was in no hurry to get out, it wasn't going to get above freezing until 1 o'clock. I was late leaving, I got caught up watching the Olympics. I arrived to an empty lot around 2. Two locomotives were sitting on the track and the acrid diesel exhaust wafted across the field. Something has been gnawing on the raccoon.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020622-1.jpg)
There was a flock of turkeys at the end of the field, they took to the woods as I approached. (https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020622-2.jpg)
The river was still had a slight stain from the rain and the flow was up about 50 cfs. I stood at the first big run for while deciding what to fish. I went with a streamer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020622-3.jpg)
This fish tail-walked all the way to the net.
I worked my way downstream and caught a couple more on the streamer, before switching over to the euro to fishing up the last run.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020622-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020622-5.jpg)
I stopped fishing a little after 5 and was on the road home by 6.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020622-6.jpg)
I may go again tomorrow.
Gas $3.15 Mostly sunny 36 degrees at best.
Rain, cold, obligations, kept me off the water for the first week of February, and when I got a chance to get away I drove off but realized I had forgotten my boots I was a little over a half hour out. I drove back, retrieved the boot and checked the drive time to the river. I was convinced that I could get at least a couple of hours of fishing in, so I drove up to an easy access point, it looked empty, there was a car parked up the road a ways, and I assumed that they would be well above me.
I walked on in, when I got to the water there was a fisherman sitting on the bank, below the pool I had planned to fish. He said he hadn't caught any and was rigging up "to try something different". I wished him luck and turned to fish the head of the pool. Just as I was ready to cast, I noticed two other fishermen in the run above the pool. Damn. I should have just turned around, but it was so late in the day, I figured I would hit the pool with the streamer and then leave. I felt bad about low holeing these guys. I caught nothing. Karma. The three of them left and I rigged up the euro and gave that a shot. I lost some flies. I drank a beer and left.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020522-1.jpg)
#16
Sunny, 36 degrees going in, 29 coming out.
It was cold last night, in the low 20s. I was in no hurry to get out, it wasn't going to get above freezing until 1 o'clock. I was late leaving, I got caught up watching the Olympics. I arrived to an empty lot around 2. Two locomotives were sitting on the track and the acrid diesel exhaust wafted across the field. Something has been gnawing on the raccoon.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020622-1.jpg)
There was a flock of turkeys at the end of the field, they took to the woods as I approached. (https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020622-2.jpg)
The river was still had a slight stain from the rain and the flow was up about 50 cfs. I stood at the first big run for while deciding what to fish. I went with a streamer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020622-3.jpg)
This fish tail-walked all the way to the net.
I worked my way downstream and caught a couple more on the streamer, before switching over to the euro to fishing up the last run.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020622-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020622-5.jpg)
I stopped fishing a little after 5 and was on the road home by 6.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020622-6.jpg)
I may go again tomorrow.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 12, 2022, 08:26:18 AM
Post by: Dougfish on February 12, 2022, 08:26:18 AM
10
Gotta be in the top 10 rock songs. Ever.
https://youtu.be/9PnXts0Ni8I
I got a late start and didn't hit the lot until 11:30.
2 vehicles.
I hiked straight back and found Bobby fishing where I was going to start.
Of course.
Downstream I went.
And found the second fellow about where I wanted to start. b';
He and I chatted, I told him the best spot to cross below us.
We got buzzed by two low flying Osprey VTOL.
He fished a bit while I enjoyed my beer and lunch and then he boogied downstream.
I tied on a soft hackle and waded up to begin my quest. No risers in sight.
Bluebird day. Too nice.
(https://i.imgur.com/EFKSbVi.jpg)
I worked my way down with a few bumps, two strong grabs that unbuttoned and one small feesh.
I waded in, texted Keith back about my location and got beer #2.
Switched to a indicator rig w/a small soft hackle above a big girdlebug.
A little heavy for the 4 weight, but hey?
Picked up another fish and then started getting heckled by the Bugger on the bank.
(https://i.imgur.com/9GZONtN.jpg)
I broke off the rig on a shitty backcast and waded in for beer #3.
Rob came back from fishing downstream and chatted a bit more before going up to fish the lefthander's hole.
He is lefthanded. -+;
Keith and I got buzzed by two more Osprey and he waded out with the Euro rig.
(https://i.imgur.com/vekmr7w.jpg)
I headed up to fish the faster runs above with a fresh soft hackle/girdle bug rig.
I caught 3 more and decided I was done as a guided raft of sports drifted past us.
(https://i.imgur.com/r13Dlc7.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ksC1EtE.jpg)
Keith and I started up the trail and I I left him to flog on above where I quit.
58 degrees to start, 63 at finish.
I'll be back. I wish the bugs would cooperate.
:cheers
Gotta be in the top 10 rock songs. Ever.
https://youtu.be/9PnXts0Ni8I
I got a late start and didn't hit the lot until 11:30.
2 vehicles.
I hiked straight back and found Bobby fishing where I was going to start.
Of course.
Downstream I went.
And found the second fellow about where I wanted to start. b';
He and I chatted, I told him the best spot to cross below us.
We got buzzed by two low flying Osprey VTOL.
He fished a bit while I enjoyed my beer and lunch and then he boogied downstream.
I tied on a soft hackle and waded up to begin my quest. No risers in sight.
Bluebird day. Too nice.
(https://i.imgur.com/EFKSbVi.jpg)
I worked my way down with a few bumps, two strong grabs that unbuttoned and one small feesh.
I waded in, texted Keith back about my location and got beer #2.
Switched to a indicator rig w/a small soft hackle above a big girdlebug.
A little heavy for the 4 weight, but hey?
Picked up another fish and then started getting heckled by the Bugger on the bank.
(https://i.imgur.com/9GZONtN.jpg)
I broke off the rig on a shitty backcast and waded in for beer #3.
Rob came back from fishing downstream and chatted a bit more before going up to fish the lefthander's hole.
He is lefthanded. -+;
Keith and I got buzzed by two more Osprey and he waded out with the Euro rig.
(https://i.imgur.com/vekmr7w.jpg)
I headed up to fish the faster runs above with a fresh soft hackle/girdle bug rig.
I caught 3 more and decided I was done as a guided raft of sports drifted past us.
(https://i.imgur.com/r13Dlc7.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ksC1EtE.jpg)
Keith and I started up the trail and I I left him to flog on above where I quit.
58 degrees to start, 63 at finish.
I'll be back. I wish the bugs would cooperate.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on February 12, 2022, 10:28:39 AM
Post by: Phil on February 12, 2022, 10:28:39 AM
"I wish the bugs would cooperate."
You DO realize that it's mid-winter, right? b';
You DO realize that it's mid-winter, right? b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 12, 2022, 12:11:25 PM
Post by: Dougfish on February 12, 2022, 12:11:25 PM
Quote from: Phil on February 12, 2022, 10:28:39 AM"I wish the bugs would cooperate."
You DO realize that it's mid-winter, right? b';
BWO's, Phil!
They generally love cold, nasty weather.
I'll be patient for the Sulfurs. :Dance
And my garden says it almost Spring.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on February 12, 2022, 12:13:20 PM
Post by: Phil on February 12, 2022, 12:13:20 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on February 12, 2022, 12:11:25 PMQuote from: Phil on February 12, 2022, 10:28:39 AM"I wish the bugs would cooperate."
You DO realize that it's mid-winter, right? b';
BWO's, Phil!
They generally love cold, nasty weather.
Yeah, but them winter bwo's are them little tiny suckers. I hate 'em.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 12, 2022, 12:42:18 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 12, 2022, 12:42:18 PM
:Dance
:Dance :Dance
:Dance :Dance :Dance
#17 Wednesday temps in the 50s Gas $3.19
Back to the river.
Van in the lot... usually several anglers in this one.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020922-1.jpg)
The raccoon moved 6 feet to the right. It's warmer now, so being thawed out things will happen quicker.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020922-2.jpg)
Spring is around the corner.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020922-3.jpg)
Took the spey pole. Swung a fly, a micro intruder. Had some hits and caught a fish or two. Lessen learned is that it is better to spey cast without a vest. Jis saying. The wind was wicked at times and I tossed some streamers on the 5 wt too.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020922-5.jpg)
No bugs, no risers. That is all...
Back to the river.
Van in the lot... usually several anglers in this one.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020922-1.jpg)
The raccoon moved 6 feet to the right. It's warmer now, so being thawed out things will happen quicker.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020922-2.jpg)
Spring is around the corner.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020922-3.jpg)
Took the spey pole. Swung a fly, a micro intruder. Had some hits and caught a fish or two. Lessen learned is that it is better to spey cast without a vest. Jis saying. The wind was wicked at times and I tossed some streamers on the 5 wt too.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/020922-5.jpg)
No bugs, no risers. That is all...
:Dance :Dance
#18
60s in Feb, but windy, and you know how that funnels down the river.
Raccoon back to the left...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021022-1.jpg)
I worked the spey pole again, making some progress, but still not real consistent and need to work on some casting options for dealing with the wind.
Ospreys out flying again.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021022-2.jpg)
Upping my beer game.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021022-3.jpg)
Blue bird skies.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021022-4.jpg)
Caught a couple on the swing.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021022-5.jpg)
Solitude.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021022-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021022-7.jpg)
I saw two fish rise...
Cheers...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021022-8.jpg)
60s in Feb, but windy, and you know how that funnels down the river.
Raccoon back to the left...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021022-1.jpg)
I worked the spey pole again, making some progress, but still not real consistent and need to work on some casting options for dealing with the wind.
Ospreys out flying again.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021022-2.jpg)
Upping my beer game.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021022-3.jpg)
Blue bird skies.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021022-4.jpg)
Caught a couple on the swing.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021022-5.jpg)
Solitude.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021022-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021022-7.jpg)
I saw two fish rise...
Cheers...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021022-8.jpg)
:Dance :Dance :Dance
#19 Friday, doesn't anybody work anymore?
Warmest February day yet, 67, gas $3.29
Pulled into the lot, Bobby, Doug and two other vehicles in the lot, crap, who goes fishing in February? I almost turned around, but was afraid that other spots would be crowded too. I decided this would be a beer and photo day, with little fishing thrown in for good measure.
Looks like something was chowing down on the raccoon.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021122-1.jpg)
I tossed streamers in the left hand pool and caught nothing. Then walked down to where dougfish was and ate lunch while watching him flail away.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021122-2.jpg)
I euroed the run and caught nothing.
Then it was time for a beer break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021122-3.jpg)
The ospreys were out again.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021122-4.jpg)
EJ floated through at 4, he knows my name. :;! , he asked how it was going, slow I replied, i'm waiting for the sulphurs. He replied BWOs, I said they were sparce.
I fished until o'dark thirty and still caught nothing.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021122-5.jpg)
No bwos to speak of, only the occasional winter stone..
Warmest February day yet, 67, gas $3.29
Pulled into the lot, Bobby, Doug and two other vehicles in the lot, crap, who goes fishing in February? I almost turned around, but was afraid that other spots would be crowded too. I decided this would be a beer and photo day, with little fishing thrown in for good measure.
Looks like something was chowing down on the raccoon.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021122-1.jpg)
I tossed streamers in the left hand pool and caught nothing. Then walked down to where dougfish was and ate lunch while watching him flail away.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021122-2.jpg)
I euroed the run and caught nothing.
Then it was time for a beer break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021122-3.jpg)
The ospreys were out again.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021122-4.jpg)
EJ floated through at 4, he knows my name. :;! , he asked how it was going, slow I replied, i'm waiting for the sulphurs. He replied BWOs, I said they were sparce.
I fished until o'dark thirty and still caught nothing.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021122-5.jpg)
No bwos to speak of, only the occasional winter stone..
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 12, 2022, 20:43:22 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 12, 2022, 20:43:22 PM
watch out... I just discovered that I can record PIP with the phone <-;:
https://vimeo.com/676689804
https://vimeo.com/676689804
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 13, 2022, 17:16:57 PM
Post by: Dougfish on February 13, 2022, 17:16:57 PM
11
Shitty weather. BWO's Super Bowl Sunday? Lets go fishing!
37 and big fluffy wet snow on arrival.
Kitted up in a hurry to avoid getting soaked and hiked in.
Nothing happening on top in a half mile of streamside walking.
(https://i.imgur.com/ax5sSyK.jpg)
Keith gave me shit on my casting the heavy rig the other day.
Asked if I was using fiberglass.
Fuk him. I brought one of my early 50's Wonderod's and a late 30's/early 40's Pflueger Gem.
And he stayed home. n!n
Wet camera lens day.
(https://i.imgur.com/ftJ2R2p.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/muqbyeb.jpg)
Picked up one a on soft hackle.
Picked up four more on the beastly girdlebug.
The weather got worse. Semi whiteout at 300 feet.
(https://i.imgur.com/jGztklu.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MqkzRAG.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iA0X1H6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/W7bUB3J.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/jK2Aye7.jpg)
A guy from Charlotte was working downstream as I was working up and out.
No rain jacket. Fleece. Said he had been upstream since 7am.
Umkay. Tip of hat, sir.
In 2 1/2 hours of properly equipped I was OK with quitting.
Accumulation was slowly happening.
(https://i.imgur.com/8MBpUD2.jpg)
Rocky had been picked mostly clean and was to the right.
(https://i.imgur.com/MEase5m.jpg)
35 when I quit. Warmed up and lunched in the truck before heading home.
(https://i.imgur.com/0POQdWL.jpg)
Lots of wet gear. Oy!
:cheers
Shitty weather. BWO's Super Bowl Sunday? Lets go fishing!
37 and big fluffy wet snow on arrival.
Kitted up in a hurry to avoid getting soaked and hiked in.
Nothing happening on top in a half mile of streamside walking.
(https://i.imgur.com/ax5sSyK.jpg)
Keith gave me shit on my casting the heavy rig the other day.
Asked if I was using fiberglass.
Fuk him. I brought one of my early 50's Wonderod's and a late 30's/early 40's Pflueger Gem.
And he stayed home. n!n
Wet camera lens day.
(https://i.imgur.com/ftJ2R2p.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/muqbyeb.jpg)
Picked up one a on soft hackle.
Picked up four more on the beastly girdlebug.
The weather got worse. Semi whiteout at 300 feet.
(https://i.imgur.com/jGztklu.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MqkzRAG.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iA0X1H6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/W7bUB3J.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/jK2Aye7.jpg)
A guy from Charlotte was working downstream as I was working up and out.
No rain jacket. Fleece. Said he had been upstream since 7am.
Umkay. Tip of hat, sir.
In 2 1/2 hours of properly equipped I was OK with quitting.
Accumulation was slowly happening.
(https://i.imgur.com/8MBpUD2.jpg)
Rocky had been picked mostly clean and was to the right.
(https://i.imgur.com/MEase5m.jpg)
35 when I quit. Warmed up and lunched in the truck before heading home.
(https://i.imgur.com/0POQdWL.jpg)
Lots of wet gear. Oy!
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 13, 2022, 17:53:25 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 13, 2022, 17:53:25 PM
yeah, once ole rocky thawed out it's like the buffet at the Golden corral! <-;:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on February 14, 2022, 20:03:32 PM
Post by: Fishbug on February 14, 2022, 20:03:32 PM
Nice feesh, but in the top 10 rock songs?! Negative ghostrider.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 14, 2022, 20:36:18 PM
Post by: Dougfish on February 14, 2022, 20:36:18 PM
Pfft. Cmon, doctor.
https://youtu.be/H2h1MY70uag
https://youtu.be/H2h1MY70uag
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on February 14, 2022, 20:49:09 PM
Post by: Fishbug on February 14, 2022, 20:49:09 PM
Like it or not Baba Oriley or Wont get fooled again bring The Who into the top 10 list
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 14, 2022, 21:15:03 PM
Post by: Dougfish on February 14, 2022, 21:15:03 PM
You shallow youngsters. /'/
Listen to Entwhistle's bass line on The Real Me for some religion.
When we gonna fish that pond,btw?
Listen to Entwhistle's bass line on The Real Me for some religion.
When we gonna fish that pond,btw?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on February 14, 2022, 21:34:13 PM
Post by: Fishbug on February 14, 2022, 21:34:13 PM
Whenever the bass wake up
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 14, 2022, 21:59:10 PM
Post by: Dougfish on February 14, 2022, 21:59:10 PM
Meanwhile, back to the Smiff.....
:Dance
:Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 15, 2022, 10:25:06 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 15, 2022, 10:25:06 AM
#20
https://youtu.be/xw_dh9dxFxo
Gas $3.29 maybe 40 degrees, well below freezing after sunset, partly cloudy and windy.
I knew it was going to be a windy day, but when I arrived it was calm, so I rigged up the spey pole. I had tied up some new intruders but left them on the bench.
Rocky has moved back to the right again, not too much left now.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021422-1.jpg)
I swung my way down Sally's pool and then worked the left hand run. All I got was a couple of grabs.
I recently listened to Tom Rosenbauer's podcast with Kirk Deter, when they were talking about catching less fish, instead of playing numbers game, and that is what I was doing today. That's my story....
By the time I got down further the wind had really picked up and I felt like I needed an extra layer or two. More grabs and a beer break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021422-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021422-3.jpg)
I stuck with my fish taco intruder all day, might be too big, or just not getting in the zone, but, I think, my snap T is improving. The only thing missing was a couple of fish to hand. Will I go tomorrow?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 16, 2022, 23:43:50 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 16, 2022, 23:43:50 PM
#21
mid 50s, partly sunny to mostly cloudy... Gas is going up, didn't need to get any but it was $3.49
got up to the river afternoon, Dougfish was already down at the usual spot. I looked at my quiver of rods and thought about the spey pole, but went with the 5 wt which was rigged with soft hackles.
Rocky is picked clean.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021622-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021622-2.jpg)
I started up at Sally's run and didn't even get a bump. Then worked my way on down stopping along the way to swing the flies.'
The snow is mostly gone but some is holding tight on the shaded slopes of the ridge.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021622-3.jpg)
Looks like Doug's stash.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021622-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021622-5.jpg)
I studied the water and popped the top of Dunkel as Doug came up the bank.
He had taken a spill and had soaked his arms as he broke his fall.
He drank a beer with me and then split as he was getting chilled.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021622-6.jpg)
I fished on till dusk.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021622-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/021622-8.jpg)
Not many bugs at all and only saw a handful of fish rise. I told Doug that I was going to title this TR "The River was as dead as the raccoon."
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 17, 2022, 07:30:09 AM
Post by: Dougfish on February 17, 2022, 07:30:09 AM
12
A bit warmer day. I scheduled this as a 50/50 day.
Trail maintenance and fishing.
I have been working on the riverside trail for years as I could.
I had done very little the last 2 years.
Keith had stepped up and done some heavy lifting back in the summer and fall.
Time to knock some briars and other stuff back before the Spring flush.
(https://i.imgur.com/qGI13yQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/cYP94Uu.jpg)
Stay hydrated!
(https://i.imgur.com/anepkzy.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/EX0WCR1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/i1nbMtg.jpg)
Took a forward tumble heading to shore.
Banged the sh!t out of my left knee, and soaked my arms and chest.
Wrung out my jacket, drank with Keith,
watched some fish start to rise and hiked out, shivering.
I was happy to have a dry shirt in the truck.
:cheers
A bit warmer day. I scheduled this as a 50/50 day.
Trail maintenance and fishing.
I have been working on the riverside trail for years as I could.
I had done very little the last 2 years.
Keith had stepped up and done some heavy lifting back in the summer and fall.
Time to knock some briars and other stuff back before the Spring flush.
(https://i.imgur.com/qGI13yQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/cYP94Uu.jpg)
Stay hydrated!
(https://i.imgur.com/anepkzy.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/EX0WCR1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/i1nbMtg.jpg)
Took a forward tumble heading to shore.
Banged the sh!t out of my left knee, and soaked my arms and chest.
Wrung out my jacket, drank with Keith,
watched some fish start to rise and hiked out, shivering.
I was happy to have a dry shirt in the truck.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 21, 2022, 10:27:26 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 21, 2022, 10:27:26 AM
#22 Gas $3.39
I started to step out of the car and the wind tried to rip the door out of my hand. I shut it quickly. Damn. Oh, what the hell. I regrouped, donned a wind block hat and began gearing up. A car pulled up and an angler jumped out all geared up and stated that he had just come from upriver and the wind was too much, he hoped to find some relief down here.
I packed the cooler and grabbed the 5 wt. In the bog along the field the spring peepers were out and chirping I hiked in a mile hoping to get some shelter around the bend in the river. No dice, the wind was just whipping straight downstream.
I nymphed a couple of runs and was discouraged by the wind picking up the line and making things difficult. After an hour or so I was about to give it a break and go grab a beer when a shout out from behind me made me jump. One of those damn flycraft rafts had snuck up on me.
I waded ashore and drank my beer. The wind increased and I heard the crack of a large tree snapping and falling to the forest floor. Clearly this was a sign to get out of the woods. I witnessed another tree top snap and crash down. No need to stick around.
:Dance
#23 Back for more punishment. Well, it was windy again but not quite as bad and from the south so there I would be in the lee of the ridge. I decided to work on my cack-handed spey cast. I had tied up some intruders in purple and black. I worked from sally's pool on down to the Hodgeman hole. Then the left hand run and the trestle pool. I caught nothing. So, I drank a beer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/022022-1.jpg)
I thought about going down to the low hole. I was past 4:30, I envisioned the fly swinging over the shelf and down into the run where I've caught many trout before, and this would be the only river right casting on the day. I worked the water on the way down and caught nothing. When I got down to the low hole, I thought this would be the last chance to catch a fish. It did not happen.
I hiked out at dusk and hit some of the runs again on the way out with hopes of avoiding a skunk.
Back at the car I had a snad and then drove home.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/02/022022-2.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 22, 2022, 17:51:58 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 22, 2022, 17:51:58 PM
With more rain on the way Philpott has opened up the gate to 520 cfs
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 23, 2022, 10:31:50 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 23, 2022, 10:31:50 AM
usgs.jpg
What's up with the gauges? Philpott say 520 below the dam and Basset is reading 514 :o <-;:
The gauge must be stuck!
What's up with the gauges? Philpott say 520 below the dam and Basset is reading 514 :o <-;:
The gauge must be stuck!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 23, 2022, 11:49:19 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 23, 2022, 11:49:19 AM
it's a bit better now... bassett is reporitng 529... but it still must be off somewhere...
jis ob'servin
interesting form on the USGS web..
iamrobot.jpg
https://youtu.be/u7oAuba3Ekg
jis ob'servin
interesting form on the USGS web..
iamrobot.jpg
https://youtu.be/u7oAuba3Ekg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 23, 2022, 12:05:43 PM
Post by: Dougfish on February 23, 2022, 12:05:43 PM
Great album. :Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 23, 2022, 12:55:02 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 23, 2022, 12:55:02 PM
So I fired off an email to the usgs about the gauges...
95306AE2-D3A7-48E5-94D8-BC5E954FEDF3.png
Dis be da reason da graph wez up dated bro
95306AE2-D3A7-48E5-94D8-BC5E954FEDF3.png
Dis be da reason da graph wez up dated bro
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 27, 2022, 14:15:37 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 27, 2022, 14:15:37 PM
stumbled across this chart for Philpott.
(https://epec.saw.usace.army.mil/phil_elev.JPG)
https://epec.saw.usace.army.mil/phil_summ.htm
The Guide Curve is what I am most interested in.
(https://epec.saw.usace.army.mil/phil_elev.JPG)
https://epec.saw.usace.army.mil/phil_summ.htm
The Guide Curve is what I am most interested in.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on February 27, 2022, 19:00:41 PM
Post by: creakycane on February 27, 2022, 19:00:41 PM
Interesting data. When it starts steeply dropping toward 970, that's when I usually figure they'll drop the release a little or a bunch. Good to know it is Still a long way away from drought warning. The folks with boats on the lake will be concerned way before it gets down to 960ish.......
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 28, 2022, 07:44:11 AM
Post by: Dougfish on February 28, 2022, 07:44:11 AM
Right at full pond and slowly dropping.
Look for reduced flows in the next 48.
Look for reduced flows in the next 48.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on February 28, 2022, 21:20:27 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on February 28, 2022, 21:20:27 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on February 28, 2022, 07:44:11 AMRight at full pond and slowly dropping.
Look for reduced flows in the next 48.
Doubtful. Guide curve is 972.5ish at this point in the year.Surfs up for a while.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 01, 2022, 10:36:25 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 01, 2022, 10:36:25 AM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on February 28, 2022, 21:20:27 PMQuote from: Dougfish on February 28, 2022, 07:44:11 AMRight at full pond and slowly dropping.
Look for reduced flows in the next 48.
Doubtful. Guide curve is 972.5ish at this point in the year.Surfs up for a while.
check the gague... <-;: :cheers d:b
dougfish 1, streamereater 0
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on March 01, 2022, 14:54:13 PM
Post by: creakycane on March 01, 2022, 14:54:13 PM
My understanding is that they will stay in water preservation mode unless a large 6 inch + storm is on the way. The fear of late summer low water probably exceeds the high spillover threat based on current predictions. All that translates into hopefully great levels for spring/summer. Unless a washout comes!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 03, 2022, 08:35:33 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 03, 2022, 08:35:33 AM
#25
sunny 70s
Water was clear and a little higher than the new normal low. 302 at the lower gauge.
It was just a feckless day on the water, the fish only added to the delightful outing. I caught enough to keep it interesting but I had to work for them. Not many bugs other than miniscule midges. I saw a total of 2 trout rise during the afternoon.
Pretty clean looking holdover stockbow
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030222-1.jpg)
Delightful weizen-doupelbock
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030222-2.jpg)
Typical trout
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030222-3.jpg)
Trout lily
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030222-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030222-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030222-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030222-7.jpg)
Found some floatant
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030222-8.jpg)
Delicious chocolate stout
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030222-9.jpg)
Shadow casting
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030222-10.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on March 03, 2022, 08:44:08 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on March 03, 2022, 08:44:08 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on March 03, 2022, 08:35:33 AMShadow casting
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030222-10.jpg)
I like that photo! Is that rock at the lower end of the fields behind the Mirror plant?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 03, 2022, 09:09:53 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 03, 2022, 09:09:53 AM
Quote from: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on March 03, 2022, 08:44:08 AMIs that rock at the lower end of the fields behind the Mirror plant?
Much further down
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on March 03, 2022, 10:13:38 AM
Post by: Fin on March 03, 2022, 10:13:38 AM
QuoteSpring beauty
Your spring beauty is actually Hepatica nobilis aka liver leaf. You can see the leaf in the lower left of the pic. It's an early bloomer. Spring beauty will be up and poppin' soon enough. Ah, spring is in the air...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on March 04, 2022, 08:47:27 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on March 04, 2022, 08:47:27 AM
Wow! 8.2 abv. High test for sure. 😳. Couple of those and I wouldn't be able to find my way back.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 04, 2022, 20:02:29 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 04, 2022, 20:02:29 PM
13, 14
I got another trail maintenance day in before the rains and the river bump.
Fished a couple of hours. Only caught 3. Pretty day. Ran into Chuck (Icflies) and had a good conversation with him.
Home at a decent hour. Tired.
WTF? Muskrat?
(https://i.imgur.com/gZG9NDb.jpg)
Meh.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZQn108a.jpg)
Snow lingers.
(https://i.imgur.com/T4kN6Z6.jpg)
Back down today. Another lovely day with a cool start.
Ran into another Chuck. Raleigh by way of Blacksburg. NC Hokies are welcome. :Dance
He was fishing the same fly regime as I have been. Smart man?
Coyote scat.
(https://i.imgur.com/OBJaXhz.jpg)
Deer crossing.
(https://i.imgur.com/0jQsFo6.jpg)
Crossed the river and waded down stream through the heavy push of water for another 1/2 mile.
Started with streamers. After 3 changes and no bumps or fish, I switched to girdlebugs.
(https://i.imgur.com/9cxogvQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/eVNZDC1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/uwGa9f3.jpg)
Most of the browns are not jumpers. This guy was Luke Tailwalker.
A few jumps, then tailwalked almost to the net.
(https://i.imgur.com/KgKNUxL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/vTunprB.jpg)
Semi-oink bow.
(https://i.imgur.com/l5vKuP9.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/zFfnzWH.jpg)
Vintage glass day. Took a 60's 8' 6wt Actionglass down to a bare blank.
New seat, new cork, hand rubbed new paint, new guides, wraps and spar varnish.
(https://i.imgur.com/etnwILE.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/uYMj4V8.jpg)
Waded back up for lunch and fresh beers. Saw a crusty guy fishing upstream. :laugh:
WB wandered down soon after. He worked a run while I watched and finished lunch.
I eventually waded out below him and caught zero on the bug.
But some caddis and some quill gordons started coming off. Encouraging.
I didn't switch. This rod would not be making delicate presentations.
After clipping off his streamer, bossman tied on an emerger and I watched him slog on.
He missed a bunch and caught one before I wandered upstream to try another run.
I hooked one as he sat down to watch me. Came unbuttoned.
I waded in, we nursed our last beers and hiked out.
Home at a decent hour again.
Spring is coming fast. Blue Hepatica starting.
(https://i.imgur.com/UJsNDAJ.jpg)
My garden is starting to explode into color.
:cheers
I got another trail maintenance day in before the rains and the river bump.
Fished a couple of hours. Only caught 3. Pretty day. Ran into Chuck (Icflies) and had a good conversation with him.
Home at a decent hour. Tired.
WTF? Muskrat?
(https://i.imgur.com/gZG9NDb.jpg)
Meh.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZQn108a.jpg)
Snow lingers.
(https://i.imgur.com/T4kN6Z6.jpg)
Back down today. Another lovely day with a cool start.
Ran into another Chuck. Raleigh by way of Blacksburg. NC Hokies are welcome. :Dance
He was fishing the same fly regime as I have been. Smart man?
Coyote scat.
(https://i.imgur.com/OBJaXhz.jpg)
Deer crossing.
(https://i.imgur.com/0jQsFo6.jpg)
Crossed the river and waded down stream through the heavy push of water for another 1/2 mile.
Started with streamers. After 3 changes and no bumps or fish, I switched to girdlebugs.
(https://i.imgur.com/9cxogvQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/eVNZDC1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/uwGa9f3.jpg)
Most of the browns are not jumpers. This guy was Luke Tailwalker.
A few jumps, then tailwalked almost to the net.
(https://i.imgur.com/KgKNUxL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/vTunprB.jpg)
Semi-oink bow.
(https://i.imgur.com/l5vKuP9.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/zFfnzWH.jpg)
Vintage glass day. Took a 60's 8' 6wt Actionglass down to a bare blank.
New seat, new cork, hand rubbed new paint, new guides, wraps and spar varnish.
(https://i.imgur.com/etnwILE.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/uYMj4V8.jpg)
Waded back up for lunch and fresh beers. Saw a crusty guy fishing upstream. :laugh:
WB wandered down soon after. He worked a run while I watched and finished lunch.
I eventually waded out below him and caught zero on the bug.
But some caddis and some quill gordons started coming off. Encouraging.
I didn't switch. This rod would not be making delicate presentations.
After clipping off his streamer, bossman tied on an emerger and I watched him slog on.
He missed a bunch and caught one before I wandered upstream to try another run.
I hooked one as he sat down to watch me. Came unbuttoned.
I waded in, we nursed our last beers and hiked out.
Home at a decent hour again.
Spring is coming fast. Blue Hepatica starting.
(https://i.imgur.com/UJsNDAJ.jpg)
My garden is starting to explode into color.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 05, 2022, 21:53:24 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 05, 2022, 21:53:24 PM
#26 sunny and warm but windy..
Spey Day, I studied some videos and identified some faults with my cast, so I swung flies for most of the day and I felt a significant improvement. Had a fish on and one other grab. Later I switched rods and caught some fish at the end of the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030322-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030322-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030322-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030322-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 05, 2022, 22:13:56 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 05, 2022, 22:13:56 PM
#27
gas $3.79
a bit cooler but still sunny and just breezy...
Back to basics with only one rod, thinking about regular nymphing today after an initial streamer assault. On the hike in I talked to Chuck who was fishing the left-hand run. He reported catching a handful. I moved on down and took up position on the far side of the river and threw a zoo cougar and didn't move a fish, so I went on down to where Doug was, and we talked for a while before I went up to the head of that run and fished the streamer. I moved a good fish, but it was a short strike.
About this time, we started seeing caddis coming off and a few fish were rising. I rigged up with a dry and proceeded to miss fish after fish as I called out, "missed 1", "2", "3", "4", then I finally connected and landed a fish, but then continued "5", "6,"..."9", "10" I couldn't take any more, so I quit, besides, I had to get home early anyway.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030422-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030422-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030422-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030422-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 05, 2022, 22:23:03 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 05, 2022, 22:23:03 PM
#28
70s and sunny
I had hoped to see more caddis and rising fish and I did get one on the surface but quickly went down under with a girdle bug, dropper, and a couple of BBs on an indicator rig as there weren't enough bugs to get the fish to rise.
Later a SmithFly raft floated on down behind me, they were polite and kept their distance.
It was a double digit day, here's the photo dump;
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030522-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030522-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030522-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030522-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030522-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030522-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030522-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030522-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030522-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030522-10.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 06, 2022, 06:59:58 AM
Post by: Dougfish on March 06, 2022, 06:59:58 AM
Well done! -+;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 07, 2022, 09:59:36 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 07, 2022, 09:59:36 AM
#29
69 and partly sunny Gas $3.79 where you can find it. Mostly $3.99 but I saw one station @ $4.19
Having seen the caddis the other day I tied up some LaFontaine's to see if they would work some magic.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030622-1.jpg)
One truck in the lot, he must have been fishing up high as I never saw him.
Trout lilies are blooming. I recently read that they are edible although emetic in quantity. The young leaves are supposed to be tender and tasty.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030622-2.jpg)
I studied the water while enjoying my lunch, mussels, Rauchbier, and salmon.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030622-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030622-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030622-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030622-8.jpg)
Then I spent an hour and a half working the water with the caddis pupa -- I caught nothing.
There were no caddis and I saw only midges and a few wayward stoneflies.
I switched gears and caught a few before a floaty bote from Ferrum high and low holed me.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030622-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030622-7.jpg)
Moving on down the river I changed gears again and caught nothing -- blaming the intrusion of the raft.
Back on up more fish were caught as the day wore on.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030622-9.jpg)
and then you look up and the sky starts to turn red and you find yourself enjoying a sunset while the cold dark waters swirl around you.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030622-10.jpg)
You could stop fishing but you want to catch one more and a quote from a book you read a long time ago runs though you mind, "Big browns dine at dusk".
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030622-11.jpg)
Walked out at 6:30 and was crossing the field listening to the spring peepers' cacophony when heard the voices of children which seemed out of place but when I turned in their direction, I saw the silhouettes of eight or nine people crossing over from Sally's pool.
Back at the lot we talked for a bit, they all had been spin fishing and one adult had caught two, but the kids hadn't caught any.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 07, 2022, 19:06:37 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 07, 2022, 19:06:37 PM
Are you dipping your flies in that sardine oil?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 09, 2022, 09:20:01 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 09, 2022, 09:20:01 AM
Monday was a blow day, or so I thought, others went, I stayed in.
#30
59 degrees, the station where I filled up the other day was up twenty cents.
https://vimeo.com/686271238
geared up in an empty lot and hiked in and it felt warm in the sunshine.
Checked all the likely spots on the way to look for risers, there were none.
Bloodroot in bloom
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-1.jpg)
Trout lilies too.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-3.jpg)
Tried a leaf..
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-4.jpg)
not to bad, maybe a little sour at the end of the stem
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-5.jpg)
When I got to my destination I sat down and ate lunch while looking for bugs and rising fish. There were a sparce number of caddis and a few small fish rose in the nearby channel.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-6.jpg)
I was still rigged for nymphing so I stayed with that untill I saw a few more fish rise in the main run.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-7.jpg)
There were still a number of winter stones about too.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-8.jpg)
I finally switched over to dries and played that game for the rest of the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-11.jpg)
Things slowed down in the evening and there was a chill in the air, I should have put on another layer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-13.jpg)
#30
59 degrees, the station where I filled up the other day was up twenty cents.
https://vimeo.com/686271238
geared up in an empty lot and hiked in and it felt warm in the sunshine.
Checked all the likely spots on the way to look for risers, there were none.
Bloodroot in bloom
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-1.jpg)
Trout lilies too.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-3.jpg)
Tried a leaf..
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-4.jpg)
not to bad, maybe a little sour at the end of the stem
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-5.jpg)
When I got to my destination I sat down and ate lunch while looking for bugs and rising fish. There were a sparce number of caddis and a few small fish rose in the nearby channel.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-6.jpg)
I was still rigged for nymphing so I stayed with that untill I saw a few more fish rise in the main run.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-7.jpg)
There were still a number of winter stones about too.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-8.jpg)
I finally switched over to dries and played that game for the rest of the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-11.jpg)
Things slowed down in the evening and there was a chill in the air, I should have put on another layer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/030922-13.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 09, 2022, 23:53:46 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 09, 2022, 23:53:46 PM
When I was a kid I always wondered why some plants like those trout lilies tasted sour, then I saw the dog watering a patch :P Worse yet Doug may have been over there after drinking 5 or 6 of those Miller Lites.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 11, 2022, 16:28:02 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 11, 2022, 16:28:02 PM
Why are your fish always so much bigger than Doug's?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 12, 2022, 00:03:46 AM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 12, 2022, 00:03:46 AM
You guys get after it for a couple of old farts :cheers I enjoy both of your reports and photos.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 12, 2022, 10:07:46 AM
Post by: Dougfish on March 12, 2022, 10:07:46 AM
15, 16
Monday was supposed to be windy. It was pretty tame for the first part of the day as I worked downstream with it at my back.
I caught 2 small fish and missed a few more on soft hackles.
(https://i.imgur.com/fMvlIvl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ixpyWJs.jpg)
I worked down to the usual home base and the wind really started to pick up. Branches and debris started to rain down and sycamore and tuliptree seeds started to cover the water.
(https://i.imgur.com/mwotCzI.jpg)
After hearing a big tree fall just around the next bend of the river, I packed it in.
:Dance
Went back yesterday. Late arrival. Almost too pretty of a day.
Unlike the Ruskies, our military trains.
(https://i.imgur.com/03bHQQU.jpg)
I worked a good run further upstream to start the day.
And had the camera set on microscope mode. b';
(https://i.imgur.com/PNbjFG4.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/STeDlke.jpg)
Motored back down and hiked into the usual.
I euro'd up a few before WB snuck up behind me and heckled.
He wandered downstream and I caught one more before joining him.
(https://i.imgur.com/kgsseGw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/yBQkkNe.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/YKvjuHg.jpg)
Found Dean, from Blacksburg, in the same spot as Monday.
Retired VT prof. Knows Mudwall and Harry. :o
Watched Keith flog for a while. I switched reels and tied on one of my new emergers.
Some caddis and quill gordans were comes off along with the winter stones.
I teased some fish, hooked and lost one, but mostly enjoyed hanging out.
(https://i.imgur.com/YJTJaQj.jpg)
I hiked out before Keith and got home in time for a garden walk with the missus.
(https://i.imgur.com/7JMbtvw.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 12, 2022, 10:53:49 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 12, 2022, 10:53:49 AM
#31
Gas $4.19 -- 60s sunny
After getting the CR-V (212K miles) serviced for belts and fluids, I headed off to the river a little later than usual. @Dougfish was already there as was another fishermen, Dean, who turned out to be a friend of @Mudwall Gatewood 3.0. It was crowded for a Friday.
I hiked in and heckled doug while I downed an ale. I saw a fish rise and went in after it. It didn't rise again. I moved on down and found the Dean at the head of the pool I wanted to fish.
After he left I tried to convince some trout to rise but failed, so I switched to nymphing as doug informed me of a raft headed our way. I blocked the top of the run to protect my water from the amphibious assault of yet another one of those smithfly, flycraft, riverrat, that are becoming a nuisance.
I caught a fish, doug caught a few more, I drank a beer or two.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/031122-1.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/687453424
The bugs never really got going but it was an enjoyable afternoon none the less.
.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on March 12, 2022, 17:42:25 PM
Post by: creakycane on March 12, 2022, 17:42:25 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on March 12, 2022, 10:53:49 AMAgreed. One of the advantages of the old 80 CFS, and lower, flows was it made floating most stretches difficult. Especially above Bassett, the Smith riverbed is not really of a size that makes sharing float fishers with waders very easy. I know, a big can of worms, but 5 years ago I would have never thought it would get this bad. Enter the pandemic and the dam troubles, and it's now a more pressured and advertised fishery than anticipated.
.......the amphibious assault of yet another one of those smithfly, flycraft, riverrat, that are becoming a nuisance......
.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 12, 2022, 18:57:08 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 12, 2022, 18:57:08 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on March 12, 2022, 10:53:49 AM
I blocked the top of the run to protect my water from the amphibious assault of yet another one of those smithfly, flycraft, riverrat, that are becoming a nuisance.
Got a deed to that water you own?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 15, 2022, 09:20:05 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 15, 2022, 09:20:05 AM
#32
62 degrees - sunny
I checked the river gauge in the morning but when I got to the river, I was surprised to see the water dropping.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/031422-1.jpg)
well damn
I was planning to stream test my swap fly, a little black stonefly and there were a number of them flying about along with a few caddis.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/031422-2.jpg)
l b stonefly -- upper left corner
I spotted a few sporadic risers and went after them. I managed to get some looks and hooked one in short order while the water was still falling.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/031422-8.jpg)
Once it reached its low flow the river became a desert with no visible activity. So, I took a lunch break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/lunch.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/031422-6.jpg)
Bloodroot on the trail
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/031422-9.jpg)
I moved on up to Sally's pool and caught a couple more on the surface with the same LBS. Now that the fly has been stream tested and approved, I'll go into full production mode for the swap.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/031422-10.jpg)
Caddis started coming off by the thousands around 6 o'clock and the hatch continued for at least an hour before it shut down by 7:30.
https://vimeo.com/688426628
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/031422-11.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on March 15, 2022, 09:55:19 AM
Post by: Big J on March 15, 2022, 09:55:19 AM
How were those mussels?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 15, 2022, 11:35:03 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 15, 2022, 11:35:03 AM
Quote from: Big J on March 15, 2022, 09:55:19 AMHow were those mussels?
Delicious!! Really tasty! That sofrito style is da bomb!
Patagucci had a sale on a "seafood" sampler and I picked up some tins of mussels and pouches of salmon. The salmon is tasty too.
https://www.patagoniaprovisions.com/products/responsible-seafood-sampler
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 15, 2022, 20:59:59 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 15, 2022, 20:59:59 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on March 15, 2022, 11:35:03 AMQuote from: Big J on March 15, 2022, 09:55:19 AMHow were those mussels?
Delicious!! Really tasty! That sofrito style is da bomb!
Patagucci had a sale on a "seafood" sampler and I picked up some tins of mussels and pouches of salmon. The salmon is tasty too.
https://www.patagoniaprovisions.com/products/responsible-seafood-sampler
Poor people can't afford that! Why don't you just fry some of the fish you catch? Did you get a MiiR Anchovy Fish Tumbler? Nothing better than frying up some brookies stream side. (https://i.postimg.cc/tTLsh9Vh/brook-trout-in-a-pan.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 19, 2022, 11:16:41 AM
Post by: Dougfish on March 19, 2022, 11:16:41 AM
18
I won't be going out for a few weeks, so I snuck down early on Wednesday.
Should have gone low, but no. :laugh:
Soft hackled a couple of small fish. Pic of the smallest fukker.
Tried for a long seam of midge sippers but never cracked that code.
Colt's Foot
(https://i.imgur.com/P17G0ni.jpg)
Star Chickweed
(https://i.imgur.com/ZmJko3m.jpg)
Bluebells are starting
(https://i.imgur.com/bNydPmF.jpg)
Ferocious!
(https://i.imgur.com/W6i0PQI.jpg)
Troutlilies continue
(https://i.imgur.com/bqF9p71.jpg)
Twinleaf
(https://i.imgur.com/Cq5LE6P.jpg)
Springbeauty
(https://i.imgur.com/gprm3cr.jpg)
Puttyroot Orchid leaf
(https://i.imgur.com/enluyMm.jpg)
Peace, out.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 24, 2022, 08:49:22 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 24, 2022, 08:49:22 AM
well it was nice to get some rain, but 1.5" was more than expected. The river is up an unfishable below towns creek.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 30, 2022, 22:00:47 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 30, 2022, 22:00:47 PM
#39
It was supposed to be in the low 70s, but when I left the house it was still in the 40s and cloudy with drizzle. I had planned to fish a little creek but was hoping for better weather, I checked the Smith gauge and saw that they had dropped it to a fishable level so that is where I went.
The rod was rigged for streamers and I discovered that I still had a cople of tan and white clousers, so when I got to the first fishable run I went for it.
In short order I had three short strikes, at least the fish were interested.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/033022-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/033022-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/033022-5.jpg)
Some trashy people fish down here too...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/033022-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/033022-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/033022-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/033022-9.jpg)
After catching a couple of handfuls I moved on down and took a break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/033022-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/033022-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/033022-12.jpg)
then it was back to catching and the catching was good until the sun came out and the river settled into its low flow.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/033022-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/033022-14.jpg)
It was an unexpectedly good day with over a dozen to hand and many more short strikes or ldrs. Only one fly all day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/033022-15.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/033022-16.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/033022-17.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/03/033022-18.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/694499452
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on April 01, 2022, 02:59:44 AM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on April 01, 2022, 02:59:44 AM
Is that TU pale ale any good?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 01, 2022, 04:28:12 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 01, 2022, 04:28:12 AM
Quote from: Trout Maharishi on April 01, 2022, 02:59:44 AMIs that TU pale ale any good?
Pretty solid — the owner of Fiddling Fish is a fly fisherman, I've not met him, and I don't care for the brewery bar - I've only been there a couple of times
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Rhody on April 01, 2022, 11:20:42 AM
Post by: Rhody on April 01, 2022, 11:20:42 AM
Nice ephemeral pics. Some of my favorites there.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 02, 2022, 07:51:51 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 02, 2022, 07:51:51 AM
#40
58 and sunny , cloudless sky
After taking care of chores and errands I finally got up to the river at 3:00. The wind was wickedly blowing in strong gust and the flag flew straight out in a downstream direction. The recon was rigged with a clouser from the other day, so I went with that. The water was up coupld of inches and slightly stained.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040122-1.jpg)
The fishing was off a bit from the other day. Maybe needed a sink tip in the slightly higher flow, but I managed to get a handful of punes to take the fly.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040122-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040122-3.jpg)
The wind continued to blow and I had had enough abuse, So I hiked out at 6:00.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040122-4.jpg)
inch worm season
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040122-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040122-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040122-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 03, 2022, 09:00:58 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 03, 2022, 09:00:58 AM
#41
55 SUNNY Gas $3.88
https://vimeo.com/695391540
The flow was down 30 cfs and clear. I was thinking it would be a nymphing day, but I still had a clouser tied on, so when I got to the first run I waded out and set up for the first cast. As the fly swung out of the main channel and moved in front of a submerged boulder, I watched a trout rise up off the bottom, chase after and attack the fly! Now it's always great to get off to a quick start, but often it is a curse to catch a fish on the first cast.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040222-1.jpg)
57 cast later and I hooked another fish, I was hoping that it was a good brown but disappointingly turned out to be a stockbow.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040222-2.jpg)
Then it was lunch time... Loon Cafe's Minnesota Wild Rice Soup, know to PFFers at Loon Stew.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040222-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040222-5.jpg)
As I was finishing up my beer I spotted a raft coming down and through the run that I was planning to hit next. I took my time before fishing it. It didn't pan out and I started working my way down the pool. There were a number of winter stones in the air and I saw a trout take one, so I switched over to a dry fly all the time keeping a eye on the spot where the fish rose. Finally after rerigging I was ready to cast, "now exactly where was that fish?, I asked myself.
I made the cast and watched the drift as it went over where I thought the fish rose, it went over and past and then I started to pick up the line and the fly skated an inch and the trout rose to the moving target and of course missed as I pulled the fly off the water. Damn it! Well I cast again and this time the trout took the fly!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040222-3.jpg)
I saw a few more trout rise and I managed to entice a half dozen to take the fly. It wasn't easy and it took a lot of time and patience.
Another, the second, flycraft floated by and reported a slow day. I concurred.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040222-6.jpg)
I saw one rise and it sounded like a toilet flush, I spent 20 minutes trying to get it to rise again. It didn't happen.
Then Alex came on down in his Stealthcraft. I took another break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040222-9.jpg)
It was getting late and there was a basketball game to watch, so I headed out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040222-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040222-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040222-10.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 03, 2022, 20:34:56 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 03, 2022, 20:34:56 PM
#42
64 Sunny
I was hoping for a repeat of yesterday, the river was down a few more cfs and even clearer or seemed that way in the bright sunlight from a cloudless sky.
The wind wasn't too bad when I started hiking in but by the time I got downstream it was blowing hard. I fished for a bit but was frustrated being unable to mend effectively, I caught nothing. So I decided to have lunch, but I couldn't keep the stove lit so it was cold soup for me.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040322-1.jpg)
This guy must be a guide as he was down yesterday with a different dude.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040322-2.jpg)
The gusts would come and go and at times it was calm, and I even saw a fish rise. But as soon as I thought about dry fly fishing the wind picked back up and blew harder than before.
I was almost ready to give up but went back out to try and catch at least one. During the lulls, I was able to catch a handful.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040322-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040322-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040322-5.jpg)
Another guide came on down...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040322-6.jpg)
Also, the plastic hatch has started, two yaks and a canoe.
And that was it, I did hit a few other spots on the way out, but nothing much was happening.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040322-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/040322-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on April 04, 2022, 14:17:07 PM
Post by: creakycane on April 04, 2022, 14:17:07 PM
Back up to 500
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 04, 2022, 15:25:33 PM
Post by: Dougfish on April 04, 2022, 15:25:33 PM
I thought it got pretty "pushy". :o
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 04, 2022, 16:37:55 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 04, 2022, 16:37:55 PM
Quote from: creakycane on April 04, 2022, 14:17:07 PMBack up to 500
An inch of rain tomorrow
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 04, 2022, 20:18:28 PM
Post by: Dougfish on April 04, 2022, 20:18:28 PM
19
https://youtu.be/A3vlj8mUiPA
I had a semi-serious medical situation that sidelined me for 2 1/2 weeks. I have been recovering great and had to hit the water.
My stamina is down and my core was not fond of my wading upstream in the flows, but it was good to get out.
The woods/wildflowers are blowing up and I had the river to myself. And the wind. b';
Wore wading pants which keep me in crotch deep water or less. Easier to take a leak, for sure.
Virginia Bluebells
(https://i.imgur.com/Te1YWE5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/uLXZe8R.jpg)
Mayapple
(https://i.imgur.com/CeZ1wGN.jpg)
Ragwort
(https://i.imgur.com/ne3VpNX.jpg)
Trillium
(https://i.imgur.com/o39Oiqa.jpg)
The rod leaned against the tree a lot today.
(https://i.imgur.com/OxOubLO.jpg)
Drank a few beers.
(https://i.imgur.com/JBMeY3o.jpg)
Had a smoked meatloaf sammie.
(https://i.imgur.com/ilN2P20.jpg)
Caught a couple of punes.
(https://i.imgur.com/FDkGzQN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/L44S51f.jpg)
Dutchman's Breeches.
(https://i.imgur.com/5ST2vOF.jpg)
Paw Paw flower buds.
(https://i.imgur.com/qOy3kgT.jpg)
Moved up to another run and thought the flows had gotten stronger.
Fished another 15 minutes with no takers and bailed.
Violets on the walk out.
(https://i.imgur.com/AURf2Pm.jpg)
Got home and found out they bumped the flows at noon. I'd been wading 496 cfs half the time. LOL.
Get out, mofo's.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on April 05, 2022, 04:07:29 AM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on April 05, 2022, 04:07:29 AM
What's the small purple flower growing under the Ragwort
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 11, 2022, 22:14:09 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 11, 2022, 22:14:09 PM
#44
75+ Sunny Gas $3.81
They cut the water back this morning, caught some on the surface with rbphoto's cdc elk caddis...
Then went after a fish with a clouser, he nailed it. Got a couple more on the streamer. Saw a sulfur. Looked around for som morels, didn't find any, took some pic, drank a beer, ran into John up at Sally's Pool.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/041122-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/041122-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/041122-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/041122-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/041122-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/041122-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/041122-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/041122-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on April 13, 2022, 20:55:26 PM
Post by: Fishbug on April 13, 2022, 20:55:26 PM
That fish is backwards!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on April 13, 2022, 22:04:05 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on April 13, 2022, 22:04:05 PM
Quote from: Fishbug on April 13, 2022, 20:55:26 PMThat fish is backwards!
That's Woowee's one finger death fish paralyzer hold. It's how he gets them to hold still while he photographs them
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 19, 2022, 18:17:11 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 19, 2022, 18:17:11 PM
I listened to WHY THE PAST 10 YEARS OF AMERICAN LIFE HAVE BEEN UNIQUELY STUPID (https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2022/05/social-media-democracy-trust-babel/629369/) on the drive up.
(https://cdn.theatlantic.com/thumbor/YVrpQlAojYI3IY0qcSI811JJsX4=/0x0:2411x1613/928x621/media/img/posts/2022/04/FF_02Lead_art/original.jpg)
#49
47* sunny and windy
Had to go up near the damn dam to get clear water. I forgot how friggin' cold it is up there wading waist deep. I caught a couple of stockerbows in one spot, it was really hard to detect strikes with the wind blowing the line. I moved on down a ways and whacked a dozen stockbows and two brown before I started to go numb.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/041922-1.jpg)
I went down to the ramp and had lunch and a beer, talked briefly to a VaTec student who was fishing down there and had caught bows.
I moved on downtown and hit a run there, picked a couple of browns off the bottom before throwing in the towel and heading home.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/041922-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/041922-3.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/701036950
(https://cdn.theatlantic.com/thumbor/YVrpQlAojYI3IY0qcSI811JJsX4=/0x0:2411x1613/928x621/media/img/posts/2022/04/FF_02Lead_art/original.jpg)
#49
47* sunny and windy
Had to go up near the damn dam to get clear water. I forgot how friggin' cold it is up there wading waist deep. I caught a couple of stockerbows in one spot, it was really hard to detect strikes with the wind blowing the line. I moved on down a ways and whacked a dozen stockbows and two brown before I started to go numb.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/041922-1.jpg)
I went down to the ramp and had lunch and a beer, talked briefly to a VaTec student who was fishing down there and had caught bows.
I moved on downtown and hit a run there, picked a couple of browns off the bottom before throwing in the towel and heading home.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/041922-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/041922-3.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/701036950
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 19, 2022, 18:27:45 PM
Post by: Dougfish on April 19, 2022, 18:27:45 PM
I'm glad you got out before they bumped it to 513 cfs!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 19, 2022, 18:40:50 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 19, 2022, 18:40:50 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on April 19, 2022, 18:27:45 PMI'm glad you got out before they bumped it to 513 cfs!
No wonder it was a bitch to wade and cold, but it was clear!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 19, 2022, 19:00:06 PM
Post by: Dougfish on April 19, 2022, 19:00:06 PM
You experienced what happened to me my last trip. "Its really pushy today."
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 20, 2022, 18:16:46 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 20, 2022, 18:16:46 PM
Forgot to mention a saw a few susfurs popping off while fishing downtown Bassett
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 26, 2022, 09:11:48 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 26, 2022, 09:11:48 AM
philpott.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on April 26, 2022, 18:02:48 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on April 26, 2022, 18:02:48 PM
From the report in the original post:
"...............the May-Jun-Jul outlook shows equal chances of below-,near-, and above normal precipitation across NC............"
Whoever wrote that must be preparing for a career in politics.
"...............the May-Jun-Jul outlook shows equal chances of below-,near-, and above normal precipitation across NC............"
Whoever wrote that must be preparing for a career in politics.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 27, 2022, 06:45:28 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 27, 2022, 06:45:28 AM
#52
https://youtu.be/c9lh7lqZojc
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042622-1.jpg)
85 - 63 clearing rain.
https://vimeo.com/703679421
Can't stay away. Waited by the car for the rain to pass. Two old VA fly fisherrmen came out and I said, "You are probably smarter than me, getting out before the rain comes. I think it will pass in an hour!" They had caught a few and reported no hatches.
I drank a beer and waited. As the squall passed, I began to hike in and saw the gear that someone had lost and put on the picnic table. Ha, a leader straightener, amadou patch and floatant. I'll put that on the bush next to the fly rod tip on the way out I thought.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042622-2.jpg)
Oh, some new DSFK on the trail. Rocky II
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042622-3.jpg)
May Apple time.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042622-4.jpg)
And the trout were looking up.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042622-5.jpg)
Took this reel out for the day...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042622-6.jpg)
Caught some punes on the surface as sulfurs began to pop off.
It wasn't an easy game and hero cast were required across multiple currents to get to the few risers.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042622-7.jpg)
Beautiful parr marked pune.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042622-8.jpg)
A little HDR to spice up the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042622-9.jpg)
One stockbro
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042622-10.jpg)
This was a stunner. Might still be small but wow on the colors.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042622-11.jpg)
It was a grand afternoon with scores of fish to hand.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042622-12.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on April 27, 2022, 09:46:45 AM
Post by: Phil on April 27, 2022, 09:46:45 AM
You put in yer time, Woolly, and the Fishin' Gods smile on ya sometimes! 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 27, 2022, 10:17:29 AM
Post by: Dougfish on April 27, 2022, 10:17:29 AM
Rocky II was there last week. They deteriorate faster in this warmer weather. :Dance
Nice feesh. I'll rejoin yee next week.
Nice feesh. I'll rejoin yee next week.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on April 28, 2022, 02:06:57 AM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on April 28, 2022, 02:06:57 AM
Better go now, it looks like rain for the next week.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 28, 2022, 20:32:06 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 28, 2022, 20:32:06 PM
#54
65-73 Wingy with gusts of 22 knots. gas $3.59
Walked in, sat down, had an after-lunch beer while I watched the water. Saw a fish rise and went after it. Working the water I caught several punes before I hooked the fish that I had spied rising. Three fisn in a dozen cast, not too shabby. I worked the rest of the run on the surface despite not seeing any reachable risers. The wind was really playing havoc on casting, and I gave up and moved on down.
As the afternoon wore on the gusts increased and shut down the fish and my casting. I managed a couple more to hand but threw in the towel and headed home after several hours of abuse.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042822-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042822-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042822-3.jpg)
The fish would just about only take the fly with a twitch, and many struck at the moving fly but missed. It was frustrating to say the least and then to top it all off, I finally got a fish that I had been working for a spell to take the fly and I had a little too much pepper on the hookset and snapped the 7x. That's what I get for carp fishing with 15 lb fluoro the other day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042822-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on April 29, 2022, 06:50:51 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on April 29, 2022, 06:50:51 AM
That last picture is really neat. I hope you're not using that finger for cyber security purposes. 😳
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 29, 2022, 08:36:05 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 29, 2022, 08:36:05 AM
Quote from: trout-r-us on April 29, 2022, 06:50:51 AMThat last picture is really neat. I hope you're not using that finger for cyber security purposes. 😳
i was dipping my fly into desiccant and used that fingertip to hold it in place while I shook it... that nymph was discovered while taking off my boots
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on April 29, 2022, 09:37:44 AM
Post by: Fin on April 29, 2022, 09:37:44 AM
QuoteThat's what I get for carp fishing
Ruined trout fishing for me.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 29, 2022, 13:53:26 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 29, 2022, 13:53:26 PM
Quote from: Fin on April 29, 2022, 09:37:44 AMQuoteThat's what I get for carp fishing
Ruined trout fishing for me.
I'm back out doing what I do — catching 10" brown trout on dry flies — d:b
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 29, 2022, 22:17:45 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 29, 2022, 22:17:45 PM
#55
65-70 mostly sunny
The field is full of Philadelphia daisies. If you are sensitive to grass and flower pollen you might want to stay away.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042922-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042922-2.jpg)
The fish were looking up, not a whole lot of risers, but a well placed fly might bring a strike.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042922-3.jpg)
I was hoping things would pick up in the afternoon but it was sporadic. Ended up swinging soft hackles.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042922-4.jpg)
but the comparadun worked well too.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/042922-5.jpg)
The water is as clear as I've ever seen it 4+ feet of visibility!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 30, 2022, 19:57:31 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 30, 2022, 19:57:31 PM
#56
55 light rain, gas $3.96
I had the river to myself on a Saturday.
No visible hatches or risers, so it was a euro day.
Whacked 'em pretty good... mostly pune browns, and a good number of rainbows too.
There was a short-lived hatch around 4, the birds were working the water and a few fish rose. I gave it a go but couldn't make it happen and then the birds left, and I did too.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/043022-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/043022-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/043022-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/04/043022-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 06, 2022, 10:26:31 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 06, 2022, 10:26:31 AM
#58
Temps in the 70s, gas - $3.94
I wanted to swing flies, I hadn't used the spey rod in a while and I just want to keep in practice. I went to a run which I think offers easy access and good potential for catching fish. My cast wasn't as good as I remembered, my timing was off, but I was getting good distance and a good swing with the fish taco. As I worked my way down into the tail where the water slowed I was expecting a take with every cast. But as the water got deeper and I was running out of freeboard on my waders my cast really fell apart and I became frustrated trying to correct the problem. After I while I changed tactics and switched rods.
The catching began on the Get-it-down-pat's rubber legs with about 50/50 brown to bow. After wearing out that run I moved on up into town for some urban fishing. This is the spot where, a long time ago, I met up with ODG3, Onthesurface and others after some event lost to memory, and where Ben (OTS) backed his Duraango into the trunk of the Miata. We all went to Papa's Pizza afterwards. Anyway, with the flow now at normal high, I went in continuing to nymph and caught a number of stockbows, but alwo noticed that there were fish rising to caddis, and maybe taking sulfurs too. So, after I got hung up and broke off I switched rods rather than rerig.
It wasn't exactly lights out fishign, but I caught a respectable number of browns on a cdc caddis. Then the water started to fall and I realized that they had tightened the spigot at the damn dam. The bugs and fish slowed down and I called it a day around 7:00.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/050522-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 09, 2022, 22:16:21 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 09, 2022, 22:16:21 PM
#59
65 and sunny, gas is going up again, I saw some as high as $4.29, I'll have to fill up tomorrow.
So I was thinking about picking up a slice of pizza and eating at the boat ramp, but I forgot that Papa's is closed on Mondays. I figured canned mackerel and a beer would have to suffice. There were a bunch of cars parked at the ramp. As I went out to look around, I noticed a lot of bird activity. As I was studying the water a father and two boys came up the path and I asked how they had done, "They are hitting the surface." he said with resignation. My eyes lit up and I replied, "I've got that figured out!" "Are you fly fishing," he inquired, and I nodded yes. Forgetting about dinner I grabbed my rod and headed down to the bottom of the run. But before I got there the wildlife officer pulled up and checked my license. He may have been the reason that others had left too.
Rainbows were stacked up in the riffle. The CDC Caddis that I tied up the other night were a little big but some of the trout didn't care. Most were in ankle deep water and readily took the fly.
They mostly looked like this...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/050922-5.jpg)
This wasn't my intended plan, but I couldn't leave fish to find fish even if these were stockerbros.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/050922-6.jpg)
After working my way up to the top I needed to move on to another spot I hopes of finding some brows.
I didn't look promising but I told myself that if I saw just one rise I would go in. I was just about to leave when I saw one. They were mostly rainbows but I did get several browns on the surface and even more came to have swinging emergers.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/050922-7.jpg)
Also got a number of stockerbows too.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/050922-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 10, 2022, 07:39:36 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 10, 2022, 07:39:36 AM
I was wondering why Bruce, the Wildlife officer was targeting this area? It was after all a monday. Was the river recently stocked? Had these Rainbows just been put in the river? They looked good for stockers, and they were feeding on natural caddis emergers. They were stacked up in the riffle, there were a lot of them, dozens. It was fun catching! Another spin guy came down to try his luck, I caught 3 in a row while he was watching.
First Lone Start Tick of the Season...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/050922-4.jpg)
First Lone Start Tick of the Season...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/050922-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 10, 2022, 11:17:17 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 10, 2022, 11:17:17 AM
Quote from: trout-r-us on May 10, 2022, 10:38:11 AMIf ya were on the lower, last time they show stocking was April 25th.
Not sure what the (Lower) designation is, I assume Bassett, as opposed to (Dam) stocking...
These trouts were looking to be well fed! It was good to see them rising selectively to bugs...
I still feel a bit dirty... but I may have to go back
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 17, 2022, 07:42:29 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 17, 2022, 07:42:29 AM
#62 70s Gas $3.29
Back to home waters. Needed a break, so I headed up in the late afternoon to see if I could catch a hatch.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/051622-1.jpg)
I wasn't sure if I was going to have to nymph or not, but I saw a couple of fish rise in the run and that was enough for me to go dry.
Small sulfurs were floating down in the glare of the evening sun, and it was difficult to see the fly. I even crossed the river in hopes that it would be better. It wasn't.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/051622-2.jpg)
First fish was a bow, and I was worried that was all I was going to catch. But all the rest were browns, small feisty and pretty.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/051622-3.jpg)
For the next hour it was on, and many fish came to hand. It slowed down after an hour or so and I took a break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/051622-4.jpg)
Then, as the sun was down behind the ridge, the fish began to rise again. It never got stupid easy, but another dozen fish came to hand before it was over for the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/051622-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on May 17, 2022, 13:34:57 PM
Post by: Phil on May 17, 2022, 13:34:57 PM
Gas was $3.29?? Where?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 17, 2022, 14:44:43 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 17, 2022, 14:44:43 PM
Quote from: Phil on May 17, 2022, 13:34:57 PMGas was $3.29?? Where?
I filled up in Mountain City on the way to PFF and I filled up again today in WS @ $3.19
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on May 17, 2022, 19:00:49 PM
Post by: Phil on May 17, 2022, 19:00:49 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on May 17, 2022, 14:44:43 PMQuote from: Phil on May 17, 2022, 13:34:57 PMGas was $3.29?? Where?
I filled up in Mountain City on the way to PFF and I filled up again today in WS @ $3.19
Damn. $4.25 in Blowing Rock. Soaking the "upscale resort" area, I guess. b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on May 17, 2022, 19:15:09 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on May 17, 2022, 19:15:09 PM
Quote from: Phil on May 17, 2022, 19:00:49 PMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on May 17, 2022, 14:44:43 PMQuote from: Phil on May 17, 2022, 13:34:57 PMGas was $3.29?? Where?
I filled up in Mountain City on the way to PFF and I filled up again today in WS @ $3.19
Damn. $4.25 in Blowing Rock. Soaking the "upscale resort" area, I guess. b';
I paid $4.20 yesterday to fill the truck up. Cost me $127.00.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on May 17, 2022, 19:42:08 PM
Post by: Onslow on May 17, 2022, 19:42:08 PM
Quote from: Phil on May 17, 2022, 19:00:49 PMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on May 17, 2022, 14:44:43 PMQuote from: Phil on May 17, 2022, 13:34:57 PMGas was $3.29?? Where?
I filled up in Mountain City on the way to PFF and I filled up again today in WS @ $3.19
Damn. $4.25 in Blowing Rock. Soaking the "upscale resort" area, I guess. b';
I've seen it up to 4.39 today in Davidson/Mooresville area today. 4.29 at home.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on May 18, 2022, 06:59:02 AM
Post by: creakycane on May 18, 2022, 06:59:02 AM
4.14 lowest in Winston
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 18, 2022, 12:18:35 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 18, 2022, 12:18:35 PM
IT appears that I've made a reporting error — being off by a dollar! My bad — old timers disease!
In my defense gas prices are unbelievably high!
In my defense gas prices are unbelievably high!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on May 18, 2022, 12:46:04 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on May 18, 2022, 12:46:04 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on May 18, 2022, 12:18:35 PMIT appears that I've made a reporting error — being off by a dollar! My bad — old timers disease!
In my defense gas prices are unbelievably high!
I was getting ready to fire up the tanker and make a Mad Max run! $4.56 national average today. Highest ever. I bet stealing gas is getting to be a thing agin. I remember years ago when everyone was replacing their gas caps with locking ones.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 20, 2022, 07:04:03 AM
Post by: Dougfish on May 20, 2022, 07:04:03 AM
26
Sulfurs were popping off in waves. Sometimes for 5 minutes, sometimes more. Long and short breaks between.
A couple of times clouds of #22-24 pale Cahills? came off. Fish did not seem to be keying on them.
Took a while to get dialed in on the right emerger.
(https://i.imgur.com/n1LzI40.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MVITCoW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/v6FmOQi.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/G3lis6h.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/oh5mdb8.jpg)
Halos!
(https://i.imgur.com/uGzQHX5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/zovmavX.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 20, 2022, 08:15:53 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 20, 2022, 08:15:53 AM
#63
86 Scattered clouds
https://youtu.be/5VMWACzDI0o
R.I.P Bob Neuwirth
I pulled up to a usually deserted urban run where I've caught an evening hatch several times recently. I walked the high bank and not much was happening, so I grabbed a beer before gering up while continuing to watch the water. I saw a couple of risers and concluded that it was going to turn on soon. Then I heard some splashing down below and to my surprise an angler was wading up the run casting a nymph rig. He moved so quickly only one drift before quickly taking a few more steps upstream. He was young and moved with agility in the fast deep water at the head of the run, which he covered the whole 40 yards in only a few minutes. He had caught nothing. Then he sat down on the bank and rerigged his flies. I wasn't sure whether to move on or wait for him to clear this area. I waited and when he stood back up, he was flinging a streamer down and across. In five minutes, he disappeared downstream and by the time I geared up and got in the water he was nowhere to be seen.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/051922-1.jpg)
It was good to see a youth out there; he was making do with some makeshift gear, needed a hat and a proper vest or sling bag and needed to slow down and study the water.
I waded into position, prepped my fly, and cast. Bam, a brown rose and took the sulfur puff daddy.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/051922-2.jpg)
The hatch was sparce and the fish were picky, but I was catching enough that I didn't think about relocating to another spot despite hearing about a better hatch upstream. I must have caught close to two dozen brown trout in three hours, they were small, 6 – 12 inches, but it was a great way to cool off in the evening.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/051922-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/051922-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/051922-5.jpg)
86 Scattered clouds
https://youtu.be/5VMWACzDI0o
R.I.P Bob Neuwirth
I pulled up to a usually deserted urban run where I've caught an evening hatch several times recently. I walked the high bank and not much was happening, so I grabbed a beer before gering up while continuing to watch the water. I saw a couple of risers and concluded that it was going to turn on soon. Then I heard some splashing down below and to my surprise an angler was wading up the run casting a nymph rig. He moved so quickly only one drift before quickly taking a few more steps upstream. He was young and moved with agility in the fast deep water at the head of the run, which he covered the whole 40 yards in only a few minutes. He had caught nothing. Then he sat down on the bank and rerigged his flies. I wasn't sure whether to move on or wait for him to clear this area. I waited and when he stood back up, he was flinging a streamer down and across. In five minutes, he disappeared downstream and by the time I geared up and got in the water he was nowhere to be seen.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/051922-1.jpg)
It was good to see a youth out there; he was making do with some makeshift gear, needed a hat and a proper vest or sling bag and needed to slow down and study the water.
I waded into position, prepped my fly, and cast. Bam, a brown rose and took the sulfur puff daddy.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/051922-2.jpg)
The hatch was sparce and the fish were picky, but I was catching enough that I didn't think about relocating to another spot despite hearing about a better hatch upstream. I must have caught close to two dozen brown trout in three hours, they were small, 6 – 12 inches, but it was a great way to cool off in the evening.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/051922-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/051922-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/051922-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on May 20, 2022, 14:08:36 PM
Post by: creakycane on May 20, 2022, 14:08:36 PM
A 16 sparkledun in light olive or sulphur seems to work well. Saves me from messing with cdc. Too hot for me today, however!
FWIW, I believe the Z-long or poly shuck helps alot.
FWIW, I believe the Z-long or poly shuck helps alot.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 20, 2022, 18:21:01 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 20, 2022, 18:21:01 PM
Quote from: creakycane on May 20, 2022, 14:08:36 PMA 16 sparkledun in light olive or sulphur seems to work well. Saves me from messing with cdc. Too hot for me today, however!
FWIW, I believe the Z-long or poly shuck helps alot.
Cdc with the poly shuck gets my vote. Keeps the ass end up. Jeff Wilkins showed me that one. If you don't like cdc, you're probably not pre treating it. My "soldier" line up is 3 dozen flies that are all pre treated.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 21, 2022, 09:02:51 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 21, 2022, 09:02:51 AM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on May 20, 2022, 18:21:01 PMQuote from: creakycane on May 20, 2022, 14:08:36 PMA 16 sparkledun in light olive or sulphur seems to work well. Saves me from messing with cdc. Too hot for me today, however!
FWIW, I believe the Z-long or poly shuck helps alot.
Cdc with the poly shuck gets my vote. Keeps the ass end up. Jeff Wilkins showed me that one. If you don't like cdc, you're probably not pre treating it. My "soldier" line up is 3 dozen flies that are all pre treated.
https://youtu.be/viFt9CO7VcQ
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 21, 2022, 09:14:08 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 21, 2022, 09:14:08 AM
#64
91 and it ain't even June -p- Clear skies, UV index 11
Some of the nearby fields have been mowed, waiting for the MP to get cut, should be any day now
Went up close to the damn dam to cool off and see what the bug were doing. There were a smattering of sulfurs and a few spashy rises, they took an emerger. After an hour or so, I headed back to get some sunscreen and a drink. By the time I returned the hatch had dwindled almost nothing and I wasted an hour waiting for it to turn on again. I pulled out and headed down to a spot with bugs and risers and fished until 7:30 as I was putting gear away, this run erupted with a dozen fish rising steadily. Maybe I'll stay later next time...
Stockbro was first to hand.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/052022-1.jpg)
The rest were browns, but punes
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/052022-2.jpg)
They are everywhere now.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/052022-3.jpg)
I don't care if they are small, brown trout on a dry fly is just plain fun.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/052022-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/052022-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/052022-6.jpg)
hmmm, that wasn't there yesterday :o
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/052022-7.jpg)
It was 81 at 8:00 my knees were frozen and it took a while for me to warm back up.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 21, 2022, 20:14:19 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 21, 2022, 20:14:19 PM
27
Got to the usual parking area and it looked like a freakin convention was in town. :o
Gave three NC guys some grief before they headed down the tracks. :laugh:
Headed upstream to see if I could find some solitude. Found it.
But no bugs, seven kayakers, no other action. Lost a couple of flies, moved on.
Swung back by the usual and we had gone from 6 vehicles to 2.
Headed downstream in the oppressive heat. Passed a guided raft and an angler in a run.
Nobody at home at destination. :Dance
Slow. Not many bugz. Caught a few. Raft actually took pains to go behind me. Props.
Then the same seven kayakers came by.
I think I blew their mind with my teleportation a few miles downstream.
(https://i.imgur.com/cc96Yuh.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WtDYEyW.jpg)
Then the Bugger showed up.
We talked, watched some risers, drank a beer, solved zero problems and he waded out.
I went up to one of my favorite hard to fish runs.
Technical. You have to work hard to get a clean drift.
I took 6 out of there. I was OK with that. :P
(https://i.imgur.com/LONb6aH.jpg)
Lurker downstream.
(https://i.imgur.com/rk52Daw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/n4Tj1Yp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/sz43825.jpg)
It was a 5 beer afternoon. Stay hydrated, my friends.
(https://i.imgur.com/VfbN2y4.jpg)
It slowed. We cast. We bitched. We got to empty cans.
We boogied ahead of an incoming storm.
:cheers
Got to the usual parking area and it looked like a freakin convention was in town. :o
Gave three NC guys some grief before they headed down the tracks. :laugh:
Headed upstream to see if I could find some solitude. Found it.
But no bugs, seven kayakers, no other action. Lost a couple of flies, moved on.
Swung back by the usual and we had gone from 6 vehicles to 2.
Headed downstream in the oppressive heat. Passed a guided raft and an angler in a run.
Nobody at home at destination. :Dance
Slow. Not many bugz. Caught a few. Raft actually took pains to go behind me. Props.
Then the same seven kayakers came by.
I think I blew their mind with my teleportation a few miles downstream.
(https://i.imgur.com/cc96Yuh.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WtDYEyW.jpg)
Then the Bugger showed up.
We talked, watched some risers, drank a beer, solved zero problems and he waded out.
I went up to one of my favorite hard to fish runs.
Technical. You have to work hard to get a clean drift.
I took 6 out of there. I was OK with that. :P
(https://i.imgur.com/LONb6aH.jpg)
Lurker downstream.
(https://i.imgur.com/rk52Daw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/n4Tj1Yp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/sz43825.jpg)
It was a 5 beer afternoon. Stay hydrated, my friends.
(https://i.imgur.com/VfbN2y4.jpg)
It slowed. We cast. We bitched. We got to empty cans.
We boogied ahead of an incoming storm.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 21, 2022, 23:13:15 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 21, 2022, 23:13:15 PM
#65 92 - 67 —- scattered thunderstorms - Gas $4.36
I saw that Dougfish was down at the old spot — I couldn't face walking through the mid-rib tall grass, so I took the alt route in.
After bushwhacking in I had to cool off so I waded out to above my waist and cast to the far run where I had spied a few trout rising. I caught one before headed on down the trail to find Dougfish. He was taking a beer break, so I joined him.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/052122-3.jpg)
The bugs would come and go as did the rising trout — I caught a number of small fish— missed a couple of better ones. It turned on madly for a bit and a few better trout were seen and caught.
The skies clouded up and the temp dropped dramatically — we fished on.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/052122-1.jpg)
When things slacked off again we took another beer break and contemplated the approaching weather. When the wind picked up we bailed.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/05/052122-2.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on May 22, 2022, 01:33:42 AM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on May 22, 2022, 01:33:42 AM
Where did you pick up the old homeless guys to fish with?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on May 22, 2022, 05:35:53 AM
Post by: Onslow on May 22, 2022, 05:35:53 AM
Living the dream. Some damn nice fish.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on May 26, 2022, 17:53:19 PM
Post by: Fishbug on May 26, 2022, 17:53:19 PM
Quality trouts :cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 08, 2022, 15:31:46 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 08, 2022, 15:31:46 PM
28
https://youtu.be/ZNTQ2DuJKtU
They finally backed the flows down to wadeable levels.
But I had no business going.
I have obligations on my obligations.
Work obligations. Personal obligations.
I backed out on blue lining yesterday because of them.
So, only go for 4 hours, not 8 or more, whispered the the little devil sitting on my shoulder.
Threw the long rods in the truck, gathered up some refreshments and headed out.
After 10-15 miles, I remembered I left my camera on the counter.
After another few miles I remembered I did not have any socks.
What else???
Swung in to Tractor Supply and bought a pair of decent socks. :Dance
The last time this happened I stopped at a Dollar Store and only had shitty socks to choose from.
Got to the parking area and I was the one and only.
Suited up, looked for my reels and made the next revelation.
I had taken the euro reels, as well as the 4 and 5wt reels out of my bin yesterday.
There was the little 3wt reel, though. 3 on the 4wt rod. :laugh:
Hey Keith. Field no mow.
(https://i.imgur.com/jAuHctI.jpg)
Got down to the destination. Typical summer scene is setting in.
Everything is super lush and the river hosts the rolling fog show.
(https://i.imgur.com/180STbU.jpg)
Not many bugs first thing, but it picked up shortly.
Lots of little feesh to hand.
(https://i.imgur.com/vgUsqPJ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ogAKCmi.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MkMuB0i.jpg)
The 3 wt line cast pretty good. DT FTW. But the line was buggered up just behind the loop.
Had to keep putting floatant on it to keep it from sinking.
Part of my rationale to only fish 4 hours, was that I was pretty sure I'd get chased by a thunderstorm.
At 12:15 one passed just north of me.
Yeah, fish on a bit more?
I was catching, but I had found a bucket of fish that would not take the fly. Really difficult drift. There were at least 2 really nice fish there, though. After 4 or 5 fly changes and maneuvering,
I got a good eat. 3 seconds later he was gone. b';
I fished on and had a couple more eats, but no hook up.
Finally decided to check the fly. Hook was broken at the top of the bend. :o
I have his address for next time.
Caught a handful more and moseyed out.
(https://i.imgur.com/X01kL86.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/kJeUbhr.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/6HqmHuA.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4FWmJkc.jpg)
Ran through a little rain on the way home.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 09, 2022, 09:34:01 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 09, 2022, 09:34:01 AM
#67 Gas $4.65 n!n -+;
hot and humid with extreme UV-11
Dougfish gave me the heads up on the reduced flow and the status of the field. I couldn't fathom walking through that tall grass in the heat of the day. So, I settled for some downtown browns. I took a look/see at one location and nothing was happening, next I checked out a boat ramp and spotted birds working and few trout rising. I buffed up and briefly thought about wet wading. I managed to catch a couple of decent browns before the hatch petered out and I moved on to another location.
Sulfurs and caddis in sparse numbers were observed and I saw several fish rise. They showed some interest in my fly but wouldn't commit. I managed to bring a few to hand and had one good fish on the line for a bit. The fish turned and took the fly but I had too much slack in the line to get a good hookset and when the fish ran upstream all was lost.
I switched to a partridge and orange and began whacking the punes.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/060822-3.jpg)
Most of the fish were in the 7 - 10 inch range.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/060822-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/060822-2.jpg)
By 6:45 things began to slow down and I had had enough...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on June 09, 2022, 14:59:21 PM
Post by: Phil on June 09, 2022, 14:59:21 PM
Mr. Dougfish -- sounds like you done forgot yer shit but made do just fine with what ya had....
"Finally decided to check the fly. Hook was broken at the top of the bend. :o" Aaaack. That's happened to me a few times, and it sucks in the worst way when you finally figger out why ya ain't hooking no feesh!! b';
"Finally decided to check the fly. Hook was broken at the top of the bend. :o" Aaaack. That's happened to me a few times, and it sucks in the worst way when you finally figger out why ya ain't hooking no feesh!! b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 10, 2022, 09:16:33 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 10, 2022, 09:16:33 AM
#68
I wasn't five minutes down the road when I realized I forgot the Sage SP that was recently returned from repair. No worries I've got the Orvis Recon. I'll take it next time!
I drove to check out the field, still not mowed and two cars in the lot, I moved on.
I arrived at the next location and saw an old guy gearing up, I guess I'm an old guy too! Anyway, he disappeared down the bank and I wasn't sure where he went so, I walked up a way and couldn't find him. When I returned, he was nyphing the run.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/060922-3.jpg)
I watched him fish for a while. he had a large green yarn indicator on a double nymph rig. Great pickup and roll cast skills that impressed me. Then I watched the drift. I was tempted to yell, "MEND" over and over as a long belly of line drifted below his indicator. At the end of one drift the yarn twitched and he attempted to set the hook, somehow even with all the slack line the fish was hooked. He played it for a while and it turned out to be a decent brown.
I drove to another spot and left after seeing too many cars.
I ended up at the River Walk area that I had never fished before, I swung soft hackles and whacked a handful of punes. I ended up holed low and high and decided to move on again.
I fished the now vacant run where the old guy was, but there was very few bugs and no risers to speak of. I swung through the run and thought for a moment of nymphing but moved on yet again.
The final destination proved to be worthwhile with plenty of fish rising, birds swooping, and the main run was oddly free of fishermen.
I swung my way down the run and caught a couple handfuls of small browns. More bugs were coming off and fish were picking them off with regularity. I switched to a dry and the game was on for the next hour or so. By 8:30 I was feeling chilled and I had to pee and I just broke off fly, so I decided it was a good time to quit.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/060922-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/060922-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on June 10, 2022, 18:33:13 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on June 10, 2022, 18:33:13 PM
It's a rough life being the Woolly Bugger......
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on June 11, 2022, 09:21:37 AM
Post by: creakycane on June 11, 2022, 09:21:37 AM
Interesting activity in the middle of Bassett yesterday. A guy taken away in cuffs, deservedly so. Hats off to the Henry County Sheriff's office for their responsiveness. Be careful out there. No, he wasn't fishing, or a fisherman.
5 cars at one of the launches, couple more coming in. Dudes BSing, donned in full Simms/Patagonia uniforms as the rafts are launched. I have never uttered the words "Smiff River" and "destination fishery" in the same breath, but I may have to reconsider.
Woolley nailed it as far as fishing. Good week; next week will be a scorcher!
5 cars at one of the launches, couple more coming in. Dudes BSing, donned in full Simms/Patagonia uniforms as the rafts are launched. I have never uttered the words "Smiff River" and "destination fishery" in the same breath, but I may have to reconsider.
Woolley nailed it as far as fishing. Good week; next week will be a scorcher!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 13, 2022, 11:06:37 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 13, 2022, 11:06:37 AM
#69
https://youtu.be/nC600QAkOU4
84 with scattered clouds Gas $4.64 n!n
The drive is now costing me about $17
Some of the fields in the area have been mowed and bailed so I took a look at the MP field and it hasn't been touched yet, so I drove on up to the damn dam. It was about 3:30 and there were some birds eating sulfurs and the trout were rising. I hooked a few rainbows and brown on the surface in the first run and then moved on down to the main attraction.
I swung a soft hackle and whacked close to a dozen, 60/40 stockbows to browns. After swinging through the run I stitched to a dry and caught a few more, but it now after 6 and things shut down.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061022-2.jpg)
I moved downstream hoping to find a repeat of the other evening. I shirtless tattooed spin fisherman struck up a conversation and he told me that he had caught a "Nine pounder, it was a rainbow" last night!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061022-3.jpg)
"Awesome!", :;! I replied as I waded into the river. There were a few bugs still coming off and the occasional riser. I caught another dozenn; browns and a couple of fatty rainbows.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061022-4.jpg)
I fished until 8:30
Full moon rising...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061022-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on June 13, 2022, 11:17:01 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on June 13, 2022, 11:17:01 AM
Not far from there is where a gentleman driving an older red S-10 (I think) told me he caught a 13lb trout on spinning gear. :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 13, 2022, 15:25:38 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 13, 2022, 15:25:38 PM
And my dick weighs 5 lbs.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 13, 2022, 20:58:29 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 13, 2022, 20:58:29 PM
#70
https://youtu.be/tUbbouxAMSs
91 - too damn hot to hike in so I picked some low hanging fruit
Bugs were abundant and the fish were willing.
The action was obscene from the time I got in at three until 5:30 when it shut down totally. A lot of stockerbows, but about half were browns. There were some spectacular takes, classic images of trout crushing the dry fly. Sometimes they turned and followed the fly and struck from behind. They totally destroyed a couple of comparaduns.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061322-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061322-2.jpg)
The SP is back in action. dry fly action that it...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061322-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061322-4.jpg)
I took a snack break and then went off to check on Dougfish, but I had no cell signal. When I started up the CR-V I saw this.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061322-5.jpg)
Oh, snap. I had planned on fishing until dark at a lower spot, but I wanted to get the Error Code, so I drove into town
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061322-6.jpg)
The Error Code is a generic code; P219A - Air-Fuel Ratio Variation Of Cylinder
Further diagnosis is required. n!n
No beer pics, in fact I haven't had a drop of alcohol in 8 days. I have what appears to be sciatica and am on a prescription anti-inflammatory which strongly recommends abstaining.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on June 13, 2022, 21:09:19 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on June 13, 2022, 21:09:19 PM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on June 13, 2022, 11:17:01 AMNot far from there is where a gentleman driving an older red S-10 (I think) told me he caught a 13lb trout on spinning gear. :laugh:
Did he tell you what year he caught it? There were a number in the teens caught up there back in the late 70's. State record at 18# 11 oz was caught in June 1979.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 13, 2022, 21:36:30 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 13, 2022, 21:36:30 PM
29
Got to the lot at 12:30. Alone, again.
Hot as ballz. Night temps are creeping on up, too.
I was drenched after hiking in. Popped beer one and waded in to cool off.
(https://i.imgur.com/KVKRcL5.jpg)
Lots of fog on the water today.
Bugs were hit and miss.
Fluffy #18 puffdaddies worked early when fish were rising.
Soft hackles when they turned on to emergers.
Trimmed #18 puffdaddies when they got picky later.
(https://i.imgur.com/9oRTDsA.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/5DWY7KA.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/JPb3CuV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Hntn2p3.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/qkwKS9A.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ALANFjo.jpg)
The beers were gone about 7pm, so out I went.
Saw just a few spots of rising fish on the way out.
Other highlights:
Flushed up 5+ deer going in/out.
Bald eagle took off about 200' downstream.
Ducks, kingfishers.
20+ feesh. Nothing over 11-12".
No flies lost.
Had my shit together.
No items forgotten at home.
No humans encountered.
:cheers
Got to the lot at 12:30. Alone, again.
Hot as ballz. Night temps are creeping on up, too.
I was drenched after hiking in. Popped beer one and waded in to cool off.
(https://i.imgur.com/KVKRcL5.jpg)
Lots of fog on the water today.
Bugs were hit and miss.
Fluffy #18 puffdaddies worked early when fish were rising.
Soft hackles when they turned on to emergers.
Trimmed #18 puffdaddies when they got picky later.
(https://i.imgur.com/9oRTDsA.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/5DWY7KA.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/JPb3CuV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Hntn2p3.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/qkwKS9A.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ALANFjo.jpg)
The beers were gone about 7pm, so out I went.
Saw just a few spots of rising fish on the way out.
Other highlights:
Flushed up 5+ deer going in/out.
Bald eagle took off about 200' downstream.
Ducks, kingfishers.
20+ feesh. Nothing over 11-12".
No flies lost.
Had my shit together.
No items forgotten at home.
No humans encountered.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on June 14, 2022, 07:39:27 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on June 14, 2022, 07:39:27 AM
@Woolly Bugger - Hope the Honda pulls through for you.
@Dougfish - Good showing. Sounds like the wildlife was as good as the fishing.
@trout-r-us - Late 2021.
@Dougfish - Good showing. Sounds like the wildlife was as good as the fishing.
@trout-r-us - Late 2021.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on June 14, 2022, 09:23:57 AM
Post by: Fin on June 14, 2022, 09:23:57 AM
QuoteState record at 18# 11 oz was caught in June 1979
Bill Nease caught this fish at the base of the dam during generation back in the good ol'e days when the turning turbines meant all the big browns lined up at the shad buffet. He told me he had spotted the fish on prior trips so he came to do battle with a baitcaster, 12lb test, and a Shadrap. :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on June 14, 2022, 11:46:41 AM
Post by: Onslow on June 14, 2022, 11:46:41 AM
Quote from: Fin on June 14, 2022, 09:23:57 AMQuoteState record at 18# 11 oz was caught in June 1979
Bill Nease caught this fish at the base of the dam during generation back in the good ol'e days when the turning turbines meant all the big browns lined up at the shad buffet. He told me he had spotted the fish on prior trips so he came to do battle with a baitcaster, 12lb test, and a Shadrap. :laugh:
Tell me more about this shad buffet. What happened?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 14, 2022, 15:32:16 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 14, 2022, 15:32:16 PM
Quote from: Onslow on June 14, 2022, 11:46:41 AMQuote from: Fin on June 14, 2022, 09:23:57 AMQuoteState record at 18# 11 oz was caught in June 1979
Bill Nease caught this fish at the base of the dam during generation back in the good ol'e days when the turning turbines meant all the big browns lined up at the shad buffet. He told me he had spotted the fish on prior trips so he came to do battle with a baitcaster, 12lb test, and a Shadrap. :laugh:
Tell me more about this shad buffet. What happened?
Walleye ate all the forage. Game over. Virginia DWR mission is to "create fisheries". They created one at Philpott lake, but reduced it below in the smith river.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on June 14, 2022, 15:40:12 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on June 14, 2022, 15:40:12 PM
Are you fellas still wearing waders in the Smith? I know it's hot out, but I know that water's pretty chilly, just curious.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 14, 2022, 16:24:06 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 14, 2022, 16:24:06 PM
He man Challenge to wet Wade balls deep up at the damn dam!
Hell yes I wear waders — 46 degrees water temp and the air is ten degrees cooler too.
Hell yes I wear waders — 46 degrees water temp and the air is ten degrees cooler too.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on June 14, 2022, 19:15:24 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on June 14, 2022, 19:15:24 PM
I moved here in '78 and was soon hearing stories about the monster browns below Philpott Dam. My first visit was during a non generation period. Jumbo trout were visible in the pool below the spillway. Several anglers made hundreds of casts with various type lures without any luck.
Went back during generation with a spinning rod and a few crank baits. Saw some really nice size brown trout. Caught none. Combat fishing from a pier-like perch not my thing.
Started doing my river fishing in the special regs section back when you could still drive down by the trestle pool. Much more peaceful.
Went back during generation with a spinning rod and a few crank baits. Saw some really nice size brown trout. Caught none. Combat fishing from a pier-like perch not my thing.
Started doing my river fishing in the special regs section back when you could still drive down by the trestle pool. Much more peaceful.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 14, 2022, 20:43:06 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 14, 2022, 20:43:06 PM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on June 14, 2022, 15:40:12 PMAre you fellas still wearing waders in the Smith? I know it's hot out, but I know that water's pretty chilly, just curious.
Let me know when you are going in wet so I can buy tickets.
My leaky waders are uncomfortable.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 15, 2022, 06:41:05 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 15, 2022, 06:41:05 AM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on June 14, 2022, 15:40:12 PMAre you fellas still wearing waders in the Smith? I know it's hot out, but I know that water's pretty chilly, just curious.
Done reproducing? I'd give it a try :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on June 15, 2022, 06:51:44 AM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on June 15, 2022, 06:51:44 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on June 13, 2022, 20:58:29 PM
Oh, snap. I had planned on fishing until dark at a lower spot, but I wanted to get the Error Code, so I drove into town
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061322-6.jpg)
Could be something as simple as a leaking exhaust valve, check your ignition coils to unless you have had them recently replaced. They are at about the upper limit of their use at the milage you are showing.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 16, 2022, 09:20:17 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 16, 2022, 09:20:17 AM
#71
Gas $3.99 (60 cents off with HT rewards) Temps in the low 90s Water 46
The CR-V is back on the road, that Helios 3D will have to wait.
I checked the MP field, still standing tall while all the others were bailed.
I drove on up to the damn dam. I was gearing up when a fisherman came up and I asked him how he had done. "We caught one 10 inches on powerbait. They are jumping, you fly fishing?" It was 2:45 and the hatch had started.
I waded out into the middle of the river where the current was divided so I could cast to either side. There were a few fish rising and some bugs in the air and misty fog rolled down the river. I had a comparadun tied on from the other night and after giving it a shake n bake cast it out into the run. Bam, fish on.
I caught mostly stockerbows, although they looked robust, and were colored up nicely.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061522-1.jpg)
A few browns were in the mix, but it was 10 to 1 for the rainbows.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061522-2.jpg)
The catching was easy as the hatch peaked, and the fish were gorging on the abundance of sulfurs. Downstream the bank fishermen were playing music, laughing, and having a good time, but catching nothing.
You may know that I switch rod hands while netting fish. I've been working on netting the fish with my left hand but it is still awkward for me and complicates the photo taking process that I've become accustomed to. I ended up dropping my rod in about 2 1/2 of water and only noticed it while I was attempting to take an underwater photo of a just released fish that was hanging out by my feet. Oh, shit, I thought as I bent over to pick it up. As I stood up, I felt the cold water run down my legs and settle at my feet. Pretty chilly, but I fished on.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061522-3.jpg)
At some point I took a break and emptied out my waders, changed socks, zipped of the legs of my pants, and put on a pair of fleece pants before returning to the river.
After a couple of hours things began to slow down and two comparaduns were torn up and useless, I switched up to a soft hackle, a partridge and orange, and swung my way back down the river, catching browns and rainbows along the way.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061522-4.jpg)
By 6 o'clock, it was all over and I pulled out and drove to another location. There was only one other fisherman on that whole upper section of the river.
Birds were working the water, as I swung my way downstream catching a few here and there. At one point I had tagged a tree behind me and stripped in the line to check the fly, not realizing it was wrapped aroung the blood knot, I stripped the fly right into my thumb. I studied the problem, snipped off the fly, and decided to wade out and take it out at the car. As I was trying to figure out how to push down the eye and yank it out, a truck pulled up, and as the man as women stepped out, I asked if he would give me a hand. He came over and I told him to hold the mono and yank when I told him to go. Easy peesy, it popped out. I thanked him and rigged up again with a comparadun and went back in to catch a few more on the surface.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061522-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061522-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061522-7.jpg)
It was getting late, and I wanted to get home before 10, so I left the rising fish for another day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061522-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on June 16, 2022, 09:27:51 AM
Post by: Phil on June 16, 2022, 09:27:51 AM
Bastid b'; :bow
(you know I'm kidding, right? Good fishin' there, bossman.)
(you know I'm kidding, right? Good fishin' there, bossman.)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 17, 2022, 08:33:11 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 17, 2022, 08:33:11 AM
#72 Thunderstorms 93 when I left home 68 when I left the river Gas $4.50
It was hot as hell with the humidity factored in. As I drove up listening to the Jan 6 hearings, they were interrupted with severe thunderstorm warnings with reports of 60 mph winds and quarter size hail. A quick check of the radar indicated that I was headed into the center of a cluster, but with luck I would miss the worst of it. I ran into some heavy rain for about 10 miles, and it looked like it was clearing as I reached the river. Oddly enough there were a number of fishermen on the river today. As I went to check on a run, I ran into Mark and his friend from Reidsville who were rerigging their flies while waiting for the storm to pass. As I suspected the run below was occupied too, so I moved on down the river and stopped at spot that I had not fished before.
The clouds looked menacing, and thunder boomed in the distance.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061622-1.jpg)
I geared up and walked into the river, where the fog so thick that it obscured the surface thirty feet away.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061622-2.jpg)
As I was deciding where to go, a trout rose in front of me. I spent the next hour fishing from the spot where I entered the river at the end of the path. I wanted to head downstream but with the fog so thick it was impossible to determine the best route. I'll come back on a sunny day and explore more.
I caught a half dozen brown trout and never figured out exactly what they were eating. I used a sulfur comparadun but stitched up to a loop wing bwo emerger which they liked.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061622-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061622-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061622-5.jpg)
The fishermen at the top had left and I headed up top to catch the last of the sulfur hatch.
I swung a soft hackle and caught another half dozen; rainbows and browns 50/50.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061622-6.jpg)
I'll just add that tying and swinging soft hackles is becoming a favorite for me.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 19, 2022, 11:42:54 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 19, 2022, 11:42:54 AM
#73
84 sunny and very windy
@Dougfish sent a text(field not mowed) and a photo (beer)
It was Saturday and I thought the dam area would be crowded so I decided to brave the field of ticks. As I arrived a father and son were just moving out and reported the windy conditions and lack of catching. He said they were hitting the surface but didn't like his flies. He was fishing a #14 sulfur, and I said it was too big. He asked it there was a fly shoe in the area. <-;: Since there isn't one within 30 miles, I gave him a #16 comparadun. He also asked if there was a good place to eat in town and I recommended Papa's Pizza and also mentioned the Railway Cafe. I've not eaten there yet but will try it soon. Have any of y'all eaten there? I finished gearing up and walked through the tick field to Sally's pool. Found two of the nasty critters crawling on my waders.
I was swinging a soft hackle and hooked a couple of small browns, before things stopped happening, I took a look at the fly and realized that I was, as Croker would say, "fishing on credit" all the hackle was gone! Then I realized that I had left the puck of freshly tied partridge and orange in the car, I blame the distractions in the parking area for this.
A rando yellow sally amongst the sulfurs.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061822-1.jpg)
I had to go dry and battle the wind which was strong enough to put bend in the rod. I managed to get a few punes to hand, then I saw @Dougfish down below and I waded down to him and had a beer, the first one in 13 days. It tasted great!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061822-4.jpg)
There were fish rising and I sent @Dougfish out to get'em.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061822-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061822-3.jpg)
I went out above him and enticed 4 or 5 good fish to rise to my fly, but they either missed or refused it at the last moment. The wind wasn't helping any. Doug left and I stayed a bit longer and stuck a couple more before the hatch ended.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061822-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/061822-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 20, 2022, 21:05:53 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 20, 2022, 21:05:53 PM
31,32
https://youtu.be/vyI9flHHT2Q
Saturday was brutal. Wind and more wind. Managed 4 whole fish and cut the day short.
I might as well have been courting a balcony. Howaboutit?
Back for a bit of redemption today. Cool, breathless.
Tried WB's spot up high and got a few, but bugs weren't happening. Moved back down.
No mow. Maybe soon?
(https://i.imgur.com/QMgj7jo.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/VOuVTC4.jpg)
Had the place to myself.
Got into fish straight away.
(https://i.imgur.com/WHMBYeM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/rHVyzry.jpg)
The only day lily the deer won't get to.
(https://i.imgur.com/iUbvtvS.jpg)
Comparaklinks and P&O got it done, #18's.
(https://i.imgur.com/BUb7Flb.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GmOe4CX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/3mIyOhi.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/m1CBz1v.jpg)
Needs more rhodo.
(https://i.imgur.com/DOHAwxB.jpg)
20ish. Hiked out early.
Caught one at Sally's Hole to even the score with those punes and boogied home for some obligations.
(https://i.imgur.com/eXXSHss.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/UZjnIgJ.jpg)
:cheers
https://youtu.be/vyI9flHHT2Q
Saturday was brutal. Wind and more wind. Managed 4 whole fish and cut the day short.
I might as well have been courting a balcony. Howaboutit?
Back for a bit of redemption today. Cool, breathless.
Tried WB's spot up high and got a few, but bugs weren't happening. Moved back down.
No mow. Maybe soon?
(https://i.imgur.com/QMgj7jo.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/VOuVTC4.jpg)
Had the place to myself.
Got into fish straight away.
(https://i.imgur.com/WHMBYeM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/rHVyzry.jpg)
The only day lily the deer won't get to.
(https://i.imgur.com/iUbvtvS.jpg)
Comparaklinks and P&O got it done, #18's.
(https://i.imgur.com/BUb7Flb.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GmOe4CX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/3mIyOhi.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/m1CBz1v.jpg)
Needs more rhodo.
(https://i.imgur.com/DOHAwxB.jpg)
20ish. Hiked out early.
Caught one at Sally's Hole to even the score with those punes and boogied home for some obligations.
(https://i.imgur.com/eXXSHss.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/UZjnIgJ.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on June 21, 2022, 08:00:36 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on June 21, 2022, 08:00:36 AM
Too bad about the mowing situation at the field.
I heard that Joe Philpott died back in 2020. Joe was a good Steward of the land and was very kind and accommodating regarding fishermen access when he was still able to get around. Even in periods when the field was not being utilized for crops, he would keep a path bush-hogged offering easy access to the river. Not unusual for him to approach anglers in the parking area just to chat, and offer a ride down to the river.
Not sure if the Philpott family still oversees the land.
Sounds like a good project for the TU group to pursue. n!n
I heard that Joe Philpott died back in 2020. Joe was a good Steward of the land and was very kind and accommodating regarding fishermen access when he was still able to get around. Even in periods when the field was not being utilized for crops, he would keep a path bush-hogged offering easy access to the river. Not unusual for him to approach anglers in the parking area just to chat, and offer a ride down to the river.
Not sure if the Philpott family still oversees the land.
Sounds like a good project for the TU group to pursue. n!n
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 21, 2022, 09:50:17 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 21, 2022, 09:50:17 AM
#74
73 scattered clouds, Gas $4.45
I took a look at the MP field and saw Doug's truck and a black CR-V, I thought about hiking in, but moved on instead. There were aa cople of fisherman up and down from the run I wanted to fish. I was able to get into the primo spot, it was round 2 and there was very little activity, I swung a soft hackle and only managed to catch pune brown trout.
A father and grown son were fishing the flats at the canoe launch, the younger man was wet wading! I'd been fishing for about an hour and my feet were starting to complain. I couldn't imagine how cold it would be wet wading. The bugs started popping and I switched up to a puff daddy and caught few better fish. As the hatch progressed I switched to a comparradun and caught a lot of stockerbows and even though I was trying to target the browns.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062022-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062022-2.jpg)
The father and son moved on down and began catching fish in the lower run as the hatch progressed.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062022-4.jpg)
After catching several dozen trouts, I had to get out and warm my feet up. I walked up to the very first run where a fly fisherman was casting but not catching. I saw fish rising and since he was on the far side I briefly entertained the idea of casting to the rising fish below him.
When I got back to the car the young man who had been wet wading was back at his truck donning a pair of waders. I said that i didn't know how he could stand wet wading, and he said that his toes had become numb. I said the waders should help and he said he hoped so.
He went on down to the river and I put on another pair of socks before returning to my spot on the river.
More trouts were caught on the surface, but it started slowing down around 5:30 and stopped by 6:00.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062022-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062022-7.jpg)
Rhodos are blooming, Doug says about 3 weeks early.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062022-5.jpg)
I moved to the lower boat ramp to see what was up. I drank a beer while deciding to go in. I finally made up my mind to fish the run, but a raft appered and anchored up at the top of the run and I went home.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062022-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 21, 2022, 10:00:21 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 21, 2022, 10:00:21 AM
Quote from: trout-r-us on June 21, 2022, 08:00:36 AMToo bad about the mowing situation at the field.
I heard that Joe Philpott died back in 2020. Joe was a good Steward of the land and was very kind and accommodating regarding fishermen access when he was still able to get around. Even in periods when the field was not being utilized for crops, he would keep a path bush-hogged offering easy access to the river. Not unusual for him to approach anglers in the parking area just to chat, and offer a ride down to the river.
Not sure if the Philpott family still oversees the land.
Sounds like a good project for the TU group to pursue. n!n
I was wondering about him, he offered me a ride a couple of times.
Joe Curtis Philpott
JULY 16, 1931 – AUGUST 8, 2020
Joe Curtis Philpott passed away at home surrounded by his family on August 8, 2020. Joe was born on July, 16, 1931 and is the son of the late Edward Jefferson Philpott and Edna Bryant Philpott. Joe was predeceased by his beloved wife of 57 years, Joy Wingfield Philpott, his siblings, Alza Marie Philpott, Georgie Philpott Ingram, Nellie Philpott Newman, Edward Jefferson Philpott Jr, Walter Albert Philpott, and his nieces Sarah Sue Ingram and Ann Marie Ingram.
https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/bassett-va/joe-philpott-9302493
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on June 21, 2022, 11:58:46 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on June 21, 2022, 11:58:46 AM
The tougher the access, the less people that will be in your fishing spot. d:b
Sidenote -- I have picked up chiggers in fields like that more than once. Not fun. p;-
Sidenote -- I have picked up chiggers in fields like that more than once. Not fun. p;-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 22, 2022, 09:19:29 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 22, 2022, 09:19:29 AM
#75
85 - sunny
Doug sent a heads up that there is progress showing at the MP field, so I swung by to see. it still hasn't been mowed... damn.
I drove on up to usual run up top. There was a family blowing up innertube style floats, it was already 3 O'clock. "That's going to be a long, cold float," I thought to myself. A chubby boy with a face smeared full of some brownish orange food about 10 or 12 years old came around and started asking all sorts of questions about what I was going to do. Since he continued to pester me, I left and drove on up to the upper run where I geared up. Walking down to the river I saw no bugs and decided to return to the first spot. The tubers were floating down the river, I couldn't imagine sitting in that cold water for hours to get to the takeout in Bassett. For some reason, I thought that the flow was lowered, maybe it was just the contrast of the weather from the other day, and the absence of fog.
A smattering of sulfurs were hatching and several fish were rising but it wasn't full on, light out fishing and I was only catching rainbows and pune browns.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062122-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062122-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062122-9.jpg)
I wasn't in a groove, so I moved on to the next run, where the current splits in the middle and goes up against the far bank under overhanging trees. As I was studying the water, I saw some fish rise and go into hero cast mode. I did pick off a nice fish that I hoped was a brown, but it was just another rainbow.
I hiked out and then down to a lower run ...
Well, hello, little frog!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062122-10.jpg)
Picked off more rainbows as the hatch petered out and I moved again, downstream.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062122-11.jpg)
I drank a beer and watched birds swooping in to pick off hatching sulfurs. I saw a fish rise straight out from me and I had to go get it. I put down my beer, grabbed my rod, and waded out into position. Three cast later the fish rose and was hooked, yet another stockbow. Casting up close to the bank I found a nice little brownie. And later, down in the main run another one took the fly. It was a spectacular take and made my day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062122-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062122-13.jpg)
I kept hearing voices from upriver, but didn't see anybody for a while, I then realized it was the tubers. They had finally gotten to the end of their float. It was almost eight o'clock! I was finished fishing, and walked to the parking lot where the tubers were gathering. One was as red as a cooked lobster. some were chilled blue. They were trying to figure out where they were as they had planned to float to the next takeout but realized that it would be too far to go. Five hours of floating with their butts in 50-degree water was enough for them. I figured they called to get some help to get to their car.
<-;:
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062122-14.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 22, 2022, 13:41:44 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 22, 2022, 13:41:44 PM
I forgot to mention that other day that those recent storms blew down a tree on riverroad.
35AB2898-3204-439A-A503-BC0E5D6363CA.jpg
Crews have been clearing it up over the last several days.
Glad I wasn't up river when this happened!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 22, 2022, 17:29:31 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 22, 2022, 17:29:31 PM
Saw that the other day.
I have to bring the handsaw and other cutting tools for the trail next week. p;-
I have to bring the handsaw and other cutting tools for the trail next week. p;-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 25, 2022, 09:08:53 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 25, 2022, 09:08:53 AM
#76
85 sunny, gas $4.59
With morning chores done I headed up to the river a bit earlier than the last several times. I did a drive by at the hay field, still not mowed. I was prepared to make the hike in but will wait for the tall grass to be cut. I went on up to the damn dam. There was nothing coming off the water and refusing to nymph I caught nothing for the first hour or so, finally around 2:30 the sulfurs started to pop off and a few fish started to look up. The hatch was pitiful and never got the fish going with abandon. I moved on up and explored the upper pools and runs.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062422-7.jpg)
My knees were locking up from the cold water and I climbed out around 5, I was headed back to the car when I ran into The Driver. He had managed to get away late and was tracking me down -- Not seeing me right away he went to gear up and realized that he had forgotten a reel, leader, and socks! Fortunately, I had a spare reel with a 6WF line and provided a fresh leader. Then the Driver surprised me with an "Upper Smith Special" custom 8' 1wt rod! I guess he thinks that I'm over gunned with a 5 wt. I've got a CFO 1 with a 2wt line, that I'll try out the next time I go, Sunday or Monday,
https://vimeo.com/724002667
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062422-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062422-9.jpg)
The hatch was petering out and we tried the lower run before moving downstream hoping to find an evening hatch. Birds were working the water and I quickly caught some rising fish.
I worked the main run, while Driver went down around the corner and found another run of risers.
We fished till 8:30
Update
Perfect match, CFO I
5D0F0F04-46FF-4299-AC06-037952EF05C3.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on June 26, 2022, 09:07:32 AM
Post by: itieuglyflies on June 26, 2022, 09:07:32 AM
I would not be offended if Driver made me a rod.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 26, 2022, 17:53:45 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 26, 2022, 17:53:45 PM
The forgetfulness is contagious. :P
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on June 27, 2022, 03:34:09 AM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on June 27, 2022, 03:34:09 AM
Cool looking reel seat,and wraps. I like up locking reel seats. That cork also looks better than most I've been seeing and half well is my favorite. Please ask Jason what kind of cork that is?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 27, 2022, 06:59:59 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 27, 2022, 06:59:59 AM
Quote from: Trout Maharishi on June 27, 2022, 03:34:09 AMwhat kind of cork that is?
In that photo the cork is still wrapped in plastic!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 27, 2022, 10:09:28 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 27, 2022, 10:09:28 AM
#77
74 degrees, I'll take it. Clearing rain to cloudy.
I drove thought an hour of rain, but the radar indicated it would pass by the time I reached the river. I drove up to the MP to check the field, there were two anglers packing it in for the day, I asked them about the field, it still is standing tall, and I drove on. I geared up in a slow steady rain and rigged up the brand new 1 wt with a 2 wt line on the CFO I, there was a 9' leader with some 7x tippet, so I went with that and a #16 parachute sulfur.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062622-13.jpg)
Thunder boomed as the rain stopped as I made my way to the water. Think fog blanketed the river and the thick clouds stood still with no detectable motion.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062622-9.jpg)
It was just past three and the bugs should be coming off but none were to be seen. Sporadically, a fish would rise, but it was difficult to locate the ring of the rise in the fog. When a fish rose in front of me, I worked out the line and, on the third cast a pune rainbow initiated the new rod.
I was fishing from memory now in spots where I had found fish in the past. Sometimes they were there, sometimes not. The bigger fish weren't looking up and I caught mostly pune browns for the next couple of hours.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062622-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062622-8.jpg)
I bug would pop off now and then, sometimes they were grabbed by a trout, but most floated by unmolested. I needed to move and find some rising fish.
Down at a lower run there were bugs floating and flying about and fish were rising steadily. They were feeding with abandon and took the comparadun over and over until it was destroyed. They were mostly rainbows, but occasionally I found a brown. After thirty minutes of action, the fish became more selective, and things slowed down and finally stopped around 6:00.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062622-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062622-12.jpg)
I had caught enough for the day anyway, and waded out. On the way home I stopped to check out another run where there has been an evening hatch, but it was quite and I didn't see the usual activity of birds and rising trout. I drank a beer and listened to the birds.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062622-15.jpg)
All this aluminum going to the landfill n!n
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062622-14.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062622-16.jpg)
Rain is forecast for tomorrow, so I probably stay home.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 28, 2022, 20:45:56 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 28, 2022, 20:45:56 PM
33
Went up high and found the river full of 4 guys and no bugs happening.
Went back down a couple of miles.
No mow. Again.
A guy from Richmond pulled in and started suiting up as I started in.
Had not been here for 5 years.
Hearing more and more of these stories. :Dance
I clued him in to the field, the path, etc and bugged out.
Nothing much was happening as I peeked at the water going downstream.
Got to the destination, cracked a beer and tied out a prospector.
(https://i.imgur.com/KQNifse.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/kELiCMv.jpg)
I caught a handful. Saw my Richmond guy working upstream.
Decided to work downstream.
Softhackling.
(https://i.imgur.com/hQD1S8J.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/znhScKl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GxnouRu.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/cDGWuKQ.jpg)
Worked back up. Nothing on the big sunken bugs.
Headed upstream to re-investigate upper river spot.
Ran into Troutrus up at the Sally Hole.
(https://i.imgur.com/6DQnWpd.jpg)
And they started mowing the field.
(https://i.imgur.com/apSo7Qf.jpg)
Passed WB upstream and heckled him before arriving at the upper target.
And finding no active bugs/fish.
Waded out and up and managed a handful more.
(https://i.imgur.com/6rJxhct.jpg)
Waded in and handed it off to WB.
Striped off my very leaky waders and headed home.
Need to rectify this.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on June 29, 2022, 06:28:52 AM
Post by: Onslow on June 29, 2022, 06:28:52 AM
Damn, that drive from Richmond.....
Glad to see y'all enjoying a year of stable flows.
Glad to see y'all enjoying a year of stable flows.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 29, 2022, 08:32:40 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 29, 2022, 08:32:40 AM
#78
77 and sunny with gas $4.40
The river was calling, and I headed up before noon, got to the river at 1 and checked the MP, there ws Trouts-r-us gearing up in the lot and Doug's truck and another vehicle were there too. Chatted with Bob for a bit and then headed up the road. Text from Doug indicated a crowd at the top damn dam runs, so I stopped short to further explore an area that I've only fished once before under foggy conditions.
As I was gearing up, a truck passed and then backed up. The driver had been up at the damn and didn't have too much success, he quizzed me about the river, and I gave some advice. He commented about how cold the water was and was headed further downstream to try another spot. I told him that if he couldn't catch fish there, he needed to go home!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062822-5.jpg)
Despite being right along the road I had a good stretch of river to myself. There were fish rising and a number of sulfurs were popping off. I caught three right just after stepping into the water at the end of the fisherman's trail. They were small but pretty and were fun on the new one weight "Upper Smith Special", to be called "USS One" from this day forward.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062822-1.jpg)
I crossed over and worked the riffle and found many fish in likely spots. I just thought how special this verdant landscape was and it's peaceful beauty sooths the soul. I had found yet another "favorite" spot to fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062822-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062822-3.jpg)
There was a lot of good looking water, but I didn't find any fish in the stretch of faster water at the head of the run. I continued to venture upstream where Doug spied me, pulled over, and watched me catch nothing.
I headed back to explore the run below where I put in and found some fish there too and I could see that this would be a great spot during a better hatch.
I got out and found Doug swinging soft hackles below the damn dam. I was putting on my electric socks when he came up to take off his leaky waders. He headed home and I went in. There were some risers, and I got some to hit the fly, but missed more than I caught and after an hour or so I gave up, thinking that the USS One, wouldn't be enough for me to fish the two uppermost runs.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062822-4.jpg)
At the lower spot I ate a snack and watched the birds working the water. Waded in, with the 5wt, and got a number of fish to rise but no connection, 5, 6,7, 8, damn I suk at fly fishing. My casting was way off with the heavier rod. Finally managed to bring a couple of browns and a mangled stockbow, to the net before calling it a day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/06/062822-6.jpg)
I may or may not make it to the river Wednesday or Thursday, but Friday is looking good if the weather holds.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on June 29, 2022, 11:12:39 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on June 29, 2022, 11:12:39 AM
Good seeing youse guys.
My log indicates my first trip there since 8/4/21. 😳
Short trip; spent as much time sitting and watching as fishin'.
The Puff Daddy was well received. 😀
My log indicates my first trip there since 8/4/21. 😳
Short trip; spent as much time sitting and watching as fishin'.
The Puff Daddy was well received. 😀
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on June 29, 2022, 16:38:39 PM
Post by: creakycane on June 29, 2022, 16:38:39 PM
Spun by the MP lot and saw a gray Tacoma with trout stickers as well as a 4-runner with nice looking rooftop rod case. Drove upstream and Fished upstream toward the dam late AM until 2PM, and there was a steady hatch of the 16 sulphur type. Caught a number of small browns on drag-free drifts with the dry, and rainbows and a few browns really hit the PT nymph when lifted.
A bit slower than early June for me, and I have come across fewer good browns and more small guys. Not sure why.
Fished through town down to below Bassett on my way out, and saw little activity. Maybe evening is hot?
My experience with the Smith is the late evening shift can be great, but as often as not, never materializes for me. Never could figure a pattern on that one.
In my old age I'm happy to fish during the day and be off the road before dark sets in, anyway.
I'll wet-wade when they drop the flow to half of what it is now.
A bit slower than early June for me, and I have come across fewer good browns and more small guys. Not sure why.
Fished through town down to below Bassett on my way out, and saw little activity. Maybe evening is hot?
My experience with the Smith is the late evening shift can be great, but as often as not, never materializes for me. Never could figure a pattern on that one.
In my old age I'm happy to fish during the day and be off the road before dark sets in, anyway.
I'll wet-wade when they drop the flow to half of what it is now.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 01, 2022, 06:57:48 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 01, 2022, 06:57:48 AM
34
https://youtu.be/6eRp97ZRwmk
It's the green plastic watering can season at home.
So I watered the plants and ran back down to the river.
I was mown away.
(https://i.imgur.com/00sBBlN.jpg)
Richmond guy was back at it,
I moved below him and stopped at a spot I only occasionally fish.
Fish were rising just below this.
I waded out and a few casts later I hooked into a real fighter of a bow.
Partridge and orange. #16.
(https://i.imgur.com/tTzNaFx.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/kqx18Q7.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/YUN4AuN.jpg)
I tagged a handful of browns before the action quieted.
I continued downstream. Nothing else was happening at the next few pauses.
Cracked a beer at the destination and waded in to cool off.
The waders still leak. Bad.
Fish started taking emergers. Grabbed the rod and started whacking them on the soft hackle again.
Lots of 6-8" feesh. A few photo worthy.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZHtFBmT.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1ql8ckD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Bc1g4gm.jpg)
Bugs came and went. I ranged upstream a bit to revist the 2 spots I had peeked at earlier.
Caught a few and started back down.
Fishbug texted that he was looking for me.
Went back down to wait on him.
Sourwoods are in their glory right now.
Good honey being made now.
(https://i.imgur.com/9lk6qkd.jpg)
We sorta kinda fished together a bit longer.
He flogging up above my downstream efforts.
Took a handful on the soft hackle as I worked down to a vigorously feeding pod at the tailout.
Switched to a dry and managed a few more, but got a lot, a lot, of refusals.
Packed it in and left the bug in the river as the shadows started to lengthen.
25ish feesh.
(https://i.imgur.com/GyqM2OD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/wagxDP5.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on July 01, 2022, 08:18:56 AM
Post by: Big J on July 01, 2022, 08:18:56 AM
Quote from: creakycane on June 29, 2022, 16:38:39 PMsaw a gray Tacoma with trout stickers
You are safe to fish behind that guy, he doesn't catch trout.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 01, 2022, 12:06:37 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 01, 2022, 12:06:37 PM
:laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2022, 08:16:39 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2022, 08:16:39 AM
#79
88 scattered clouds, Gas $4.23
With the field finally mowed, I have no excuse to hit the trail and fish the middle section of the river. It was just after noon and the lot was empty when I arrived. There was a bit of a wind, and for a minute I thought about leaving the USS One behind in favor of the SP, but went with the lightweight rod. Geared up, packed the cooler and headed in, they were about half done baling the hay. It was hot and I couldn't wait to cross into the shade of the forest and the path along the river where it was much cooler.
I stopped in at the first run to cool off and catch a few fish. There were a few sulfurs about and the fish were looking up.
I waded chest deep into the middle run to cool off and to see if I could cast the OSS One across to the lower far side of the river. Not quite, but I did catch a couple on the skittering Puff Daddy.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070122-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070122-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070122-3.jpg)
After cooling off, I headed on down to the main run and ate my lunch and had a beer. There were fish rising and I saw a smattering of sulfurs.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070122-7.jpg)
I caught a few but it shut down when the hatch changed over to tiny bwos
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070122-4.jpg)
I changed flies to a #24 bwo emeger, got a few strikes and missed a few on the tiny hook but did manage to collect a handful of punes. I saw a good fish rise in an eddy and tried to get it to take my fly, but it was a difficult cast and the fish never rose again.
A young man came up wet wading from below. We chatted for a bit, and he asked quite a number of questions about the river. This is probably the same guy from Richmond that Doug reported. Turns out he's working in Greensboro, so not making the much longer drive from the Capitol. He drove up after work, hiked in to just above the island and was covering a lot of water with a bobber rig. He asked if I was fishing upstream or down and I replied that I was just waiting for the pool to light up with the evening hatch.
He moved on up and I sat down and drank a beer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070122-5.jpg)
Picked off a couple of deer ticks crawling on my hand and saw this Dobson fly.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff202207/070122-6.jpg)
The sulfurs started off slowly, but the fish were keying in on them and the puff daddy appealed to them. The peak was about 6:30 and was pretty much over by 7:30
It was a pretty good evening, and I'll be back.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070122-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070122-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070122-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070122-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070122-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070122-13.jpg)
The brown in the last pic gave the 1 wt rod a work out and worried me when I brought the fish in to net it scooted between my legs and I had to step over the line at the same time I was trying to net it and then it took off downstream for a bit before I got it back under control.
When I hiked out and got to the lot at 8:30 the youngster was already gone.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 02, 2022, 10:15:15 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 02, 2022, 10:15:15 AM
Not the Richmond guy. 60ish, black 4runner w/rod vault. Waders.
Nice feesh, boss.
Nice feesh, boss.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on July 02, 2022, 18:03:28 PM
Post by: driver on July 02, 2022, 18:03:28 PM
I tried to make it Friday... But this damn phone won't stop ringing. b'; Maybe next week. Unlikely will a short work week though.
Keith, thoughts on the USS after a few trips? Is the 2wt line too much?
Keith, thoughts on the USS after a few trips? Is the 2wt line too much?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 02, 2022, 19:12:50 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 02, 2022, 19:12:50 PM
Monday morning, eta.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2022, 20:26:29 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2022, 20:26:29 PM
Quote from: driver on July 02, 2022, 18:03:28 PMKeith, thoughts on the USS after a few trips? Is the 2wt line too much?
I'm liking the 2 wt line, not sure what brand it is, I can't find the box, bought it for the flea bamboo a few years back, wasn't heavy enough for it.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2022, 21:03:43 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 02, 2022, 21:03:43 PM
#80
88 cloudy with Scattered thunderstorms
I was hoping for a repeat of the evening sulfur hatch, took a look at the MP, the lot was empty. I was going to go upriver if there was a crowd.
This is the most successful crop that I've seen come out of that field in 30 years!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070222-1.jpg)
I went to Sally's Pool first and caught a few on the surface. This fish was sipping right up against the far bank out of the current. Maybe about 35 - 40 foot cast with a #18 comparadun. Catching it put a smile on my face.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070222-2.jpg)
The early sulfur hatch ended, and I swung a soft hackle for a while, whacking punes here and there.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070222-4.jpg)
A trio of kayakers paddled by and then a flotilla of five or six came down followed by two guys who were fishing out of their yaks, one of them almost ran me over. "Sorry about that, boss," he exclaimed as he paddled away from the collision course.
Then it was time for a beer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070222-3.jpg)
All this time thunder was booming from over the ridges to the south and the north, somehow diverted around the river.
I would not have wanted to be on a four-hour float under these conditions and I was considering bailing, but the storms passed, and the sky cleared a bit.
I hiked on down, stopping at the left-hand pool for a bit before continuing to the main attraction.
Some more kayaks and a couple of canoes passed by, and I caught punes left and right along with some better fish.
This guy put up an awesome fight on the USS One and I had some difficulty netting it as the loop-to-loop connection wouldn't pass through the top guide and my leader was 12 feet long. With some creative maneuvering and dexterity, it finally got it in the net.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070222-5.jpg)
More punes were caught after that one, but the sky was darkening, and the fog rolled in, cutting visibility to around 20 feet.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070222-6.jpg)
Thunder was getting louder and I decided to leave as there was no indication that the bugs were going to get going this evening.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 04, 2022, 11:43:41 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 04, 2022, 11:43:41 AM
#81
85 scattered clouds and a passing shower
As I pulled my waders out, I noticed a tick crawling up the leg, damn I hate those little fuckers.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070322-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070322-2.jpg)
The spool of the CFO I barely holds a full DT 2 wt line. I've thought about cutting it in half, filling up the spool with backing and saving the other half for later.
I geared up in the empty lot and hiked in across the hay field, it was humid, and that 1/2 mile felt much longer. Relief came when I entered the woods and I continued to the left-hand pool. I picked off tick number two as I got ready to enter the pool. I startled a wood duck as I stepped into the water, and it took off downstream. Nothing much was hatching so I swung a soft hackle. My limited supply of flies was soon chewed up by pune trout. I really need to spend more time at the bench.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070322-3.jpg)
A few kayakers passed politely behind me. Trout were rising in the tail of the pool, but I couldn't quite reach them on the 2 wt. I ventured out into the nearside run chest deep but gave up as the current started pushing me downstream. So, I moved on down.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070322-4.jpg)
It started to rain so I took a beer break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070322-5.jpg)
Kayakers in the fog.
https://vimeo.com/726765689
The rain let up and I went back to fishing. Catching an occasional pune on the last of my soft hackle flies. From up above I heard a kayaking banging against rocks and as it came into view it got stuck and the womem scooted to free it and as she passed by, she complained about not being able to see the rocks in the fog. Then further up in the fog I heard two voices and the banging of boats. The fog obscured what had happened, but shortly after I saw a shoe, then a cooler, some drink bottles, and sunscreen float by.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070322-12.jpg)
More voices came from upstream, and I shouted, "Do y'all need any help, up there!" "We lost a paddle." "I've not seen it float by, only a cooler" I thought that it would be hung up or at the bottom of the deep pool above where I was.
Then the two kayaks came into view, one in front with a paddle and the second one in tow. They asked about the paddle again, and I verified that it had not floated by.
They continued on and I shouted to them that they could spit the paddle in two, thinking that it would be easier to navigate the upcoming rapids. Five or ten minutes later a large group floated by and one of them spied the lost paddle in a hole above me, and I relayed the lost paddle story to them and they said that the other kayakers were part of their group.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070322-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/fog.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070322-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070322-14.jpg)
A hatch started around 5:45, but it was difficult to see the fish rise in the fog and exceedingly difficult to keep sight of my fly on the water. Few fish were caught, I kept hoping that conditions would improve, but they didn't and by 8:00 the hatch was over and I hiked out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070322-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070322-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070322-15.jpg)
Back at the car I found one more tick on my waders. n!n
https://vimeo.com/726782008
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on July 04, 2022, 12:26:30 PM
Post by: Onslow on July 04, 2022, 12:26:30 PM
Damn solid fish. That water will feel good Wed.!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 04, 2022, 21:02:27 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 04, 2022, 21:02:27 PM
35
Dropped down early for a halfish day.
3 trucks in the lot. b';
A 5 person spin fish group had beaten me to the destination.
I checked up above them and fished the run above the lefthanders hole.
Really foggy.
(https://i.imgur.com/uGKLU4R.jpg)
Picked up a handful of feesh before they arrived working up to me.
Had a nice convo and dropped down below them and carried on.
(https://i.imgur.com/88mAwPZ.jpg)
Not a lot of pics taken.
Distracted. Fish fumbled.
Kayakers. Kayakers failing at keeping their shit together.
But hey, new waders!
Redington Sonic Pro.
A dry day. How novel!?
(https://i.imgur.com/6ONvEer.jpg)
Not much happened bug wise.
One on a dry, 2 on emergers, the rest on soft hackles.
(https://i.imgur.com/sSWDDcz.jpg)
The most interesting beer of 2022.
Not for the faint hearted.
(https://i.imgur.com/G2YYm99.jpg)
Hiked out early. 15 feesh. Ho hum sizes.
The wife and the grill awaited.
The second season awaits.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on July 05, 2022, 08:01:19 AM
Post by: driver on July 05, 2022, 08:01:19 AM
Peppers in beer should be a crime.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on July 05, 2022, 09:01:29 AM
Post by: Phil on July 05, 2022, 09:01:29 AM
Redington Sonic Pro waders -- 'c;
Hippie weird-flavored "beer" -- p;-
Nice feesh in da fog!
Hippie weird-flavored "beer" -- p;-
Nice feesh in da fog!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 06, 2022, 09:00:49 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 06, 2022, 09:00:49 AM
#82
93 with scattered thunderstorms Gas $4.28
When I got out of the car, I could hear booming thunder as the sky darkened and the wind began to blow, that gave me pause and since I didn't have cell reception, I was unsure of the strength of the impending storm. I backtracked to pick up a signal and check the radar. Not looking good, so I picked an easy access/egress point and suited up with the thunder still booming off in the distance.
Not much of a hatch going on, so I swung a soft hackle. Never used that here before. I pulled a nice fish off of the bank. A nice brown, a little over 12 inches, which I thought was pretty good considering that I was within sight of my car. I wanted a good pic of this fish, so I used my phone. I'm increasingly dissatisfied with the Oly TG-5 as the lens coating is streaked and causes blooming highlights. I'm considering upgrading to a Sony 6600 or a new iPhone... Unfortunately, the process of using the phone with wet hands had caused some problems. I somehow switched the camera and here is the result...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070522-13.jpg)
I swung my way down the run and got a good number of strikes, but only a few hook-ups. The sky darkened and the wind kicked up, the leaves showed their underside as I was about half-way down the run and was picking up more fish, mostly punes, 6 to 8 inch brown trout and a stockbro of about 14"
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070522-12.jpg)
The rain let up and the sky started to clear, so I stuck around, but then the rain came down harder and I was getting soaked, so I pulled the plug and sought shelter as streaks of lightning crossed the sky. I sat under the tailgate for a while, then the wind started to blow the rain sideways, so I retreated to the interior, where I sat while the storm passed.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070522-14.jpg)
I swung down the run again and caught only punes, but I had one good fish on for a while before the hook pulled free. After 30 minutes the rain started up again and I headed home.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070522-16.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 08, 2022, 11:27:26 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 08, 2022, 11:27:26 AM
#83
88 Partly Cloudy with a bit of rain.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070722-13.jpg)
I tried to get up to the river early to get some fishing in before the afternoon thunderstorms developed. I ended up a little later than planned. I drove to a spot where I want to explore more, but as I approached, I saw a car parked well below my spot and an angler walking back down the road. I figured he had just come from my planned stretch of water, so I headed on up further. I passed many other good-looking runs that I need to hit, but ended up at the damn dam where I had easy access and quick egress in case of a pop-up storm.
It was a bit early for the bugs to some off and I spent a fruitless hour swinging flies before tying on a nymph rig. I caught a few before taking a break back at the car and then headed down to the lower run. where bugs were starting to appear. I caught a couple on soft hackles, before playing the dry fly game.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070722-14.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070722-16.jpg)
If getting the fish to rise to your fly was the game, then I was a winner. I missed fish time after time and only hooked a few, it was maddening. The hatch was sporadic and petered out after an hour or so.
Back at the car park, another angler had resigned, after I said hello, he replied with, "I hate trout fishing. The water is too cold. I only caught one fish on a beetle." I wished him well, and drove on down the river to swing some flies in another run.
I caught a few browns and some rainbows too, before calling it a day at seven thirty.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070722-18.jpg)
On the way home on 220 (a four-lane divided highway) I guy zooms past me doing at least 90 coming into my lane as he passed. Crazy, right? On down the road a ways, I saw a car on the side of the road with the driver looking under the hood, I thought that this might be the guy that passed me. A little later, a few miles before my exit on to 68, I'm in traffic behind an 18 wheeler, another car is in the left lane passing the truck, and the crazy driver runs up behind me so close that I was certain that he was going to ram me from behind, he backs off a bit and then again accelerates to within inches off me before backing off a bit and veering off to the left lane where the other car is just about to be Infront the truck, the crazy driver runs up on this guys bumper and swerves in front of the truck causing the 18 wheeler to hit the brakes. As I watched this, I was certain that he was going to collide with the truck. He must have missed by inches. I didn't see what happened in front of the truck but he either brake checked or just slowed down, as the truck had now slowed to 45 mph. Then the crazy driver zoomed off again down 220 to Greensboro.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 09, 2022, 08:29:42 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 09, 2022, 08:29:42 AM
#84 Gas $4.20
I was sitting on the fence when the Driver text came in; "Are you fishing today?"
It was getting late, and the weather was iffy, but this text gave me just enough motivation to go. A quick check of the radar indicated that the skys would be clear after a storm passed through.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070822-1.jpg)
After a slight misdirection and after checking out the Dogpatch I located the Driver parked among "crop circles"
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070822-2.jpg)
He was down around the bend. A young mas was standing by a canoe in dripping wet clothes. He was waiting for his father to return with the truck. He and his dad had caught a dozen between them on the two-hour float. A guide was hauling his flycraft up to the flat water to fish after his clients had bailed on the trip after suffering through an hour-long thunderstorm. I can't imagine, with the current weather report, and consistent afternoon thunderstorms, that they all weren't prepared for severe weather. The guide, and perhaps he did, should have warned the dudes to bring along rain gear.
https://youtu.be/VlmanKoPLyo
I got in to fish, there was a mudline from a little feeder creek, I started fishing down to the big run and got a grab, but the water was coming up and I bailed. The Driver and I decided to move up to find clear water. There was a good bit of fog on the water. I went downstream to swing a wet in the riffle and explore more water that I hadn't fished before.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070822-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070822-4.jpg)
I had some grabs and caught a couple of punes. The fog cleared momentarily, and I saw Driver through the mist. He was standing not far from the trial and indicated that he had caught 5 already. The water I was exploring wasn't producing so I waded back up and took some more photos of the trees and fog.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070822-5.jpg)
Driver hadn't moved more than 20 feet and had caught a dozen on a soft hackle using his new neon greer one wt rod.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070822-6.jpg)
He continued to whack 'em as I moved to the top of the run.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070822-7.jpg)
There had been a short-lived sulfur hatch that lasted about 10 minutes.
He hollered that he was done and took off while I remained and swung my way back down to the path, catching punes along the way. I had one nice fish hit the fly, leap out of the water, and unbutton the fly. Then I caught a fugly stockbow, that had eaten a squirmy worm, and egg pattern and a jig hook, don't ask how I knew.
I didn't catch a lot of fish but I learned a little bit more about this section of the river and am convinced that it would light up during a decent hatch.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/070822-8.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/728326115
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 12, 2022, 09:04:05 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 12, 2022, 09:04:05 AM
#85
85 scattered clouds
I hit a new to me stretch of the upper river. The long riffles looked like a good place to swing a fly. There were a few sulfurs popping off and I saw a trout rise here and there, but nothing steady. I only managed to catch a few small browns and I bailed on that spot after a couple of hours and moved on up. On the way I ran into VDWR clearing some land and dumping gravel. He mentioned the troubles that they had launching the raft when they sampled fish. Although it's not a ramp it is an access point with a drop of several feet to the water.
https://vimeo.com/729067428
As I waded down to the next run I saw risers and thought that the game was on. Well, it didn't work out that way at all. By the time I got there the bugs shut down, fish stopped rising and I only caught a few trout. I moved on.
At my last stop of the day, I started at the top and caught a couple of trouts, before I notieced that there was a flyfisher at the bottom of the run fishing the pool. He got out and was standing by his truck. I figured I could now swing down to the top of the run. But as I was working my way down he jumped back in at the bottom, well crap. I waded back out and wen to the end of the path where driver had some success when we fished the other day. That water is swift and knee to mid-thigh deep. I wanted to get to the middle where the current was a bit softer, but I didn't have firm enough footing to try. So I hung close to the bank and threw the one wt as far as I could. I hooked a nice brown on the swing. Oh, crap, how am I going to land this fish on this rod in this current. After a while I got the fish up close enough to net. I needed a net man, I tried my best but the current was too strong to move and as I tried to get the fish up the hook pulled out. 15, maybe 16 inches of beautiful butter brown trout lost. I continued to fish for a while, but my heart wasn't in it any longer.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on July 12, 2022, 15:43:46 PM
Post by: creakycane on July 12, 2022, 15:43:46 PM
Two or three dump trucks went past me when I was fishing the the upper River Monday, and I wondered where they were going. Now I know!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 12, 2022, 17:36:13 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 12, 2022, 17:36:13 PM
Ooo, a better raft put in. I likey!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 13, 2022, 20:16:59 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 13, 2022, 20:16:59 PM
39
I was going. Then I got delayed. And the forecast was changing rapidly.
Finally arrived and hiked in by 11. Raincoat was packed.
Foggy. X10.
(https://i.imgur.com/lgigdAa.jpg)
New rod.
(https://i.imgur.com/8C27gnS.jpg)
9', 5 wt, small shop graphite blank, Graywolf crafted.
I love it. First experience with a Wulff Triangle Taper line. Pretty sweet combo.
(https://i.imgur.com/fDDzYKW.jpg)
Not much happening. Had to make it happen on my own.
(https://i.imgur.com/3zaqjbt.jpg?1)
(https://i.imgur.com/i1UlOme.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WxpFcA0.jpg)
It had started booming a couple of times and had chased me to the bank.
I checked the radar and it was looking shitty in 45-60 min.
I started up the trail. And found Woolly almost to me.
I told him I was going up closer to the field so I'd be ready to bug out faster.
I stopped to fish to some rising fish a few hundred yards upstream
and as soon as I was midstream and hooked up to a fish, it started pouring.
Landed the fish, waded over to shore and jacketed up.
Caught another and then WB hollered at me from the trail. We boogied out.
No lightning. Got to the vehicles just as it quit. :laugh:
I headed upstream, he followed a bit later.
I caught a few small fish and he moved down below me.
I finished up my run and moved down to find the bossman in the stew.
(https://i.imgur.com/KIC4f5G.jpg)
There was activity in that run!
We whacked a few each before I left him to soldier on.
Stockbros.
(https://i.imgur.com/O0Q0Mxw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/FbcWraj.jpg)
Trumpet Creepers were dropping blossoms.
(https://i.imgur.com/m2KSHSy.jpg)
:cheers
I was going. Then I got delayed. And the forecast was changing rapidly.
Finally arrived and hiked in by 11. Raincoat was packed.
Foggy. X10.
(https://i.imgur.com/lgigdAa.jpg)
New rod.
(https://i.imgur.com/8C27gnS.jpg)
9', 5 wt, small shop graphite blank, Graywolf crafted.
I love it. First experience with a Wulff Triangle Taper line. Pretty sweet combo.
(https://i.imgur.com/fDDzYKW.jpg)
Not much happening. Had to make it happen on my own.
(https://i.imgur.com/3zaqjbt.jpg?1)
(https://i.imgur.com/i1UlOme.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WxpFcA0.jpg)
It had started booming a couple of times and had chased me to the bank.
I checked the radar and it was looking shitty in 45-60 min.
I started up the trail. And found Woolly almost to me.
I told him I was going up closer to the field so I'd be ready to bug out faster.
I stopped to fish to some rising fish a few hundred yards upstream
and as soon as I was midstream and hooked up to a fish, it started pouring.
Landed the fish, waded over to shore and jacketed up.
Caught another and then WB hollered at me from the trail. We boogied out.
No lightning. Got to the vehicles just as it quit. :laugh:
I headed upstream, he followed a bit later.
I caught a few small fish and he moved down below me.
I finished up my run and moved down to find the bossman in the stew.
(https://i.imgur.com/KIC4f5G.jpg)
There was activity in that run!
We whacked a few each before I left him to soldier on.
Stockbros.
(https://i.imgur.com/O0Q0Mxw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/FbcWraj.jpg)
Trumpet Creepers were dropping blossoms.
(https://i.imgur.com/m2KSHSy.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 14, 2022, 10:12:38 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 14, 2022, 10:12:38 AM
#86
80s Partly Cloudy, Passing Thunderstorms, gas $4.08
Dougfish and Chuck were in the lot when I got there, it was cloudy and humid, and I was sweating during the 1/2-mile hike across the field. Not much relief in the shade and I couldn't wait to get in the water to cool off. Thunder boomed in the distance as I swung my fly. I caught a couple of decent fish along with some punes. I tried to take a photo of the better brown, I was unable to get the iPhone to work with wet hands. n!n I've ordered a FJORDEN grip from a Kickstarter that promises "turn my iPhone into a DSLR". There have been some delays in shipping, I now expect to see it by the end of the month. I've given up on the TG, as the image quality has been degraded as the lens coating deteriorated.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071322-1.jpg)
The fog was so thick that I didn't see Chuck working at the lower end of the pool until it cleared momentarily, and I didn't notice when he got out and passed me on the trail. Moving on, I hiked on down to find Dougfish. He was coming up the trail and mentioned that he was moving up to be closer to the vehicles, so that he didn't have to cross the field in a lightning storm. As I got down to the pool to fish, thunder boomed and it started to rain, and his words echoed in my mind and the unsettling thought of getting struck by lightning caused me to fish poorly and I bailed as the rainfall increased. Hiking up the trail, I hollered at Dougfish and said, "Fuck this shit, I'm leaving!"
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071322-5.jpg)
We hiked out together, by the time we got out, the rain had slowed down, he wanted to fish where he could get out quickly in case the weather turned bad. He drove on up the road, and I headed into town to get some gas as I was close to empty. (The car said 12 miles, I've never been quite that low before and have never found out how accurate that indicator is. I remember on some of my older vehicles with just an analog gauge, I had driven around to find out exactly when "E" was really empty!)
Back on up the road I found Doug fishing a run and watched him catch one as I was drinking a beer. I headed down to the lower spot and swung a fly without much luck. When the fish started rising I switched to a dry but realized that my "day box' of flies got soaked by the rain. I tried to revive them, but they wouldn't float very long.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071322-2.jpg)
Doug came down and joined my and he whacked a few stockbros, and I worked a fish until I finally hooked it. It was a better rainbron and put up a good fight on the USS One, I just about got it to the net before it unbuttoned.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071322-3.jpg)
Doug left as the hatch dwindled and I followed shortly.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071322-4.jpg)
I moved on down to my evening spot on the way home and swung up a handful of trouts.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071322-6.jpg)
I thought about going to another spot but sat down to have a beer. A truck pulled up at the end of the log and two young guys geared up with waders. Another truck pulled up and parked in the corner, and the guy put up a sunblocker on the windshield and was messing around on the passenger side, I think he's sleeping there. Then the two other guys got back in their truck all wadered up and headed somewhere else. This is a strange spot for sure. I finished my beer and observations and headed home.
I'm using an old iPhone as a dashcam for now...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071322-7.jpg)
iPhone Camera Grip - Fjorden (https://shop.fjorden.co/)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 15, 2022, 08:00:52 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 15, 2022, 08:00:52 AM
#87
88 sunny, scattered clouds, hazy sky later in the day.
The humidity was lower today. I hit Sally's pool first and swung up a few trouts. It was mid-afernoon and some sulfurs were around. A guy in a canoe came down with his bicycle stowed in the front. Not too bad of a ride back to his vehicle once you get up the first hill! He was followed by a trio of kayakers and then a couple more.
I worked my way down to the left-hand pool, where I swung up more trout. They were rising at the end of the far side run where they are out of my reach. Next time I'll leave my vest on the bank and wade out chest deep to get to them. This photo was taken with the TG. It pretty much sucks. I'm done with that camera. n!n All the other pics are from the iPhone.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071422-3.jpg)
For some reason, I can't remember exactly what happened, but the next fish was a robust beautifully colored and spotted brown whos image I failed to capture.
On down to the final destination, I swung up some punes and worked the sporadic risers which refused everything I threw at them, 16 and 18 comparaduns, parachutes, and puff daddys all were rejected time after time. I was flummoxed, catching only the punes, oh and one chubby stockerbro. Then the fog rolled in and limited visibility to less than 20 feet at times.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071422-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071422-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071422-6.jpg)
A hatch started around 6:00 and was over by 7:30, but few fish were caught despite getting many to rise to my fly. -+;
Moving back upriver, I caught a few more and took a photo of the last fish of the day,
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071422-7.jpg)
Hiking out there were at least a dozen deer in the field.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071422-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 15, 2022, 13:58:28 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 15, 2022, 13:58:28 PM
Id back a bote down that --- Gonna do it one day... :drum
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 15, 2022, 18:36:35 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 15, 2022, 18:36:35 PM
More gravel added. Looking more like THE option. :Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on July 15, 2022, 18:42:41 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on July 15, 2022, 18:42:41 PM
I'm scared of lighting, I've still got scars from being struck in ankle deep water running down a trail. :o
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 15, 2022, 21:02:30 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 15, 2022, 21:02:30 PM
40
A long listen is deserved....
https://youtu.be/8DeMYEsr6Zs
I had to have another hit.
And some trail maintenance was needed.
Got rolling semi-early.
Sling blade and pruners in tow.
Hiked in with waders in the pack.
Whack, whack, prune, prune.
Half plus of trail groomed.
The rest gets whacked next week.
1 1/2 hrs later, I suited up.
(https://i.imgur.com/1GsrtS6.jpg)
Not much happening.
Swinging got 5 feesh.
A deliberate kayak/wade/spin guy came through and we talked a while.
He was a serious fisherman. used the kayak to get through deep spots, only.
He was doing well. -+;
I worked through again. Meh.
Went upstream and tried the left hander run. No dice.
Saw fish rising upstream.
Up I went.
(https://i.imgur.com/6DWUMtb.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/zW6n8aF.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/bq4n8hv.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/sjfDg3B.jpg)
I got to waist deep water plus chasing the feesh and backed out.
Went back down to gather my shit and fish an in between spot.
Meh.
Started hiking out and ran into a father and two grown son threesome fishing downstream.
After a bit of banter, the dad waded in to talk with me. He was wading wet and was skunked.
In one of the most remarkable stories I have heard, he lost a wading boot upstream
and had to go back to the truck to ditch his waders and switch to wet. :o
Can you top that one?
Slipped him a couple of freshly tied soft hackles and wished him well.
I motored up and tried WB's money run.
It was barely happening, then nothing.
Slid home early.
Like this black racer.
(https://i.imgur.com/fSerTrs.jpg)
The trio's truck was still there when I went back by the Mirror Plant lot.
:cheers
A long listen is deserved....
https://youtu.be/8DeMYEsr6Zs
I had to have another hit.
And some trail maintenance was needed.
Got rolling semi-early.
Sling blade and pruners in tow.
Hiked in with waders in the pack.
Whack, whack, prune, prune.
Half plus of trail groomed.
The rest gets whacked next week.
1 1/2 hrs later, I suited up.
(https://i.imgur.com/1GsrtS6.jpg)
Not much happening.
Swinging got 5 feesh.
A deliberate kayak/wade/spin guy came through and we talked a while.
He was a serious fisherman. used the kayak to get through deep spots, only.
He was doing well. -+;
I worked through again. Meh.
Went upstream and tried the left hander run. No dice.
Saw fish rising upstream.
Up I went.
(https://i.imgur.com/6DWUMtb.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/zW6n8aF.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/bq4n8hv.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/sjfDg3B.jpg)
I got to waist deep water plus chasing the feesh and backed out.
Went back down to gather my shit and fish an in between spot.
Meh.
Started hiking out and ran into a father and two grown son threesome fishing downstream.
After a bit of banter, the dad waded in to talk with me. He was wading wet and was skunked.
In one of the most remarkable stories I have heard, he lost a wading boot upstream
and had to go back to the truck to ditch his waders and switch to wet. :o
Can you top that one?
Slipped him a couple of freshly tied soft hackles and wished him well.
I motored up and tried WB's money run.
It was barely happening, then nothing.
Slid home early.
Like this black racer.
(https://i.imgur.com/fSerTrs.jpg)
The trio's truck was still there when I went back by the Mirror Plant lot.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 17, 2022, 07:53:43 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 17, 2022, 07:53:43 AM
#88
85 hazy sun, breaking to cloudy skies and thunderstorms, Gas $3.99 <-;:
Only a tan Tacoma from NC in the lot, it was stickered up with a plethora of fishing related decals, so I stuck a BRFFF sticker under his wiper. As I hiked in, I looked to see if he was fishing high, but the fog was too thick on this high humidity day. Nice whack job, Doug! It felt good to step into the cold waters of the left-hand pool. I caught a few fish and dodged kayakers before moving on down the trail.
As I approached the next spot, I saw Tacoma guy nymping at the head of the pool. I sat down, grabbed a beer and watched him work his way upstream. He fished some spots that I've always skipped over. He finally saw me and waved before continuing upstream. I took my time, just enjoying a feckless day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071622-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071622-4.jpg)
I was waiting for a hatch to start, but managed to catch a few on the swing.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071622-3.jpg)
There were a few sulfuer, bwo, midges and the occasional yellow drake...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071622-2.jpg)
Things started to get interesting around 3, when an increase in the number of sulfurs enticed fish to start hitting the surface. This lasted for about an hour, then things got quiet again.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071622-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071622-6.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/730731813
Then the rumble of thunder and darkening skies gave me pause and I quickly decided to move much closer to the car.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071622-7.jpg)
By the time I got to Sally's pool the bugs were popping off and the run was alive with rising fish. The action was fast and furious with the storm approaching. I split off to the north, but I felt uneasy and after catching a few trout,I booked across the field and headed home.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071622-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071622-9.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dundeal1 on July 17, 2022, 17:20:22 PM
Post by: Dundeal1 on July 17, 2022, 17:20:22 PM
Nice post .....Looking forward to the trip this week :cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 18, 2022, 07:48:51 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 18, 2022, 07:48:51 AM
#89
80 Scattered Thunderstorms
Ran up in the afternoon with the intent of catching the evening hatch at Sally's pool. When I pulled into the empty lot I could hear an approaching storm and thought better of crossing the field and headed up the road. Nobody there, jumped in, bugs started hatching, fish started to rise, then refuse my flies. It was frustrating to work a fish, and finally get it to rise and then refuses the fly at the last moment. I changed flies, added tippet, changed flies again, went smaller and then smaller still before finding an old puff daddy that they liked. Caught a few rainbows and browns, before it shut down around 7, and I heded down to the lower river run which has some evening activity. Sung up a nice brown just after stepping into the river and caught a handful more as I moved on down. i was 8:30 when I stopped at the end of the 50 yard run.
This cardinal landed on my wiper and pecked at the car for a while when I first pulled into the MP lot.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/bird2.gif)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071722-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/071722-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 18, 2022, 08:12:19 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 18, 2022, 08:12:19 AM
That cardinal probably has brain damage from attacking his reflection in my mirrors and windows. Shits down the side of my doors, too.
State bird, my ass. n!n
State bird, my ass. n!n
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on July 20, 2022, 11:07:53 AM
Post by: creakycane on July 20, 2022, 11:07:53 AM
Increasing flow out of philpott dam as of noon weds 20 July.
At the same time, flows out of Mville reduced to 60 cfs. Fairly warm slug; lets hope this is just a quick reduction....
Not looking for any logic in this; been fishing the river and watching the situation for too long to expect any. Just fyi!
At the same time, flows out of Mville reduced to 60 cfs. Fairly warm slug; lets hope this is just a quick reduction....
Not looking for any logic in this; been fishing the river and watching the situation for too long to expect any. Just fyi!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 20, 2022, 11:32:08 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 20, 2022, 11:32:08 AM
Probably holding water back at M'ville dam for generation
368 @ the Philpott Damn Dam canceled my plans fer dis afternoon n!n
368 @ the Philpott Damn Dam canceled my plans fer dis afternoon n!n
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on July 21, 2022, 09:44:08 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on July 21, 2022, 09:44:08 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on July 18, 2022, 08:12:19 AMThat cardinal probably has brain damage from attacking his reflection in my mirrors and windows. Sits down the side of my doors, too.
State bird, my ass. n!n
About three weeks ago when I saw you up there a cardinal was pounding the heck out of my wipers and rear view mirrors while I was setting up. Tried unsuccessfully to chase him over to your truck. 😁
When I got back to the lot after fishing there was bird crap and red berry(?) juice splattered around my side windows and mirrors. I guessed I was parked over the rock that he would normally use to break open the fruit. 🤔
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 21, 2022, 10:37:15 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 21, 2022, 10:37:15 AM
#90
93 degrees / humidity 100 = too damn hot
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072022-1.jpg)
*50 cents off with Harris Tetter Rewards...
I don't know why they were messing with the flows at the damn dams, the trout killing low flow at the lower dam is mystifying. With gauge tempt reaching 77, you know the lower reaches were into the death zone, fortunatelyy it wasn't too long before they gradually increased the flow and the temps dropped back down. Now on the upper section, the water discharge is still below 50 and several miles downstream it is still only reaching 60. It looks like they are in a 3-hour increased flow again today. This may be in response to the 1.2 inches of rain the other day as their lake level projection is staying on track.
Anyway, I drove on up in the late afternoon. The cardinal swooped in but didn't attack this time as I parked further out from the tree line. I packed in a couple of warm beers and chilled them in the river which was still falling at 4:00. I saw a few sulfurs, but the fish weren't looking up. I swung a fly while the beer chilled and caught nothing. After waiting 30 minutes, I sat down and enjoyed a beer. Sipping slowly, watching, waiting for fish to rise and the hatch to get underway.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072022-2.jpg)
Not long after finishing that tasty Wicked Weed brew, I saw a splashy rise and went in after it. Punes were caught but it was damn slow fishing. After a half hour I sat down and drank my second beer again sipping slowly waiting for the fish to become more active.
Around six things started to happen and the catching began. Still a lot of punes but a few better. They may be small, but they are pretty and are fun to catch on the surface. The algae is still a problem and fouls the fly often after catching a fish the fly would be covered in the stuff.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072022-3.jpg)
The sky darkened and a cacophony of thunder booms echoed off the hills as the wind picked up. The fishing was desperate now, trying to catch a few more trout before pulling out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072022-4.jpg)
I hooked a fish up against the bank, it tangled up under a stick and got off, and my fly was hopelessly slimed with algae and dittymo. I decided this was a suitable time to make a retreat to the car. When I got up to the field, I realized that the storm was staying to the south, but I was done for the day. 3 hours in the car, 3 hours on the water.
Back at the lot, there were a couple of local trucks, I didn't see the fishermen on the water,
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 22, 2022, 08:01:47 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 22, 2022, 08:01:47 AM
#91
blazing hot
It appears that the increased flows were made in conjunction with VDWR sampling efforts on the river. Anyway, the short release gave way to favorable conditions in the afternoon, I headed up late to catch the evening hatch. Arriving at five, the hike across the field was miserable, and I was soaked in sweat by the time I got to the river. I drank an ice-cold beer and watched the river. A fish rose, I went after it. After releasing it, I sat back down, keeping an eye out for rising fish. Dougfish, who had been fishing down lower, stopped by on his way out. As we chatted, we spied another fish rising, and he challenged me to catch it. Eight or nine cast later I got the pune to rise.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072122-1.jpg)
He headed home and I waded up to the upper run. About a half hour later it really started to turn on and I fished until a quarter till eight. In past years, on the old low norml flows of 60 cfs, the frenzy would continue past sunset, now the climax ends earlier.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072122-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072122-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072122-4.jpg)
The evening, when there arent' thunderstorms, is peaceful with the fog rolling in and the sunlight streaking through the trees illuminating shafts of light that dance on the water.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072122-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on July 22, 2022, 08:58:30 AM
Post by: Phil on July 22, 2022, 08:58:30 AM
That last picture of the sunbeams is downright beautiful. :bow
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 22, 2022, 10:47:24 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 22, 2022, 10:47:24 AM
41, 42
Dropped down early Tuesday to finish the trail before it got stupid hot.
The green tunnel is complete.
(https://i.imgur.com/fdsCmUE.jpg)
There was a fellow downstream when I finished up and cracked the first beer.
(https://i.imgur.com/3MgeWYH.jpg)
I did not check the rain gauge at Philpott before deciding to go.
Mistake. They got dumped on Monday evening. The river was muddy.
Made one pass through the money run. Nada.
Decided to go upstream.
It was slooow.
Saw birds working below the new ramp and headed down.
Bugs, birds, no fish working them. WTF.
Went home early with a handful of feesh to hand.
Yesterday:
(https://i.imgur.com/Lmy0HrX.jpg)
"Bale me out" said the growing hay field.
Fished 1-6.
As WB says, hotz.
Only one there.
No botes, no yaks seen.
Took the euro rod in case nothing was happening.
Nothing was happening.....
So I dredged up 4 in one trip up the main run.
(https://i.imgur.com/n3m9iVU.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/I278buL.jpg)
Drank beer two and bugs started poppin.
Switched reels and put on a comparadun and emerger dropper.
Picked up a few more.
They were picky bastards.
Put on a puff daddy.
Picked up a few more.
Put on a soft hackle and started back down.
Picked up a few more.
(https://i.imgur.com/DAh8DaI.jpg)
The browns taken were all less than 10".
Meh.
Picked up a few more.
Headed up to look at other spots.
Saw a hobo at WBs run and hiked up.
(https://i.imgur.com/SHPdA24.jpg)
The trained monkey.
(https://i.imgur.com/l2YdR4E.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/M7CIFQP.jpg)
:cheers
Dropped down early Tuesday to finish the trail before it got stupid hot.
The green tunnel is complete.
(https://i.imgur.com/fdsCmUE.jpg)
There was a fellow downstream when I finished up and cracked the first beer.
(https://i.imgur.com/3MgeWYH.jpg)
I did not check the rain gauge at Philpott before deciding to go.
Mistake. They got dumped on Monday evening. The river was muddy.
Made one pass through the money run. Nada.
Decided to go upstream.
It was slooow.
Saw birds working below the new ramp and headed down.
Bugs, birds, no fish working them. WTF.
Went home early with a handful of feesh to hand.
Yesterday:
(https://i.imgur.com/Lmy0HrX.jpg)
"Bale me out" said the growing hay field.
Fished 1-6.
As WB says, hotz.
Only one there.
No botes, no yaks seen.
Took the euro rod in case nothing was happening.
Nothing was happening.....
So I dredged up 4 in one trip up the main run.
(https://i.imgur.com/n3m9iVU.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/I278buL.jpg)
Drank beer two and bugs started poppin.
Switched reels and put on a comparadun and emerger dropper.
Picked up a few more.
They were picky bastards.
Put on a puff daddy.
Picked up a few more.
Put on a soft hackle and started back down.
Picked up a few more.
(https://i.imgur.com/DAh8DaI.jpg)
The browns taken were all less than 10".
Meh.
Picked up a few more.
Headed up to look at other spots.
Saw a hobo at WBs run and hiked up.
(https://i.imgur.com/SHPdA24.jpg)
The trained monkey.
(https://i.imgur.com/l2YdR4E.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/M7CIFQP.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 22, 2022, 12:43:30 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 22, 2022, 12:43:30 PM
Don't hide that fruity 🍉 beer; it's delicious
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 23, 2022, 08:17:30 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 23, 2022, 08:17:30 AM
Quote from: creakycane on July 20, 2022, 11:07:53 AMIncreasing flow out of philpott dam as of noon weds 20 July.
At the same time, flows out of Mville reduced to 60 cfs. Fairly warm slug; lets hope this is just a quick reduction....
Not looking for any logic in this; been fishing the river and watching the situation for too long to expect any. Just fyi!
We had sampling both days on the upper. City of martinsville electric department made a miscalculation. They have been informed and already apologized for the incident. I personally talked with the head of the department for an hour. Nice guy and fly fisherman. He was concerned and apologized multiple times.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 23, 2022, 09:10:01 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 23, 2022, 09:10:01 AM
#92
Too damn hot, gas $3.90
https://vimeo.com/732743623
For a moment I considered wet wading today, but I was planning on fishing till dark. The lot was empty, and I encountered spider webs on the trail. The first refreshing cool breeze from the river didn't hit me until I was across the creek. It was damn hot. When I got to the left-hand pool, I waded out just to cool off, it took a while. I didn't mess with fishing there and was soon on the way downstream.
It was just after four and there wasn't much happening on the water, it looked like a desert, void of visible activity. I switched leaders and swung a wet fly for a while, only receiving a few bumps. Bugs started floating by and I saw a trout rise. I took off my wet fly leader and untangled a dry fly leader that I had stashed in the wallet with a puff daddy still on. I unrolled it, but the tippet got tangled and I broke it having given up on untangling it, this allowed the tangled tippet to free, I then blood knotted the broken leader and thought I was done. With all of this done in the middle of the stream I had forgotten to attach the leader loop to the fly line and when I cast the leader and fly went flying downstream. By the time I realized what happened it was too late and the leader couldn't be recovered. Crap. I blame the heat frying my brain. That was my only dry fly leader. So I sat down, popped a beer and salvaged a truncated leader that had been used for nymphing adding some 4x, 5x, and 7x tippet with blood knots. By the time this was done the fish were a little more active.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072222-1.jpg)
With a newly reconstructed leader attached I waded out to the head of the run and started catching fish. It was awesome seeing them rise off the bottom and follow the fly back and then gulp it in.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072222-2.jpg)
Just the usual small browns and the odd stockbro were caught. The hatches aren't as prolific as I remember from last year, perhaps all the algae is to blame? It was mostly over by 7:30 and I began to hike out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072222-3.jpg)
I checked Sally's pool, there were a few trout still rising and I went after them, I caught a couple of punes.
There were at least two dozen deer in the field, they all look like yearlings, most bound away, but there is always one strangler who doesn't appear to be concerned until I get within 30 feet, then they run off to the shelter of the woods.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072222-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on July 24, 2022, 11:47:32 AM
Post by: creakycane on July 24, 2022, 11:47:32 AM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on July 23, 2022, 08:17:30 AMQuote from: creakycane on July 20, 2022, 11:07:53 AMIncreasing flow out of philpott dam as of noon weds 20 July.
At the same time, flows out of Mville reduced to 60 cfs. Fairly warm slug; lets hope this is just a quick reduction....
Not looking for any logic in this; been fishing the river and watching the situation for too long to expect any. Just fyi!
We had sampling both days on the upper. City of martinsville electric department made a miscalculation. They have been informed and already apologized for the incident. I personally talked with the head of the department for an hour. Nice guy and fly fisherman. He was concerned and apologized multiple times.
Thanks for following up on this. Glad the level was quickly raised back. Hopefully It will be a below average August temp-wise, and the pm rains come intermittently. Thx again!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 24, 2022, 21:43:31 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 24, 2022, 21:43:31 PM
Quote from: creakycane on July 24, 2022, 11:47:32 AMQuote from: streamereater_101691 on July 23, 2022, 08:17:30 AMQuote from: creakycane on July 20, 2022, 11:07:53 AMIncreasing flow out of philpott dam as of noon weds 20 July.
At the same time, flows out of Mville reduced to 60 cfs. Fairly warm slug; lets hope this is just a quick reduction....
Not looking for any logic in this; been fishing the river and watching the situation for too long to expect any. Just fyi!
We had sampling both days on the upper. City of martinsville electric department made a miscalculation. They have been informed and already apologized for the incident. I personally talked with the head of the department for an hour. Nice guy and fly fisherman. He was concerned and apologized multiple times.
Thanks for following up on this. Glad the level was quickly raised back. Hopefully It will be a below average August temp-wise, and the pm rains come intermittently. Thx again!
Absolutely. The pm thunderstorms actually don't help the situation other than fill the lake. In a perfect world, rain between midnight and 7am would be perfect. Cooler than average temps would be welcomed though!!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 26, 2022, 10:35:18 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 26, 2022, 10:35:18 AM
#93 Overcast - then rain, 85 going in 75 coming out Gas $3.80
Listening to The Monument Men on the drive up after checking the weather report and radar. It looked like I would miss the storms and it should be clearing by the time I got there.
So far this is a fascinating story with a lot more depth than I had realized.
I showed up for the second shift around 3 to find an empty lot. Thunder was still booming to the south but I was confident enough that it would remain clear on the river. As I left the lot a pickup truck drove into the field and stopped to check the farm equipment, I followed it and when the driver turned around, he stopped, "Are you a Philpott?" I asked. He just cuts the hay, they have had some equipment repairs and they hope to get the bales put up soon. I mentioned the high yield this year and he claimed that getting rid of the beavers kept the field from flooding and that led to a vast improvement. He went on to talk about the price of fertilizer and diesel fuel. He said that he had spent over $1,300 for fuel and wrapping for those bales plus another 30 on another field. We talked about how old man Philpott would driver around the perimeter of the field to keep grass knocked down. He asked if I wanted a ride to the end of the field and when I declined, he said, "I guess you want the exercise". Then he mentioned that he had been to Greensboro to have his shoulder worked on, and his doctor, who fishes here often, told him that work was going to start on the dam soon. When I told him that I hadn't heard anything about that, he said that Dr. Lucey was certain that the work was going to begin. We parted and I walked on down to Sally's pool.
Any of y'all know anyting?
I waded out into a slot too cool off, there were a few fish rising, and a smattering of bwo and midges along with the occasional sulfur. I got a couple to fall for a puff daddy.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072522-1.jpg)
Then I moved on down checking spots along the way. I caught some on the surface, but it was slow. It was still early, and I was waiting for the evening hatch when it started to rain.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072522-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072522-3.jpg)
since dry fly fishing was out of the question, I swung flies and picked off a couple of handfuls of punes.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072522-4.jpg)
It looked like the rain was going to stop, but it continued on and off for the rest of the evening and the bugs never got going at all.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072522-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072522-6.jpg)
I gave up at 7:30 and hiked out, checking Sally's on the way out, it was dead.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072522-7.jpg)
On the way home I stopped at the Citgo for cheap gas and a lottery ticket.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 26, 2022, 14:13:47 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 26, 2022, 14:13:47 PM
43
https://vimeo.com/733726046
Unlike WB, I was confidant it would rain later. Maybe thunderstorm.
So I went down earlier. It was my night to cook dinner, also.
(https://i.imgur.com/xZRaIpM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4eGQNiT.jpg)
2 female common merganser? Big ducks!
(https://i.imgur.com/w84Bytk.jpg)
I started out down low. Swung up some and the bugs started to slowly get active.
Took about 9-10 more on the low riding comparadun.
(https://i.imgur.com/0RI3Rec.jpg)
Moved up as some booming in the distance started up.
Took a few more and headed further upstream.
Popped into Sally's run as 2 kayaks and a one man toon as had just passed.
(https://i.imgur.com/tp1BPyu.jpg)
The toon driver was struggling. He needed more PSI and his oarlocks were too high.
He had some interesting runs to contend with before takeout. -+;
I hiked out to eat some lunch and move upstream.
(https://i.imgur.com/S4VGoLV.jpg)
Fished down through the upper and only got 2 tugs.
Saw a young guy headed down. He wanted to fish right side, I wanted to fish left.
Good deal.
But I got skunked in the good run.
(https://i.imgur.com/RiUEjBn.jpg)
Left all of it to him and headed out.
Saw WB's chariot at the usual.
And I saw his text giving me shit for being chicken and not fishing when I hit cell service. :laugh:
I sent him this when I was home, and he was getting wet.
(https://i.imgur.com/7YcG9FH.jpg)
:cheers
https://vimeo.com/733726046
Unlike WB, I was confidant it would rain later. Maybe thunderstorm.
So I went down earlier. It was my night to cook dinner, also.
(https://i.imgur.com/xZRaIpM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4eGQNiT.jpg)
2 female common merganser? Big ducks!
(https://i.imgur.com/w84Bytk.jpg)
I started out down low. Swung up some and the bugs started to slowly get active.
Took about 9-10 more on the low riding comparadun.
(https://i.imgur.com/0RI3Rec.jpg)
Moved up as some booming in the distance started up.
Took a few more and headed further upstream.
Popped into Sally's run as 2 kayaks and a one man toon as had just passed.
(https://i.imgur.com/tp1BPyu.jpg)
The toon driver was struggling. He needed more PSI and his oarlocks were too high.
He had some interesting runs to contend with before takeout. -+;
I hiked out to eat some lunch and move upstream.
(https://i.imgur.com/S4VGoLV.jpg)
Fished down through the upper and only got 2 tugs.
Saw a young guy headed down. He wanted to fish right side, I wanted to fish left.
Good deal.
But I got skunked in the good run.
(https://i.imgur.com/RiUEjBn.jpg)
Left all of it to him and headed out.
Saw WB's chariot at the usual.
And I saw his text giving me shit for being chicken and not fishing when I hit cell service. :laugh:
I sent him this when I was home, and he was getting wet.
(https://i.imgur.com/7YcG9FH.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 26, 2022, 18:50:55 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 26, 2022, 18:50:55 PM
I saw those ducks... couldn't quite out what there were... <-;:
them r some big oars on dat pontoon...
them r some big oars on dat pontoon...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 26, 2022, 20:19:45 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 26, 2022, 20:19:45 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on July 26, 2022, 10:35:18 AMhe said that Dr. Lucey was certain that the work was going to begin. We parted and I walked on down to Sally's pool.
Any of y'all know anyting?
Philpott Dam to undergo major repairs
The recreational funding budget for Philpott Lake has been restored, but it pales in comparison to repairs to the dam that suffered substantial damage from a landslide that occurred over two years ago.
Congress allocated over $12.2 million for Philpott Lake in FY2021. The final bill for FY2022 was slightly more than $4.8 million, but $24.4 million was designated from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act fund to pay for repairs from the landslide and the installation of anchors and gauges, the Corps of Engineers report in April states.
https://martinsvillebulletin.com/news/local/philpott-dam-to-undergo-major-repairs/article_601cb4c4-06d3-11ed-97a8-ab05647a77ae.html
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 26, 2022, 20:50:51 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 26, 2022, 20:50:51 PM
They never once mentioned the downstream fishery.
It's meh, to the Corps.
It's meh, to the Corps.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 26, 2022, 21:18:28 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 26, 2022, 21:18:28 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on July 26, 2022, 20:50:51 PMThey never once mentioned the downstream fishery.
It's meh, to the Corps.
SAVE THE LOGPEARCH!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 26, 2022, 21:20:22 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 26, 2022, 21:20:22 PM
Mark my words. It's going to be a long time. Bank stabilization hasn't been completed or assessed since the landslide. Multiple attempts have been made and have failed. GE has already started removing old equipment. The new turbines will be the same as the old ones, full blast or nothing. Also, they are replacing both units at the same time, 2 generators will be back normal again. 1500cfs.. b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on July 27, 2022, 05:23:55 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on July 27, 2022, 05:23:55 AM
From the article:
"Since November 2012 the dam's rating on the Dam Safety Action Classification System (DSAC) was reclassified from a DSAC IV (inadequate with a low probability of failure) to a DSAC III (significantly inadequate with a moderate to high probability of failure)."
"Since November 2012 the dam's rating on the Dam Safety Action Classification System (DSAC) was reclassified from a DSAC IV (inadequate with a low probability of failure) to a DSAC III (significantly inadequate with a moderate to high probability of failure)."
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 27, 2022, 05:55:13 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 27, 2022, 05:55:13 AM
Quote from: trout-r-us on July 27, 2022, 05:23:55 AMFrom the article:
"Since November 2012 the dam's rating on the Dam Safety Action Classification System (DSAC) was reclassified from a DSAC IV (inadequate with a low probability of failure) to a DSAC III (significantly inadequate with a moderate to high probability of failure)."
"DSAC Class III (High Priority) – Dams that have issues where the dam is significantly inadequate or the combination of life, economic, or environmental consequences with probability of failure is moderate to high."
I guess that is why the got the money. Does what appears to be a drawdown of the lake have anything to do with the repairs?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 27, 2022, 07:40:38 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 27, 2022, 07:40:38 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on July 27, 2022, 05:55:13 AMDoes what appears to be a drawdown of the lake have anything to do with the repairs?
No. The steady ~280 flow has been in cooperation with the COE to keep lower river temps bearable. They wanted to shut it off multiple times but were met with complaints.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 28, 2022, 12:29:06 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 28, 2022, 12:29:06 PM
#94
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07//072722-1.jpg)
Since I didn't win anything, I thought I'd try my luck on the river.
I glanced at the radar as I left town and cell service, it looked good. Since it was already late, I headed for easy access up the damn dam road. The skies were clear enough that I left the raincoat in the car and eased on down to the lower run. It was very foggy and difficult to determine if there was anybody else down there or if fish were rising. Fortunately, I had the spot to myself and shortly after I arrived the sulfurs appeared. A trout rose, I cast my fly, fish on! Damn, that was easy.
Then a light rain began to fall, I Thit off. I was certain that the sun would return, and I would dry out. The wind kicked up and the skies darkened, the rain began to fall harder. Still unconcerned I fished on, doing my best to keep a dry fly floating. Then it began to pour and I started thinking about a dry shirt and rain jacket in the car, but I fished on. Thunder crackled and boom, ok, I can take a hint. I made my way out and up to the car as the storm intensified and then just as suddenly as it appeared the clouds broke and sun began to stream in as I reached the car, well damn. I changed shirts and thought about going back out, but the storms persisted and I tried to wait it out sitting in the car. Time passed.
I headed downstream to catch the evening rise, but thunder was too close for comfort down there too. I waited in the car and was about readiy to get in the water as the skies cleared and the thunder was moving off, but then a visible ground strike coming from out of the blue changed my mind and I stopped for the day.
Started a new podcast series on the drive home; Mill House Podcast.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07//072722-2.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 30, 2022, 10:59:26 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 30, 2022, 10:59:26 AM
#95
https://vimeo.com/735011441
Friday's draw didn't make me a billionaire, so my plans to buy a ranch in Montana (https://fayranches.com/property/rivers-edge-ranch-montana/) are on hold.
blazing hot and humid on an afternoon hike to the river. I had to stop half-way and cool off in a shaded pool. Dougfish came along with a beer in hand as I watched for a fish to rise. They were in the far run and I waded out as far as I could without topping my waderpants. With long hero cast, I managed to catch a fish and a little later we doubled up on pune brown trout.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072922-1.jpg)
Having cooled off enough, I said goodbye to Doug and headed downstream.
I didn't see any birds or fish working, so I drank a beer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072922-2.jpg)
Doug said the best chance for a thunderstorm was around 4:30 and he wasn't far off. Fortunately, it stayed south.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072922-3.jpg)
I swung up a few and even managed a couple on top, but the hatch never got going like I remember last year.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072922-4.jpg)
It was just a feckless day on the river, but oh so slow. I finally began to hike out, checking spots along the way. Nothing. Last stop, Sally's, nothing, oh, wait, a rise. hmmmm. I'll give it go. Well, it turned on for a bit and some good fish were caught, but as usual, the best one didn't make it to the net.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072922-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072922-6.jpg)
It slowed down as the sun was setting.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072922-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/07/072922-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutboy_II on July 30, 2022, 12:08:01 PM
Post by: troutboy_II on July 30, 2022, 12:08:01 PM
Great Sunset shot! Bravo!
TB /'/
TB /'/
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 31, 2022, 07:19:34 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 31, 2022, 07:19:34 AM
44
Thunderstorms later?
Against my better fishing judgement, I went early.
At least the hike in wasn't ballz hot.
(https://i.imgur.com/9Sbmln8.jpg)
As I surmised, not much was happening.
I decided to see how the new rod threw a medium-large streamer.
After all, how else am I going to catch those big meat eaters? :;!
I dredged a few deeper runs and got just one bump.
Drank a beer in the middle of the river.
(https://i.imgur.com/Td3BnRK.jpg)
Turned around and drifted/swung a bugger back downstream.
A few more bumps, a solid hookup and a SDR.
After an hour, I was fishless. But I had seen a muskrat and a beaver.
As well as cedar waxwings and hummingbirds taking the few bugs in the sky over the river.
As activity picked up, I tried my new, top secret emergers.
Nothing. :laugh:
Tied on a comparadun and started picking up some fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/EtF6B5Y.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/FBYlq5A.jpg)
I puttered up and down a few good runs with the same lukewarm results.
I finally decided to gather my shit and head upstream to see if the gods would smile on me up there.
I found this guy. :laugh:
(https://i.imgur.com/Zh2dZZh.jpg)
(Beer for Fishbug.)
Keith hooked up and I quickly followed for a sort of double.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZL9ff0z.jpg)
I continued upstream and he went down.
(https://i.imgur.com/HQ2za38.jpg)
I ended up at Sally's Run and the hole below it.
(https://i.imgur.com/sCPliyT.jpg)
Managed a few more feesh before the rumble started to approach.
(https://i.imgur.com/6ZXDwtN.jpg)
It was close to my planned quitting hour, so I scooted across the field with my new lightning rod
and boogied for home. Bye July.
:cheers
Thunderstorms later?
Against my better fishing judgement, I went early.
At least the hike in wasn't ballz hot.
(https://i.imgur.com/9Sbmln8.jpg)
As I surmised, not much was happening.
I decided to see how the new rod threw a medium-large streamer.
After all, how else am I going to catch those big meat eaters? :;!
I dredged a few deeper runs and got just one bump.
Drank a beer in the middle of the river.
(https://i.imgur.com/Td3BnRK.jpg)
Turned around and drifted/swung a bugger back downstream.
A few more bumps, a solid hookup and a SDR.
After an hour, I was fishless. But I had seen a muskrat and a beaver.
As well as cedar waxwings and hummingbirds taking the few bugs in the sky over the river.
As activity picked up, I tried my new, top secret emergers.
Nothing. :laugh:
Tied on a comparadun and started picking up some fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/EtF6B5Y.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/FBYlq5A.jpg)
I puttered up and down a few good runs with the same lukewarm results.
I finally decided to gather my shit and head upstream to see if the gods would smile on me up there.
I found this guy. :laugh:
(https://i.imgur.com/Zh2dZZh.jpg)
(Beer for Fishbug.)
Keith hooked up and I quickly followed for a sort of double.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZL9ff0z.jpg)
I continued upstream and he went down.
(https://i.imgur.com/HQ2za38.jpg)
I ended up at Sally's Run and the hole below it.
(https://i.imgur.com/sCPliyT.jpg)
Managed a few more feesh before the rumble started to approach.
(https://i.imgur.com/6ZXDwtN.jpg)
It was close to my planned quitting hour, so I scooted across the field with my new lightning rod
and boogied for home. Bye July.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on August 01, 2022, 15:37:25 PM
Post by: Fishbug on August 01, 2022, 15:37:25 PM
The Golden Lager looks delish :cheers
Whats the new lighting stick?
Whats the new lighting stick?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 01, 2022, 21:10:36 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 01, 2022, 21:10:36 PM
01Aug2022_WeeklyUpdate.jpg
download the pdf below for a clearer view....
download the pdf below for a clearer view....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 01, 2022, 23:03:08 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 01, 2022, 23:03:08 PM
#96
https://vimeo.com/735663938
Ran up late to catch a hatch
85 some clouds — gas $3.72
Went directly to Sally's - didn't look like there were bugs yet, so I cast where I've found them before... three cast laster - fish on!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080122-1.jpg)
That first fish came easy, things got tougher for a while but the more bugs started to appear and the fish began to show themselves
.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080122-2.jpg)
Got a number of fish to rise and miss or refuse the fly at the last moment. Most didn't take a second look.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080122-3.jpg)
The sulfurs came in small short waves cycling on and off.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080122-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080122-5.jpg)
There were fish rising under the rhodo, I caught a couple, then snagged the fly and waded out into that deep fast run, almost topping my waderpants while getting pushed downstream. Next to my fly was a tangle of leader, large yarn indicator, pheasant tail nymph and shot on what felt to be 2x. I yanked it out and packed it out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080122-6.jpg)
Pretty time of the day, but it became too foggy to fish around 7:30
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080122-7.jpg)
I had caught enough to satisfy my tug addiction.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080122-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 04, 2022, 07:26:37 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 04, 2022, 07:26:37 AM
#97
Hot - clear skies - Gas $3.68
Went in early, so the smithfly guide and his dudes at the lower lot.
I was on the water by 10:30.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080322-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080322-2.jpg)
It looked like a desert, quiet and lifeless, but hidden beneath the surface pune trout were feeding and I swung up a few. It was so slow that I finally switched over to nymphing with split-backs. I got a couple of browns and a stockbro came to hand. In the big pool I hooked a good fish that gave me some trouble on the one wt., probably a big stockbro, but I won't know for sure 'cause the sumabitch wrapped up in a submerged limb and broke me off.
A pair of yakers came down, both hit the same rock in the middle of the river the women almost got pinned.
I moved on down to lefty and dredged up a few more, then headed on down to the lower pool. When a saw a few fish rise I switched back to a dry, actually a sulfur emerger that can be fished wet or dry. It worked both ways.
There were bwo, midges and occasional sulfur, but it was slow, slow slow, I took a break and waited for the evening hatch to get going. The troutpros came by at 3:30, chucking bobber rigs. Lots of false casting and not much catching.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080322-3.jpg)
I decided I better take some fish pics despite the diminutive size they still are colorful.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080322-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080322-5.jpg)
Waited until 6:45 at the lower pool, still not happening, so I hiked on up to Sally's.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080322-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080322-7.jpg)
Whole different ballgame up there, bugs, fish, fun, which lasted for about an hour.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080322-8.jpg)
I fish 7x with the dries and popped off a good fish (rewarding cast if nothing else) with a little too much pepper on the hook set.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080322-9.jpg)
They were working up in the field today. Progress.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080322-10.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 09, 2022, 15:02:39 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 09, 2022, 15:02:39 PM
45,46,47
I've had a forgettable fishing week.
Poor judgement, bad luck, sketchy conditions, hardheadedness?
All of the above?
I passed on a muddy mid-lower river last week and went high.
Zero happening. Could not buy a fish.
Finally caught a pune to save the skunk.
(https://i.imgur.com/FJ6O2NU.jpg)
Limped out to the headwaters of a brookie stream the next day.
I had fished lower and done well.
But intel told me that as the gradient picked there were big pools with big fish.
After the rains!? Lets go see.
Got to the trailhead and noticed it was not as wet as I thought it should be. ???
Hiked in a mile and dropped down to find pools.
And fish. And 63 degree water.
But the flows were low. I observed as I went uphill.
I never strung the rod up.
I didn't want to fish them.
The stream petered out 100 yards above the last good pool.
I broke the rod down, put it into the pack and turned the day into a nice, hot 3-4 mile circuit hike.
I'll be back in the fall.
Went back to the Smiff yesterday. Expected muddy water.
Planned on dealing with it.
Planned on a 25% chance of an afternoon Tstorm.
Three miles from the lot I hit rain.
Then pouring rain.
Backed in next to Bobby's car as way too close lighting and thunder greeted me.
Sat there for 20 minutes and WB crept into the lot next to me.
He had been semi-patiently waiting here and there for an hour.
It slowed as another fisherman hiked out.
WB backed out.
Joe had retreated from the river to the back steps of the mirror plant to wait the worst out.
I suited up as he changed from his soaked clothes.
Headed down. Would WB return?
Uber foggy and well stained water.
Found Bobby down at the lower and he was wet.
He got trapped on the far side when the lightning started and hunkered down in some rhodo.
He was euroing and doing OK.
Did I mention I left my Euro rod in the truck? b';
(https://i.imgur.com/niPobaC.jpg)
Swung soft hackles below him and picked up a couple of fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/XJKorG9.jpg)
He moved up and I hit some of hit the water he left.
Caught a couple more.
I gathered my stuff and moved up as he disappeared into the mist.
I caught up to him as he was re-rigging and fish started rising behind him.
He started casting to them as the sky darkened and booming started up again.
Some risers stared on the far side and I waded out.
Soft rain started and I got connected with a comparadun.
The the sky opened up.
I got the fish to hand, a strike hit up on the ridge behind us and we scurried out.
And stayed 20+feet away from big trees.
By the time I got out I was soaked. Pulled out the raincoat and stove off any more rain filling my waders.
The rain started to let up and we moved up.
Bobby was super wet. No rain coat, fallen in face first trying to exit the river.
He boggyied across the field and I moved up to Sally's run.
Saw a few risers and cast to them.Finally got one on a blind cast as the booming started again.
(https://i.imgur.com/BYqEjK8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HXoqqDE.jpg)
Decided I had pushed my luck enough and scooted at 6:30.
The orchard grass is already 5' tall again. :o
(https://i.imgur.com/NBGejj2.jpg)
And there are a lot of bales still out there.
(https://i.imgur.com/pdclcza.jpg)
Til next week....
:cheers
I've had a forgettable fishing week.
Poor judgement, bad luck, sketchy conditions, hardheadedness?
All of the above?
I passed on a muddy mid-lower river last week and went high.
Zero happening. Could not buy a fish.
Finally caught a pune to save the skunk.
(https://i.imgur.com/FJ6O2NU.jpg)
Limped out to the headwaters of a brookie stream the next day.
I had fished lower and done well.
But intel told me that as the gradient picked there were big pools with big fish.
After the rains!? Lets go see.
Got to the trailhead and noticed it was not as wet as I thought it should be. ???
Hiked in a mile and dropped down to find pools.
And fish. And 63 degree water.
But the flows were low. I observed as I went uphill.
I never strung the rod up.
I didn't want to fish them.
The stream petered out 100 yards above the last good pool.
I broke the rod down, put it into the pack and turned the day into a nice, hot 3-4 mile circuit hike.
I'll be back in the fall.
Went back to the Smiff yesterday. Expected muddy water.
Planned on dealing with it.
Planned on a 25% chance of an afternoon Tstorm.
Three miles from the lot I hit rain.
Then pouring rain.
Backed in next to Bobby's car as way too close lighting and thunder greeted me.
Sat there for 20 minutes and WB crept into the lot next to me.
He had been semi-patiently waiting here and there for an hour.
It slowed as another fisherman hiked out.
WB backed out.
Joe had retreated from the river to the back steps of the mirror plant to wait the worst out.
I suited up as he changed from his soaked clothes.
Headed down. Would WB return?
Uber foggy and well stained water.
Found Bobby down at the lower and he was wet.
He got trapped on the far side when the lightning started and hunkered down in some rhodo.
He was euroing and doing OK.
Did I mention I left my Euro rod in the truck? b';
(https://i.imgur.com/niPobaC.jpg)
Swung soft hackles below him and picked up a couple of fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/XJKorG9.jpg)
He moved up and I hit some of hit the water he left.
Caught a couple more.
I gathered my stuff and moved up as he disappeared into the mist.
I caught up to him as he was re-rigging and fish started rising behind him.
He started casting to them as the sky darkened and booming started up again.
Some risers stared on the far side and I waded out.
Soft rain started and I got connected with a comparadun.
The the sky opened up.
I got the fish to hand, a strike hit up on the ridge behind us and we scurried out.
And stayed 20+feet away from big trees.
By the time I got out I was soaked. Pulled out the raincoat and stove off any more rain filling my waders.
The rain started to let up and we moved up.
Bobby was super wet. No rain coat, fallen in face first trying to exit the river.
He boggyied across the field and I moved up to Sally's run.
Saw a few risers and cast to them.Finally got one on a blind cast as the booming started again.
(https://i.imgur.com/BYqEjK8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HXoqqDE.jpg)
Decided I had pushed my luck enough and scooted at 6:30.
The orchard grass is already 5' tall again. :o
(https://i.imgur.com/NBGejj2.jpg)
And there are a lot of bales still out there.
(https://i.imgur.com/pdclcza.jpg)
Til next week....
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on August 09, 2022, 16:47:40 PM
Post by: creakycane on August 09, 2022, 16:47:40 PM
Any day spent along the Smith or the blue lines is a winner, fish or no fish. Looks like you had a great time and covered new territory. Good for you.
Friends all over — from the south of England to Catskills to Montana - have stayed away from rivers recently due to low flows, high temps or both. We're pretty lucky in hard scrabble southern Appalachia Henry and Patrick Cnty that things are as good as they are in 90F august.
Have fished the early am shift a few days over past 2 weeks, and caddis abound and fishing has been so so. Wet wading makes it more bearable, but still rather chilly anywhere above MP. Cooler weather is coming this weekend, but rain might Dirty w-f flows.
Friends all over — from the south of England to Catskills to Montana - have stayed away from rivers recently due to low flows, high temps or both. We're pretty lucky in hard scrabble southern Appalachia Henry and Patrick Cnty that things are as good as they are in 90F august.
Have fished the early am shift a few days over past 2 weeks, and caddis abound and fishing has been so so. Wet wading makes it more bearable, but still rather chilly anywhere above MP. Cooler weather is coming this weekend, but rain might Dirty w-f flows.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 10, 2022, 08:29:23 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 10, 2022, 08:29:23 AM
#98, 99
Hot, Thunderstorms, Gas $3.72
I didn't expect all the rain on Sunday. I waited out a storm along with Doug. While driving through town I noticed the river had muddied up, so when the rain stopped, I went upriver.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080822-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080822-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080822-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080822-4.jpg)
I swung flies and caught nothing. Are the sulfurs done for the year? The hatches this year were not as prolific as years past. I moved again. After I waded down into the riffle, thunder boomed loudly, and I got out and sat in the car waiting for the storm to pass. I finally gave up and drove home.
Looking for revenge, I packed the euro rod. I was getting ready to gear up when a storm blew up and I sat in the car for a half hour. There was still some thunder in the distance, but I hiked in anyway.
Swung up a few before switching over to nymphing.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080922-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080922-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080922-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080922-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080922-5.jpg)
After cleaning up at Sally's, I moved on down to see if I could get into some dry fly action. Unfortunately, the bugs never really got going and the fish were pretty darn picky, but I managed to pick of a couple of handfuls before heading back upstream.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080922-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080922-7.jpg)
Back up at Sally's at 7:30, there was a bit of bug magic and finally I had some satisfying dry fly action before it shut down at 8:00.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080922-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/080922-9.jpg)
There was a flock of ducks in the flats above the run, but the fog was too thick to identify them.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 12, 2022, 12:55:32 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 12, 2022, 12:55:32 PM
#100
80 - sill humid as hell, gas $3.42
Stopped at the boat ramp, watched a wet wader flog his was across the river, getting hung up on a tree and wading after the fly. He caught nothing and came back to shore, I drove on.
A SC Rubicon in the lot. Yesterday, I thought I had lost a fly box, after getting a fly out I tucked it into the waist of my waders and then it was gone. I thought it must have fallen out, but that seemed odd, as I surely would have noticed. Today I was putting my waders on and my foot found the fly box in the bootie. I don't know how I didn't feel that fly box in the leg, but I was ecstatic having found that lost box. I finished gearing up, hiked in, found the fisherman at the head of Sally's. He saw me right off, and apologized, not knowing that I had just walked in. We chatted, he has place north of Charlottesville and spends some time there as well as coming to fish the river a couple of times a year. I watched him fish through the pool, he caught nothing. I moved on down.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081122-1.jpg)
I nymphed up a bunch of punes.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081122-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081122-3.jpg)
The water was heavily stained. I waited for a hatch to start. I saw very few bugs, and left early.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081122-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 13, 2022, 09:53:34 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 13, 2022, 09:53:34 AM
#101 78 degrees -- pleasant weather!
I headed up late in the afternoon, a few were out fishing along the road to the dam, but nobody was fishing up top. I looked for risers, didn't see any, euroed for a while, it was slow, besides all the algae and dittymo crapola fouling the flies and leader, it's a real mess. The water coming out of the dam is way off color. I think this happened before when lake levels got low. It appears to settle out downstream, but it's not very clear these days.
More bugs started popping off, but the flotilla was unmolested, and they were able to take flight.
I caught a fish and moved on.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081222-1.jpg)
Moving on, I passed the @streamereater_101691 launching his hooligan off the 674 bridge. He should post a report now and then... jis say'in
I dropped on down and had a bite to eat at the boat ramp. There were two rafts waiting for a shuttle to pick them up. One truck with a winch and rails to load the smithfly up top and a trailer for the MSR raft. I watched them load up and the birds picking off the sulfurs. The troutbro came up to throw their trash away and he hollered out, "Are you going to fish, brother!" With beer in hand, I replied, "Maybe". He remarked that sulfurs and bows had been hatching in the flat above the bridge and that they had had a good, a very good day.
They pulled out and I continued to wait to see if the fish would rise. They didn't. I tied on a soft hackle and swung my way down the run. I caught some fish. I waded out further into the fast water, almost loosing my footing a few times, and swung up a few more fish to make the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081222-2.jpg)
I received my Fjorden iphone camera grip, and am getting use to it, It sure makes holding the phone more secure and the dedicated shutter button works well, even with wet fingers, (the whole thing is waterproof) I think it will work out, I'm a bit surprised that I didn't take more photos yesterday, but I spent a lot of time making cloudscape time-lapse movies .
https://vimeo.com/739231311
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 14, 2022, 08:02:44 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 14, 2022, 08:02:44 AM
#102 78 scattered clouds
There were a couple of guys in the lot, I stopped to ask if they were just getting started. They had finished up and asked about an easy way to get into the river as they had battled briars bushwhacking in from the tracks. I warned them about trespassing on the rails and told them about crossing the field. Funny that locals who have fished down by Papa's didn't know about MP access. Anyway, I had the section to myself, well me and dozens of kayakers.
The river has turned green, assuming the lake has begun to turnover, might be early this year. Few bugs and low visibility. I brought the euro rod in along with the USS One. I nymphed up a fish is short order and thought that was a good sign. It wasn't, I couldn't buy another bite. I blamed the dozen kayaks that bumped and grinded their way down the run, I blamed the off-color water. I really didn't mind and do what I often do when the fishing is slow, I took some photos.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081322a-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081322a-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081322a-3.jpg)
Not sure what fruiting tree this is, @Dougfish will know...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081322a-4.jpg)
What color is water?
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081322a-5.jpg)
Being the first one down the trail I run into spider webs.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081322a-6.jpg)
I covered a lot of water and only caught a handful of fish. I was working the T pool when I looked up and saw Streamereter coming down in his Hooligan with a couple of anglers. I worked my way back up to Sally's where a little sulfur hatch started, and I tied on a soft hackle and swung up a few more fish. I broke off the fly, my last one, so I tied on a puff daddy and while it got some more fish to rise, they didn't commit to it.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081322a-7.jpg)
The action didn't last long, and I headed out by 7:30.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081322a-8.jpg)
Down at the boat ramp I ran into Alex, and he reported a very very slow day. I told him, "I'm going to have to find another river".
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 16, 2022, 09:15:50 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 16, 2022, 09:15:50 AM
#103
Gas $3.42, temps in the 70s, overcast with a passing shower.
Ran up late in the afternoon with plans to swing soft hackles on the spray pole, it's been a while since I took it out. As I was rigging the rod.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081522-1.jpg)
I spied a nice micro spey fly that spoke to me, and since I didn't see any rises yet, I went with the larger fly.
6A5300F7-0A57-4E63-825B-DAE6EE9F7372.jpeg
I soon realized that my spey casting still sux, but I managed to get a number of grabs and had a decent fish on for a while. Moving on down to the main run, I had a number of grabs and finally hooked a stockerbro.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081522-2.jpg)
Disappointed but not discouraged, I swung on and came up with a better fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081522-3.jpg)
The GSO smithfly guide came into the ramp at 7 ish. Birds were very active now, and since my spey casting wasn't getting any better, I switched to the one wt to swing the soft hackle fly.
I spoke to the dude sitting of the raft waiting of the shuttle. A recent transplant form WNC, he said they had a good day on the river, fishing dries, nymphs and streamers. He reported a total of about 25 fish in the bote, with a few good fish up to 14"
I went down to the lower run and swung my way through it, and finally found the nerve to cross over the fast water. I had a couple of grabs and that was about it, then I headed back up top. They had loaded the raft and were pulling out, I grabbed a beer and watched bird swooping in picking off flies.
The fishing was on, they really liked the swung soft hackle and I caught a couple of handfuls and then some in shorty order. They were all on the small size and looked like this.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081522-4.jpg)
At eight I was done, about 3 hours of driving, 4 hours of fishing. Going to have to take a few days off. Probably be back on Thursday.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 17, 2022, 07:14:03 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 17, 2022, 07:14:03 AM
Nice work. 'c;
Twas a plum.
Twas a plum.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 20, 2022, 08:05:21 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 20, 2022, 08:05:21 AM
#104
low 80s Gas $3.37
https://vimeo.com/741396106
Spey day, swung flies through the great road run, many bumps, and a grab or two but nothing to hand. Slowed down the cast and felt like I was in the groove. The water was quite stained, and I thought I had a good chance to entice one or two to take the fly.
I moved on and was getting ready for lunch when Mike pulled up to take aa photo of the water tower at the old factory site. He told me that he had heard that it was going to be made into an Airbnb, "No shit!" I replied. He turned and looked at me, "That's what I said, when I heard the news." I'll believe it when I see it.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081922-1.jpg)
Then, as we were talking about flies and what not, we heard a loud splash in the river. When we turned to look there was an osprey in the run struggling to take off. A few moments later, flapping its wings, it rose clutching a twelve-inch brown trout in its talons. Pretty darn cool.
Mark is related to the Smithfly Guide.
I sat down to eat my lunch and Mike drove off to fish in another spot.
I swung flies down around the corner, where I caught nothing, but did get one to swipe at the fly. My cack-handed casting still needs work.
Back up at the top I switched rods and swung soft hackles and finally caught some fish.
I flubbed fish and photos despite having the new Fjorden grip which I'm still getting used to operating.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081922-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081922-3.jpg)
I pulled out at seven, a bit early, but I was done.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/081922-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on August 20, 2022, 18:43:52 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on August 20, 2022, 18:43:52 PM
#104. :bow :bow :bow
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 21, 2022, 09:26:15 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 21, 2022, 09:26:15 AM
#105
mid 80s / gas $3.37
https://vimeo.com/741596755
Spey day #2, back at the Great Road Run. The water had cleared up a bit and the sun was shining. Caught a fish on the first cast. Is that a sign of good fortune, or doom? Worked the kinks outta my cast and worked the run, twice with only a bump or two. Streameareater came down in his Hooligan. He asked if I was headed down river, puzzled I repeated his querry to which he replied, "The riverfest". "oh, no, people!" He thought I was just being covid cautious, but I would rather not deal with a crowd of any size period.
I moved on down to the river run and swung my way down through that area, there were two or three anglers above me and the guy across the way was moving his lawn. He looked at me, wondering why I wasn't catching any fish, and as John Gierach said, "If people don't occasionally walk away from you shaking their heads, you're doing something wrong."
At the bottom, past the creek, I finally got into some fish and there is more to explore down that way.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082022-1.jpg)
It was time for a snack and a beer, so I headed on up to the boat ramp.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082022-2.jpg)
The Smithfly guide came down with his clients, a father and son, and reported an awfully slow day. Patrick is his name and we talked for a while as he loaded the raft on his truck. It was quick work with the help of the winch. He said they saw mostly bwos, some sulfurs, and caught a few on Griffiths gnats, while remarking that the sulfurs were definitely more abundant and predictable last year.
I was waiting for the birds to signal that it was time to start swinging a soft hackle, but it was getting late with no sign of major activity. A truck pulled up and the driver hopped out, walked down to the water for a look as I was headed in with the one weight. "Are you fishing up or down," he asked. "I start up there," pointing with my fly rod, "and work my way down through the run below," as I swung my rod tip downstream. He left. It was slow to start but towards the end, close to 7:30, they started looking up and I caught seven or eight in the eight-to-ten-inch range.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082022-3.jpg)
I wonder what all the raft owners and new fly fishers will do when the damn dam is repaired, and the river returns to "normal" in 2024.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 23, 2022, 08:18:13 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 23, 2022, 08:18:13 AM
#106
I debated counting this trip.
I drove up to the river and stopped along the way at the new picnic shelter to eat my lunch. I started reading Dylan Tomine's Headwaters: The Adventures, Obsession and Evolution of a Fly Fisherman
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082222-1.jpg)
When I got to the spot I was planning to fish a thunderstorm rattled the windows so I waited for it to pass. I rigged up the spey rod and swung through the run. All the csting progress that I thought I had made was lost and I struggled trying to get the mojo back. I caught nothing.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082222-2.jpg)
I sat down, drank a beer and read a chapter before moving on to try several other runs. I caught nothing.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082222-3.jpg)
I ened up where I started and changed rods and swung a soft hackle. I caught nothing.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082222-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 23, 2022, 08:28:14 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 23, 2022, 08:28:14 AM
I'll come down and commiserate with you on Thur and Fri, chief. -+;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 26, 2022, 07:29:19 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 26, 2022, 07:29:19 AM
#107 Gas $3.36
Checked out the lower lot, nobody floating, but there was a guy standing in that run. I moved on to the hay field. It's tall enough to be cut again, but there are still bales in the field from the first cutting.
Just used one fly, a soft hackle, fishing was slow, saw some bwos in size 20 or smaller. No fish rising, but they took the fly on the swing.
Brief hatch that got the fish excited, but the big mayfly activity is over for the year.
Not being in any hurry, I took some photos, drank a beer or two and watched the water and the sky.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082422-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082422-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082422-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082422-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082422-5.jpg)
rinse and repeat.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 26, 2022, 07:33:22 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 26, 2022, 07:33:22 AM
49
First trip back down to the bitch in a week plus.
The dry fly action has really slowed, so I took the euro rod along also.
Started with it straight away.
It was uber foggy. And I had my sunglasses on.
The regular pair was in the truck. b';
There was a young fellow in a Smithfly at the head of the targeted run.
WTF is he doing down here this early? And solo?
He had his back to me and I ninja'd my way downstream undetected.
Got rigged up quickly and hopped in to establish my presence.
First cast, fish on, fish off.
The 5x broke? No.
The indicator broke above the tippet ring. Must have had an issue I did not spot.
Waded back in to re-rig.
He started down into the pool and spotted me.
I'm pretty sure he wanted to anchor up and fish, but he yielded the water to me.
We exchanged nods and waves and he glided on down.
And the catching started.
(https://i.imgur.com/XUVNzNR.jpg)
How these stockbows fight so hard without pectoral fins is beyond me.
(https://i.imgur.com/DbS2zzy.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WbMfh4L.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ZMm9coz.jpg)
Caught a bunch and lost a nice, heavy 14-16" brown at the head of the pool.
That's twice he has escaped me. n!n
Moved up into the pushy water above and picked my way over and back for 100 feet or so up river.
(https://i.imgur.com/oUezkZY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iQK8Gxf.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TXpLYkI.jpg)
Hiked up to the diagonal run and here comes another Smithfly.
He passed behind me.
And he watched me catch fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/nJmOPCe.jpg)
I was sitting at 20 feesh to hand and decided to hike up and see if Keith was at home.
(https://i.imgur.com/dNvQLVO.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MtJYF9q.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/yI1lW81.jpg)
WB was speying, so I wandered down to the drainhole pool and runs.
Nothing.
Fished my way back up.
We drank a beer and watched a handful of bugs arise.
Some fish started feeding
We both went out with soft hackles and managed....
Nothing.
He moved on down.
I sat down, finished another beer and hiked out shortly after.
(https://i.imgur.com/URVm6tZ.jpg)
First trip back down to the bitch in a week plus.
The dry fly action has really slowed, so I took the euro rod along also.
Started with it straight away.
It was uber foggy. And I had my sunglasses on.
The regular pair was in the truck. b';
There was a young fellow in a Smithfly at the head of the targeted run.
WTF is he doing down here this early? And solo?
He had his back to me and I ninja'd my way downstream undetected.
Got rigged up quickly and hopped in to establish my presence.
First cast, fish on, fish off.
The 5x broke? No.
The indicator broke above the tippet ring. Must have had an issue I did not spot.
Waded back in to re-rig.
He started down into the pool and spotted me.
I'm pretty sure he wanted to anchor up and fish, but he yielded the water to me.
We exchanged nods and waves and he glided on down.
And the catching started.
(https://i.imgur.com/XUVNzNR.jpg)
How these stockbows fight so hard without pectoral fins is beyond me.
(https://i.imgur.com/DbS2zzy.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WbMfh4L.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ZMm9coz.jpg)
Caught a bunch and lost a nice, heavy 14-16" brown at the head of the pool.
That's twice he has escaped me. n!n
Moved up into the pushy water above and picked my way over and back for 100 feet or so up river.
(https://i.imgur.com/oUezkZY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iQK8Gxf.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TXpLYkI.jpg)
Hiked up to the diagonal run and here comes another Smithfly.
He passed behind me.
And he watched me catch fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/nJmOPCe.jpg)
I was sitting at 20 feesh to hand and decided to hike up and see if Keith was at home.
(https://i.imgur.com/dNvQLVO.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MtJYF9q.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/yI1lW81.jpg)
WB was speying, so I wandered down to the drainhole pool and runs.
Nothing.
Fished my way back up.
We drank a beer and watched a handful of bugs arise.
Some fish started feeding
We both went out with soft hackles and managed....
Nothing.
He moved on down.
I sat down, finished another beer and hiked out shortly after.
(https://i.imgur.com/URVm6tZ.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 26, 2022, 08:18:03 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 26, 2022, 08:18:03 AM
#108
Hiked in, cloudy, humid, think fog on the water. Heard a commotion on the water as I approached Sally's, there, just above me was the Smithfly guy, Patrick, floating with his daughter down the river. They pounded that little run as I got my spey rod rigged. I studied a couple of casting videos and hoped to correct some casting issues. The first cast is perfect, and I hook a fish, awesome I think, but I'm unable to get a good hookset and the fish is gone. Crap! Smithfly guy has moved on and I see @Dougfish in the water below the creek.
I continued casting with only a few bumps or grabs.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082522-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082522-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082522-3.jpg)
Doug made his way up and we had a convo about the Smith, Rafts, and Beer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082522-4.jpg)
He fishes on up and I start hiking down.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082522-5.jpg)
Same bush, same butterfly?
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082522-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082522-7.jpg)
I finally gave up on the spey with a small streamer and switched over to the one wt and soft hackles. Caught a nice brown, went to reach for the net, it wasn't coming free, so I gave it a good yank and it separated from the cord, the magnet half popped off and then I remembered that the phone/camera with on the shore taking a time-lapse of the clouds.
https://vimeo.com/743296415
things turned on for a while and a dozen or more fish came to hand.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082522-8.jpg)
The sulfur hatch was so sparse that I was able to count them - I saw 12.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on August 26, 2022, 09:46:55 AM
Post by: creakycane on August 26, 2022, 09:46:55 AM
Yep, minimal surface action on down in the AM + early PM weds and Thurs. few bugs. I came hankering to fish some hackled dry 16 and 18 sulfur/Cahill types I just tied, and did manage to scare up ( with mucho casting) a half dozen rainbows in various areas that looked unscarred and colorful. Not one brown on the skittered dries. Small browns down under. Modest activity and catching all morning, but one those days that felt forced, like only the dumb fish were about. Maybe same could be said of this fisherman :P Heavy fog. Will wait until my enthusiasm returns, which should be by tuesday!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 26, 2022, 13:39:42 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 26, 2022, 13:39:42 PM
Not a bush.
Joe Pye Weed. Yellow Swallowtail.
Near the paper box. :Dance
Joe Pye Weed. Yellow Swallowtail.
Near the paper box. :Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 26, 2022, 14:16:38 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 26, 2022, 14:16:38 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on August 26, 2022, 13:39:42 PMNot a bush.
Joe Pye Weed. Yellow Swallowtail.
Near the paper box. :Dance
Bring me a shrubbery!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 26, 2022, 19:05:55 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 26, 2022, 19:05:55 PM
https://youtu.be/69iB-xy0u4A
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 27, 2022, 07:16:04 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 27, 2022, 07:16:04 AM
FYI, this thread is now 10 years old. :o
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on August 27, 2022, 09:19:41 AM
Post by: Phil on August 27, 2022, 09:19:41 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on August 27, 2022, 07:16:04 AMFYI, this thread is now 10 years old. :o
You guys been flogging that poor river and them same skinny little browns 3-4 times/week for 10 years? Jeeze :;!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: OldBastard on August 27, 2022, 10:54:45 AM
Post by: OldBastard on August 27, 2022, 10:54:45 AM
I don't expect folks to share all their secrets but where do you fish the Smith. I have always fished it in and around Bassett and it is tough most of the time. I have done okay behind the mirror plant during a spinner fall but otherwise it has always been hit and miss. It looks like it might fish a little easier around Martinsville but I have no idea where to access the river.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 27, 2022, 12:03:56 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 27, 2022, 12:03:56 PM
Quote from: OldBastard on August 27, 2022, 10:54:45 AMI don't expect folks to share all their secrets but where do you fish the Smith. I have always fished it in and around Bassett and it is tough most of the time. I have done okay behind the mirror plant during a spinner fall but otherwise it has always been hit and miss. It looks like it might fish a little easier around Martinsville but I have no idea where to access the river.
She is a fickle beast —- there is access from the Philpott dam on down through Fieldale — there are some maps online, might even be one here.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 27, 2022, 12:43:59 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 27, 2022, 12:43:59 PM
If you want to fish it and don't see a posted sign, go for it.
As WB said - dam to Fieldale. You have to pick spots in your comfort zone.
And be prepared to nymph. Alot.
As WB said - dam to Fieldale. You have to pick spots in your comfort zone.
And be prepared to nymph. Alot.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: OldBastard on August 27, 2022, 15:49:06 PM
Post by: OldBastard on August 27, 2022, 15:49:06 PM
Thanks guys, I will look for some maps. It is closer to me than many other rivers so I need to give it more effort.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on August 27, 2022, 18:11:11 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on August 27, 2022, 18:11:11 PM
You can find some maps on this website under Area Info.
http://www.smithriveroutfitter.com/area-info.html
http://www.smithriveroutfitter.com/area-info.html
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 29, 2022, 09:49:38 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 29, 2022, 09:49:38 AM
#109
88 - Gas $3.36
Indecisions led to late afternoon trip, after looking at some lower river spots, I ended up on the river road where the water was heavily stained. The fishing was slow. After spending a couple of hours nymphing away without a whole lot of action, I thought about going home, but ended up at the boat ramp. I watched the birds intercept the sulphurs that were popping off. I swung a soft hackle and managed a mixture of bows and browns to get the tally up into double digits.
Spied a new bright green raft that had floated through town.
look at how stained the water was.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082822-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082822-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082822-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082822-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 29, 2022, 20:48:46 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 29, 2022, 20:48:46 PM
50
https://youtu.be/h81Ojd3d2rY
(I'm not counting two brief Smallie trips. Back to the troots!)
Hiked in early with just the euro rod. Dry fly line on a separate reel, just in case....
(https://i.imgur.com/SwbkIgv.jpg)
Field is in play.
(https://i.imgur.com/FxgX6N0.jpg)
The first down the path has more than a few
Stashed supplies and went down to dredge the lower runs.
(https://i.imgur.com/kV1JYVr.jpg)
Couldn't buy a fish in the slower deep runs.
I did break off the lower fly and realized I did not transfer the tippet spool from the smallie pack.
I had stashed a spare spool of 5x flouro in my vest/pack.
Saved my bacon.
Lost the whole rig 10 minutes later.
Double save. :bow
Got to some faster water and it was game on.
(https://i.imgur.com/xu527qt.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/UYdjBko.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/qZx0MZG.jpg)
I lost a couple of fish, including a really nice one.
Checked my hook. All good.
Then bang.
(https://i.imgur.com/fMsGICA.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/dZcdmYJ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/NuDVft1.jpg)
Followed by....
(https://i.imgur.com/TDhKnBE.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/vtgfpbe.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/kAxtweJ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/5TCCTiC.jpg)
I was out of beer, hungry and sitting on 20 to hand in 150 ft of water.
Refreshed and started up further.
(https://i.imgur.com/ME6uqnI.jpg)
I managed 5 more, retrieved my shit and headed up stream.
(https://i.imgur.com/gInWJpR.jpg)
Ironweed.
(https://i.imgur.com/zmuFhS4.jpg)
Lindera berries coloring up.
Found Keith, drank a beer with him and solved zero problems of the world.
Tales of ex wives, bigamy/or not, estates, dead Miatas, is the lake turning over
and other lurid topics.
I left him to clean up and hiked out.
One Smithcraft and 3 kayaks encountered.
(https://i.imgur.com/eUM9ywX.jpg)
How to Monday, bitches.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 30, 2022, 07:56:13 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 30, 2022, 07:56:13 AM
You must have listened to Episode 151: "San Francisco" of A History of Rock Music in 500 Song to have Michelle Phillips on your mind...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on August 30, 2022, 07:59:41 AM
Post by: Phil on August 30, 2022, 07:59:41 AM
Nice big browns! Nymph them whompers up. 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 30, 2022, 08:04:51 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 30, 2022, 08:04:51 AM
Quote from: Phil on August 30, 2022, 07:59:41 AMNice big browns! Nymph them whompers up. 'c;
You should have stuck with your euro rod education, Phil.
Jus sayin.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 30, 2022, 09:03:53 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 30, 2022, 09:03:53 AM
#110
88 high clouds
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082922-1.jpg)
Doug gave me the heads up that the field had been mowed. I arrived shortly after lunch. Walked into Sally's and couldn't find a fish that was looking up. I swung a fly in several runs for a while before rigging up a pair of nymphs. A Smithfly comes down and around me. I hooked up with a decent brownie. They anchor up in the drain hole where I had planned to hit next. I had gone with the nymphs specifically to fish there. They pounded the pool for 20 minutes. Geeze, I cursed aloud.
Doug came up, beers were consumed. I bitched about the proliferation of rafts. He showed me his pics, I said, "Fuck You" V:; He headed home, and I went to fish the now well rested drain hole. Caught a couple of rainbros and a brown.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082922-2.jpg)
Moved on downsteam.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082922-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082922-4.jpg)
Drank a beer, ate my dinner, and then saw some fish taking emergers. It was on for the next hour or two and many fish were caught on the soft hackle.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082922-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082922-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082922-7.jpg)
As the sun began to set it slowed down and after catching a few more I began hiking out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082922-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082922-9.jpg)
WTF? These guys were up to something in the mud of the creek.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082922-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082922-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082922-12.jpg)
It was after 7:30 when I waded out into the run. I caught a couple and was moving into a better position when I stumbled, my boot hanging up on a ledge, pitched forward, I couldn't regain my balance. I fell face forward into some deep water and it took a moment to get some footing and stand up. Cold water rushed down my pants settling into my socks. I was pretty well soaked. Vest and wader pockets were filled with water. I emptied them the best I could and continued fishing.
The fish were active at Sally's up until sunset.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082922-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082922-14.jpg)
Back at the Honda I emptied out my vest and drained the fly boxes and changed into dry clothes for the drive home
(https://www.brfff.com/%20btwc/ff2022/08/082922-15.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/08/082922-16.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on August 30, 2022, 11:01:20 AM
Post by: Onslow on August 30, 2022, 11:01:20 AM
Good looking fishes.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on September 02, 2022, 11:50:33 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on September 02, 2022, 11:50:33 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on August 30, 2022, 09:03:53 AMI'm told that the rafts should be viewed as a good thing signifying the growth of the sport. Choose your words wisely, lest ye be labeled as selfish. 🤣🤣🤣
A Smithfly comes down and around me. I hooked up with a decent brownie. They anchor up in the drain hole where I had planned to hit next. I had gone with the nymphs specifically to fish there. They pounded the pool for 20 minutes. Geeze, I cursed aloud.
Doug came up, beers were consumed. I bitched about the proliferation of rafts.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 03, 2022, 08:06:09 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 03, 2022, 08:06:09 AM
mid 80s, gas #3.34
#111
got to the river around one, stopped in at the boat ramp, I like to see what might be coming down the river. One guide truck parked and a dude was hooked up in the run, watched him play and land it before driving up to the road. Dougfish's truck is in the lot. I'm gearing up in the lot when I guy drives up. He introduces himself as Creekycane. He saw me watching him land that fish and he tracked me down. We talked for a while about the river and what not. He dries off and another car pulls in. He's gearing up and packing a bag, I asked where he was planning to fish and he comes over and says; "Sally's, from the end of the field." I'm thinking how did he know to call it Sally's? Well, we get to talking and it turns out he's Driver's dad.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090222-01.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/746097049
24 minute time-lapse
I head out across the field and on down to the left-hand pool to cool off, but damn it there is the Smithfly raft anchored up with the dudes wading the run. I headed down, and nymphed up a fish, before Dougfish comes up and hollers that, he had caught four outta that hole and sore lipped a couple more.
The raft comes on down and passes us and anchors up in the tail and then in the next run for an hours, I guess I won't be fishing the low hole today.
Doug and I attempt to solve more of the world's problems while drinking a beer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090222-02.jpg)
Doug split and I tried swing up some fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090222-04.jpg)
It was slow and I stopped around five for dinner and another beer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090222-03.jpg)
I was making some hero cast across multiple currents to some pune risers when I saw a large sulfur floating by, it was quickly taken by a decent brown. I tied on a comparadun and tried to entice it to take but I couldn't get the drift right. I did manage to pick off a few other fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090222-05.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090222-06.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090222-07.jpg)
I stopped at the usual spots on the way out and fished on with the last fish beign caught at 7:45
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090222-08.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090222-09.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090222-10.jpg)
That last hour of daylight is my favorite time of the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090222-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090222-12.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on September 03, 2022, 08:35:35 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on September 03, 2022, 08:35:35 AM
Quote from: trout-r-us on September 02, 2022, 11:50:33 AMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on August 30, 2022, 09:03:53 AMI'm told that the rafts should be viewed as a good thing signifying the growth of the sport. Choose your words wisely, lest ye be labeled as selfish. 🤣🤣🤣
A Smithfly comes down and around me. I hooked up with a decent brownie. They anchor up in the drain hole where I had planned to hit next. I had gone with the nymphs specifically to fish there. They pounded the pool for 20 minutes. Geeze, I cursed aloud.
Doug came up, beers were consumed. I bitched about the proliferation of rafts.
Sounds like you're trying to put fucking words in my mouth, Bob? I don't particularly appreciate that.
First of all: I've never advocated for disrespecting people wading the river. That doesn't matter if you're in a raft, canoe, kayak, or float tube. Ask woolly and doug how many times I've anchored within 100yds of them.
Secondly: You're trying to twist the narrative in suggesting that only floating grows the sport. I've taken plenty folks wade fishing and caught fish at 285cfs.
Lastly: I'd be happy to meet you at the end of your driveway to discuss these matters like men, rather than you trying to be some keyboard warrior.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 03, 2022, 09:07:35 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 03, 2022, 09:07:35 AM
(https://media0.giphy.com/media/znpCGxGJM1YOP0rUYS/giphy.gif)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 04, 2022, 10:48:30 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 04, 2022, 10:48:30 AM
#112
Mid 80's sunny
Fairly busy day on the river, with at least two guide boats and lots of kayaks. Three cars in the lot, one was leaving but I went elsewhere. Picked a location to swing some flies on the spey pole. On maybe the tenth cast the line came tight and I had an unbelievably large rainbow on the #2 streamer. Holy crap, how am I going to land this fish without a net, I asked myself. You see, I don't like to wear a vest when spey casting, and last week while grabbing for my net which is attached with a magnetic keeper, one of the split rings must have become tangled in the mesh oof the vest and when I yanked hard to free the net half of the magnet keeper flew off. Since this had been the way I've been using a net for decades I had to replace the keeper, trouble came in where the new keeper is attached only by a split ring and not a spring-loaded clasp. So, when I went spey casting yesterday I didn't bother transferring the net from the vest to my waders. I had set the vest with net on the bank. While playing the fish, I also had to reach down inside my waders to retrieve my phone and then placed it in my wader pocket where it is normally stored. After getting the fish under control I let it slide down over the next rapid and into a pool where it could be easilyy netted, at the same time picking up my vest and putting it on so I would have access to my net. Netting a large fish on an 11' rod it tricky enough, and as I reached to net the fish, I realized that it may not even fit into the Brodin Tailwater as the fish was just about as long as the 30" net. I thought that the fly still had a barb, so I thought the fish was firmly hooked in the jar, but during my struggle it unbuttoned, and I realized that I had crimped the barb in the vise while tying the fly. Absolutely thrilled and devastated at the same time. It was one of those moments that you think about diving in and trying to catch the fish by hand as it swims away.
I swung the fly through the rest of that spot, until kayakers paddled through. I took a break and then started back up from the top. I was in a groove and the cack-handed casting was on target. A pair of paddlers came through and as I looked upstream I saw a third kayaker drifting into the rapid without a paddle and dragging an anchor in hopes of steering the craft away from the logs where the current was pushing him. His buddies had eddied out and were watching as he capsized into the frigid water. He flipped it over and then was able to hop back in and then free his anchor. As he headed into another obstacle, he deployed the anchor to no avail and the kayak flipped and was briefly held in place by the current as the paddler grabbed ahold of it. He floated through the cataract and crawled onto the upside-down kayak to get out of the chilly water. The anchor was held fast at the head of the rapid and he was unable to free it. The other guys finally came to help and cut the rope freeing the kayak. He then drifted into another log jam, but the current was mild, and his friends were able to tow him to shallow water. He had lost his paddle earlier. They split one of the paddles to continue down the river. It was a scary moment, and I was relieved that it ended without any injury.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090322-1.jpg)
I moved on checking out some other spots to cast and ended up in town, I swung up a smaller raindbow and a brown just before a guide raft floated through my run. I got a couple of bumps and that was that. I was waiting to go back to Sally's for the evening bite. There was only one car left in the lot.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090322-2.jpg)
I switched rods to the one wt, and hiked in, sat down ate my dinner and watched the water. I saw the first bugs at 6 and a rise shortly after that. I caught a few punes on the soft hackle and worked a better fish with a puff daddy, and when it finally rose I used a little too much pepper on the hookset. I cursed the fish.
I saw two anglers in the fog that had settled in around seven o'clock coming up from the diagonal run up through the flat water. They quit just before me.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090322-3.jpg)
It was all over by 7:30 and definitely not as active as the other night.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090322-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090322-5.jpg)
Back at the lot they were snacking in the Landcruiser, they were from Roanoke and had caught a couple of handfuls on the day.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on September 04, 2022, 14:06:01 PM
Post by: Phil on September 04, 2022, 14:06:01 PM
I know that feeling of being both devastated and thrilled after catching a trophy fish and not being able to get a good pic because of too many things happening at once while struggling to hold onto a really large fish. It's happened to me several times. :bow b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 06, 2022, 08:58:40 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 06, 2022, 08:58:40 AM
51,52
https://youtu.be/obL0h9Mrklw
Just because it's a great song.... :Dance
Because I killed it last Monday, I went back on Friday.
And the Smith did the Smith thing. n!n
Just when you got it all figured out..........
Struggled to get 8 fish.
Woolly appeared out of the fog like a mythical being.
The Smithfly full of bros came by.
I spotted Driver's Dad swinging flies.
I slunk home early.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ih5qZa8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/M5vQw12.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/hIwwBJF.jpg)
Really milky.
(https://i.imgur.com/X00jxhU.jpg)
Scott and I had been talking about a Labor Day trip.
We were going about 2 -2 1/2 hrs away.
But the storm potential looked worse there than at home.
Back to the bitch.
But they had gotten a good shot of rain overnight.
Now it was milky and muddy.
Wading was interesting.
(https://i.imgur.com/aebOfHq.jpg)
His dog tagged along.
(https://i.imgur.com/vuaC90p.jpg)
And tried to participate at times.
(https://i.imgur.com/lM7ttjJ.jpg)
Slow going wading. Slow going catching.
We did double up once. The highlight?
(https://i.imgur.com/xd2XLDT.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/7fkx5Xg.jpg)
New beaver signs are showing up again.
(https://i.imgur.com/xTnsbyU.jpg)
It started to rain lightly and the fog really intensified.
I fished up ahead of Scott and he and the hound vanished in the mist below.
I finished the run where I had just caught 20.
I was sitting at 8 to hand. p;-
Hiked up, stashed the cooler, popped the last beer and switched to the fly line reel.
Some BWO's had started coming off and small fish were sporadically slashing them.
Swung soft hackles for 15 minutes before Scott arrived.
He tried for "one more fish" a few times and we hiked out.
12 +m8 feesh in tough conditions. Wet dog.
Wet Scott. Pretty dry Doug. (I had packed a rain coat.)
Lots of rain on the drive. Home by 5.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on September 06, 2022, 10:08:38 AM
Post by: Fin on September 06, 2022, 10:08:38 AM
Glancing at the pics Scott posted elsewhere, I'd say he had a better day than you Mr. Dougfish. :P
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 06, 2022, 10:26:07 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 06, 2022, 10:26:07 AM
Oh yeah, he got the bigger fish. 'c; I'm not posting anybody else's pics.
But there are quite a few folks who choose not to post reports. Capeesh?
But there are quite a few folks who choose not to post reports. Capeesh?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: OldBastard on September 06, 2022, 11:51:15 AM
Post by: OldBastard on September 06, 2022, 11:51:15 AM
Without divulging any secrets does anybody have some ideas for some nice spots between Basset and Martinsville. My knees don't let me wade like I once did.
I would love to cast to some rising fish this weekend.
Thanks, Paul
I would love to cast to some rising fish this weekend.
Thanks, Paul
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on September 06, 2022, 12:27:35 PM
Post by: creakycane on September 06, 2022, 12:27:35 PM
Quote from: OldBastard on September 06, 2022, 11:51:15 AMWithout divulging any secrets does anybody have some ideas for some nice spots between Basset and Martinsville. My knees don't let me wade like I once did.
I would love to cast to some rising fish this weekend.
Thanks, Paul
The responses you got on the previous page, including a link to a map with detailed directions, will keep you busy for the next few seasons. Or perhaps 3 decades? (my case, but I'm a slow learner)!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: OldBastard on September 06, 2022, 13:34:44 PM
Post by: OldBastard on September 06, 2022, 13:34:44 PM
Quote from: creakycane on September 06, 2022, 12:27:35 PMQuote from: OldBastard on September 06, 2022, 11:51:15 AMWithout divulging any secrets does anybody have some ideas for some nice spots between Basset and Martinsville. My knees don't let me wade like I once did.
I would love to cast to some rising fish this weekend.
Thanks, Paul
The responses you got on the previous page, including a link to a map with detailed directions, will keep you busy for the next few seasons. Or perhaps 3 decades? (my case, but I'm a slow learner)!
Honestly I forgot I had already asked. I am exhausted and feeling lousy. I will find a map and start exploring.
Thanks, I am sure I learn even slower than you do..... I am the opposite of instant coffee.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 07, 2022, 09:21:26 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 07, 2022, 09:21:26 AM
#113
86 and sunny, gas $3.24
Spey day, swinging flies, step and repeat. Wading down the middle of the river I could easily cast to both banks practicing different cast, catching fish was just a bonus. Several to hand, but a number slipped the barbless hook. Tried out several locations, I spied the SRO raft in the upper section.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090622-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090622-2.jpg)
Watched the clouds go by for a while before heading down across the field. A couple of fly fishing guys were walking the tracks, I asked where they were headed, "To find some fish" was the reply.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/clouds.PNG)
I shot a long time-lapse but the "tripod" I was using was unstable and the video was annoyingly wobbly, which is too bad because the clouds were quite interesting with a lot of movement.
Not much activity on the water, so I ate my dinner and waited. I finally saw some slashing rises around six. And swung a soft hackle on the one wt. Fish were caught, the usual punes of the river, nothing special
This one came out much better despte the clouds not being spectacular.
https://vimeo.com/747272925
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090622-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090622-4.jpg)
I stayed until dark, not because the fishing was good, but I had no better place to be. The river was quiet and calming. I was thinking about the book I am listening to, Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging by Sebastian Junger. https://amzn.to/3RtVXKT
It goes a long way to explain the societal ills of our nation by contrasting the lives of American Indians vs the colonist.
I am a member of the fly fishing tribe.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 08, 2022, 07:33:28 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 08, 2022, 07:33:28 AM
#114
mid 80s but it felt much hotter!
[indent-both]One car in the lot, I thought about going low, but checked out Sally's, since no one was there I stayed. I waded out balls deep to cool off and swung a soft hackle in vain. I finally decided to rig for nymphing and hit the drain hole. It produced and I caught decent bows and browns but standing on the lip of disaster I didn't take any pics until this aggressive little guy fought way outside his weight class and although not the biggest fish, I wanted to remember its mettle and determination.[/indent-both]
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090722-1.jpg)
[indent-both]After a while I sat down on the bank and enjoyed listening to the water and the birds while I ate my dinner and waited for a sign of an evening rise. [/indent-both]
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090722-2.jpg)
[indent-both]I saw birds working down river, but not where I was and only the occasional fish would rise. All I got was a few grabs and a LDR. I moved a bit and found some active feeders. Kingfishers chirped and pileated woodpeckers called as the cooling mist formed like a blanket on the river[/indent-both]
https://vimeo.com/747640342
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/090722-3.jpg)
Found this reel case on the bank, hung it on the lost and found tree.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 08, 2022, 10:04:26 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 08, 2022, 10:04:26 AM
That case was there on Monday.
'c;
'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 08, 2022, 10:12:44 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 08, 2022, 10:12:44 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on September 08, 2022, 10:04:26 AMThat case was there on Monday.
'c;
I debated leaving it where it was found...
(https://media0.giphy.com/media/3o7aCTPPm4OHfRLSH6/giphy.gif)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 13, 2022, 07:11:03 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 13, 2022, 07:11:03 AM
#115
80 mostly sunny after passing storm, Gas $3.37
no surface activity to speak of, swung the fly for a while, managed a handful of punes. miniscule bwos were coming off. I enticed a few to hit a dry fly that was enormous in comparison to the naturals. I switched over to a nymph rig with split shot, hooked a couple of better fish. Switched back to softhackles and swung up another handful before it shut down completely. Hiked out at dusk.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/091222-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/091222-2.jpg)
Beware, pawpaws and cicadas are falling out of the trees.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/091222-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/091222-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/091222-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/091222-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/091222-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 14, 2022, 08:56:00 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 14, 2022, 08:56:00 AM
#116
[indent-both]It was a cooler cloudless day, in the upper 70s.
Got off to an early start and beat @Dougfish to the lot, but there was a new RAV4 in the lot, I placed a sticker on the windshield, I didn't see them on the river.
Hiked on down to the lower run and only managed to bring a few to hand. I hiked back up to my beer stash and found Doug fishing the run there. We drank a beer or two and solved none of the world's problems. After a while I noticed some slashing risers and thought that a hatch was starting. Yesterday there were a ton of tiny #28 BWOs but that didn't happen today, but I did manage a handful of trouts on the swing. [/indent-both]
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/091322-1.jpg)
Doug reported that the turtle was back in the creek, solo this time, I took a snap on the way out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/091322-2.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 14, 2022, 09:42:24 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 14, 2022, 09:42:24 AM
BTW, dat turtle is dead. I poked it with my staff a few times. Nothing.
Head drooped in the water. DSFK.
I couldn't buy another fish on the two stops out. Finished with 2 punes. n!n
Head drooped in the water. DSFK.
I couldn't buy another fish on the two stops out. Finished with 2 punes. n!n
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on September 14, 2022, 17:19:43 PM
Post by: Onslow on September 14, 2022, 17:19:43 PM
For what and where should one fish in the flesh melting sun?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 14, 2022, 18:05:50 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 14, 2022, 18:05:50 PM
Why should I give away my flesh melting spots when you are obviously not showing up? :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 14, 2022, 21:15:33 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 14, 2022, 21:15:33 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on September 14, 2022, 09:42:24 AMBTW, dat turtle is dead. I poked it with my staff a few times. Nothing.
Head drooped in the water. DSFK.
I couldn't buy another fish on the two stops out. Finished with 2 punes. n!n
https://youtu.be/vnciwwsvNcc
Where did the turtle go? I saw it going in, it did look dead at 2:00 but when I hiked out at 7:30 it was nowhere to be seen.
@Dougfish
https://vimeo.com/750030963
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 15, 2022, 12:27:17 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 15, 2022, 12:27:17 PM
#117
73 partly cloudy
One car in the lot, what is it with all these people fishing during the week. EJ was floating also. I suspected he would have gone early but he came down with clients at 5:30 at the trestle pool.
I hiked in to Sally's and as I entered the water I saw a fisherman working upstream, so I left and went on downstream.
There were some bows hatching but the fish weren't responding on the surface, so I went deep and caught a few punes. Later after a beer / dinner break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/091522-1.jpg)
I tried the nymphing game again, there was a little pune hitting the surface in the eddy on the far side of the run I was working and I kept thinking about switching to a #20 cdc/bwo emgerger. I looked up and saw the blue SRO raft coming down as I was switching flies and I cast to the riser. I hooked up as he was navigating the cataract above me so he could pass behind me.
I may have hooked another trout before I switched to a soft hackle and swung up a few more trouts.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/091522-2.jpg)
Despite how slow the fishing was, I stayed late as the evening sun goes downs and the reflections on the water turn from blue to gold to black. It is always a peaceful time of the day that I enjoy.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/091522-3.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 19, 2022, 07:19:56 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 19, 2022, 07:19:56 AM
#118
mid 80s, not a cloud in the sky
I was on the water by 3:00 the river looked ugly, so much silt in the water. I'm sure it's because of the low lake level.
Just a sparce few bwos in the air, no fish rising. I rigged for nymphing and caught a couple.
Here is a photo of a mushroom to indicate how slow the fishing was.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/091822-1.jpg)
I moved on down and found Doug's turtle. I was going to admit that it was dead.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/091822-2.jpg)
After hooking and losing a fish and several flies in the log jam hole I sat down for a break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/091822-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/091822-4.jpg)
I swung up a fish or two and then began hiking out only to discover that the snapper had made its way to the other side of the creek.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/091822-5.jpg)
Swung up another fish before calling it quits at 7:30
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/091822-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/091822-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 20, 2022, 08:02:43 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on September 20, 2022, 08:02:43 AM
Do any of you guys have luck here during mid-day? Seems that most fish it in the mornings/evenings. I've not done well mid-day too often here. p;-
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 20, 2022, 13:21:30 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 20, 2022, 13:21:30 PM
Never trust a dead turtle..
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on September 20, 2022, 17:58:17 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on September 20, 2022, 17:58:17 PM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on September 20, 2022, 08:02:43 AMDo any of you guys have luck here during mid-day? Seems that most fish it in the mornings/evenings. I've not done well mid-day too often here. p;-
Only time I've done well mid day is in May just as the sulphurs start up for the season.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 20, 2022, 18:33:17 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 20, 2022, 18:33:17 PM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on September 20, 2022, 08:02:43 AMDo any of you guys have luck here during mid-day? Seems that most fish it in the mornings/evenings. I've not done well mid-day too often here. p;-Euroing fast runs. Peak sulfur times. Dead of winter socked in days. Winter streamer days.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 21, 2022, 08:20:55 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 21, 2022, 08:20:55 AM
#119
mid 80s partly cloudy
https://vimeo.com/752213650
I ran into @creakycane in the lower lot, as I was leaving DriversDad (a new Smith River Regular) showed up. I headed up river and started gearing up, along comes DrivesDad and we hiked into Sally's where I regged up the spey pole and swung the rungs while DriversDad moved on down to below the drainhole. I managed to get a few grabs and that was about it.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/092022-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/092022-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/092022-3.jpg)
I moved on down and swung some more, despite some well placed cast into the far run, I caught nothing.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/092022-4.jpg)
Switching gears, I nymphed up a couple.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/092022-5.jpg)
DriversDad came on down and with fished the run together, only occasionally hooking up on the finicky fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/092022-6.jpg)
I was getting a few fish on a #20 bwo emerger.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/092022-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2022/09/092022-8.jpg)
Bob took a spill in the cool of the evening as he retreated to retrieve a shirt from his pack.
We hiked out at o'dark thirty.
The CRV wouldn't start, my jump battery saved the day.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on September 30, 2022, 09:21:52 AM
Post by: creakycane on September 30, 2022, 09:21:52 AM
Well, the water last few days has been very low and surprisingly clear. No boats, few fishermen. I'm sure they'll be cranking it up again before the end of today. 300, 600, ? Who knows.
Caddis still around, and a handful of big dun mayflies ( isonychias?). Some glassy spinners that looked like fall ISO's to me, also. Nice to fish some pools that are tough wading at 300. Lower river still warm-feeling. Did more watching and driving all over than serious fishing. Saw a swarm of trico spinners around noon above a rippled area. Nice to leisurely poke around the Smith some days.
Caddis still around, and a handful of big dun mayflies ( isonychias?). Some glassy spinners that looked like fall ISO's to me, also. Nice to fish some pools that are tough wading at 300. Lower river still warm-feeling. Did more watching and driving all over than serious fishing. Saw a swarm of trico spinners around noon above a rippled area. Nice to leisurely poke around the Smith some days.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 03, 2022, 19:11:16 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 03, 2022, 19:11:16 PM
well, that last report is from September 20, and I have not wet a line since then, the longest break this year and perhaps last year as well. I've bailed out on the upcoming show on the South Holsten and my November Albie week is iffy. Sometimes lift throws you a knuckleball that strikes you out and ends the inning. I'll be back on the water sometime, just don't know if it will be in late October, November or 2023....
-wb
-wb
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on October 04, 2022, 06:25:04 AM
Post by: Phil on October 04, 2022, 06:25:04 AM
Sounds serious, Keith. Take care of yourself, my friend. Sending whatever energy I can your way.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on October 04, 2022, 07:50:27 AM
Post by: Dee-Vo on October 04, 2022, 07:50:27 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on October 03, 2022, 19:11:16 PMwell, that last report is from September 20, and I have not wet a line since then, the longest break this year and perhaps last year as well. I've bailed out on the upcoming show on the South Holsten and my November Albie week is iffy. Sometimes lift throws you a knuckleball that strikes you out and ends the inning. I'll be back on the water sometime, just don't know if it will be in late October, November or 2023....
-wb
I hope all is well. Whatever it is, give it hell. If we can help, just shout.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on October 04, 2022, 08:04:34 AM
Post by: itieuglyflies on October 04, 2022, 08:04:34 AM
Keith- you have a lot of friends. Just let us know what we might do to help you through this.
Fred
Fred
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 04, 2022, 11:50:52 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 04, 2022, 11:50:52 AM
Quote from: itieuglyflies on October 04, 2022, 08:04:34 AMKeith- you have a lot of friends. Just let us know what we might do to help you through this.
Fred
I'm fine... just taking care of mom who fell last Friday; T4 & T7 compression fractures, on the slow road to recovery.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: 22midge on October 04, 2022, 18:18:32 PM
Post by: 22midge on October 04, 2022, 18:18:32 PM
your a damn good man Woolly. The fish will be waiting for you. Hope Mom is better soon
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on October 05, 2022, 07:32:25 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on October 05, 2022, 07:32:25 AM
To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honors."
― Tia Walker
― Tia Walker
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on October 05, 2022, 07:49:37 AM
Post by: creakycane on October 05, 2022, 07:49:37 AM
Yes, hoping for your mother's quick progress and recovery. The fish will be there when you are ready! Take care of yourself.............
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on October 07, 2022, 09:11:14 AM
Post by: Big J on October 07, 2022, 09:11:14 AM
Hope your mom heals up. Best of luck with the care giving too. that's no easy job. Smith River Trout aren't going to know what is going on without you flogging their holes every day!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 09, 2022, 17:27:23 PM
Post by: Dougfish on October 09, 2022, 17:27:23 PM
53
Catching up on reports.
Got busy, got behind.
4-5 weeks ago?
Look for a flurry of quick reports.
Met up with Fishbug and we flogged the somewhat unresponsive river.
He went into tough wading areas. Act of desperation?
(https://i.imgur.com/KTAhYJL.jpg)
We both managed some fish, but the slow days continued.
Not many bugs coming off, stingy bite.
But the "dead" turtle was alive!
Tried flipping it over and it protested.
(https://i.imgur.com/3dBD4gZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Buh84RM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xDSssMz.jpg)
Water is still murky.
(https://i.imgur.com/Xl11AB3.jpg)
BWO's are tiny.
(https://i.imgur.com/qe0hoOR.jpg)
Flowers are still awesome.
:cheers
Catching up on reports.
Got busy, got behind.
4-5 weeks ago?
Look for a flurry of quick reports.
Met up with Fishbug and we flogged the somewhat unresponsive river.
He went into tough wading areas. Act of desperation?
(https://i.imgur.com/KTAhYJL.jpg)
We both managed some fish, but the slow days continued.
Not many bugs coming off, stingy bite.
But the "dead" turtle was alive!
Tried flipping it over and it protested.
(https://i.imgur.com/3dBD4gZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Buh84RM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xDSssMz.jpg)
Water is still murky.
(https://i.imgur.com/Xl11AB3.jpg)
BWO's are tiny.
(https://i.imgur.com/qe0hoOR.jpg)
Flowers are still awesome.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on October 17, 2022, 16:42:52 PM
Post by: creakycane on October 17, 2022, 16:42:52 PM
Water low and a bit green, but beautiful day on the river. Hit a few stockers and small browns through town, mostly on nymphs, though rainbows would hit a small attractor dry at times. Wanted to get a day in before the cooler weather came. Very little in the way of bugs. number of fishermen in stocker holes. At least 2 rafts through town, though water pretty low for floating. Good to get out, left by 3.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 19, 2022, 18:30:04 PM
Post by: Dougfish on October 19, 2022, 18:30:04 PM
59
I upped my Euro game and switched from my 20 lb Maxima based mono rig to a 4x Micro leader setup.
New 5x sighter, tippet ring, 6x tippet. Tied new slimmer flies.
Went down to try it all out on the low water, cool, windy Smiff.
(https://i.imgur.com/wYcs1aj.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/hWO5DlM.jpg)
Well, I can still catch fish. LOL.
I could cast the light line a bit better.
But the flies got down to the bottom quicker and stayed there.
Much more sensitive connection to them.
Huge improvement.
(https://i.imgur.com/3sO9pl9.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/3z6Df9T.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ISiZMlJ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/h5Cud4J.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/0IbW2Hk.jpg)
Bobby showed up above me as I was finishing up the series of runs.
I waded out and watched him fish up as I ate lunch and had a beer.
(https://i.imgur.com/lzDU8Lv.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/5f4tHcC.jpg)
That was a nice 12-13" brownie.
Then he topped that and I waded out to net it. 15".
(https://i.imgur.com/jQ0ByNh.jpg)
He kept slogging and I moved up to the fast water.
(https://i.imgur.com/wIj4PXE.jpg)
He kept catching and I caught 4 more.
We both had to boogie early so out we went.
Stray BWO's, caddis, winter stones, yellow sallies, sulfurs, and midges emerged off and on the whole time.
Only a handful of rising fish were keying on the surface bugs.
Finished with a dozen.
All were caught on nymphs.
:cheers
I upped my Euro game and switched from my 20 lb Maxima based mono rig to a 4x Micro leader setup.
New 5x sighter, tippet ring, 6x tippet. Tied new slimmer flies.
Went down to try it all out on the low water, cool, windy Smiff.
(https://i.imgur.com/wYcs1aj.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/hWO5DlM.jpg)
Well, I can still catch fish. LOL.
I could cast the light line a bit better.
But the flies got down to the bottom quicker and stayed there.
Much more sensitive connection to them.
Huge improvement.
(https://i.imgur.com/3sO9pl9.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/3z6Df9T.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ISiZMlJ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/h5Cud4J.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/0IbW2Hk.jpg)
Bobby showed up above me as I was finishing up the series of runs.
I waded out and watched him fish up as I ate lunch and had a beer.
(https://i.imgur.com/lzDU8Lv.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/5f4tHcC.jpg)
That was a nice 12-13" brownie.
Then he topped that and I waded out to net it. 15".
(https://i.imgur.com/jQ0ByNh.jpg)
He kept slogging and I moved up to the fast water.
(https://i.imgur.com/wIj4PXE.jpg)
He kept catching and I caught 4 more.
We both had to boogie early so out we went.
Stray BWO's, caddis, winter stones, yellow sallies, sulfurs, and midges emerged off and on the whole time.
Only a handful of rising fish were keying on the surface bugs.
Finished with a dozen.
All were caught on nymphs.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on October 20, 2022, 09:28:04 AM
Post by: Al on October 20, 2022, 09:28:04 AM
It has been awhile - sorry but my new life has just not motivated me to get on the board much - trying to change that.
This just in from DWR Biologist Geroge Palmer .....
"We are still going for next week on the Smith River, starting at 10 am at the Bassest River access, flows look good and the weather appears to be fair for this event, maybe some rain on Wednesday.
The barge EF Fish Surveys is Planned for Oct 25th-27th.
If you are planning to help out, chest waders are your best bet, however hip waders will work.
Our plan is to sample 2 sites on the 25th, starting at the Bassett River Access at 10am, GPS 36.769997 by -80.002167.
If the weather changes and something changes I will send an email on Monday 10/24.
Please pass this information to others I may have missed'"
Schedule may change;
Oct 25 AM - Bassett River Access, GPS 36.769997 by -80.002167.
Oct 25 PM - Smith River Outfitters Access, GPS 36.757156 by -79.990095
Oct 26 AM - Great Road Access, GPS 36.72746 by -79.950346
Oct 26 PM - Sewer Plant Access, GPS 36.693313, -79.925851
Oct 27 AM - DWR Dam Access, GPS close to 36.781523 by -80.020478
Some of you may be wondering why they are going back to the same method used several years ago before DWR Region 2 acquired an equipment laden raft which accounts for most samples on the Smith today. ......... here is a quote from Region 2 Fisheries Biologist George Palmer
"The goal is to use this gear to collect native species (ie forage fish) and age-0 brown trout, neither of which are sampled very well with the raft unit we typically use. We have older data (collected with barge units) for comparison. The whole point to all this will be to see how the cessation of peak power production (powerhouse taken out by a landslide) has impacted the native species (incl Roanokoe log perch) and brown trout recruitment. We've seen a positive response in brown trout growth and sizes, but don't really have the native species info. Should we be able to document a significant improvement in the native fish community, we hope to take this to USFWS so that they can then work with the Corps to reduce/eliminate peaking flows if they ever bring the units back on line".
This just in from DWR Biologist Geroge Palmer .....
"We are still going for next week on the Smith River, starting at 10 am at the Bassest River access, flows look good and the weather appears to be fair for this event, maybe some rain on Wednesday.
The barge EF Fish Surveys is Planned for Oct 25th-27th.
If you are planning to help out, chest waders are your best bet, however hip waders will work.
Our plan is to sample 2 sites on the 25th, starting at the Bassett River Access at 10am, GPS 36.769997 by -80.002167.
If the weather changes and something changes I will send an email on Monday 10/24.
Please pass this information to others I may have missed'"
Schedule may change;
Oct 25 AM - Bassett River Access, GPS 36.769997 by -80.002167.
Oct 25 PM - Smith River Outfitters Access, GPS 36.757156 by -79.990095
Oct 26 AM - Great Road Access, GPS 36.72746 by -79.950346
Oct 26 PM - Sewer Plant Access, GPS 36.693313, -79.925851
Oct 27 AM - DWR Dam Access, GPS close to 36.781523 by -80.020478
Some of you may be wondering why they are going back to the same method used several years ago before DWR Region 2 acquired an equipment laden raft which accounts for most samples on the Smith today. ......... here is a quote from Region 2 Fisheries Biologist George Palmer
"The goal is to use this gear to collect native species (ie forage fish) and age-0 brown trout, neither of which are sampled very well with the raft unit we typically use. We have older data (collected with barge units) for comparison. The whole point to all this will be to see how the cessation of peak power production (powerhouse taken out by a landslide) has impacted the native species (incl Roanokoe log perch) and brown trout recruitment. We've seen a positive response in brown trout growth and sizes, but don't really have the native species info. Should we be able to document a significant improvement in the native fish community, we hope to take this to USFWS so that they can then work with the Corps to reduce/eliminate peaking flows if they ever bring the units back on line".
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 20, 2022, 11:26:09 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 20, 2022, 11:26:09 AM
Quote from: Al on October 20, 2022, 09:28:04 AMrying to change that.
Good to see you back! Saw some pics of you with Brian Kern on the Instagram
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on October 20, 2022, 16:32:21 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on October 20, 2022, 16:32:21 PM
Quote from: Al on October 20, 2022, 09:28:04 AMIt has been awhile - sorry but my new life has just not motivated me to get on the board much - trying to change that.
This just in from DWR Biologist Geroge Palmer .....
"We are still going for next week on the Smith River, starting at 10 am at the Bassest River access, flows look good and the weather appears to be fair for this event, maybe some rain on Wednesday.
The barge EF Fish Surveys is Planned for Oct 25th-27th.
If you are planning to help out, chest waders are your best bet, however hip waders will work.
Our plan is to sample 2 sites on the 25th, starting at the Bassett River Access at 10am, GPS 36.769997 by -80.002167.
If the weather changes and something changes I will send an email on Monday 10/24.
Please pass this information to others I may have missed'"
Schedule may change;
Oct 25 AM - Bassett River Access, GPS 36.769997 by -80.002167.
Oct 25 PM - Smith River Outfitters Access, GPS 36.757156 by -79.990095
Oct 26 AM - Great Road Access, GPS 36.72746 by -79.950346
Oct 26 PM - Sewer Plant Access, GPS 36.693313, -79.925851
Oct 27 AM - DWR Dam Access, GPS close to 36.781523 by -80.020478
Some of you may be wondering why they are going back to the same method used several years ago before DWR Region 2 acquired an equipment laden raft which accounts for most samples on the Smith today. ......... here is a quote from Region 2 Fisheries Biologist George Palmer
"The goal is to use this gear to collect native species (ie forage fish) and age-0 brown trout, neither of which are sampled very well with the raft unit we typically use. We have older data (collected with barge units) for comparison. The whole point to all this will be to see how the cessation of peak power production (powerhouse taken out by a landslide) has impacted the native species (incl Roanokoe log perch) and brown trout recruitment. We've seen a positive response in brown trout growth and sizes, but don't really have the native species info. Should we be able to document a significant improvement in the native fish community, we hope to take this to USFWS so that they can then work with the Corps to reduce/eliminate peaking flows if they ever bring the units back on line".
Just to clarify, this is an open event. If you have any interest in helping, please contact Al or myself. We need all hands on deck.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 20, 2022, 17:20:14 PM
Post by: Dougfish on October 20, 2022, 17:20:14 PM
Announced on 10/12. 13 day notice to get volunteers. :o
I can't be there because of scheduled doctor appt, work, and travel. I can't drop everything last minute.
Damn shame better notice can't be planned.
I can't be there because of scheduled doctor appt, work, and travel. I can't drop everything last minute.
Damn shame better notice can't be planned.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on October 21, 2022, 12:58:27 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on October 21, 2022, 12:58:27 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on October 20, 2022, 17:20:14 PMAnnounced on 10/12. 13 day notice to get volunteers. :o
I can't be there because of scheduled doctor appt, work, and travel. I can't drop everything last minute.
Damn shame better notice can't be planned.
No worries. It's the government, what'd ya expect?!?!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on October 21, 2022, 14:42:17 PM
Post by: Fishbug on October 21, 2022, 14:42:17 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on October 20, 2022, 17:20:14 PMAnnounced on 10/12. 13 day notice to get volunteers. :o
I can't be there because of scheduled doctor appt, work, and travel. I can't drop everything last minute.
Damn shame better notice can't be planned.
Amen to that.
Working man gotta work.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on October 24, 2022, 09:23:18 AM
Post by: Al on October 24, 2022, 09:23:18 AM
If you can make one or all days to help it will be appreciated. I'll be there taking pictures and will try to keep folks updated as we go along. My skills posting from my dumbphone are limited so please don't be critical.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 02, 2022, 18:54:46 PM
Post by: Dougfish on November 02, 2022, 18:54:46 PM
61
I had a landscape job to set up at SML, and since that is halfway to the river....
It was just a quick hit. 2 1/2 hrs in and out.
There was a 4 door silver F150 in the lot and I found him in the top of the lefthander's hole.
He was patiently waiting for risers to cast to.
I saw risers all the way down the river from the path. :Dance
Ate a quick lunch, tied on and waded out.
Fishbug and I had been talking about how Smokejumpers might be the ticket.
John, .... not.
Puffdaddies were.
Keith's beavers are back.
(https://i.imgur.com/w794tGR.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WlJELwX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4Ur081P.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/P4E6R6O.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/i4j3J4n.jpg)
I had worked through the usual suspects and headed upstream.
Homie had boogied.
I ended up at Sally's and not much was going on.
Risers for the first 2 hours, nada after that.
(https://i.imgur.com/ELWADBa.jpg)
The flows be low.
(https://i.imgur.com/rt1zAMj.jpg)
A dozen to hand.
:cheers
I had a landscape job to set up at SML, and since that is halfway to the river....
It was just a quick hit. 2 1/2 hrs in and out.
There was a 4 door silver F150 in the lot and I found him in the top of the lefthander's hole.
He was patiently waiting for risers to cast to.
I saw risers all the way down the river from the path. :Dance
Ate a quick lunch, tied on and waded out.
Fishbug and I had been talking about how Smokejumpers might be the ticket.
John, .... not.
Puffdaddies were.
Keith's beavers are back.
(https://i.imgur.com/w794tGR.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WlJELwX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4Ur081P.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/P4E6R6O.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/i4j3J4n.jpg)
I had worked through the usual suspects and headed upstream.
Homie had boogied.
I ended up at Sally's and not much was going on.
Risers for the first 2 hours, nada after that.
(https://i.imgur.com/ELWADBa.jpg)
The flows be low.
(https://i.imgur.com/rt1zAMj.jpg)
A dozen to hand.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on November 06, 2022, 16:39:55 PM
Post by: Al on November 06, 2022, 16:39:55 PM
This is my busy time of the year but I did write up a DWR Barge sample report which was sent to all on my SRTU list - I think it will also eventually be posted on DWR blog. Here is the bottom line from my report.....
"As a layman who has fished the Smith River for about 30 years it is my observation that there is no shortage of fish. We never used to see many of this year class of recently spawned brown trout at locations very far distance from Philpott Dam. They are now spawning throughout the river. Non-game or forage fish were almost nonexistent when I first started fishing the Smith. They appear to be making a comeback in the past few years. George Palmer the DWR biologist responsible for the Smith River will analyze the data and brief his findings at the SRTU meeting on Thursday, December 1, 2022 - 6:30 pm, Raina's Restaurant, Martinsville, VA. The meeting is open to the public."
"As a layman who has fished the Smith River for about 30 years it is my observation that there is no shortage of fish. We never used to see many of this year class of recently spawned brown trout at locations very far distance from Philpott Dam. They are now spawning throughout the river. Non-game or forage fish were almost nonexistent when I first started fishing the Smith. They appear to be making a comeback in the past few years. George Palmer the DWR biologist responsible for the Smith River will analyze the data and brief his findings at the SRTU meeting on Thursday, December 1, 2022 - 6:30 pm, Raina's Restaurant, Martinsville, VA. The meeting is open to the public."
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on November 08, 2022, 16:56:08 PM
Post by: creakycane on November 08, 2022, 16:56:08 PM
Today was more turbid than last week through town, though plenty fishable. A week ago, found many more fish readily taking pheasant tails a foot or two under the surface. Today, had to go deep to get them to bite. With weighted nymphs. Handful of browns in a couple of hours, didn't have much time. Rain coming Friday, cooler weather next week. Two rafts and a couple of fly guys, a couple of spinners. Leaf color display largely done. It's been a beautiful fall.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 14, 2022, 20:04:22 PM
Post by: Dougfish on November 14, 2022, 20:04:22 PM
64
https://youtu.be/FEr-IizPMrA
Tied up some experimental #20 dries and headed down to try them out.
First really cold day. Started at 36, finished at 48.
First stocking hat day. Meh.
I had looked at the Philpott gauge and nothing was amiss.
Forgot to check Bassett. Opps.
That 3"+ of rain on Friday blew up Townes Ck.
(https://i.imgur.com/l4Ebmfi.png)
Water was back down, but still discolored.
A lot of wood, leaves, sediment and such had moved.
Woolly, you've been stumped!
(https://i.imgur.com/12Sp0wg.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/qXTq53Z.jpg)
I started out streamering. I had a couple of quick bumps, then a strong grab.
Them one broke me off.
They must have put the word out, because that was it. Done.
Ate some lunch and a few dimples started showing.
Switched to the new fly and missed some, caught some, broke one off with too much pepper in the hook set.
7x. b';
(https://i.imgur.com/OG5XaA9.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/z7rOuPZ.jpg)
Moved up and caught one more.
6 or 7 small feesh. They made me work for them.
I'll work some sunnier stretches later this week.
(https://i.imgur.com/usQ0INp.jpg)
:cheers
https://youtu.be/FEr-IizPMrA
Tied up some experimental #20 dries and headed down to try them out.
First really cold day. Started at 36, finished at 48.
First stocking hat day. Meh.
I had looked at the Philpott gauge and nothing was amiss.
Forgot to check Bassett. Opps.
That 3"+ of rain on Friday blew up Townes Ck.
(https://i.imgur.com/l4Ebmfi.png)
Water was back down, but still discolored.
A lot of wood, leaves, sediment and such had moved.
Woolly, you've been stumped!
(https://i.imgur.com/12Sp0wg.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/qXTq53Z.jpg)
I started out streamering. I had a couple of quick bumps, then a strong grab.
Them one broke me off.
They must have put the word out, because that was it. Done.
Ate some lunch and a few dimples started showing.
Switched to the new fly and missed some, caught some, broke one off with too much pepper in the hook set.
7x. b';
(https://i.imgur.com/OG5XaA9.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/z7rOuPZ.jpg)
Moved up and caught one more.
6 or 7 small feesh. They made me work for them.
I'll work some sunnier stretches later this week.
(https://i.imgur.com/usQ0INp.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 20, 2022, 17:42:59 PM
Post by: Dougfish on November 20, 2022, 17:42:59 PM
65
https://youtu.be/03mavnL8Fyo
"Ada don't talk about reasons why you don't want to talk about reasons why you don't wanna talk"
Like a glutton, I went back for more punishment.
Went upstream to escape Towne's mud.
Guess what, the water coming out of the lake is just as bad. n!n
(https://i.imgur.com/6h320yA.jpg)
Cleaning your fly was required on almost every other cast.
(https://i.imgur.com/yAwMDMY.jpg)
A handful of the local residents cooperated.
(https://i.imgur.com/tHcaHmH.jpg)
A good look at river levels.
80 cfs, 280, 600?
(https://i.imgur.com/thcrEXH.jpg)
Got home at a decent hour, lol.
:cheers
https://youtu.be/03mavnL8Fyo
"Ada don't talk about reasons why you don't want to talk about reasons why you don't wanna talk"
Like a glutton, I went back for more punishment.
Went upstream to escape Towne's mud.
Guess what, the water coming out of the lake is just as bad. n!n
(https://i.imgur.com/6h320yA.jpg)
Cleaning your fly was required on almost every other cast.
(https://i.imgur.com/yAwMDMY.jpg)
A handful of the local residents cooperated.
(https://i.imgur.com/tHcaHmH.jpg)
A good look at river levels.
80 cfs, 280, 600?
(https://i.imgur.com/thcrEXH.jpg)
Got home at a decent hour, lol.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on November 25, 2022, 08:55:44 AM
Post by: Al on November 25, 2022, 08:55:44 AM
Cut and paste from SRTU meeting announcement......
"A reminder that on December 1st we will be having our last chapter meeting of the year at Rania's Restaurant in Martinsville at 6:30. George Palmer from the Virginia DWR will be our special guest speaker. George will be proving us with an update on the health of the Smith River and its wild brown trout population. Please join us and invite your friends or family who may be interested."
"A reminder that on December 1st we will be having our last chapter meeting of the year at Rania's Restaurant in Martinsville at 6:30. George Palmer from the Virginia DWR will be our special guest speaker. George will be proving us with an update on the health of the Smith River and its wild brown trout population. Please join us and invite your friends or family who may be interested."
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 29, 2022, 13:56:20 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 29, 2022, 13:56:20 PM
I've made a few trips to the lower river and a couple more up to Bassett. Not much to report. The last two trips I mostly swung flies. I did hook a very nice brown that measures close to 16 inches. It manages to avoid being photographed as I find it difficult to net a fish on the spey pole. I moved around and had another decent fish on the line for a bit and that was it.
Yesterday, I went back and was gearing up when a local in a pick-up truck pulls up and ask, "Any luck?" "I'm just getting started." He then proceeded to grab his spinning rod and hit the run that I was planning to fish. "Well damn!" I grumbled and headed on downstream after rigging up. I caught nothing and I don't think he had any better luck, but what a dick!
I moved on up to another spot where I had some grabs the other day. A damn smithfly was floating through those runs. Well fuck!
I moved on to another spot and got one grab. I tried some other spots and caught nothing. I even bobbered some stoneflies and still not a nibble.
I feel like I've lost my mojo.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on November 30, 2022, 06:01:31 AM
Post by: creakycane on November 30, 2022, 06:01:31 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on November 29, 2022, 13:56:20 PM
I've made a few trips to the lower river and a couple more up to Bassett. Not much to report. The last two trips I mostly swung flies. I did hook a very nice brown that measures close to 16 inches. It manages to avoid being photographed as I find it difficult to net a fish on the spey pole. I moved around and had another decent fish on the line for a bit and that was it.
Yesterday, I went back and was gearing up when a local in a pick-up truck pulls up and ask, "Any luck?" "I'm just getting started." He then proceeded to grab his spinning rod and hit the run that I was planning to fish. "Well damn!" I grumbled and headed on downstream after rigging up. I caught nothing and I don't think he had any better luck, but what a dick!
I moved on up to another spot where I had some grabs the other day. A damn smithfly was floating through those runs. Well fuck!
I moved on to another spot and got one grab. I tried some other spots and caught nothing. I even bobbered some stoneflies and still not a nibble.
I feel like I've lost my mojo.
Very similar experiences for me since the temps dropped below average around mid Nov. Hit a few leftover stockers and a couple of stocky browns 13" or so downstream, but the usually productive runs and glides through most of the system have been slow for me as of late. Past experience shows this is expected, and at the same time, this can be a great time to stumble on a big fish, but it can be a long time between tugs. Been watching for olives in the pm, but have not seen good hatches yet. Got to work on dialing back my expectations this time of year!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on December 01, 2022, 09:24:20 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on December 01, 2022, 09:24:20 AM
Quote from: Al on November 25, 2022, 08:55:44 AMCut and paste from SRTU meeting announcement......
"A reminder that on December 1st we will be having our last chapter meeting of the year at Rania's Restaurant in Martinsville at 6:30. George Palmer from the Virginia DWR will be our special guest speaker. George will be proving us with an update on the health of the Smith River and its wild brown trout population. Please join us and invite your friends or family who may be interested."
Hopefully someone will post a video of the presentation.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 05, 2022, 18:01:38 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 05, 2022, 18:01:38 PM
Quote from: trout-r-us on December 01, 2022, 09:24:20 AMHopefully someone will post a video of the presentation.
In the past George has shared his PowerPoint and I've posted it here...
somebody get on it....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 06, 2022, 11:01:12 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 06, 2022, 11:01:12 AM
Trying to get back into the swing of things again, I drove up to Bassett the other day and hit a run with the spay pole with a small streamer. With the flow back up to "high normal" I had hoped for a bigger brown. This first run was all snap-t casting and I feel like im in better control spey casting. I had a few bumps and had a "world class" (read 12") brown on the line for a bit. After several more bumps I got into a few pune over achievers (future world class fish) in the 4-5" range. I was going to move on down but there were a pair of spinners that had come in from the other side. I drove around and found more anglers in other locations. Who would have thought on a dreary chilly Monday so many people would be out fishing. A caught a few more punes at the second location and then ended the day east of town in a decent run where I like to swing flies. Bump, bump, grab. I eventually caught a couple of 12" stockbows. It was getting late and I need to remember gloves and electric socks for the next outing.
Note: I haven't taken a fishing photo since the end of September.
Q? If this is sush a "World Class" fishery, why do they stock it?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on December 06, 2022, 12:03:37 PM
Post by: Onslow on December 06, 2022, 12:03:37 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on December 06, 2022, 11:01:12 AM
Q? If this is sush a "World Class" fishery, why do they stock it?
That is what VA does. If it can be reached by a truck, it will likely get stocked. Remember, it is a classy river :laugh:
Honestly, this is why I rarely fish designated water north of the border. Finding stocked fingerlings in the wild section of Crooked or the SFH pisses me off. Won't be back. Probably won't be renewing license next year. Heading to SC for more bass, carp, and striper.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on December 06, 2022, 12:31:30 PM
Post by: Onslow on December 06, 2022, 12:31:30 PM
How to manage a wild trout stream in VA and WV? Introduce otter snacks and bait for tailpipe sniffers (stocking truck chasers).
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on December 06, 2022, 15:19:47 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on December 06, 2022, 15:19:47 PM
Planting trout in waters where they should not be planted is certainly an issue that merits discussion.
In my neck of the woods the concern is trout stocking by private landowners. There is a major watershed nearby with wild brookies in the main stem plus several tribs with brookies. Some landowners have stocked browns and rainbows in the main stem. From my point of view, outside looking in, this should not be allowed. I have no idea of the permitting process required to stock fish in Virginia.
However, I do snap back to truth when I consider some of the self-sustaining nonnatives (browns, rainbows, carp, etc.) we chase were first planted by some entity. In many ways we are a selfish bunch.
In my neck of the woods the concern is trout stocking by private landowners. There is a major watershed nearby with wild brookies in the main stem plus several tribs with brookies. Some landowners have stocked browns and rainbows in the main stem. From my point of view, outside looking in, this should not be allowed. I have no idea of the permitting process required to stock fish in Virginia.
However, I do snap back to truth when I consider some of the self-sustaining nonnatives (browns, rainbows, carp, etc.) we chase were first planted by some entity. In many ways we are a selfish bunch.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 06, 2022, 19:44:50 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 06, 2022, 19:44:50 PM
They also like to present counties with trout sustainable water (even if its seasonal) an opportunity to easily catch eating size trout.
DWR gets a lot of social and political pressure.
Henry Co's only option is the Smith.
I don't like it, but I know why they do it.
They made the monster, they have to feed it.
DWR gets a lot of social and political pressure.
Henry Co's only option is the Smith.
I don't like it, but I know why they do it.
They made the monster, they have to feed it.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on December 07, 2022, 06:35:22 AM
Post by: Onslow on December 07, 2022, 06:35:22 AM
Put and take trout fishing can occur almost anywhere. Blueways, greenways, municipal ponds.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on December 07, 2022, 22:01:07 PM
Post by: creakycane on December 07, 2022, 22:01:07 PM
Quote from: trout-r-us on December 06, 2022, 19:01:04 PMA while back, I asked VDGIF the question as to why the state would stock over wild trout and was told:
-Lots of anglers buy a license and enjoy fishing for the stockers.
-There is concern that much of the current river access would be closed off if stocking was discontinued.
Your point number 2 is a main driver of why stocking still happens in thriving wild waters in the NC high country. Avery Co, Ashe Co, Watauga Co. The private owners who allow access to stocking will tighten up if the stocking isn't cont'd. Don't need to have any more water off limit.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on December 09, 2022, 09:11:06 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on December 09, 2022, 09:11:06 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on December 06, 2022, 11:01:12 AM
Note: I haven't taken a fishing photo since the end of September.
Not to worry.
With all the fish you've caught up there over the last couple years, I doubt there are many remaining whose picture we haven't seen. 😆
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 11, 2022, 13:34:23 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 11, 2022, 13:34:23 PM
I've been back a couple of times recently, 4 hours one day and 3 hours yesterday.
I'm still working on my spey game. I pulled up to a run and was getting geared up when I saw a blue raft coming down the fiffle. Awe crap. The anchored up in the lower run and I briefly thought about moving, but stuck it out and worked the upper run. My casting is improving little by little. I'll make a great cast and then on the very next one start thinking about it too much and flub the cast. I had a grab or two and that was all for that run. I must admit that I didn't expect much, thinking that the raft may have caused lock jaw on the trouts.
By this time the floaty boat was moving on down and I hit the run they had vacated. There I made one cast that impressed me! Long cast, tight loop, running line sailing through the guides. Picture perfect. That cast, tight to the bank, swinging through the riffle, deserved a fish, but I was denied again.
I moved on and worked several more spots, and despite several more grabs and seeing a decent brown swipe at the fly, none were caught.
Maybe I'll go back to euro nymphing.... n!n
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 13, 2022, 17:58:07 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 13, 2022, 17:58:07 PM
Been a while.
I had not been down to the river since they bumped the flows back up.
Cold, cloudy day. Maybe BWO's?
Left the euro rod in the truck and took the finesse rod.
Beavers have gotten more active.
(https://i.imgur.com/C6vzj5c.jpg)
Redds are underway.
(https://i.imgur.com/9Zl3H7j.jpg)
Not much was happening on top, but I tried my new money dry fly anyhow.
Worked up the run with no takers.
Clipped it off and tied on a soft hackle.
Finished my beer to rest the run and started back down.
Bump on the second cast and a fish on the fifth.
(https://i.imgur.com/k5BJ265.jpg)
It went like that for the next hour.
Then I realized I was pretty freakin cold.
Waded in to warm up. Never really did.
(https://i.imgur.com/vCsXnN4.jpg)
Walked up stream to warm up and the sun started hitting me.
Thank you!
Fished the lefthander hole and managed one more.
(https://i.imgur.com/fQxX1hu.jpg)
Hiked up further and almost quit.
Saw a couple risers on the far side.
Giddy up.
Waded up above them and could not get a bite on the dry.
Again.
Put the soft hackle back on and got a couple more.
(https://i.imgur.com/SpEJht6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/rbBu3Jm.jpg)
Scooted home.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Al on December 16, 2022, 00:12:57 AM
Post by: Al on December 16, 2022, 00:12:57 AM
Sorry but I don't get on here as much as I used to and just now saw the questions about DWR presentation at SRTU meeting - also question about stocking.
I don't have the slides but from what I saw the fish are getting a little bigger. Current thinking is the constant flows without generation has been good for the fishery. Lot's of fish and good recruitment of recent stream spawned browns. Lots more forage in the river which means trout are eating well. It appears the fishery below MV dam is still there but not as many fish. However, the fish that have adapted are real nice ones.
Ref stocking - fear is that without stocking many of the landowners would post their land. On the other hand the relatively new campground below Stanleytown Bridge has been recently posted and not accessible to wade fishermen unless you are a camper. George said there is talk about no longer stocking at the bridge because they are essentially stocking the campground's private stream. Some of the float guys were there and bristled at that idea as that section is one of their most productive sections (probably because the locals are not fishing and placing the stockers on a stinger).
I don't have the slides but from what I saw the fish are getting a little bigger. Current thinking is the constant flows without generation has been good for the fishery. Lot's of fish and good recruitment of recent stream spawned browns. Lots more forage in the river which means trout are eating well. It appears the fishery below MV dam is still there but not as many fish. However, the fish that have adapted are real nice ones.
Ref stocking - fear is that without stocking many of the landowners would post their land. On the other hand the relatively new campground below Stanleytown Bridge has been recently posted and not accessible to wade fishermen unless you are a camper. George said there is talk about no longer stocking at the bridge because they are essentially stocking the campground's private stream. Some of the float guys were there and bristled at that idea as that section is one of their most productive sections (probably because the locals are not fishing and placing the stockers on a stinger).
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 24, 2022, 14:00:08 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 24, 2022, 14:00:08 PM
71
Last trip before Christmas. Cold rain for the next 2 days.
Then the bitter cold front rolls in. b';
I took my time and tied up a few flies before pulling out.
I should have waited another hour or more.
On the longest day of the year, the east to west ridge blocked most of the sun.
Even at mid day it never got to the south banks.
And the water was back to being murky.
And no risers were seen.
I did remember my fleece pants.
Tied on a fresh soft hackle and waded out into the shade as the wind started coming down the river.
A couple of early bumps got my hopes up.
But by the time I had navigated down to my exit point, I only had 3 small feesh to hand.
(https://i.imgur.com/7Cf9Rrc.jpg)
I waded in to get in the sun and thaw.
The wind was still on me so I decided to go up and see if I could find a sunnier stretch with less wind.
Found a good spot and had lunch.
(https://i.imgur.com/ArvhxxN.jpg)
Left my cooler and walked up to wade this stretch.
Much more comfortable.
But not very productive.
2 more small ones.
Grabbed the cooler and headed up further.
Sally's hole yielded nothing and I hiked out.
Went to the Roanoke TU social that night and told them to stay away, the Smith fishes like shit. :P
I'll be back after Christmas.
Until them, I wish you the best.
And laser beams.
(https://i.imgur.com/dMtnXWd.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ffNcnT6.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 28, 2022, 10:40:01 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 28, 2022, 10:40:01 AM
I was going to try and squeak in another day but I see that they bumped the flow up beyond what I expected. The last time I was up there was on the 17th. I stopped at a lower spot and saw an angler swinging flies with a single hand spey cast, I didn't see him catch anything in the short time that I watched. I moved on to another run and swung up a couple of 14" stockerbows, which was better than nothing. The only notable thing to photograph was the lower gas prices. (sheetz discount points applied)
DEB4A15E-E870-41AD-BAD8-7A3C4A768272.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 30, 2022, 18:29:59 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 30, 2022, 18:29:59 PM
72
Went Monday. Could not wait.
Cold day. Waited until 11 to hit the water.
Still.....
(https://i.imgur.com/tzvrOh8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ASVy1mw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Kyhus2d.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/BDn84b0.jpg)
Nothing was happening.
Swung mini intruders. Through 3 runs.
Rested.
Swung soft hackles. Same 3 runs.
Rested.
Nymphs under indicator.
Nothing x 3.
And yes, dumb asses take aluminum boats down the upper river.
(https://i.imgur.com/m1gdbJ2.jpg)
Peace, out Smith. First skunk in quite a while.
(https://i.imgur.com/LKcKbM4.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 04, 2023, 12:35:22 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 04, 2023, 12:35:22 PM
#23-1 Gas $2.99 temp 66 and overcast.
I finished up 2022 with around 126 days, I pretty much stopped counting / reporting the few measly trips I took in November and December. With the new year I'm hoping things will be more normal, although I don't think I'll break 100 days this year.
https://youtu.be/dIDzA0YDso8
This is a rather bizarre version of the CNSY song Long Time Gone. Take a look at Neil's and David's reactions, I think they are in a bit of pain.
On with the report... I was keeping an eye on the river and after seeing some Instagram post, I thought I'd head downriver and swing some flies. I pulled into an empty lot just before 3 and planned to fish until dark. I donned my waders and rigged the spey pole with a sinktip with a small lightly weighted chartreuse and white clouser. I hiked it and was a bit taken aback by the volume of water, it was really a torrent in some of the places I had planned to fish.
BF31F451-02F9-4BFA-BAC0-E9C68196D8B5.jpg
I managed to wade out far enough to clear the overhaning trees and snap-t a cast out across the current. I was constantly worried about hitting the trees with rod or line, but I somehow managed to stay clear. After a couple of dozen cast I got felt a strong grab and I had a good fish on. I set the hook twice and the fish leapt out of the water. It put up a good fight using the current to help it peel line off the real. I worked the fish back across the current and then, after some head shakes and thrashing on the surface it threw the hook. Damn!
Later, on down a ways, I hooked another fish on a different fly. I wasn't a big as the first fish and it was a bit beat up, with it's tail torn up. Not sure if this was building a redd during the spawn or what.
FC83CCBD-260B-4A7C-BC85-4C79057FB271.jpg
FB12466F-2702-4834-9E92-4FC0A465D762.jpg
DSFK
I fished on until fiveish and then, running out of new water that I could access I headed out and drove into town for a beer.
DE38632B-FBD7-4709-AA9C-9074D74AF903.jpg
Hazy IPA
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutboy_II on January 04, 2023, 14:02:15 PM
Post by: troutboy_II on January 04, 2023, 14:02:15 PM
That was truly a bizarre video. Tom Jones with CSN&Y? But I'm not sure on your point about Neil and David. First of all, Neil always looked severely constipated back then and who knows what David was on. In any event, Tom Jones? Sheesh p;-
Looks like a good day even if low numbers. Thanks as always, for sharing.
TB
Looks like a good day even if low numbers. Thanks as always, for sharing.
TB
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 04, 2023, 16:14:26 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 04, 2023, 16:14:26 PM
Quote from: troutboy_II on January 04, 2023, 14:02:15 PMpoint about Neil and David
I thought that they may have wished to have not been there.... <-;:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on January 04, 2023, 18:53:26 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on January 04, 2023, 18:53:26 PM
Your video takes me back about 50 years to when we went to see Tom Jones perform a couple times at the Latin Casino in Cherry Hill. He was quite a crooner with the ladies. 🤣
Been meaning to ask. What does DSFK stand for?
Been meaning to ask. What does DSFK stand for?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 04, 2023, 20:40:30 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 04, 2023, 20:40:30 PM
Quote from: trout-r-us on January 04, 2023, 18:53:26 PMBeen meaning to ask. What does DSFK stand for?
It's from the Drake dude named Kiner had a thing for dead animals — dead shit for Kiner became a thing — DSFK
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 04, 2023, 20:43:58 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 04, 2023, 20:43:58 PM
I thought it was Kyle?
Anyhow...
Anyhow...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 10, 2023, 09:31:57 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 10, 2023, 09:31:57 AM
#23-3
Back up to puneville, still swinging clousers, first run no action what so ever and what ever I had learned about spey casting I must have left at home. Maybe I was just thinking about it too much. I worked that water for an hour and moved on. Next stop I was casting fron river left which ordinarily is ok, but the wind was blowing downstream, and I would need to kack hand the cast, which I haven't had much practice with. I got a few grabs, may have tried to set the hook, bad choice on my part. I had a couple of fish on the line and then finally caught an overachieving pune.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/01/010923-1.jpg)
I moved around a bit and had a fish or two smash the fly and release themselves at a distance.
Downstream from the Devil Bridge, I had a few more grabs and brought another pune to hand.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/01/010923-2.jpg)
I saw the USGS crew launching their remote-controlled device. It looks like a small kayak, I stopped to ask what the device was for. They use it to measure the current streamflow. He popped the top off and show be the electronics inside and stated talking about how it measured the death and speed of the water using a doppler interpretation of passing particles in the water. The other guy was working on a laptop at the back of the truck and explained that they were verifying the gauge at that location and then announced that the river was flowing at 325 CFS. "I could have told you that," I exclaimed as I walked by in my waders. :laugh:
On the way home I stopped at another location and hooked a couple of better fish and despite setting the hook with gusto they managed to throw the hook after a brief struggle
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on January 11, 2023, 14:03:52 PM
Post by: Big J on January 11, 2023, 14:03:52 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on January 10, 2023, 09:31:57 AM
Back up to puneville,
You need to "forget" your camera. Then you will "catch" all these "big" trout and can just tell everyone you caught a "big" fish but when they ask for a picture you just say you "forgot your camera".
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 12, 2023, 07:42:12 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 12, 2023, 07:42:12 AM
#2 & 3
https://youtu.be/Z_cTSqAgiUg
RIP Jeff Beck.
Tuesday was a bit cold to start, but got much better as the sun warmed the north banks.
It was a euro day. I had tied up a new pattern and wanted to try it out.
(https://i.imgur.com/cnvDVYd.jpg)
I'm still getting used to my new micro leader setup.
But the casts/lobs/tucks are getting better.
The new fly?
(https://i.imgur.com/7KvQ7wX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/LFD5Jho.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tYGQa2h.jpg)
Yeah, the feesh liked it.
(https://i.imgur.com/VNA0vLN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/LHNmv4X.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/3vVhpTz.jpg)
I ran into Bobby and took a lunch break to watch him dry/dropper above me.
He was picking up some fish.
We parted ways.
A spin fisherman who had jumped below me was now coming up the trail.
He reported no luck.
Old wound becomes new again.
(https://i.imgur.com/mnRRPvk.jpg)
I caught a few more fish before hiking out as the sun started behind the ridge.
(https://i.imgur.com/N8DOQTJ.jpg)
Finished with 15.
Some stouter fish were lost.
:cheers
Went back Wednesday with designs to fish dry, dry/dropper/soft hackle/wets.
Cloudier day. BWO's active?
(https://i.imgur.com/WWMqmpE.jpg)
The big redds aren't as big this year.
And not very active.
Not a good recruitment year?
All that slow water at the start of the dance affect the results?
(https://i.imgur.com/LQXLGVa.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/B2bOjnM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4ToDZvC.jpg)
I switched up a lot today.
I had promised myself to go deep into the fly boxes.
I was changing every 10-15 casts of refusals.
Wading staff maintenance needed.
(https://i.imgur.com/yCyGkQ1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/JVvWtdD.jpg)
Much flatter day than yesterday.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ji0qo3t.jpg)
Never broke the code. Never saw a hatch.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 12, 2023, 10:48:06 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 12, 2023, 10:48:06 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on January 12, 2023, 07:42:12 AMWading staff maintenance needed.
The plastic cap on my staff came off and I didn't replace it, the wood is mushrooming at the end, not splitting, all good.
I was up yesterday too, but a bit lower than you.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: rbphoto on January 12, 2023, 11:29:18 AM
Post by: rbphoto on January 12, 2023, 11:29:18 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on January 12, 2023, 10:48:06 AMQuote from: Dougfish on January 12, 2023, 07:42:12 AMWading staff maintenance needed.
The plastic cap on my staff came off and I didn't replace it, the wood is mushrooming at the end, not splitting, all good.
I was up yesterday too, but a bit lower than you.
I used a copper plumber's cap on the bottom of my hiking/wading staff. A little epoxy and it's likely to outlive all of us.
Raymond
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 12, 2023, 11:52:36 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 12, 2023, 11:52:36 AM
#23-4 Gas $2.89 Cloudy 50s
Swung the clouser for a while had about a half dozen bumps and one pune on the line for a bit but no hook set. After working the entire run and coming up empty, I switched rods and went back to bobber / stonefly deep dead drifting. I found some willing fish as I worked the same run.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/01/011123-1.jpg)
message for @Big J
After catching a handful, I moved on down and fished some other spots without much success.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on January 12, 2023, 12:47:20 PM
Post by: Fishbug on January 12, 2023, 12:47:20 PM
Red Molly looks nice, but no match for Blonde Hunny :cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Native Fisher on January 12, 2023, 13:34:42 PM
Post by: Native Fisher on January 12, 2023, 13:34:42 PM
Red Molly is soso to me. Local brewery to me so I have had it a few times. If you like Irish Reds, my favorite is Hydraulion Red by Three Notch'd Brewing but they have changed it to a seasonal brew so it is hard to find now.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 12, 2023, 17:44:53 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 12, 2023, 17:44:53 PM
Blah, blah, blah. Bitching about my beer. No comments on the fishing. :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on January 12, 2023, 19:13:36 PM
Post by: Fishbug on January 12, 2023, 19:13:36 PM
Quote from: Native Fisher on January 12, 2023, 13:34:42 PMRed Molly is soso to me. Local brewery to me so I have had it a few times. If you like Irish Reds, my favorite is Hydraulion Red by Three Notch'd Brewing but they have changed it to a seasonal brew so it is hard to find now.
This was more a reference to beer can girl rather than the beer.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on January 13, 2023, 19:06:54 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on January 13, 2023, 19:06:54 PM
Red Molly,Blonde Hunny.....I thought you were talking about Doug's new fly pattern.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on January 13, 2023, 20:06:55 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on January 13, 2023, 20:06:55 PM
Are you guys allowed to drink at home? Or do you have to go fishing to drink? :drum :cheers <-;:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 18, 2023, 19:52:46 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 18, 2023, 19:52:46 PM
4 & 5
Back to back days.
I fished up higher on Tuesday and euroed a good series of runs.
I had planned on fishing after the rains moved through.
I got sprinkled on most of the day. Meh.
Just a couple of fish. b';
(https://i.imgur.com/mtrqwki.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/wKLFnFj.jpg)
I walked back out to the truck and the dam siren sounded.
Increasing the release? WTF?
So much for going down to the next runs.
I drove into town and swung flies.
(https://i.imgur.com/SKjrC0M.jpg)
I managed 4 more fish, lost a few more.
Eased home at a decent hour.
Checked the gauges at home.
Nothing. No increase.
b';
I was in no rush this morning and decided to hit my good runs from last week again and fish up into the falling light.
I also took my hand pruners and touched up the trail.
Will take the sling blade back in a month or so.
When I pulled out, I found bud scales all over the street.
The red maple flower buds are cracking. Jan 18.
Yee haa.
I hiked in about 11 am and immediately peeled down to my base layer.
Fished in it until 3:30. Crazy nice day.
Euroed with 2 different flies.
Same results. Except I caught a lot more on the upper dropper than normal.
(https://i.imgur.com/jscvprx.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/j3d4aq0.jpg)
Fumble!
(https://i.imgur.com/ndwWGl3.jpg)
The Smithfly guy came through as I was finishing up my good runs.
I never saw them land in a fish in the 20+ min they approached me.
They saw me catching.
Of course I told them i was slaying them.
That did not stop him from anchoring up below me and fishing right where I had left.
The Oly camera continues to be challenging to get decent fish pics.
I might try polishing the lens. Not much to lose at this point.
Meatloaf sammie for lunch.
(https://i.imgur.com/cGzFwGk.jpg)
Trying an old Martin Auto for the euro rod.
Heavy enough? Oooh yeah.
Allows me to take up line one handed when landing a fish/using the staff.
Good results so far.
(https://i.imgur.com/eIuCVU5.jpg)
Stopped up at the head of a long pool to see if any bug activity was happening in the setting sun.
And and I drank the final beer while contemplating life, the day, blah, blah.
Noticed this odd rectangular shape in the water near my feet.
(https://i.imgur.com/lRYoUxx.jpg)
Anybody lose a phone? A while ago?
I'm gonna pull the sim card to see what I can find.
No bug action. No feeding fish seen all day.
Dredged up a 15 feesh, 1 phone day.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on January 19, 2023, 17:16:04 PM
Post by: creakycane on January 19, 2023, 17:16:04 PM
Wednesday was a good day to be out. Flows at 300 are manageable In many pools and runs upriver and down. Didn't see any bugs to speak of, and can't recall a rise. Fished a small stimulator with a #12 tungsten bh stone 4 feet below with reasonable action. Maybe 10 or 12 fish, half 6 or 7 inches. All browns, no rainbows. A couple near a foot. If I wasn't hanging the fly up, I wasn't catching. Stimi still just served as hooked indicator- all fish on deep, dead nymph. Did not get many to hit on swing or when stripped. Not great, barely what I would call fly fishing, but better than 20F days of a few weeks ago.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 20, 2023, 20:01:53 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 20, 2023, 20:01:53 PM
#23-7 52 degrees and mostly sunny, gas $3.29
I checked the weather but didn't pay attention to the wind. The flag at the mirror plant was blowing straight down stream. I didn't even think about spey casting and went with a nymph rig; stone with a rs2 dropper. There was a Tahoe with a VA Wildlife Conservation tag; TR BUM in the lot, I didn't see him on the water as went low, stopping at the left handed run, it was there that I decided that it was going to be a bitch of a day as mending the line was difficult to impossible as the wind counteracted against all efforts.
I picked off three punes there, one on the stone and the others took the rs2.
I moved on down to the trestle and caught nothing. I was getting tired of fighting the wind and watching a bobber. I did see one trout rise to what I thought was a BWO.
After a couple of hours of abuse I gave up and headed out stopping at sally's where I caught a handful of punes and one better fish from under the rhododendrons.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/01/012023-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/01/012023-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/01/012023-3.jpg)
The Tahoe was gone by the time I got back to the lot at 3:30
Here is how chatbot wrote the TR
Ah, fly fishing for small brown trout on a windy winter day? That's enough to get any angler's heart a-flutter. It's a dreary grey scene - the sky is a deep slate color, and the cold wind gusts off the lake. For me, though, that just means more of an adventure, and I'm more than ready to take it on.
As I walk along the pebble and gravel shoreline, I can see the brown trout jumping in the murky-looking water, practically begging me to catch them. This isn't your usual day of boiling-hot sunshine and clear visibility, but that doesn't bother me. There'll be plenty of those days when winter passes, but those cold winter days, the such-as-this, come just once a year.
Casting my fly at the trout definitely takes a bit more finesse and accuracy on account of the wind.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on January 21, 2023, 08:24:26 AM
Post by: Fishbug on January 21, 2023, 08:24:26 AM
Doug slaying it.
Red maple buds have some Farmers Almanac meaning? Long winter/Early spring?
Red maple buds have some Farmers Almanac meaning? Long winter/Early spring?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 24, 2023, 14:55:53 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 24, 2023, 14:55:53 PM
What a BWO hatch really looks like!
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CnvphXyoe_g/
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CnvphXyoe_g/
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on January 25, 2023, 12:23:45 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on January 25, 2023, 12:23:45 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on January 24, 2023, 14:55:53 PMWhat a BWO hatch really looks like!
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CnvphXyoe_g/
Hatch of duns or spinner fall? I can't tell; lost my eye for such things.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 25, 2023, 16:58:39 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 25, 2023, 16:58:39 PM
The picky bastards were eating emergers yesterday.
They were letting duns float on by.
They were letting duns float on by.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 27, 2023, 22:24:37 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 27, 2023, 22:24:37 PM
#23-8 42 degrees and mostly sunny, gas $3.49
It may have been sunny in the parking lot but I was standing in the shadow of the bluff as the noon sun was too low in the sky to provide any warmth. I managed to catch one pune brown in that run and then headed on down to find Doug and have a beer and lunch.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/01/012723-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/01/012723-2.jpg)
WE noticed a few BWO and Caddis in the air, no trout rising, it looked desolate. After solving none of the world's problems we headed back to fish the run and caught nothing. We decided to move on up and hit a few spots on the way out. Doug swung some soft hackles below turtle creek while I watched.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/01/012723-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/01/012723-4.jpg)
He caught nothing and headed home and I stopped in at Sally's and caught a couple. A red raft was headed down and they hit the spots above me but were kind enough to row behind me.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/01/012723-5.jpg)
I headed on down to the devil bridge and rigged up the spey pole and swung up a brown on an intruder.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/01/012723-6.jpg)
I hit the river walk run as the sun was setting and caught a stockbow and that was that.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 28, 2023, 09:55:08 AM
Post by: Dougfish on January 28, 2023, 09:55:08 AM
#6&7
https://youtu.be/i2GEOcEcRtY
A couple of pretty days on the river this week.
That translated to weak fishing. b';
Very few bugs.
Very few willing fish.
Very few trains.
The highlight was getting buzzed by Ospreys.
(https://i.imgur.com/geQB9Wa.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iF6L3Ms.jpg)
The other highlight was seeing the bossman.
It had been months.
(https://i.imgur.com/vPx6Syb.jpg)
As he said, we solved zero problems of the world.
And agreed that the fishing sukked.
Jeebus.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 28, 2023, 20:03:59 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 28, 2023, 20:03:59 PM
#23-9 52 degrees blue bird skies.
https://youtu.be/mxdTTcNlQ7M
I had a choice of spey, euro, or conventional fly rods to choose from. I decided to swing flies today and hit the same water as yesterday.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/01/012823-1.jpg)
guys in a Dakota pick-up must have fished down low and left before I got down there as I started up at Sally's
I didn't even get aa bump in three and a half hours.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/01/012823-2.jpg)
Doug and i discussed the piles of leaves that are left on the bank. My theory is that this is created by beavers, but I don't know why.
Any of you beaver biologist know what's going on here?
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/01/012823-3.jpg)
pastoral shot
I even tried a spot in town, no luck there either, but I did get a couple of bumps...
I should mention that I saw some NC vehicles, one with a brand-new trailer at river walk -- I think they were floating smithfly raft that I saw just above River Road. There was another trailer parked there.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on January 29, 2023, 09:28:37 AM
Post by: itieuglyflies on January 29, 2023, 09:28:37 AM
When Woolly's TR lacks a picture of a beer and a trout instead featured a pic of a muddy ditch and two piles of wet leaves....fishing must be really bad!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on January 29, 2023, 09:49:10 AM
Post by: driver on January 29, 2023, 09:49:10 AM
I believe it is otters that make the piles of leaves. They dig the leaves up in search of food. Much easier to sort out on the bank that under water.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 29, 2023, 09:50:37 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 29, 2023, 09:50:37 AM
Quote from: itieuglyflies on January 29, 2023, 09:28:37 AMmuddy ditch
that there is Turtle Creek
Snap T casting is getting better all the time.... placing the intruder right up against the far bank... unfortunately there were no takers...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Big J on January 30, 2023, 09:48:02 AM
Post by: Big J on January 30, 2023, 09:48:02 AM
Looks like some Smith River fishing to me :Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 05, 2023, 10:27:42 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 05, 2023, 10:27:42 AM
#23-10 32 - 37 clear skies
cold day, layered up, icy guides for a bit, swinging for unicorns, only one bump.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/02/020423-1.jpg)
just casting away from river right all afternoon, it's a low percentage game and I almost switched to a euro rig, but I was in a double spey casting groove.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 06, 2023, 09:29:31 AM
Post by: Dougfish on February 06, 2023, 09:29:31 AM
#9
Was supposed to be mostly overcast.
Ended up about half and half.
The low sun was in my eyes most of the day.
But the days are increasing in length. About 2 min/day!
Started at 32, finished at 50 degrees.
Worked a reach I rarely fish.
A day of swinging new soft hackles.
(https://i.imgur.com/NNZGkAq.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/c8roIbZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/qfmXQ5r.jpg)
Spent about 2 1/2 hours in knee to ballz deep water before I got out for a break.
Nice to know I can go that long without pissing! Little milestones, friends.
Finished at 8 fish. Saw a handful of risers. No bugs flying.
Chucked a puff daddy at one. No bueno.
Home at a decent hour.
Firepit.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 09, 2023, 18:48:43 PM
Post by: Dougfish on February 09, 2023, 18:48:43 PM
#10
Now today was an overcast day!
Started warm, too.
Very few bugs flying. Again.
I turned over a bunch of rocks today and saw no mayfly larvae.
Concerning. I'll check a few other areas.
(https://i.imgur.com/xTNY1Pm.jpg)
Early Daffodils ready to bust a move.
Started small and swung up 5 small fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/49iZCqi.jpg)
Got a nice fly over by an adult bald eagle.
(https://i.imgur.com/GkRj26e.jpg)
I switched to a small streamer and came up empty after 45 minutes.
Neil texted me saying I should be throwing streamers. :laugh:
Switched to my big ass girdlebug under an indicator.
Still came up empty.
Moved up to the next good run.
Still denied after some damn nice fishing (if I do say so).
Moved up to where Keith saw me finish up last week and went small again.
(https://i.imgur.com/5k9LjuI.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/gac5qxz.jpg)
Hiked out under a light sprinkle of rain.
Started at 52, finished at 64 degrees.
No coat. Shirt and vest day. :Dance
(https://i.imgur.com/1cgx4on.jpg)
Probably won't be back for a week or so.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 25, 2023, 13:08:46 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 25, 2023, 13:08:46 PM
#23-12 & 13
(http://brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/02/022323-1.jpg)
DSFK
I ran up to the river to swing some flies. Lower river was pumping, so I went up into town and just as I was about to hop in a Hooligan floated through the run with just a rower. Could be Joseph Brock?? He anchored up below and cast a bobber rig, I didn't see him connect. I swung my flies and didn't catch anything.
I moved to another spot where two old guys were just getting out. I shed how they had done and then hopped in a swung a fly through the water that they had nymphed up a half dozen. I caught nothing.
I moved on to yet another spot where I continued to catch nothing,
One last stop on the day proved that the fish weren't interested in taking an intruder on the swing.
However, casting away the day isn't all bad.
https://vimeo.com/802282704
The next day, I hiked in with the euro rig. I fished Sally's run for a while and didn't even get a hit. Moving around a bit I finally started catching a few of the resident punes and after wearing out that area I moved on down the river.
I picked off one or two here and there, but I wasn't on fire. As the day wore on the clouds moved in and the warmth of the day left and there was a chill in the air, of course standing waist deep in the river didn't help. I wish I had taken my electric socks. As warm as the last couple of days have been I didn't think I'd need them.
Early spring weather has excited the blood root and trout lilies.
(http://brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/02/022423-1.jpg)
(http://brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/02/022423-2.jpg)
On down a ways I spotted fish taking emerges, bwos I figured.
https://vimeo.com/802282455
I watched the fish rise for a while and thought I should be tying up some emergers and swing them with the spey pole.
(http://brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/02/022423-3.jpg)
Beavers beavering.
Moving on down I caught a few more browns on the euro before heading on out.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JCB3 on March 01, 2023, 09:01:59 AM
Post by: JCB3 on March 01, 2023, 09:01:59 AM
Yep, that was me. I floated Thursday solo, Friday with the kids, Dad duties on Saturday, then floated with my son Sunday.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 01, 2023, 11:16:59 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 01, 2023, 11:16:59 AM
#23-14
I tied up some soft hackles with hopes of catching a hatch like I saw the other day. It was warm and windy with plenty of sun, specular for the last day of February.
It was close to noon, and I fished my way down to where Doug was finishing up his lunch. I joined him and we solved none of the world's problems while waiting for a hatch. We saw a bug here and there and Doug swore that he saw some fish rising in the run above us.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/02/022823-1.jpg)
I went downstream and quickly swung up a couple of SRP (Smith River Punes) and worked my way down to where I saw a number of fish rising. I thought about taking a photo, they were beautiful little fish, but I passed, hoping that I would catch a larger one worthy of a photo. I caught a couple more before I had to exit for a pit stop.
After a streamside refreshment, I swung through the run again and caught a few more. I went back up to watch doug work his spot, he reported catching a handful, but had become frustrated by an otter that had spoiled his pool. We watched fish rise and he went in to target them.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/02/022823-2.jpg)
We hiked out and fished the run below turtle creek, where Dough spied a turtle tail track in the muddy bottom.
I took the right and Doug went after the risers on the left.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/02/022823-3.jpg)
We put the rest of them down and Doug was finished for the day, I went up to Sally's and caught a couple more and then spied a troutbro working the flat water. I watched him for sometime before he noticed me. "Nice day" "Would be better if you caught some." "I caught a browns and a ranbow." "Are you fishing a small streamer?" "A bunny leach." "Which way are you headed?" "I'm heading home, good luck." "Thanks, I've got another 20 minutes." and I hiked across the field and drove home.
https://vimeo.com/803516643
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on March 01, 2023, 17:48:58 PM
Post by: creakycane on March 01, 2023, 17:48:58 PM
Saw some blue quills and stoneflies Sunday and today, but nothing I'd call a hatch. Fish looking up here and there, but stockers and wee browns hit 14/16 beadhead. Decent level, a bit higher than I'd like, but fairly clear all the way down. Rain coming so who knows. Mucho anglers on Sunday.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 02, 2023, 21:48:58 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 02, 2023, 21:48:58 PM
SRTU -- COE report progress on repairs, and hillside stabilization.
Timeframe for operation
Unit 2 rehab complete - Spring 2024
Unit 1 rehab complete - Spring 2025
Plant anticipated Date of Operation - Fall 2025, which is dependent upon the completion of hillside repair and the instillation of the switch gear building.
New turbines will be more efficient allowing higher output and a range of optimal flow with a top end of 1000 CFS per Unit.
Expect the same peak generation as in the past, with ramping up one unit, then an hour later adding the second unit. It's hard to tell what the maximum cfs will be as they'll be working with demand and water levels, but it's possible that they could be running 2 units at 1500 - 2000 cfs.
This is what the flow looked like in the month of April in 2014.
smifffff.jpg
not a very float friendly schedule and it may be more extreme with higher maximum flows.
Timeframe for operation
Unit 2 rehab complete - Spring 2024
Unit 1 rehab complete - Spring 2025
Plant anticipated Date of Operation - Fall 2025, which is dependent upon the completion of hillside repair and the instillation of the switch gear building.
New turbines will be more efficient allowing higher output and a range of optimal flow with a top end of 1000 CFS per Unit.
Expect the same peak generation as in the past, with ramping up one unit, then an hour later adding the second unit. It's hard to tell what the maximum cfs will be as they'll be working with demand and water levels, but it's possible that they could be running 2 units at 1500 - 2000 cfs.
This is what the flow looked like in the month of April in 2014.
smifffff.jpg
not a very float friendly schedule and it may be more extreme with higher maximum flows.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 03, 2023, 07:18:34 AM
Post by: Dougfish on March 03, 2023, 07:18:34 AM
https://youtu.be/Z0GFRcFm-aY
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on March 03, 2023, 07:48:41 AM
Post by: Onslow on March 03, 2023, 07:48:41 AM
Right after the turbine control shanty is repaired, another flood event will destroy it within a year.
Or the SE will experience an off the charts heatwave like the Pacific NW recently experienced along with a drought, and nearly all trout will die everywhere.
Adapt or die.
The Yadkin has been running 90% clear since October. The future looks good there for 2023.
Or the SE will experience an off the charts heatwave like the Pacific NW recently experienced along with a drought, and nearly all trout will die everywhere.
Adapt or die.
The Yadkin has been running 90% clear since October. The future looks good there for 2023.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 03, 2023, 08:49:26 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 03, 2023, 08:49:26 AM
Quote from: Onslow on March 03, 2023, 07:48:41 AMRight after the turbine control shanty is repaired, another flood event will destroy it within a year.
The are going to remove soil to bedrock so the switch gear room will be safe — part of the reason it has taken so long as the cost estimate and solutions increased more studies and contracts needed to be done
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 03, 2023, 12:38:45 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 03, 2023, 12:38:45 PM
14
Closing out February.
Too warm. No snow.
Lots of bloomage happening.
(https://i.imgur.com/HIJ7itm.jpg)
Herd mentality.
(https://i.imgur.com/re1z3Eq.jpg)
Mo little fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/CR3jOYz.jpg)
More bug life in the silty shallows than in the clear runs.
14-16 mayflies ready to bust loose.
(https://i.imgur.com/MkbJy1v.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/EJHWwQe.jpg)
What are these Stephen/ Anyone?
Attached to rock/slime at one end. Waving around in the flows.
3/4" - 1 1/4" long. 1/32" thick.
(https://i.imgur.com/gMfxiph.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/VovNqz2.jpg)
The Bossman hooked up.
(https://i.imgur.com/tyQ37Xp.jpg)
Worm Moon is a week away.
(https://i.imgur.com/EVCxzsF.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on March 03, 2023, 13:09:07 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on March 03, 2023, 13:09:07 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on March 03, 2023, 12:38:45 PM
What are these Stephen/ Anyone?
Attached to rock/slime at one end. Waving around in the flows.
3/4" - 1 1/4" long. 1/32" thick.
(https://i.imgur.com/gMfxiph.jpg)
Midge (Chironomidae) tubes. Image from troutnut.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 03, 2023, 15:28:35 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 03, 2023, 15:28:35 PM
Nice photo :cheers Golden stonefly nymphs?
(https://i.postimg.cc/Gh2SWMbC/EJHWwQe.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/Gh2SWMbC/EJHWwQe.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 04, 2023, 08:37:09 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 04, 2023, 08:37:09 AM
#23-15 50 light rain.
Zack Davis, a guide with BrownTroutFlyFishing.com in Ashville gave a talk on Spey Fishing at the Orvis Store in Greensboro. I wanted to see if I could pick up some pointers as myself taught experience is filling up with bad habits.
What better way to prepare than to hit the river on the way, well it's not exactly "on the way" I drove a total of 164 miles. The Orvis store is only 32 miles away... <-;:
The weather was gloomy, it was spitting rain and heavy clouds darkened the sky. I thought I might have a decent chance at swinging up a fish or two in a couple of hours. Only one pune taker of the clouser that I was tossing.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/030323-1.jpg)
Zack really knows his stuff and appears to be a great instructor and guide. I'm actually thinking of booking day to iron out the kinks in my spey setup. There wasn't a whole lot of interest in his lecture; I was one of two "customers" in addition to the two store employees.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 04, 2023, 19:49:05 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 04, 2023, 19:49:05 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on March 04, 2023, 08:37:09 AMWas Robert Bryant over there? Hate it for Zach trying to promote himself but love it for me when low numbers show up. You basically end up with the presenter one on one. :cheers
#23-15 50 light rain.
Zack Davis, a guide with BrownTroutFlyFishing.com in Ashville gave a talk on Spey Fishing at the Orvis Store in Greensboro. I wanted to see if I could pick up some pointers as myself taught experience is filling up with bad habits.
What better way to prepare than to hit the river on the way, well it's not exactly "on the way" I drove a total of 164 miles. The Orvis store is only 32 miles away... <-;:
The weather was gloomy, it was spitting rain and heavy clouds darkened the sky. I thought I might have a decent chance at swinging up a fish or two in a couple of hours. Only one pune taker of the clouser that I was tossing.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/030323-1.jpg)
Zack really knows his stuff and appears to be a great instructor and guide. I'm actually thinking of booking day to iron out the kinks in my spey setup. There wasn't a whole lot of interest in his lecture; I was one of two "customers" in addition to the two store employees.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 05, 2023, 10:29:01 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 05, 2023, 10:29:01 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on March 02, 2023, 21:48:58 PMSRTU -- COE report progress on repairs, and hillside stabilization.
Timeframe for operation
Unit 2 rehab complete - Spring 2024
Unit 1 rehab complete - Spring 2025
Plant anticipated Date of Operation - Fall 2025, which is dependent upon the completion of hillside repair and the instillation of the switch gear building.
New turbines will be more efficient allowing higher output and a range of optimal flow with a top end of 1000 CFS per Unit.
Expect the same peak generation as in the past, with ramping up one unit, then an hour later adding the second unit. It's hard to tell what the maximum cfs will be as they'll be working with demand and water levels, but it's possible that they could be running 2 units at 1500 - 2000 cfs.
This is what the flow looked like in the month of April in 2014.
smifffff.jpg
not a very float friendly schedule and it may be more extreme with higher maximum flows.
What a cluster fuck. It wont be a float or wade friendly schedule if they pulse 2 generators all the time off and on. It'll be right back to 6" fish within 3 years.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 05, 2023, 11:59:28 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 05, 2023, 11:59:28 AM
Quote from: Trout Maharishi on March 04, 2023, 19:49:05 PMWas Robert Bryant over there?
Don't know -- like I said 2 store employees and one other guy...
I had to rsvp to the invite, I wonder if they had a bunch of no shows.... I think there were about a dozen chairs set up...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 05, 2023, 12:04:48 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 05, 2023, 12:04:48 PM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on March 05, 2023, 10:29:01 AMWhat a cluster fuck. It wont be a float or wade friendly schedule if they pulse 2 generators all the time off and on. It'll be right back to 6" fish within 3 years.
We've all become accustomed to the the steady flows and it has improved the environment for the fish, but we knew it wouldn't last forever. It's a challenging game to play to be able to hit the river during the low flows and I hate how they invariably generate over the sulfur hatches, with few exceptions.
All I can say is fish it while you can and make the most of it. I don't look forward to fishing it at 60 cfs again.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 05, 2023, 16:54:23 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 05, 2023, 16:54:23 PM
Robert was the long time Orvis rep for the Southeast US. He's from Martinsville, nice guy. Last time I talked to him he said he had been working there part time since he retired. Like I said I hate it for the person doing the presentation, but it's always good for the ones who do attend.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JCB3 on March 05, 2023, 20:35:18 PM
Post by: JCB3 on March 05, 2023, 20:35:18 PM
Quote from: Trout Maharishi on March 05, 2023, 16:54:23 PMRobert was the long time Orvis rep for the Southeast US. He's from Martinsville, nice guy. Last time I talked to him he said he had been working there part time since he retired. Like I said I hate it for the person doing the presentation, but it's always good for the ones who do attend.
He's hardly in there anymore.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 05, 2023, 20:51:02 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 05, 2023, 20:51:02 PM
Quote from: JCB3 on March 05, 2023, 20:35:18 PMQuote from: Trout Maharishi on March 05, 2023, 16:54:23 PMRobert was the long time Orvis rep for the Southeast US. He's from Martinsville, nice guy. Last time I talked to him he said he had been working there part time since he retired. Like I said I hate it for the person doing the presentation, but it's always good for the ones who do attend.
He's hardly in there anymore.
Heck of a nice guy and good friend of mine. We fish together a few times a year. I can confirm he helps out in the store only in emergency situations. Happily retired.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 05, 2023, 23:06:24 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 05, 2023, 23:06:24 PM
Robert was very helpful to me a couple of times when there was really nothing to be gained from his end. I'll never forget those acts of kindness.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on March 06, 2023, 19:30:30 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on March 06, 2023, 19:30:30 PM
Used to be a Bryant's store in Martinsville with a fly shop ~ 40 yrs ago. I think it may have been Robert that did an episode with Franc White of Southern Sportsman fame where they fished the Smith River.
I still have some old tying materials laying around from that store. High dollar but the only game nearby.
48472B07-9476-40BC-B420-6137D6766D73.jpg
I still have some old tying materials laying around from that store. High dollar but the only game nearby.
48472B07-9476-40BC-B420-6137D6766D73.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 06, 2023, 22:47:56 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 06, 2023, 22:47:56 PM
Metz capes for $19.95 and I remember bitching about that price b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on March 07, 2023, 15:02:29 PM
Post by: creakycane on March 07, 2023, 15:02:29 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on March 05, 2023, 12:04:48 PMQuote from: streamereater_101691 on March 05, 2023, 10:29:01 AMWhat a cluster fuck. It wont be a float or wade friendly schedule if they pulse 2 generators all the time off and on. It'll be right back to 6" fish within 3 years.
We've all become accustomed to the the steady flows and it has improved the environment for the fish, but we knew it wouldn't last forever. It's a challenging game to play to be able to hit the river during the low flows and I hate how they invariably generate over the sulfur hatches, with few exceptions.
All I can say is fish it while you can and make the most of it. I don't look forward to fishing it at 60 cfs again.
The better conditions for fish growth have certainly benefited the fishery. Whether the elimination of the very low flows, or the shorter periods of scouring high/transient flows, has had the most impact, I am not sure. Don't know about bug sampling, either. I haven't seem good fall olive hatches in a number of years, though spring sulphur types have been OK. Not great, but ok. Tailwaters do change slowly even if releases remain the same over years.
Going back to a variation on the low flows early in the day, and releases in the afternoon, may benefit the lower river in peak thermal stress periods. Maybe the stretch below Mville May be better off?
While the very low flows do make fishing difficult, weeks at 600 cfs limit realistic areas to fish for the wader. Both are less than ideal. Would be great if a higher minimum flow could be maintained. Probably just a dream.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 07, 2023, 16:03:01 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 07, 2023, 16:03:01 PM
It looks like they're going to be dumping water for another 7 to 10 days although they may reduce the flow somewhat
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on March 07, 2023, 16:33:34 PM
Post by: creakycane on March 07, 2023, 16:33:34 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on March 07, 2023, 16:03:01 PMIt looks like they're going to be dumping water for another 7 to 10 days although they may reduce the flow somewhat
Yep, one of the many periods in recent times that would have been better for fly fishermen with the old high-low pattern ( and watching the daily up down).
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 08, 2023, 08:11:35 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 08, 2023, 08:11:35 AM
Quote from: creakycane on March 07, 2023, 16:33:34 PMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on March 07, 2023, 16:03:01 PMIt looks like they're going to be dumping water for another 7 to 10 days although they may reduce the flow somewhat
Yep, one of the many periods in recent times that would have been better for fly fishermen with the old high-low pattern ( and watching the daily up down).
Not necessarily. Knowing the coe and dominion, they would run 2 generators for 24hrs until the lake got back down below guide curve anticipating it shooting back up again when back to 75cfs..
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on March 08, 2023, 13:36:47 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on March 08, 2023, 13:36:47 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on March 05, 2023, 12:04:48 PMAll I can say is fish it while you can and make the most of it. I don't look forward to fishing it at 60 cfs again.
I remember those low flow days ......... vividly!
Plopping beetles along the banks, hooking casts under overhanging vegetation, and waiting for the dimple surface take. Or changing to a black or red balsa wood ant on the really picky top feeders. Or finding a pod of midstream browns surface feeding on obscure minutiae, replacing tippet with the 8 or 9x Racine Tortue the French suckered me into purchasing, scrambling through fly boxes for something the size of a speck of dust, finding nothing, settling for my smallest, and then having a 7" brown thumb their nose.
Am I the only one here that enjoyed the hell out that fishing?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on March 08, 2023, 17:29:49 PM
Post by: creakycane on March 08, 2023, 17:29:49 PM
Quote from: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on March 08, 2023, 13:36:47 PMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on March 05, 2023, 12:04:48 PMAll I can say is fish it while you can and make the most of it. I don't look forward to fishing it at 60 cfs again.
I remember those low flow days ......... vividly!
Plopping beetles along the banks, hooking casts under overhanging vegetation, and waiting for the dimple surface take. Or changing to a black or red balsa wood ant on the really picky top feeders. Or finding a pod of midstream browns surface feeding on obscure minutiae, replacing tippet with the 8 or 9x Racine Tortue the French suckered me into purchasing, scrambling through fly boxes for something the size of a speck of dust, finding nothing, settling for my smallest, and then having a 7" brown thumb their nose.
Am I the only one here that enjoyed the hell out that fishing?
Yep, 25 years of doing just that for me before the demise of the plant. I'm game for a bit of those days again.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 08, 2023, 18:05:13 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 08, 2023, 18:05:13 PM
15
Headed down on Monday. 260cfs when I left the house.
Hiked in and Chuck from Raleigh/Blacksburg was fishing the head of the run where I had planned on starting.
Cracked the early beer and waded out to wave at him.
Rigged up and noticed he was wadding across and down. He went around the bend.
I headed down, euro rod in hand.
(https://i.imgur.com/I4DvyL8.jpg)
I crossed over and realized it was extra pushy. Got down to the starting point and spotted Chuck just 100 feet below me.
Well shit. Walked down the bank to gauge his strategy. He was continuing a bit further down before starting.
Gave me the go ahead to fish the run above him. He was euroing, too.
Waded out. Yeah, pushy. Stained, too. Fun wading.
Slowly got into fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/nABMPBY.jpg)
Got to the top with only 5 to hand. he had gone around me and was fishing upstream at this point.
Sat and watched him fish as i had lunch. Bobby showed up and reported limited success, also.
Chuck joined us and we solved no problems of the world. 5 -6 fish each was the tally.
All of us started back on the river. I found that pushy had become stupid. The spots I wanted to go were up 6-9".
Got in a good spot to check the phone and found the gauge at 480cfs. Struggled to shore and started out.
(https://i.imgur.com/j7AEVqM.jpg)
Found Chuck at his truck and said our goodbyes.
Talked to Bobby later to find he survived.
Just another day on the Smiff.
:cheers
Headed down on Monday. 260cfs when I left the house.
Hiked in and Chuck from Raleigh/Blacksburg was fishing the head of the run where I had planned on starting.
Cracked the early beer and waded out to wave at him.
Rigged up and noticed he was wadding across and down. He went around the bend.
I headed down, euro rod in hand.
(https://i.imgur.com/I4DvyL8.jpg)
I crossed over and realized it was extra pushy. Got down to the starting point and spotted Chuck just 100 feet below me.
Well shit. Walked down the bank to gauge his strategy. He was continuing a bit further down before starting.
Gave me the go ahead to fish the run above him. He was euroing, too.
Waded out. Yeah, pushy. Stained, too. Fun wading.
Slowly got into fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/nABMPBY.jpg)
Got to the top with only 5 to hand. he had gone around me and was fishing upstream at this point.
Sat and watched him fish as i had lunch. Bobby showed up and reported limited success, also.
Chuck joined us and we solved no problems of the world. 5 -6 fish each was the tally.
All of us started back on the river. I found that pushy had become stupid. The spots I wanted to go were up 6-9".
Got in a good spot to check the phone and found the gauge at 480cfs. Struggled to shore and started out.
(https://i.imgur.com/j7AEVqM.jpg)
Found Chuck at his truck and said our goodbyes.
Talked to Bobby later to find he survived.
Just another day on the Smiff.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 17, 2023, 07:43:35 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 17, 2023, 07:43:35 AM
#23 16
Doesn't anybody work anymore?
Its Thursday, and for sure the weather was nice, but seriously three vehicles in the lot? One guy was leaving, said I was smart for arriving at noon, he had ice in the guides when he started.
I checked out sally's first, there were some caddis, stones, bwos and lots of midges in the air but I didn't see any risers. I swung a soft hackle for a bit and then spied one of the other anglers moving up in in the flats below. I moved on down around him and checked out the left handed pool.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031623-1.jpg)
Noting happening there, so I went further down and waited for some surface action.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031623-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031623-3.jpg)
Despite no visable surface action, I started working the water. As I got out I saw the other angler coming up from the lower reaches of the river. He stopped along the bank and ate a streamside lunch.
I worked up a couple of punes and lost a fly to an overhanging branch. The flymph that I tied on was getting a lot of attention, but not so many hook ups. After swinging through the run, I took a break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031623-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031623-5.jpg)
After resting the water I swung my way through again.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031623-6.jpg)
I kept staring at the green plastic bottles that had collected in the eddy across the street river and since the fishing was slow I decided to cross the run and pick up the trash. I stashed my rod with my cooler and made my way across. As soon as I started, fish started to rise right in front of of me. That figures!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031623-7.jpg)
I filled up my vest carred the rest in my net and took it back across the river.
I rested the water for a bit, hoping the risers would return.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031623-8.jpg)
I caught another handful of punes and them moved upstream.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031623-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031623-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031623-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031623-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031623-13.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031623-14.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031623-15.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031623-16.jpg)
The trout lilies are almost all gone now but the bluebells and mayapples are coming along.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 18, 2023, 08:06:17 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 18, 2023, 08:06:17 AM
Town was littered with people. Trash everywhere. Spoons and eggs in the trees.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 19, 2023, 10:52:11 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 19, 2023, 10:52:11 AM
#23-17 Windy, very windy and sunny in the 50s, did i mention the wind...
Got off to a late start and arrived to find a multitude of vehicles in the lot. A father and son were gearing up and I went to work getting ready without saying hello. Despite them having a good head start, I managed to beat them out of the lot. I headed to the lower part of the field and when I looked back, I saw them approaching Sally's.
I headed on down the trail, stopping along the way to check for rising fish and scan the surface of the water for hatching bugs. None were found. It was well after 1 o'clock and the sun was high casting harsh shadows on the forest floor. I passed the left handed pool and saw a pair of anglers down below. I wasn't sure which way they were fishing, the women was sitting on the bank dressed in knit hat, her blond hair blowing in the wind stood out like a strike indicator, and the man way casting a bobber rig down below. I stopped and asked which way they were fishing. She turned to answer, she looked older than I had initially guessed from the back of her head, "We're moving down, slowly down stream. Very slowly".
I said that I would jump in on down a ways. I left the Trestle Pool for them and headed for the lower pool, half way across the river I saw a trout bro nymphing pocket water and catching a few dinks. I was now sandwiched between anglers, stuck on marginal water. I swung flies for a while but the fish weren't interested. I got out and headed to a spot to drink beer and wait for some surface action.
I was upstream of the couple, looking at a deep pool, I rigged up some nymphs and got ready to wade across to the pool. The couple abandoned the pool and dissappeared into the woods. I assume they hiked out on the tracks as I didn't see them pass on the trail.
I was enjoying the last of my beer when I saw a flycraft coming down. I hopped in to protect my pool. I fought the wind and was frustrated as it blew harder and harder. The floatyboat passed behind me and they anchored up in the now vacant pool below. They flogged the water for a while and finally left.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031823-1.jpg)
I decided to take some pictures and have another beer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031823-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031823-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031823-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031823-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/031823-6.jpg)
I went back to fishing and stayed till about seven, I only caught one pune and had a half dozen grabs on the soft hackle.
The parking lot had emptied out and I was the last to leave. Weekends, arggg....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 19, 2023, 12:52:51 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 19, 2023, 12:52:51 PM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on March 18, 2023, 08:06:17 AMTown was littered with people. Trash everywhere. Spoons and eggs in the trees.
Yeah, I saw the stocking truck go by the other day!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JCB3 on March 19, 2023, 16:11:44 PM
Post by: JCB3 on March 19, 2023, 16:11:44 PM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on March 18, 2023, 08:06:17 AMTown was littered with people. Trash everywhere. Spoons and eggs in the trees.
Funny you mentioned trash. I reached out to 2 different people who "organize" clean ups if I could make a post on FBook to try & recruit any kayakers or people who fish the smith, no reply. I got the feeling I was somewhat encroaching on them. All I wanted to do was try get more hands to help clean up the river. That they float or fish in. I'll just do my tiny part & move along. 🤷🏻�♂️
It does amaze me how much litter & trash even on the upper, tires, wheel chair wheels, keystone light cans, etc.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 19, 2023, 17:00:46 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 19, 2023, 17:00:46 PM
Quote from: JCB3 on March 19, 2023, 16:11:44 PMFunny you mentioned trash. I reached out to 2 different people who "organize" clean ups if I could make a post on FBook to try & recruit any kayakers or people who fish the smith, no reply. I got the feeling I was somewhat encroaching on them. All I wanted to do was try get more hands to help clean up the river. That they float or fish in. I'll just do my tiny part & move along. 🤷🏻�♂️
It does amaze me how much litter & trash even on the upper, tires, wheel chair wheels, keystone light cans, etc.
SRTU has 4 cleanups/year. smithrivertu@gmail.com (http://smithrivertu@gmail.com/) to get on the email list.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JCB3 on March 19, 2023, 17:47:55 PM
Post by: JCB3 on March 19, 2023, 17:47:55 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on March 19, 2023, 17:00:46 PMQuote from: JCB3 on March 19, 2023, 16:11:44 PMFunny you mentioned trash. I reached out to 2 different people who "organize" clean ups if I could make a post on FBook to try & recruit any kayakers or people who fish the smith, no reply. I got the feeling I was somewhat encroaching on them. All I wanted to do was try get more hands to help clean up the river. That they float or fish in. I'll just do my tiny part & move along. 🤷🏻�♂️
It does amaze me how much litter & trash even on the upper, tires, wheel chair wheels, keystone light cans, etc.
SRTU has 4 cleanups/year. smithrivertu@gmail.com (http://smithrivertu@gmail.com/) to get on the email list.
I reached out to the people that organize it. Wouldn't that be the SRTU...? I offered to help rally some troops, it was basically a waste of my time & theirs too. It's funny how other watersheds get a lot of participation From their anglers & the smith gets maybe 4. Obviously what they are doing, isn't working too well. Never mind trying to help.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 20, 2023, 12:19:11 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on March 20, 2023, 12:19:11 PM
Quote from: JCB3 on March 19, 2023, 17:47:55 PMQuote from: Dougfish on March 19, 2023, 17:00:46 PMQuote from: JCB3 on March 19, 2023, 16:11:44 PMFunny you mentioned trash. I reached out to 2 different people who "organize" clean ups if I could make a post on FBook to try & recruit any kayakers or people who fish the smith, no reply. I got the feeling I was somewhat encroaching on them. All I wanted to do was try get more hands to help clean up the river. That they float or fish in. I'll just do my tiny part & move along. 🤷🏻�♂️
It does amaze me how much litter & trash even on the upper, tires, wheel chair wheels, keystone light cans, etc.
SRTU has 4 cleanups/year. smithrivertu@gmail.com (http://smithrivertu@gmail.com/) to get on the email list.
I reached out to the people that organize it. Wouldn't that be the SRTU...? I offered to help rally some troops, it was basically a waste of my time & theirs too. It's funny how other watersheds get a lot of participation From their anglers & the smith gets maybe 4. Obviously what they are doing, isn't working too well. Never mind trying to help.
Don't take it personally. Both SRTU and DRBA do as much as they can with what they have. Not too long ago there were 20-50 volunteers per clean up from all users. It gets pretty psychologically draining when one week progress is made and by the next week it's just as bad or worse. If you have a hefty group of people then show up on the day that the clean ups happen. They are publicized on both fb pages and calendars pretty well.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JCB3 on March 20, 2023, 19:51:47 PM
Post by: JCB3 on March 20, 2023, 19:51:47 PM
Who's fishing the Smith tomorrow?
3-21-23...?
3-21-23...?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 20, 2023, 19:58:41 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 20, 2023, 19:58:41 PM
Wednesday. :Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 20, 2023, 21:42:45 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 20, 2023, 21:42:45 PM
Tues and or wed
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 22, 2023, 08:37:07 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 22, 2023, 08:37:07 AM
#23-18 Gas $2.94 62 degrees and sunny.
A2822359-C6F1-4894-A3BC-B9734A8C96E0.jpg
so the photo memory thing showed me that I caught a bunch of these on the Uwharrie river back in 2016. That was a fluke of a day, just happened to find them in a spawning run. They were stacked up on a riffle at a low water bridge. I had to go back and see if I could find them again. No such luck. The Mayapples are popping up in force and I saw a number of Trillium too. There was a pair of Pileated Woodpeckers calling back and forth across the river as Kingfishers patrolled the water.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032123-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032123-2.jpg)
I threw a clouser for a bit, I didn't gear up and wade and left after 20 minutes or so and headed back up north to the Smith.
On the way there I stopped to check out a trail on Lake Brant. I heard Red Winged Balckbirds and Fish Crows on a brisk mile walk.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032123-3.jpg)
One car in the lot, guy was fishing the Rhodo slick as I went in at Sally's. There were bugs in the air and on the water, but I only saw one fish rise. I swung soft hackles anyway and caught nothing.
I worked my way down to the usual spot and swung flies and caught a few punes, but they weren't really looking up and I didn't want to play the nymphing game. I did see a sulfur!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032123-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032123-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032123-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032123-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032123-8.jpg)
I stayed 'till about 7 and split.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 22, 2023, 19:27:04 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 22, 2023, 19:27:04 PM
17
Cloudy, slight chance of a mid day shower.
Giddy up.
(https://i.imgur.com/3eKqFBP.jpg)
It was colder than I thought. Gloves, vest and stocking cap were donned.
Nothing was happening on top.
Swung up five and the rain started.
I backed up to a semi large leaning tree, cracked a beer and started a podcast.
An hour later, it had picked up the pace and I was getting wet.
(https://i.imgur.com/k66UvVy.jpg)
The rain jacket was where? In the truck....
I had bagged up the generous amount of trash Keith had left for me.
Which included a lot of heavy glass.
Hiked out two bags, stashed my rod and little cooler near the river and headed the rest of the way to the lot.
(https://i.imgur.com/TMwFAtS.jpg)
Cranked up the heater and started on lunch.
WB pulled in next to me.
He suited up as I finished dining.
Rain jacket equipped, we started back in.
I jumped in a good run and fish started rising.
I picked up five more as Keith fished the next run down.
I climbed out and found him down at one of my favs.
Fish stated rising out in front of us and he wadded out and immediately caught a decent fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/P6XGuma.jpg)
I watched him wack a few more and headed down to re-work the mornings run.
I coerced a few more little guys to bite before climbing out.
We drank another beer and waited for the fish to start up again.
No bueno. Finished the beers, solved no problems of the world and hiked out.
I toted the last bag. Thanks Keith.
(https://i.imgur.com/mz8rSOG.jpg)
Cookie cutter baker's dozen trout today.
We had been listening to a heavy lift helicopter up towards the dam/lake for a half hour.
While rounding the corner of the field, I saw a Chinook rise up with a boat? slung under it and slowly fly off. :o
(https://i.imgur.com/aJYKHlt.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on March 22, 2023, 19:27:58 PM
Post by: Onslow on March 22, 2023, 19:27:58 PM
That is a pretty fish. I bet the bass will be firing up by the weekend. I've had some good days, but I cannot tell you where on the U.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 22, 2023, 20:42:24 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 22, 2023, 20:42:24 PM
#23-19 mid 50s - rain turning to partly cloudy
Doug was warming up and having lunch in his truck when I pulled into the lot.
I geared up and donned my rain jacket and we headed out across the field. It was only after we split up with Doug dropping in below turtle creek that I realized I forget my vest. I had a soft hackle on the rod and three more on a fly patch, I was good to go, but without a net, which I don't really need to land the fish as much as to hold the fish while getting the phone camera ready.
Woodpecker did a number on this tree.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032223-1.jpg)
I started out at the left handers pool and caught a few fish. There was a good looking fish that was hitting midges on the surface but didn't even look at my fly. I would have switched up if I had my vest.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032223-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032223-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032223-4.jpg)
I moved on down and took a barley pop break while watching risers, Doug came down and offered advice as I caught a few fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032223-5.jpg)
I worked the run for a while and he left to find some fish in the water below.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032223-6.jpg)
I took a break and watched doug catch some punes.
And then it shut down completely and it was time to call it a day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032223-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 22, 2023, 22:07:26 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 22, 2023, 22:07:26 PM
Quote(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032223-7.jpg)
Glad you boys could sneak off and drink some beer :cheers Who does your nails Doug? :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 26, 2023, 09:11:40 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 26, 2023, 09:11:40 AM
#23 - 20 mid to upper 70s - high clouds
I pulled into an empty lot but before I could get out a truck pulled in and two neoprene Cabela wearing spin fishermen hopped out. I threw on my gear and headed down across the field, I turned to look but didn't see them, maybe the were going to fish up near Townes Creek.
I swung flies at the left hand pool and caught a pune or two before moving on down. There I found the fishemen from the lot, they must have hiked the tracks. Damn that must have been a hot walk wearing neoprene. They were hammering the head of the pool so I sat down and had a beer and watcher them and the water. They got out and hiked around me and entered the bottom of the left hand pool.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032423-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032423-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032423-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032423-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032423-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032423-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032423-7.jpg)
They moved on and I began to fish when a double rod carrying trout bro came marching in and declared, "I didn't expect to see anybody down here, have you fished here before?"
"Only about 100 days last year," I replied.
I thought he might have come up from down below so I asked, "Where did you start?"
"I'm at the mirror pland, but I started down in Fielddale. I caught 46" and he turned and marched upstream.
A pair of kayakers came on through and then another angler hopped in above me and he started talking about his friend who was guide.
I don't ever remember seeing that many people fishing this section of the river in the 30 years I've been coming to the river.
The bugs never really got going and I only saw a couple of fish rise. I didn't catch many swinging flies, but I was ok with that. It was a great day to be out, but damn I never expected to see that many people down that far on the river, especially now that the upper dam section has been stocked.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032423-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032423-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032423-10.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 28, 2023, 19:28:06 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 28, 2023, 19:28:06 PM
19
The kamikaze Cardinal is back. No windshield, side windows or mirrors are safe.
(https://i.imgur.com/rOmC92k.jpg)
Cloudy, cool.
Bugs?
Nada.
Euro'd a short but good run.
(https://i.imgur.com/l4S6pUl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/b3tQM7l.jpg)
After nabbing a few fish and missing a few more, I switched reels and soft hackled down the long slick water below.
Big, old Medalists rule.
(https://i.imgur.com/SLhYabn.jpg)
Picked up a few fish, but the streamside action was better.
Bluebells.
(https://i.imgur.com/9vsjicF.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/E3s1UzO.jpg)
Jeffersonia/Twinleaf
(https://i.imgur.com/qnj0ac8.jpg)
Yellow Cordylis
(https://i.imgur.com/0x00lph.jpg)
Weird Fungi.
(https://i.imgur.com/Pj6FlQU.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/jA4yJZO.jpg)
Moved downstream and ran into a gentleman just sitting and watching the non-hatch.
We talked for a while. VT, Blacksburg, Wisconsin Driftless and other connections.
I continued on downstream.
Caught some more.
Looked upstream and saw the Bossman working his way down.
I waded in, undid a grand tangle and we drank a beer.
Fish started splashy rises in front of us.
I claimed them and waded back in.
Keith went lower.
(https://i.imgur.com/78TEQeK.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/y9rzHKn.jpg)
I caught a few more, things quieted down and I headed out.
:cheers
The kamikaze Cardinal is back. No windshield, side windows or mirrors are safe.
(https://i.imgur.com/rOmC92k.jpg)
Cloudy, cool.
Bugs?
Nada.
Euro'd a short but good run.
(https://i.imgur.com/l4S6pUl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/b3tQM7l.jpg)
After nabbing a few fish and missing a few more, I switched reels and soft hackled down the long slick water below.
Big, old Medalists rule.
(https://i.imgur.com/SLhYabn.jpg)
Picked up a few fish, but the streamside action was better.
Bluebells.
(https://i.imgur.com/9vsjicF.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/E3s1UzO.jpg)
Jeffersonia/Twinleaf
(https://i.imgur.com/qnj0ac8.jpg)
Yellow Cordylis
(https://i.imgur.com/0x00lph.jpg)
Weird Fungi.
(https://i.imgur.com/Pj6FlQU.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/jA4yJZO.jpg)
Moved downstream and ran into a gentleman just sitting and watching the non-hatch.
We talked for a while. VT, Blacksburg, Wisconsin Driftless and other connections.
I continued on downstream.
Caught some more.
Looked upstream and saw the Bossman working his way down.
I waded in, undid a grand tangle and we drank a beer.
Fish started splashy rises in front of us.
I claimed them and waded back in.
Keith went lower.
(https://i.imgur.com/78TEQeK.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/y9rzHKn.jpg)
I caught a few more, things quieted down and I headed out.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 29, 2023, 08:56:30 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 29, 2023, 08:56:30 AM
#23 21 70s winds some clouds
short trip up to hit some spots "in town". it was hold onto your hat windy. I hit a couple of runs and caught a handful at both locations.
There was a decent caddis hatch and I saw I few fish rise, but the wind kept me from switching to dries.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032723-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032723-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032723-3.jpg)
It was time for a beer and dinner, so I sat on the bank and watched another angler work through the water I had fished, he was a euro trout bro, and I didn't see him catch any. He came up and we talked, he wanted to know where I had fished and how I had done, he headed up beyond where I had stopped.
I checked one other spot and caught a bow.
V:;
#23 22 much cooler and overcast, hoping for some bwo action.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032823-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032823-2.jpg)
With an earlier start I headed up to the old usual where Doug was fishing. I was hoping for a decent hatch on a cool overcast spring day. Nothing was hitting the surface so I started off nymphing up a few at Sally's pool before hitting the left handed pool where I caught a few more. I spotted Doug working the water down below and I headed down there for a beer break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032823-3.jpg)
As we were talking, fish started rising, couldn't tell if they were hitting bows or midges, but there was enough activity for me to rig up a soft hackle. Doug went in to chase the risers and I headed down to a lower run.
Not as mnay fish were hitting the surface there, but I managed to catch a few punes.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032823-4.jpg)
I checked in with Doug, he had to head home and I wasn't far behing him.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032823-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032823-6.jpg)
I brough some leftover venison chili with some collard greens mixed in for added goodness.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032823-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 29, 2023, 15:23:43 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 29, 2023, 15:23:43 PM
Quote(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/032823-7.jpg)
So you decided to have some left over chili and collard greens for your stream side dinner? do your waders have a zipper?
(https://i.postimg.cc/nh06Kqws/OIP-Z0p-LOvcq-2-TYT4-GPb-Gu-Iqw-AAAA.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on March 29, 2023, 21:11:31 PM
Post by: driver on March 29, 2023, 21:11:31 PM
Nothing seem more appealing right not that eating a pot of reheated chili in the parking lot of one of my favorite fishing spots.
I need to fucking retire. b';
I need to fucking retire. b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 29, 2023, 21:21:05 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on March 29, 2023, 21:21:05 PM
Quote from: driver on March 29, 2023, 21:11:31 PMNothing seem more appealing right not that eating a pot of reheated chili in the parking lot of one of my favorite fishing spots.
I need to fucking retire. b';
And then one day you will wake up a little sad but still smiling because you know it's all over. Then you can roll over, fart, giggle, and fall back asleep. :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 01, 2023, 08:41:11 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 01, 2023, 08:41:11 AM
#23 - 23 55 and rain Gas $3.40
Played tag team with Doug today, he left as soon as I started fishing. He had "obligations"!
I was standing at the head of the left hander swinging soft hackles to the spots where I've caught fish before, and I got a few bumps but no commitment. I was overcast and spitting rain, perfect for a bwo hatch, but they were scares. I sung through the near slot and then waded out deep and cast across to the far bank. casting 40 or 50 feet and swinging the tail out I picked off a couple of trout.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/033123-1.jpg)
I ended up shy of a handful before moving on down to what Doud has named the Dead Tree Pool and caught 3 or 4 more. I think his reference is to the large dead white pine up on the hillside.
Still not much of a hatch and only a few sporadic risers, I moved on again.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/033123-2.jpg)
The fly I had been using, my last partridge and orange, was now in ruin, chewed and bare of any hackle fibers and a loose ribbing, I had to swap out to a fly I didn't have as much confidence in, but as I worked my way down the run, I caugh a fish here and there and after wading through three times I added six more to my toatl.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/033123-3.jpg)
The rain was coming down a littl harder now and I was regretting not adding another layer. It was four thirty and I headed out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/033123-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/033123-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/03/033123-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 03, 2023, 20:39:50 PM
Post by: Dougfish on April 03, 2023, 20:39:50 PM
20 & 21
Closed out March on Fri.
I had put baybay on the early train so I got to the river extra early.
Kinda chilly, rain was iffy.
(https://i.imgur.com/1Z4bajQ.jpg)
Swinging day.
(https://i.imgur.com/V1OYJCa.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/03O6cOx.jpg)
When they're big enough to bite you and draw blood, that's a decent fish.
Worked on down and picked up some more fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/vfFt0m7.jpg)
Pawpaw's are blooming.
(https://i.imgur.com/lYasn3U.jpg)
Passed the torch to the boss.
(https://i.imgur.com/hKH6mIZ.jpg)
Hiked out.
It started raining halfway back to the truck. :wave
Monday, monday.
Can't trust that day.
But I did. And it was OK.
Not a soul to contend with.
Just some feesh.
(https://i.imgur.com/COraqxo.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/LDVykes.jpg)
Keith and I have discussed how the rainbow catching had fallen off.
I had not caught any in over 5 months?
Reversed that today.
3 to hand.
(https://i.imgur.com/8MnSVSN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/22mpZuZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/3F8Qgg5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HXP59XK.jpg)
Lots of bigger adult stoneflies are out and about.
(https://i.imgur.com/Cni1tYQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/3bhFj65.jpg)
Saw a few March Browns and Sulfurs flying, but not enough for fish to key on.
Temperatures continue to rise. We'll see.
(https://i.imgur.com/3hhKnjA.jpg)
May the Schwarz be with you.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on April 04, 2023, 01:36:48 AM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on April 04, 2023, 01:36:48 AM
Who does your nails? Asking for a friend. I do enjoy seeing you guys photos of the flora and fauna.
(https://i.imgur.com/1Z4bajQ.jpg)
I do enjoy see the photos of the flora and fauna. Is that black fungus you showed last week dead man's fingers? I wish you would name them all. I might know 1/10 of what you show. (https://i.imgur.com/Pj6FlQU.jpg)
]
(https://i.imgur.com/1Z4bajQ.jpg)
I do enjoy see the photos of the flora and fauna. Is that black fungus you showed last week dead man's fingers? I wish you would name them all. I might know 1/10 of what you show. (https://i.imgur.com/Pj6FlQU.jpg)
]
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 04, 2023, 08:29:05 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 04, 2023, 08:29:05 AM
#23 - 24 Gas $3.35 sunny 60s relentless wind
I try to avoid fishing on the weekend but I went anyway. The parking lot below the Beelzebub Bridge was crowded with a half dozen cars, on of which had a trailer. I spotted a couple fishing right off the boat ramp. I drove on and was pleasantly surprised to find no one at the usual spot.
I was getting some hits and caught a few but wasn't feeling totally confident in my fly, it was a bit beefier than the partridge and orange that I usually fish. I wondered if I should change flies. I finally did but the results weren't' any better.
I only took one fish pic (look closely) and it was a flub.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/020423-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/020423-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/020423-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/020423-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/020423-5.jpg)
It was a short trip as I had to get back early.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2023, 07:34:17 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2023, 07:34:17 AM
#23 - 24 82! -+; Sunny
follow the truck!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/040423-1.jpg)
quick and easy trip for a couple of hours of euro nymphing.
Caught a handful of trouts, a big horney head, and a couple of dace.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/040423-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/040423-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/040423-4.jpg)
As I waded back up, there was a pair of anglers coming down, spin and fly, father and son? They went behind the island so I didn't get a good look, but when I got back to the parking lot I discovered that they were from New Jersey! New Jersey, WTF!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2023, 07:52:19 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2023, 07:52:19 AM
#23 - 26 mid 80s sunny with a bit of a wind
Another quick trip, drove up in the afternoon, hit the water by 4 o'clock and fished until six.
Spent some time tearing up the car looking for a fly box, a wheatly knockoff, black and filled with Caddis, Soft hackles, midges, get down pat's, not a happy camper, didn't find it...
Back to swinging flies. Nothing happeining at Sally's but the dead tree pool produced a handful as did the lower run. They were all punes, but that was all I needed for the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/040523-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/040523-2.jpg)
Common Blue Violet ( Native)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/040523-3.jpg)
Great White Trillium (Native)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/040523-4.jpg)
Roundleaf Ragwort (Native)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/040523-5.jpg)
Picked up a couple of ticks on the way out.
also should mention Doug and I seeing a muskrat or two the other day and while I was out I spotted what I think are mink and not otters although I've seen otters in the past.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on April 06, 2023, 09:37:16 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on April 06, 2023, 09:37:16 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2023, 07:34:17 AM
#23 - 24 82! -+; Sunny
follow the truck!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/040423-1.jpg)
Likely a load of Tilapia ex. BRA heading to the Northern Markets.
https://blueridgeaquaculture.com/
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2023, 16:14:07 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2023, 16:14:07 PM
Found the missing fly box while searching to sighter material —- which wasn't in the car anyway <-;: <-;: <-;:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 14, 2023, 08:01:44 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 14, 2023, 08:01:44 AM
#23-28 Mid 80s
Back to the usual; empty lot.
flicked off a tick after crossing the field, found a second on my wader leg back at the car, and picked off a third one crawling on my chest when I got home. Oh how I hate those fuckers.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/041323-9.jpg)
Fishing was so so, not many bugs, just the occasional caddis, stonefly, bwo, I also saw a couple of sulfurs. Not seeing many risers, I stuke with swinging soft hackles and caught a couple off handfuls. I stayed late, as I just love the tranquility of the evening.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/041323-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/041323-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/041323-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/041323-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/041323-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/041323-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/041323-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/041323-8.jpg)
I was fishing the left hand pool around 7 when a couple came down the trail, and inquired as to when I was planning to fish, I told them I was done and they replied by saying, "We'll just move on down the trail". It looked like the gal was caring a sleeping bag. -+;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 16, 2023, 09:52:58 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 16, 2023, 09:52:58 AM
#23-29 Gas $3.39 mid 70s partly cloudy
some more urban fishing today.
Nymphed up a few, then I caddis hatch brought the punes out to feed, swung up a handful or two.
As I was gearing up at my first stop a dude pulls up and starts asking all shorts of questions about fishing the river. "What kind of bait do you use? Oh, you're a expert. Do you stand on the bank and cast? oh, you stand in the middle of the river? It must not bee too dee." I couldn't wait for him to leave; he finally drove off.
Then later after I got out and was drinking a beer, another guy comes up and starts talking about back in the day when he used to to fish for carp in the lower river and went on and on about how the otters must have eaten all of them. He finally left, after I finished my drink and moved on.
And to top things off I was buzzed by a drone!
People, too many people out on a Saturday!.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/041523-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/041523-2.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 20, 2023, 12:05:10 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 20, 2023, 12:05:10 PM
#23-30 low 80s.
Wet wading season? I think not while wading balls deep on the Smith as the sunsets.
There were caddis on the water when I arrived at a downtown run, the rod was rigged with a sotfhackle and I questioned my sanity as I donned chest waders in the heat of the day. The first run is only shin deep, but the lower reach is waist deep. I opened a barly pop as I was gearing up. It was after 4 o'clock when I made my first cast. I started catching pune brown trout and thought I should be fishing the 2 wt. Smith River Special rod, but the wind was wicked and I needed the lenght of the nine foot rod to comfortable cast. After catching a couple of handfuls of fish I moved on to the lower section and caught more punes.
I was making some great cast, swinging though rising fish, but wasn't even getting a bump. I finally decided to check the fly and then realized, as Croaker would say, "I was fishing on credit."
There were a number of fishermen out, I got low holed by a pair of them, but they left shortly after catching a pune.
I spotted some larger fish rising, but they were random risers, and didn't take the softhackle. I briedly entertained the idea of swathing to a nymph rig, but I was satisfied with the punes.
Around seven I was done, satasfied catching a couple of dozen browns in the 6 - 10 inch range and a couple of stockerbows in the 12 inch class.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/041923-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/041923-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/041923-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/041923-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 21, 2023, 20:30:16 PM
Post by: Dougfish on April 21, 2023, 20:30:16 PM
23 & 24
Two ho hum visits.
Fish wise.
Both were good for my soul, though.
Business wise, Spring has been extra busy.
I've done more design work in 2 months than I did in 4 months last year. :Dance
Needed the cool, cool water.
Last week I barely pulled the camera out.
Today wasn't much better, photog wise.
(https://i.imgur.com/cVsL0ft.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/bqk5DRN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/32NGLFU.jpg)
The woods are filling out.
(https://i.imgur.com/zf3KkNS.jpg)
First inchworms are out.
(https://i.imgur.com/6EirKGk.jpg)
For Woowee.
(https://i.imgur.com/e7yHUbX.jpg)
The field grows, too. And blooms.
Better flowers than hay?
(https://i.imgur.com/R4Kg1o8.jpg)
Best feesh. The dude had an old injury. Heron?
(https://i.imgur.com/RQamoNF.jpg)
Troutrus snuck up on me while walking the shoreline.
We talked for a good while.
Solved zero problems of the world.
Hiked out together.
He proved to be as attractive to ticks as the bossman. :o
(https://i.imgur.com/Hd7dZPZ.jpg)
:cheers
Two ho hum visits.
Fish wise.
Both were good for my soul, though.
Business wise, Spring has been extra busy.
I've done more design work in 2 months than I did in 4 months last year. :Dance
Needed the cool, cool water.
Last week I barely pulled the camera out.
Today wasn't much better, photog wise.
(https://i.imgur.com/cVsL0ft.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/bqk5DRN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/32NGLFU.jpg)
The woods are filling out.
(https://i.imgur.com/zf3KkNS.jpg)
First inchworms are out.
(https://i.imgur.com/6EirKGk.jpg)
For Woowee.
(https://i.imgur.com/e7yHUbX.jpg)
The field grows, too. And blooms.
Better flowers than hay?
(https://i.imgur.com/R4Kg1o8.jpg)
Best feesh. The dude had an old injury. Heron?
(https://i.imgur.com/RQamoNF.jpg)
Troutrus snuck up on me while walking the shoreline.
We talked for a good while.
Solved zero problems of the world.
Hiked out together.
He proved to be as attractive to ticks as the bossman. :o
(https://i.imgur.com/Hd7dZPZ.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on April 21, 2023, 20:36:08 PM
Post by: Onslow on April 21, 2023, 20:36:08 PM
Beastie
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on April 21, 2023, 20:53:43 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on April 21, 2023, 20:53:43 PM
Good to see you Doug. Just out for a walk along the lake and river.
I've crossed that field a bunch of times and never had so many ticks on me. Was still finding a few on the ride home.
Hung a Flybrary Board down at one of the community holes.
Some day I'll have to get back up there to fish.
IMG_0041.jpg
IMG_0037.jpg
I've crossed that field a bunch of times and never had so many ticks on me. Was still finding a few on the ride home.
Hung a Flybrary Board down at one of the community holes.
Some day I'll have to get back up there to fish.
IMG_0041.jpg
IMG_0037.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 22, 2023, 08:58:20 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 22, 2023, 08:58:20 AM
#23-31 Gas $3.09 low 80s
late start and I couldn't face the tick field, I'm seriously thinking about spraying my waders with Permethrin before my next trip across the hayfield. Since time was short, I stayed in town, fishing close to the car and catching pune brown trout during the caddis hatch.
I continued to swing flies but thought about switching to an elk hair dry when I saw several better fish taking a fly on the surface. I continued on with the soft hackle until the hatch petered out. I saw a nice fish take a natural in shallow water and changed leaders, tied on some fresh tippet and an elk hair caddis and caught the last fish of the day. Probably caught 15 or so on the soft hackle and the one on the dry.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042123-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042123-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042123-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042123-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042123-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042123-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042123-7.jpg)
I stopped around seven and went down lower on the river to see if there was any activity. I didn't see any surface action, so I rigged up the euro and hit the run as the sun was going down. It was difficult to see the sighter in the failing light, but I did manage to catch a couple of stockerbows.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on April 22, 2023, 09:10:41 AM
Post by: Fishbug on April 22, 2023, 09:10:41 AM
Sometimes the quick easy access trips are the best.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 23, 2023, 09:45:07 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 23, 2023, 09:45:07 AM
#23-32
I arrived earlier today, but just in time for a heavy shower.
Being a Saturday there were a number of anglers out in some of my spots.
I drove around while waiting for the storm to pass. EJ was fiddling with
his raft at the shop and @JCB3's had his stealthcraft
on the trailer down at the boat ramp.
I was surprised to see the parking lot at the tick field completely empty.
By the time I got back into town the rain had stopped and the one fisherman
who was at the River Walk had retreated to his car and was packing up.
I still had the elk hair tied on from yesterday, no need to change as
there were plenty of birds working the hatch. Right off I had a few fish
hit the fly and connected on the third or fourth cast, a beefy stockerbro,
followe by a nice wild brown.
I looked upstream and saw the blue raft coming on down and I moved on
down to the lower portion of the run where there were numerous fish rising.
I picked off the usual suspects and kept on catching until the fly lost all of its hair.
When I left the house I picked up a puck filled with EHC but couldn't
find it when I got to the river. I surmised that I must have put it down
before getting into the car.
I tried a few different patterns but didn't have much faith in them and finally gave up. I had caught more than a dozen and that was enough for the day.
It was close to six and I was hungry, so I drove to the boat ramp with
the intention of eating my dinner at the picnic table. As I approached
I noticed a wake of vultures and thought it strange that there were there,
thinking that it was too far from the street for roadkill.
I tried to get a photo of the committee, but a kettle of them few off
before I could take a photo. The remaining birds seemed reluctant to leave,
that when I noticed the skeleton of a large fish. I should have place
an object next to it for scale, no pun intended.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042223-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042223-3.jpg)
I drove on down to the Great Road Ramp and ate my dinner and had a beer before driving home.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042223-1.jpg)
When I got home I looked all over for the missing flies and finally found them in the car, fallen down between the seat.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutboy_II on April 23, 2023, 11:44:37 AM
Post by: troutboy_II on April 23, 2023, 11:44:37 AM
"Kettle of vultures" was a new one for me. Had to Google it. Discovered that it is a legit term for vultures in flight (not that I doubted you of course - just wanted additional info d:b ), and that if they are sitting on a fence, that is a "committee". Thanks for the education!
TB
TB
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JCB3 on April 23, 2023, 19:33:41 PM
Post by: JCB3 on April 23, 2023, 19:33:41 PM
How'd the TU river clean up go last weekend?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 23, 2023, 19:57:42 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 23, 2023, 19:57:42 PM
#23-33 Gas $3.49 mid 60s
maybe I'll write something tomorrow...
My Orvis Pro waders are a couple or three years old now so I wasn't too worried about them when I sprayed them down with Sawyer Permethrin Spray https://amzn.to/3H8poPC I was hoping that might a) keep the ticks off of me and b) not destroy the waterproofness of the waders. I got away in time to make the hike in across the tick field worthwhile. The field looks more like a meadow than a hayfield.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042323-1.jpg)
But the grass is getting taller, and I dread hiking in when it's chest high. After crossing the file I checked for ticks, I found none. Don't know if I was lucky or if the permethrin kept them at bay. They claim that the spray last through 6 washing cycles, I wonder how that translates into river wading hours.
I saw a nice fish rise just below turtle creek, but didn't go in there. At the left handed pool there were some caddis and mayflies hatching and I swung up four or five fish there.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042323-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042323-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042323-4.jpg)
Time for a break
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042323-5.jpg)
Pawpaw
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042323-6.jpg)
I went in at Doug's Dead Tree run and caught a handful on the swing. There was a larger fish rising at the very tail end of the far side of the run, it was a long cast. The fly is swinign across the tail and I'm tense with anticipation. I feel the take and set the hook; thump, thump, thump, I feel the head shake of a solid brown trout. I applied some side pressure and the hook pulled out. Damn, damn damn.
I moved on down to the next pool / run and after catching a few and losing a fly, I switched over to an EHC, and that was the ticket. I caught a good number on the surface!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042323-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042323-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042323-9.jpg)
These little clinger nymphs were difficult to remove from the rock.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042323-10.jpg)
Maybe @Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 knows what they are?
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042323-11.jpg)
I left around 5:30
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042323-12.jpg)
Getting back to the parking lot and getting out of my waders, I searched them and myself for those nasty blood sucking, dieses carrying, arachnids and found none. Luck? Weather? permethrins?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on April 26, 2023, 06:55:52 AM
Post by: creakycane on April 26, 2023, 06:55:52 AM
More caddis than mayflies the last week. Elk hairs pretty good, though many hitting soft hackle droppers. Taking mayflies selectively too. Takes a bit to find better fish.
I see they raised the flows by 80cfs last night. Probably prepping for rain Fri .
I see they raised the flows by 80cfs last night. Probably prepping for rain Fri .
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 26, 2023, 09:11:59 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 26, 2023, 09:11:59 AM
Quote from: creakycane on April 26, 2023, 06:55:52 AMI see they raised the flows by 80cfs last night. Probably prepping for rain Fri .
I'll go today and see what a couple of inches adds to today's peregrination.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on April 26, 2023, 13:21:34 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on April 26, 2023, 13:21:34 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on April 26, 2023, 09:11:59 AMQuote from: creakycane on April 26, 2023, 06:55:52 AMI see they raised the flows by 80cfs last night. Probably prepping for rain Fri .
I'll go today and see what a couple of inches adds to today's peregrination.
PEREGRINATION.😳
Thanks for the vocabulary lesson. Now, if only I could remember that tomorrow. 😁
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on April 26, 2023, 13:24:18 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on April 26, 2023, 13:24:18 PM
Quote from: creakycane on April 26, 2023, 06:55:52 AMMore caddis than mayflies the last week. Elk hairs pretty good, though many hitting soft hackle droppers. Taking mayflies selectively too. Takes a bit to find better fish.
I see they raised the flows by 80cfs last night. Probably prepping for rain Fri .
I was out on the lake yesterday and when I noticed the water level, wondered when they would begin dumping some.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 26, 2023, 19:39:01 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 26, 2023, 19:39:01 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on April 23, 2023, 19:57:42 PM
...............
These little clinger nymphs were difficult to remove from the rock.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042323-10.jpg)
Maybe @Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 knows what they are?
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042323-11.jpg)
Larva of Net-winged midges (Diptera: Blephariceridae).
I've never seen them in the Smith, but memory is bad, or I could have missed them.
Great find! As a general rule they are an indicator of very clean water.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on April 26, 2023, 19:56:51 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on April 26, 2023, 19:56:51 PM
Never seen midge larva that look like that. I always think of them looking like tiny worms buried in the silt or woody debris on the bottom. Interesting, glad Muddy could clear that up :cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 27, 2023, 07:45:18 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 27, 2023, 07:45:18 AM
#23-34 Low 60s -- cloudy
I didn't know what to expect with the additional 80 cfs flow, but it didn't look too bad at the spots I checked on the way to the Mirror Plant. The lot was empty. I checked for ticks after crossing the field and didn't see any. Several trout were rising in the Turtle Creek Run and I almost went in there but decided to go on down to the left-hand pool where I caught a couple before moving down to the Dead Tree run. I was fishing a CDC and Elk. I caught 3 or 4 punes. I had seen a couple of better fish at the tail out of the far run. Moving into casting position I found myself standing waist deep in the 47-degree water. I managed to get a hook into both of the better risers, but neither of them came to hand. I heard fish rising behind me and I caught one not a full rods length away. Several more were caught in this run that I had crossed many times but had never seen fish rising in it before. I fished that one fly until it was falling apart to the point where I was thinking about changing it but then I set the hook with too much pepper and broke off.
I was feeling the cold, I could have used another layer and fleece pants, I had to get out and walk about some to get the blood flowing as they say.
Down at the next pool the fishing only got better, and I caught many fish on consecutive casts. If I had Fred's clicker it would probably have shown a number between 32 and 38. I would have stayed longer but the cool day had done me in. As I walked out, I heard an Osprey and then saw it patrolling the water.
The extra 80 cfs wasn't too bad, and I wouldn't hesitate to fish it again. I see that they dropped the flow back down to the new normal flow. Rain today and tomorrow so I'll take a few days off.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042623-1.jpg)
Yorkshire Fog an invasive grass
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042623-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042623-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042623-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042623-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042623-6.jpg)
I didn't find any tick after the hike out.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JCB3 on April 27, 2023, 18:17:17 PM
Post by: JCB3 on April 27, 2023, 18:17:17 PM
Where can I find a list of these spots? The left pool, Sally's, etc..... Ill hang up & listen
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on April 27, 2023, 07:45:18 AM
#23-34 Low 60s -- cloudy
I didn't know what to expect with the additional 80 cfs flow, but it didn't look too bad at the spots I checked on the way to the Mirror Plant. The lot was empty. I checked for ticks after crossing the field and didn't see any. Several trout were rising in the Turtle Creek Run and I almost went in there but decided to go on down to the left-hand pool where I caught a couple before moving down to the Dead Tree run. I was fishing a CDC and Elk. I caught 3 or 4 punes. I had seen a couple of better fish at the tail out of the far run. Moving into casting position I found myself standing waist deep in the 47-degree water. I managed to get a hook into both of the better risers, but neither of them came to hand. I heard fish rising behind me and I caught one not a full rods length away. Several more were caught in this run that I had crossed many times but had never seen fish rising in it before. I fished that one fly until it was falling apart to the point where I was thinking about changing it but then I set the hook with too much pepper and broke off.
I was feeling the cold, I could have used another layer and fleece pants, I had to get out and walk about some to get the blood flowing as they say.
Down at the next pool the fishing only got better, and I caught many fish on consecutive casts. If I had Fred's clicker it would probably have shown a number between 32 and 38. I would have stayed longer but the cool day had done me in. As I walked out, I heard an Osprey and then saw it patrolling the water.
The extra 80 cfs wasn't too bad, and I wouldn't hesitate to fish it again. I see that they dropped the flow back down to the new normal flow. Rain today and tomorrow so I'll take a few days off.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042623-1.jpg)
Yorkshire Fog an invasive grass
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042623-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042623-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042623-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042623-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042623-6.jpg)
I didn't find any tick after the hike out.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on April 27, 2023, 19:42:10 PM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on April 27, 2023, 19:42:10 PM
Quote from: JCB3 on April 27, 2023, 18:17:17 PMWhere can I find a list of these spots? The left pool, Sally's, etc..... Ill hang up & listenQuote from: Woolly Bugger on April 27, 2023, 07:45:18 AM
#23-34 Low 60s -- cloudy
I didn't know what to expect with the additional 80 cfs flow, but it didn't look too bad at the spots I checked on the way to the Mirror Plant. The lot was empty. I checked for ticks after crossing the field and didn't see any. Several trout were rising in the Turtle Creek Run and I almost went in there but decided to go on down to the left-hand pool where I caught a couple before moving down to the Dead Tree run. I was fishing a CDC and Elk. I caught 3 or 4 punes. I had seen a couple of better fish at the tail out of the far run. Moving into casting position I found myself standing waist deep in the 47-degree water. I managed to get a hook into both of the better risers, but neither of them came to hand. I heard fish rising behind me and I caught one not a full rods length away. Several more were caught in this run that I had crossed many times but had never seen fish rising in it before. I fished that one fly until it was falling apart to the point where I was thinking about changing it but then I set the hook with too much pepper and broke off.
I was feeling the cold, I could have used another layer and fleece pants, I had to get out and walk about some to get the blood flowing as they say.
Down at the next pool the fishing only got better, and I caught many fish on consecutive casts. If I had Fred's clicker it would probably have shown a number between 32 and 38. I would have stayed longer but the cool day had done me in. As I walked out, I heard an Osprey and then saw it patrolling the water.
The extra 80 cfs wasn't too bad, and I wouldn't hesitate to fish it again. I see that they dropped the flow back down to the new normal flow. Rain today and tomorrow so I'll take a few days off.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042623-1.jpg)
Yorkshire Fog an invasive grass
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042623-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042623-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042623-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042623-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/04/042623-6.jpg)
I didn't find any tick after the hike out.
Available on CD at Wooweeknowsstuff.com. Just $29.95 buys you 30 years of experience. Free updates while he stumbles on new areas and consumes expensive craft beers. <-;: :drum $100 and a case of Bud Lite will get you the guided tour in person. BTW-you will be required to carry the cooler. :P :laugh: TBII is that you? :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 27, 2023, 21:18:05 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 27, 2023, 21:18:05 PM
Quote from: JCB3 on April 27, 2023, 18:17:17 PMWhere can I find a list of these spots? The left pool, Sally's, etc..... Ill hang up & listen
we just make up random names for spots we fish. I'm sure others have different names for those spots.
There is nothing special about them -- you have probably fished them and called them something else....
But if you happen to catch one of us on the stream then you might get to know the names that we call those spots, and as TM suggested, craft beer might help...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Trout Maharishi on April 28, 2023, 04:35:01 AM
Post by: Trout Maharishi on April 28, 2023, 04:35:01 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on April 27, 2023, 21:18:05 PMQuote from: JCB3 on April 27, 2023, 18:17:17 PMWhere can I find a list of these spots? The left pool, Sally's, etc..... Ill hang up & listen
we just make up random names for spots we fish. I'm sure others have different names for those spots.
There is nothing special about them -- you have probably fished them and called them something else....
But if you happen to catch one of us on the stream then you might get to know the names that we call those spots, and as TM suggested, craft beer might help...
JBC3-Just buy the beer, don't fall for the BJ like TBII did. :-X
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 28, 2023, 14:19:29 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on April 28, 2023, 14:19:29 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on April 27, 2023, 21:18:05 PMQuote from: JCB3 on April 27, 2023, 18:17:17 PMWhere can I find a list of these spots? The left pool, Sally's, etc..... Ill hang up & listen
we just make up random names for spots we fish. I'm sure others have different names for those spots.
There is nothing special about them -- you have probably fished them and called them something else....
But if you happen to catch one of us on the stream then you might get to know the names that we call those spots, and as TM suggested, craft beer might help...
Fun to recall the names of pools/areas of the Smith, particularly the old special regs section.
Starting downstream below where train tracks near river .... the pool below that was the "fishing shack/pole barn pool", moving upstream where you could look from tracks down on the river was the "watcher's pool area" then set of shallow riffles to "trestle pool", then above "trestle pool" was a rock garden with flows going in every direction (one of my favorite areas during the yellow hatch for small rising fish), above rock garden was the "log pool" with fun riffle/glid at the head, then the "south paw pool" (much easier to fish if you're left handed), then runs/glides to the eddy called the "scum suckers pool", then an area with depth along right descending bank that I called "David's Run" because I met a young whipper snapper, David, years ago here and he was all in a state a flux over a big brown he missed, then upstream through "Caddis Run" (best caddis hatch here years ago) to the tail end of "Mirror Pool".
Great memories from years past.
"South Paw Pool" was the location for the alpha test of SHIT, the Steeves Hiner Intimidation Technique. SHIT included wearing teenage mutant turtle masks, perching in the vegetation along the pool, talking and laughing softly, rattling the weeds/limbs, exposing only our heads/masks to the angler(s) fishing the pool. Most anglers would move on quickly. Yes, we were first class pricks! There you have it; I have purged my soul of what little guilt I may be carrying.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutboy_II on April 28, 2023, 15:49:35 PM
Post by: troutboy_II on April 28, 2023, 15:49:35 PM
JBC3-Just buy the beer, don't fall for the BJ like TBII did. :-X
[/quote]
WTF? I've been known to carry a cooler of beer for info before. Smith is out of my usual haunts so specifics aren't important to me, but I thoroughly enjoy reading WB's TR's. Good stuff!
You off your meds again TM?
TB
[/quote]
WTF? I've been known to carry a cooler of beer for info before. Smith is out of my usual haunts so specifics aren't important to me, but I thoroughly enjoy reading WB's TR's. Good stuff!
You off your meds again TM?
TB
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 28, 2023, 16:23:56 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 28, 2023, 16:23:56 PM
TM b like
(https://media0.giphy.com/media/ZgSCswpfwpeH0TIgeq/giphy.gif)
(https://media0.giphy.com/media/ZgSCswpfwpeH0TIgeq/giphy.gif)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JCB3 on May 01, 2023, 17:44:14 PM
Post by: JCB3 on May 01, 2023, 17:44:14 PM
I wanted to fish tomorrow. I see the river is running at flood level. Sighhhh :o
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 01, 2023, 17:58:23 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 01, 2023, 17:58:23 PM
Quote from: JCB3 on May 01, 2023, 17:44:14 PMI wanted to fish tomorrow. I see the river is running at flood level. Sighhhh :o
770 at Bassett, is about equal to them running one generator, just wait until they fix the powerhouse and run both!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JCB3 on May 01, 2023, 20:27:48 PM
Post by: JCB3 on May 01, 2023, 20:27:48 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on May 01, 2023, 17:58:23 PMQuote from: JCB3 on May 01, 2023, 17:44:14 PMI wanted to fish tomorrow. I see the river is running at flood level. Sighhhh :o
770 at Bassett, is about equal to them running one generator, just wait until they fix the powerhouse and run both!
They'll drain the lake running both. 😂
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 01, 2023, 21:06:25 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 01, 2023, 21:06:25 PM
Running good. Throw the streamer and stfu.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JCB3 on May 01, 2023, 21:27:35 PM
Post by: JCB3 on May 01, 2023, 21:27:35 PM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on May 01, 2023, 21:06:25 PMRunning good. Throw the streamer and stfu.
Classy.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 01, 2023, 21:42:19 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 01, 2023, 21:42:19 PM
Quote from: JCB3 on May 01, 2023, 20:27:48 PMThey'll drain the lake running both. 😂
They just run during peak hours usually M-F and then cut the flow to 65 cfs when not generating
btw the lake is up over 2 feet from the last rain even, so they can run that 770 for a week or so....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 02, 2023, 06:57:40 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 02, 2023, 06:57:40 AM
Quote from: JCB3 on May 01, 2023, 21:27:35 PMQuote from: streamereater_101691 on May 01, 2023, 21:06:25 PMRunning good. Throw the streamer and stfu.
Classy.
It's as easy as it gets. If you can cast, much easier than picking off pesky risers. My client lost 2 over 15" yesterday when they blew up his streamer like a dry.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 02, 2023, 12:08:40 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 02, 2023, 12:08:40 PM
Currently near elev 976.25 ft (2.75 ft above guide curve) and near peak following recent rain. Releases from Philpott were increased today (Monday) to near 715 cfs at the downstream gage. Increased releases will likely be held to the end of the week. Week-ending elevation is forecast to be near 975.2 ft. [Hydropower units out of service until further notice.]
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on May 06, 2023, 12:05:46 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on May 06, 2023, 12:05:46 PM
Their forecast was pretty good, with current level at 975.24.
Was out on the lake yesterday and needed boots to get on boat ramp dock.
IMG_0071.jpg
Long distance image of the spillway has me guessing they're gonna need to continue dumping, with showers and thunderstorms forecast for the coming week.
IMG_0074.jpg
I'm sure the "event" of three years ago is still fresh in their minds.
https://youtu.be/ceSnNsRnLZs
Fishing was rather disappointing after last week's trip. No big Smallmouth 🙁
A couple of the invasive Alabama bass, and the first Yellow Perch that I've ever caught on that lake in 45 years and many trips. 😳
Lake Biologist, George Palmer was out with his electroshocking boat (I'd like to have one of them. 🤣). Saw him at the ramp when we were taking out and he said he thinks water temperature drop sent the fish deeper, as he was't as successful as he hoped for.
IMG_0072.jpg
IMG_0075.jpg
Was out on the lake yesterday and needed boots to get on boat ramp dock.
IMG_0071.jpg
Long distance image of the spillway has me guessing they're gonna need to continue dumping, with showers and thunderstorms forecast for the coming week.
IMG_0074.jpg
I'm sure the "event" of three years ago is still fresh in their minds.
https://youtu.be/ceSnNsRnLZs
Fishing was rather disappointing after last week's trip. No big Smallmouth 🙁
A couple of the invasive Alabama bass, and the first Yellow Perch that I've ever caught on that lake in 45 years and many trips. 😳
Lake Biologist, George Palmer was out with his electroshocking boat (I'd like to have one of them. 🤣). Saw him at the ramp when we were taking out and he said he thinks water temperature drop sent the fish deeper, as he was't as successful as he hoped for.
IMG_0072.jpg
IMG_0075.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 11, 2023, 08:23:13 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 11, 2023, 08:23:13 AM
pimping out the river...
Brian Williams, E.J., and Alex in a video by WSLS NEWS 10
Go trout fishing on the Smith River in Southwest Virginia
The Henry County River is either famous or infamous for its fishing, depending upon who you talk to. But there is no shortage of trout.
You might question the part about "hidden." After all, it's well-known in some circles.
Many circles even.
Yet in Virginia, when it comes to fishing or floating we think more of the James, New and Shenandoah Rivers.
Cold tailwater rivers like the Smith are best known for trout fishing, which at the end of the day is a bit of a niche pursuit.
"This is a brook trout guys," intones Brian Williamson of the Dan River Basin Association, as he addresses two busloads of elementary school children, who had just arrived at the Great Road River access in Henry County. They are on shore, while he, in waders stands facing them about 10 feet into the river, holding up a clear plastic cup, with a three-inch trout swimming inside.
https://www.wsls.com/features/2023/05/10/go-trout-fishing-on-the-smith-river-in-southwest-virginia/
Note: you'll need to sign up for a "free account" to view...
Brian Williams, E.J., and Alex in a video by WSLS NEWS 10
Go trout fishing on the Smith River in Southwest Virginia
The Henry County River is either famous or infamous for its fishing, depending upon who you talk to. But there is no shortage of trout.
You might question the part about "hidden." After all, it's well-known in some circles.
Many circles even.
Yet in Virginia, when it comes to fishing or floating we think more of the James, New and Shenandoah Rivers.
Cold tailwater rivers like the Smith are best known for trout fishing, which at the end of the day is a bit of a niche pursuit.
"This is a brook trout guys," intones Brian Williamson of the Dan River Basin Association, as he addresses two busloads of elementary school children, who had just arrived at the Great Road River access in Henry County. They are on shore, while he, in waders stands facing them about 10 feet into the river, holding up a clear plastic cup, with a three-inch trout swimming inside.
https://www.wsls.com/features/2023/05/10/go-trout-fishing-on-the-smith-river-in-southwest-virginia/
Note: you'll need to sign up for a "free account" to view...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on May 13, 2023, 07:17:59 AM
Post by: Fishbug on May 13, 2023, 07:17:59 AM
I hate that sign up shit. :;!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 13, 2023, 09:29:33 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 13, 2023, 09:29:33 AM
#23 - 35 - 80s mostly sunny, gas $3.24
It's been a while, a couple of weeks for the damn dam to cut the flow back to a wadable level. I got off to an earlier start and got to the lot before noon. Doug's cardinal was waiting to ambush the Honda.
https://vimeo.com/826474994
I had to switch leaders, I use this rod for carp and these pune trouts. I tied on a brace of soft hackles and then set all of my gear aside, I wanted to move the car to see if being further out from the trees would stop the crazy bird from pecking at the windshield. I took some videos of the bird and then picked up my gear and headed across the tick field. The grass has grown quite a bit and is armpit high in some spots.
After crossing turtle creek, I ran into a blowdown blocking the trail, I believe the beavers had done some work on the trunk and the wind helped it along.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051223-1.jpg)
I went in at the left handers and caught a number on the swing. I hooked on deeply and reached for my forceps, damn, in dealing with the crazy bird, I forgot my vest. I only had those two flies that I tied on, oh well, I'll fish till I lose them, 'cause I ain't hiking back out now. A pair of kayak spin fishermen passed by, they commented on all the bugs that were hatching. There was a mix of bow, a few sulfurs, stoneflies, and a variety of unidentified mayflies.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051223-7.jpg)
I picked up two Stone variety ipa twelve packs marked down 50%.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051223-2.jpg)
The high flows took out the logjam at the White Pine Hole, and swept it up against the bank further downstream, changing the flow and holding spots of the trouts in that stretch.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051223-3.jpg)
I caught a handful or two there and then took a break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051223-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051223-5.jpg)
Back to fishing in the lower run I continued to bring fish to hand.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051223-6.jpg)
After catching over 40 fish, I made a bad cast and lost the point soft hackle, no worries I still had one fly and it had caught two thirds of the fish. I tied on some fresh tippet and went back to work. I can't say if swinging two flies increased my hook up rate any because I continued to whack 'em.
A smithfly passed by after 4 O'clock and I took a dinner break before heading out to fish some of the upper section. Trout were rising in the run and pool below Turtle Creek, so I hopped in. By this time my fly had lost all of its hackle and the thread was unwinding, but I was still getting bumps on the swing. E.J. came floating down in his raft as I was standing in the middle of the river at the top of the pool, he asked which side I was fishing and laughed when I said "both!"
He asked how I was doing and when I told him that I had left my fly boxes at the car, he offered up a couple of parachute sulfurs and partridge and orange. I thanked him and only took the parachutes.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051223-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051223-9.jpg)
I caught a couple on the dry and then spotted an angler wading down from Sally's. It was John from Durham and he stopped by to say hello. We spoke for a while. I was getting late, it was time for me to hit the road, but I'll be planning a trip to stay late and catch the best part of the sulfur hatch in the evening.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 13, 2023, 21:53:47 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 13, 2023, 21:53:47 PM
Might try and go tomorrow afternoon / evening and do some trail maintenance before the hatch starts
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 15, 2023, 09:34:26 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 15, 2023, 09:34:26 AM
#23 - 36 70s Gas $3.26
Sunday and an empty lot.
I grabbed some implements of destruction and headed across the field, which has grown at least 6 inches in the last two days. When I got to the path, I stared whacking some of the encroaching briars. Crossing turtle creek, I stopped to deal with the fallen tree. The saw made quick work of this obstacle. I wanted to have one off the ice-cold beer in my cooler, but decided to wait until after I caught some fish.
Stopping at the left hand pool, I swung up a hand full of brown trout.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051423-1.jpg)
Refreshed, I did some trail work on down to the top of the Trestle Pool.
I swung up a few trouts. A trio of kayakers came on through at 4:30.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051423-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051423-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051423-4.jpg)
At some point I switched to a #16 comparadun and caught a good number on the surface. It's a challenging run with lots of conflicting currents, which made it all the more rewarding.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051423-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051423-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051423-7.jpg)
I ate may dinner and then around 6:30 as I was finished up my dessert beer, E.G. came on by with a couple of clients.
https://vimeo.com/826918315?share=copy
I continued catching them and left the pool at 7:30.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051423-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051423-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051423-10.jpg)
On the way out I stopped at Sally's, cut the tree that was blocking the path and whacked some briars too. I caught couple of trouts there at the end of the day.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 18, 2023, 12:52:34 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 18, 2023, 12:52:34 PM
#23 - 37 70s sunny
I checked the bassett gauge in the morning and it was up but falling from the overnight rain. I went carp fishing in the morning and then headed up to the river. It was muddy, perhaps fishable but too muddy for my taste, so I headed up to the damn dam hoping to see some yellow bugs on the water.
I didn't see any but was hopeful some would start popping off soon.
I swung a soft hackle and caught a couple of stockerbros and a pair of browns as well. There were a few bugs popping off but the fish weren't real active. I switched to a dry and caught a few more before it shut down and i left for home.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051723-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051723-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051723-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051723-4.jpg)
I saw this line dangling from a tree over the water and waded over to retrieve it and found this lure.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/051723-5.jpg)
I stopped at the Bassett boat ramp for a beer and listened to the birds and watched them actively feeding on sulfurs. Only a few fish rose, but it was good to see so many bugs in the air.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on May 18, 2023, 17:40:57 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on May 18, 2023, 17:40:57 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on May 11, 2023, 08:23:13 AMpimping out the river...[/quote]
Brian Williams, E.J., and Alex in a video by WSLS NEWS 10
Go trout fishing on the Smith River in Southwest Virginia
The Henry County River is either famous or infamous for its fishing, depending upon who you talk to. But there is no shortage of trout.
You might question the part about "hidden." After all, it's well-known in some circles.
Many circles even.
Yet in Virginia, when it comes to fishing or floating we think more of the James, New and Shenandoah Rivers.
Cold tailwater rivers like the Smith are best known for trout fishing, which at the end of the day is a bit of a niche pursuit.
"This is a brook trout guys," intones Brian Williamson of the Dan River Basin Association, as he addresses two
Looks like it would be a nice way to get out on the river for an old guy during these times of high flows.
But darn.
Fourhundredandninetyfivedollars for a float trip?
Wow!!! 😳
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on May 18, 2023, 20:01:32 PM
Post by: driver on May 18, 2023, 20:01:32 PM
It blows my mind how many people will pay $500 to catch pune browns. I wonder how many repeat customers they have?
This is not a dig at the guides or their price, they have to pay the bills.
This is not a dig at the guides or their price, they have to pay the bills.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 18, 2023, 21:30:58 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 18, 2023, 21:30:58 PM
Quote from: trout-r-us on May 18, 2023, 17:40:57 PMLooks like it would be a nice way to get out on the river for an old guy during these times of high flows.
But darn.
Fourhundredandninetyfivedollars for a float trip?
Wow!!! 😳
Don't forget to tip!!
Ain't nobody getting rich guiding float trips....
Drive to the river, shuttle, lunch for clients, fishing gear, flies, drive home, clean the boat and gear, get ready to do it again. Twelve-to-fourteen-hour day?
Interestingly enough VA doesn't require a quide license, but TN is rather expensive, especially for out of state guides...
IMG_7881.jpg
I think a lot of the Smith River clients are newbies...
P.S. if you think that's expensive don't even consider salt water guides!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on May 19, 2023, 07:09:43 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on May 19, 2023, 07:09:43 AM
Do ya get to keep the guide's creel limit as well as your own like the salty guides offer? 🤔
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 19, 2023, 07:49:00 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 19, 2023, 07:49:00 AM
Quote from: Fishbug on May 13, 2023, 07:17:59 AMI hate that sign up shit. :;!
https://youtu.be/PONtWU4Q2AQ
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on May 20, 2023, 06:27:00 AM
Post by: Onslow on May 20, 2023, 06:27:00 AM
Quote from: driver on May 18, 2023, 20:01:32 PMIt blows my mind how many people will pay $500 to catch pune browns. I wonder how many repeat customers they have?
This is not a dig at the guides or their price, they have to pay the bills.
I might would pay that much for a guided trip down the Nolichucky gorge or the lower Gauley in WV only because it would be cheaper to hire a guide than to procure and store specialized equipment. At least with the Nolichucky and Gauley, one is paying for an adventure, and not just the pune brown fishing on a fake trout stream.
I paid around $500 for my Old Town Guide 119. It is the only guide I'll ever need. Great boat for old men as well as it very light and easy to handle. A couple upgrades to the seating, and one is good to go. It is yeetable, or one can lower it from a bridge guardrail without issues. Boat ramps are for bros and brays.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on May 20, 2023, 07:28:18 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on May 20, 2023, 07:28:18 AM
That is a hefty chunk of change to float the Smith.
I've only float fished a few times, and the only enjoyable trips I remember were floating from A to B and exiting the boat to wade fish. I did not learn a damned thing fishing from a boat; my feet needed to be on the bottom.
The Smith is a counterfeit trout stream, BUT you can/could learn much from that mother. I ain't sure you discover much elevated in a ship. Heck fire, I believe every brown and rainbow water I've fished could be considered a fake trout stream.
I'm as sad as a lone cloud in a clear sky now that spring turkey season is over. However, I am now thinking of fishing the Smith in 3+ weeks, after list of honey do stuff is completed.
I do miss the "punes" of the Smith. I've only caught one very nice brown on the Smith (22", on 9 June 1979 on a fully hackled Light Cahill in the Mirror Pool using a Fenwick glass and Orvis Battenkill reel).
Grousing about or judging educated punes is like erroneously assessing the gal with small breasts. It is what they know and how they move.
I've only float fished a few times, and the only enjoyable trips I remember were floating from A to B and exiting the boat to wade fish. I did not learn a damned thing fishing from a boat; my feet needed to be on the bottom.
The Smith is a counterfeit trout stream, BUT you can/could learn much from that mother. I ain't sure you discover much elevated in a ship. Heck fire, I believe every brown and rainbow water I've fished could be considered a fake trout stream.
I'm as sad as a lone cloud in a clear sky now that spring turkey season is over. However, I am now thinking of fishing the Smith in 3+ weeks, after list of honey do stuff is completed.
I do miss the "punes" of the Smith. I've only caught one very nice brown on the Smith (22", on 9 June 1979 on a fully hackled Light Cahill in the Mirror Pool using a Fenwick glass and Orvis Battenkill reel).
Grousing about or judging educated punes is like erroneously assessing the gal with small breasts. It is what they know and how they move.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 25, 2023, 08:17:48 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 25, 2023, 08:17:48 AM
#23-40
Just a quick trip up for some intown fishing. Sulfurs popping and fish rising...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/052123-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/052123-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/052123-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/052123-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/052123-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 25, 2023, 08:33:26 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 25, 2023, 08:33:26 AM
#23 - 41
Another late trip up to catch some trouts
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/052223-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/052223-2.jpg)
swinging flies and casting dries.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 25, 2023, 08:53:09 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 25, 2023, 08:53:09 AM
#23 - 42
Fuller day, hiked into the usual spot, the grass is way tall now, but there is hope that it will be mowed in the coming weeks as neighboring fields have been cut and bailed. Three trucks in the lot, Fishbug and Dougfish were already there.
The fishbug was in Turtle Creek run and I watched him whack a few from the trail above.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/052323-1.jpg)
I went on down to the lefty's pool and swung up a stockerbro and a few pune browns. I looked upstream and watched fishbug catch a couple more and then he disappeared. I learned later that he had a reel malfunction.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/052323-2.jpg)
On downsteam, I ran across Doug's beer stash.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/052323-3.jpg)
Cheers!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/052323-4.jpg)
Another stocker among the pune browns.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/052323-5.jpg)
Fished till 8, but the hatch was pretty much done at 7ish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/052323-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 25, 2023, 10:36:15 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 25, 2023, 10:36:15 AM
Quote from: driver on May 18, 2023, 20:01:32 PMIt blows my mind how many people will pay $500 to catch pune browns. I wonder how many repeat customers they have?
This is not a dig at the guides or their price, they have to pay the bills.
I've had 5 repeats this year already from last year. Granted most are newer anglers willing to learn/put the time in. Most people seem to think it's a fair price considering I'm handing them top of the line equipment and halfway decent instruction.
Yeah once you get to the level of an experienced angler, I can see your point. Those same people won't pay for a soho/watauga trip either purely out of arrogance either..
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on May 25, 2023, 15:15:46 PM
Post by: creakycane on May 25, 2023, 15:15:46 PM
One thing my once or twice a week excursions to the Smith in 2023 have shown is that I seem to be catching fewer of the better browns (chunky 11-12 inchers) and a larger proportion of the 8in-ish fish. Not complaining, just seeing less of the positive impact of the higher flows. Not scientific and a very biased sample from the Philpott to Mville. Still stumble on an occasional bigger fish, and of course decent rainbows at times, but the run of the mill seem smaller than last coupla years.
One reason is perhaps that I have backed off on bigger nymphs, and been using more soft hackles, small nymphs and little dries.
One reason is perhaps that I have backed off on bigger nymphs, and been using more soft hackles, small nymphs and little dries.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 25, 2023, 16:42:12 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 25, 2023, 16:42:12 PM
Meat catches meat.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 25, 2023, 19:30:40 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 25, 2023, 19:30:40 PM
Quote from: creakycane on May 25, 2023, 15:15:46 PMOne thing my once or twice a week excursions to the Smith in 2023 have shown is that I seem to be catching fewer of the better browns (chunky 11-12 inchers) and a larger proportion of the 8in-ish fish. Not complaining, just seeing less of the positive impact of the higher flows. Not scientific and a very biased sample from the Philpott to Mville. Still stumble on an occasional bigger fish, and of course decent rainbows at times, but the run of the mill seem smaller that last coupla years.
One reason is perhaps that I have backed off on bigger nymphs, and been using more soft hackles, small nymphs and little dries.
In certain areas, I concur. I think the fish really move around more than we give them credit for though. Another factor could be the large number of rainbows in the system that are eating the food source. I caught 7 in the fish camp hole Monday..and that's 1.5 miles from the nearest stocking site..ridiculous.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 25, 2023, 19:44:45 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 25, 2023, 19:44:45 PM
[/quote]
In certain areas, I concur. I think the fish really move around more than we give them credit for though. Another factor could be the large number of rainbows in the system that are eating the food source. I caught 7 in the fish camp hole Monday..and that's 1.5 miles from the nearest stocking site..ridiculous.
[/quote]
You might have come by me as I was hiking out Monday.
One guy in the bow?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on May 26, 2023, 09:48:35 AM
Post by: Fin on May 26, 2023, 09:48:35 AM
Quotelarge number of rainbows in the system
From Woolly's pics and others I've seen, those stocker bows look like they are certainly enjoying the more consistent flows. Prior to the damn dam's issues you rarely caught a rainbow by late May and if you did it looked so pitiful you felt like you should just knock it in the head to put it out of it's misery. These fish are beginning to look "wildish", fat, and happy.
How about all the fingerling brookies the Trout in the Classroom program has been dumping in the river for years? All just brown trout chow?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 26, 2023, 11:53:50 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 26, 2023, 11:53:50 AM
#23 - 43 70s partly sunny
Three vehicles parked in the lot and a couple of trailers at the boat ramp. I almost went elsewhere, but hiked in down the path were vehicles has been driving through the field. Maybe we should all do a lap around now and then.
I ran into driver's dad at Sally's. There was a smattering of sulfurs on the water and fish were rising, but they were damn picky. I lost a couple of flies to the rhodo and only caught a few punes before I headed on down further.
I struggled at the left hand pool too and only caught a few more small brown trouts.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/052523-1.jpg)
Down further I had better success, and caught a handful of better fish. The best part was getting trout to rise in these tiny pockets of calmer water off the cataract at the head of the run. I saw them come up off the bottom and smash the fly.
The hatch petered out and the fish became non-committal refusing the fly more times than not.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/052523-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/052523-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/052523-4.jpg)
A guide floated by and commented that he had stopped upstream and took a photo for a guy that had caught a 16" brown on a dry. The guide said that Driver's dad had told him to tell me about his fish. I text Driver and got the photo. He said that his dad said it was only 13-14", that just shows you how much a guide can exaggerate.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/052523-6.jpg)
I hiked out shortly after the second guide came through. He remembered me helping him when he was just getting started, and is now a guide, "My Bad!"
Fishbug was back at it again, in the Turtle Creek run.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/05/052523-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 26, 2023, 12:20:35 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 26, 2023, 12:20:35 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on May 25, 2023, 19:44:45 PMYou might have come by me as I was hiking out Monday.
One guy in the bow?
I saw a large footed bastard scurry up the bank but didn't think it was you honestly.. :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 26, 2023, 12:29:56 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on May 26, 2023, 12:29:56 PM
Quote from: Fin on May 26, 2023, 09:48:35 AMQuotelarge number of rainbows in the system
From Woolly's pics and others I've seen, those stocker bows look like they are certainly enjoying the more consistent flows. Prior to the damn dam's issues you rarely caught a rainbow by late May and if you did it looked so pitiful you felt like you should just knock it in the head to put it out of it's misery. These fish are beginning to look "wildish", fat, and happy.
How about all the fingerling brookies the Trout in the Classroom program has been dumping in the river for years? All just brown trout chow?
They do look good. A lot of bows in the system that are holding over. Also important to remember that the length/weight frequency on the browns has been on a steady rise the past few years. A lot of fish in the 85-90 score that used to score substantially lower.
Also interesting that the soho has reported a 35% decline in overall fish in the past 3 years. From what I'm hearing they are attributing that to low flows, habitat destruction, people stomping redds, and overall increased angling, aka the covid bomb. I have a feeling it's coming on the smith as well but more due to angling.
The fingering brookies don't make it. On the other hand the rainbows do make it decently. My clients have caught a handful this year 5-8", mainly near the great rd where the release happens. It's night and day difference. They look wild.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on May 26, 2023, 20:59:28 PM
Post by: Dougfish on May 26, 2023, 20:59:28 PM
31
I was out west/out of commission for three weeks.
This covers my last 4 trips in the last 11 days. :Dance
Holy shit, the woods/my garden grew like a bandit!
Did some trail maintenance along with the fishing the last 2 days.
(https://i.imgur.com/P7LAZ9g.jpg)
The green tunnel.
(https://i.imgur.com/suB8rdL.jpg)
The field.
(https://i.imgur.com/Y3gSuZW.jpg)
No body. :o
(https://i.imgur.com/pCSIIIr.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QZcojET.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1kjF6kS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/K34rdhl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/dxcBJ4X.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/JJYL1m5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QoCMNV8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/gQgwcKF.jpg)
A very tasty find.
(https://i.imgur.com/RlIN4XV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/0z6wfOt.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/zW0rmFr.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tD5teWF.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MWYg5fq.jpg)
Booty from CO. :Dance
Probably my favorite beer.
Can't get it east of the Mississippi.
Good to be back.
WB and Fishbug are good.
Sulfurs are spotty.
Water is cold.
Wood has moved around.
No ticks.
:cheers
I was out west/out of commission for three weeks.
This covers my last 4 trips in the last 11 days. :Dance
Holy shit, the woods/my garden grew like a bandit!
Did some trail maintenance along with the fishing the last 2 days.
(https://i.imgur.com/P7LAZ9g.jpg)
The green tunnel.
(https://i.imgur.com/suB8rdL.jpg)
The field.
(https://i.imgur.com/Y3gSuZW.jpg)
No body. :o
(https://i.imgur.com/pCSIIIr.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QZcojET.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1kjF6kS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/K34rdhl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/dxcBJ4X.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/JJYL1m5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QoCMNV8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/gQgwcKF.jpg)
A very tasty find.
(https://i.imgur.com/RlIN4XV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/0z6wfOt.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/zW0rmFr.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tD5teWF.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MWYg5fq.jpg)
Booty from CO. :Dance
Probably my favorite beer.
Can't get it east of the Mississippi.
Good to be back.
WB and Fishbug are good.
Sulfurs are spotty.
Water is cold.
Wood has moved around.
No ticks.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on May 27, 2023, 11:56:03 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on May 27, 2023, 11:56:03 AM
From post # 2831:
" A guide floated by and commented that he had stopped upstream and took a photo for a guy that had caught a 16" brown on a dry. The guide said that Driver's dad had told him to tell me about his fish. I text Driver and got the photo. He said that his dad said it was only 13-14", that just shows you how much a guide can exaggerate."
The state used to have us measure fish in millimeters which made them sound much larger to the uninitiated.
Rather than lie (or as Woolly gently puts it, exaggerate), guides should use metric.
330 mm would sound big and would maintain some semblance of credibility.
Putting all that aside, whether it's 13 or 16", that is one beautiful looking fish.
IMG_0435.jpg
" A guide floated by and commented that he had stopped upstream and took a photo for a guy that had caught a 16" brown on a dry. The guide said that Driver's dad had told him to tell me about his fish. I text Driver and got the photo. He said that his dad said it was only 13-14", that just shows you how much a guide can exaggerate."
The state used to have us measure fish in millimeters which made them sound much larger to the uninitiated.
Rather than lie (or as Woolly gently puts it, exaggerate), guides should use metric.
330 mm would sound big and would maintain some semblance of credibility.
Putting all that aside, whether it's 13 or 16", that is one beautiful looking fish.
IMG_0435.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 03, 2023, 09:07:56 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 03, 2023, 09:07:56 AM
IMG_8113.jpg
Coming to a few select riverside locations!
Coming to a few select riverside locations!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 03, 2023, 20:23:50 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 03, 2023, 20:23:50 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on June 03, 2023, 09:07:56 AMIMG_8113.jpg
Coming to a few select riverside locations!
Better keep those 10 fingers bossman. The saw shows no mercy.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 04, 2023, 08:43:47 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 04, 2023, 08:43:47 AM
#23 - 44
I thought they would run water into next week but was pleasantly surprised to see it drop on Friday. I ran across a discussion of wet flies and soft hackle and decided to tie up some of this old classic pattern in a size 10. It definitely looks buggy, but I was skeptical as to whether it would work on the diminutive Smith River Browns.
The lower lot was populated with three trailers and numerous kayaking related vehicles and several fishermen. I drove on, passing many mowed and baled fields and I was hoping to find the same at the mirror plant. The lot was empty, and the grass was eye high it spots. I started by cooling off at Sally's.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060323-1.jpg)
This NSR had just passed, and I thought about hitching a ride as he must not have many friends. I started off just swinging a partridge and orange and caught a handful or two working up and down this reach.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060323-2.jpg)
Kayakes passed and I moved on down and rigged up, adding the new classic fly. The fish liked it, they really liked it and took it over the #16 P&O more often than not.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060323-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060323-4.jpg)
Second raft of the day approached and blew through the water I was about to fish. It didn't matter as the bite was still on and I continued to catch a mix of rainbows and browns. I was a bit surprised that tiny trout took the #10 Carey Special.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060323-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060323-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060323-7.jpg)
The sky darkend and thunder boomed from over the ridge. Not wanting to get caught in a storm so far down the river, I moved on back up to Sally's where I saw two aglers casting away, and one shouted to the other, "Imagine Saturday and we have the river to ourselves". I hollered out, "Hey John" and startled them.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060323-8.jpg)
The sulfurs were popping pretty good and there were plenty of fish rising, John and I watch the other fishman, also John, miss two, three, four, fish on the dry. ,I drank a beer and watched the show. Finishing up my beer, I started clearing a site for the Leopold Bench, not that it will be finished anytime soon (since the river is now back to normal)
I swung my soft hackles and took a fish or two before switching over to dries. At some point Fishbug the third John, came on down and met everyone before heading off downstream.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060323-9.jpg)
J&J&J were planning to stay for a spinner fall, but I had plans for the rest of the evening and split by 7:30
Forgot to mention a Bald Eagle sighting along with Indigo Bunting and Hooded Warblers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on June 04, 2023, 10:42:29 AM
Post by: Fishbug on June 04, 2023, 10:42:29 AM
Wooly the Wise - No dry action after 8.
Pounded punes for a good hour though -+; d:b
Pounded punes for a good hour though -+; d:b
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 06, 2023, 08:22:09 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 06, 2023, 08:22:09 AM
#23 - 45 upper 70s, partly cloudy.
Wanted to go Sunday, but couldn't get away, so I went Monday afternoon. Empty lot, tall grass.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060523-1.jpg)
I think I was on the water by 3 o'clock. There were only a few sulfurs on the water, a few birds were working. Rigged up at Sally's with soft hackles; CS and P&O, swung up a feisty fish, was disappointed when I realized it was a stockerbro.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060523-2.jpg)
Then a war bird (F-15? IDK) few over at tree top level and roared up towards the damn dam.
The "pandemic paddler" came by in his red canoe with a bicycle stowed in the bow. I call him that as I never saw him before the Covid crisis.
I swung up a handful and then moved on down river.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060523-3.jpg)
Time to "study the water"
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060523-4.jpg)
Time to switch over to a dry and target the risers. #18 sparkle dun wore them out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060523-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060523-6.jpg)
Hated to leave early but I had obligations. Stopped in at Sally's on the way out and caught "one for the road".
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060523-7.jpg)
As I approached the lot it looked like the driveway was blocked, but upon a closer look, he pulled in far enough to get around. I left him a message on the back of a BRFFF sticker.
He looked me up on Insta and sent a message saying they "We crushed the brownies, how did u do"
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060523-8.jpg)
Bird of the day; Common Raven
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 07, 2023, 08:34:18 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 07, 2023, 08:34:18 AM
#23 - 46 high 70s
It's my favorite time on the Smith, sulfur time, dry fly action, rising fish. Although there are some hatches during the day, the best action has been occurring in the evening.
With four vehicles in the lot I expected to find someone at Sally's but it was vacant. A smattering of bugs floated and flew by, a fish rose here and there. I caught a few dinks and then spotted a nice fish rising. I waded into position and cast, saw the fish rise and hit the fly. I set, I missed. I waited and cast again. The fish rose a second time and I missed it again. Damn, damn, damn. I spent the next 30 minutes working this fish changing flies four times and finally switched to a sulfur emerger, that I fished dry before adding a split shot and that was the ticket.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060623-1.jpg)
Moving on down I ran into Bobby as he was heading out. I could see Dough working way down low and I started working the pool that Bobby had worked earlier. I nymped up a few and then switched to swinging soft hackles. I caught punes.
Doug came back up and we took a beer break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060623-3.jpg)
A pair of Osprey V-22 flew overhead. Around 5:30 the hatch began in earnest and I rigged up with a #18 comparadun. The game was on and many fish were caught but I missed a ton.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060623-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060623-2.jpg)
And then by 7:30 it had slowed down and I began the hike out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060623-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/060623-6.jpg)
Canadian forest fire sunset?
I was the last one to leave.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on June 07, 2023, 11:14:43 AM
Post by: Fishbug on June 07, 2023, 11:14:43 AM
Went yesterday midday; saw 5 cars in lot :;!
Scooted upriver. Pecked at a few holes.
Checked out the boat "ramp" near the damn. I'm gonna get the drift boat down there some foolish day. Maybe canoe/raft it first and see.
Lost the fishing urge.
Had a slice from Papas.
Back to the grind.
Scooted upriver. Pecked at a few holes.
Checked out the boat "ramp" near the damn. I'm gonna get the drift boat down there some foolish day. Maybe canoe/raft it first and see.
Lost the fishing urge.
Had a slice from Papas.
Back to the grind.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on June 07, 2023, 12:45:41 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on June 07, 2023, 12:45:41 PM
Woolly,
I can't help but notice you have slacked off, as your report from 6/9/2022 showed you with 67 trips, and your most recent report indicates a mere 46 trips during roughly the same time period this year.
Question: Do these numbers reflect ALL fishing outings or just those to the Smith River?
I can't help but notice you have slacked off, as your report from 6/9/2022 showed you with 67 trips, and your most recent report indicates a mere 46 trips during roughly the same time period this year.
Question: Do these numbers reflect ALL fishing outings or just those to the Smith River?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 07, 2023, 13:05:00 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 07, 2023, 13:05:00 PM
Quote from: trout-r-us on June 07, 2023, 12:45:41 PMQuestion: Do these numbers reflect ALL fishing outings or just those to the Smith River?
The numbers are trips made and include the Smith, South Holston, New, and James rivers. I don't count the trips to the carp pond as they usually only last for an hour or two and don't always involve catching.. I would guess I've been to the pond 16 times and have caught 8 carp.
I've had to slow down a bit due to taking care of mom @ 97! This has limited me to being in cell phone range and not too far away from home.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on June 07, 2023, 16:59:17 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on June 07, 2023, 16:59:17 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on June 07, 2023, 13:05:00 PMI've had to slow down a bit due to taking care of mom @ 97! This has limited me to being in cell phone range and not too far away from home.
Good man!! 👍
I can not imagine a better reason.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on June 07, 2023, 21:25:15 PM
Post by: driver on June 07, 2023, 21:25:15 PM
I saw that Raven when I was up there a few weeks ago. I didn't get a positive ID but saw it fly across the field. I knew it was to big to be crow, but flew like a crow.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 07, 2023, 22:11:43 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 07, 2023, 22:11:43 PM
Quote from: driver on June 07, 2023, 21:25:15 PMI saw that Raven when I was up there a few weeks ago. I didn't get a positive ID but saw it fly across the field. I knew it was to big to be crow, but flew like a crow.
I saw it and heard its call; Merlin helped with the ID1
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on June 08, 2023, 12:27:47 PM
Post by: Fishbug on June 08, 2023, 12:27:47 PM
Did it quoth nevermore?!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on June 09, 2023, 20:55:05 PM
Post by: Dougfish on June 09, 2023, 20:55:05 PM
33 & 34
Tuesday. Bobby, new guy Harold from Bedford and I walked in together.
Bobby pealed off in the field and I showed Harold the fisherman's path.
He settled into a spot and I headed down further. (He knew what he was doing.)
(https://i.imgur.com/injoj2S.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/P2RpZFP.jpg)
Swung up a bunch on a nymph and soft hackle.
No size.
Harold had moved down. We were both sitting at 12-15 feesh.
He headed back up, I went down.
I was headed down around the bend and another guy was coming up.
A track walker.
Even though I had the right of way, I moved to the bank to let him continue up.
He continued up, crossed the river and exited up to the tracks.
Without saying a word. :laugh:
I continued on down and caught a few more.
Turned around because I was thirsty.
And the beer stash was upstream.
Found this guy flogging.
(https://i.imgur.com/Isb20Gv.jpg)
We yakked, drank, and solved zero problems of the world.
I moved up and out.
(https://i.imgur.com/hAgaFOC.jpg)
Friday. Got there early. Because I had to leave early.
Not a soul.
Just me.
Two kayakers early.
(https://i.imgur.com/QfW5xHV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Q5G2zLf.jpg)
Swung up a handful.
Went down again.
Clipped off the nymph/soft hackle.
Dry/dropper for the wade back up after a bev and leftover pizza.
(https://i.imgur.com/YS1Ppkl.jpg)
Feesh size went way up.
(https://i.imgur.com/LSdXTmf.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/UFAcWYa.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/svHfYMN.jpg)
7x in heavy water meant I played them a lot longer than usual.
I typically horse them in too much.
Character flaw.
(https://i.imgur.com/VRpFg21.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/3RYEz7n.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/vWERAvY.jpg)
#16 Comparadun and #18 P&O FTW.
(https://i.imgur.com/Mn54w29.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/cG3luxT.jpg)
Field remains uncut.
Left at 4:30. No one else in the lot.
:cheers
Tuesday. Bobby, new guy Harold from Bedford and I walked in together.
Bobby pealed off in the field and I showed Harold the fisherman's path.
He settled into a spot and I headed down further. (He knew what he was doing.)
(https://i.imgur.com/injoj2S.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/P2RpZFP.jpg)
Swung up a bunch on a nymph and soft hackle.
No size.
Harold had moved down. We were both sitting at 12-15 feesh.
He headed back up, I went down.
I was headed down around the bend and another guy was coming up.
A track walker.
Even though I had the right of way, I moved to the bank to let him continue up.
He continued up, crossed the river and exited up to the tracks.
Without saying a word. :laugh:
I continued on down and caught a few more.
Turned around because I was thirsty.
And the beer stash was upstream.
Found this guy flogging.
(https://i.imgur.com/Isb20Gv.jpg)
We yakked, drank, and solved zero problems of the world.
I moved up and out.
(https://i.imgur.com/hAgaFOC.jpg)
Friday. Got there early. Because I had to leave early.
Not a soul.
Just me.
Two kayakers early.
(https://i.imgur.com/QfW5xHV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Q5G2zLf.jpg)
Swung up a handful.
Went down again.
Clipped off the nymph/soft hackle.
Dry/dropper for the wade back up after a bev and leftover pizza.
(https://i.imgur.com/YS1Ppkl.jpg)
Feesh size went way up.
(https://i.imgur.com/LSdXTmf.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/UFAcWYa.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/svHfYMN.jpg)
7x in heavy water meant I played them a lot longer than usual.
I typically horse them in too much.
Character flaw.
(https://i.imgur.com/VRpFg21.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/3RYEz7n.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/vWERAvY.jpg)
#16 Comparadun and #18 P&O FTW.
(https://i.imgur.com/Mn54w29.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/cG3luxT.jpg)
Field remains uncut.
Left at 4:30. No one else in the lot.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on June 10, 2023, 05:29:23 AM
Post by: Onslow on June 10, 2023, 05:29:23 AM
Damn Doug, those are nice! Love the walnut colored ones as well.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 11, 2023, 09:41:58 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 11, 2023, 09:41:58 AM
#23 - 47 Low 80s - hazy scattered clouds
Too many vehicles in the lot -- funny they all were backed into the tree line.
The afternoon sun was beating down on the unmowed field. I was working up a sweat as I made my way across the tall grass. A fat black snake startled me as it slithered away. That was the first one I've seen in the field. Making my way to Sally's I almost stepped on another one, "Damn," I cried out as it retreated to the woods.
I was ready to cool off in a deep run but when I got to the water there were two spin guys working the hole below sally's, I stood there for a few minutes and then moved on down river.
I ran into Howard at the Lefthander, he had caught 7 or 8 I moved on down to the Dead Pine run.
Fish were rising and there was a sparce mix of sulfurs and bwos. I worked the far side and managed 8 or 9 in short order before kayakers blew through the run.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061023-1.jpg)
I took a brewk
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061023-2.jpg)
That hatch petered out and I switched to to wet flies for a while and swung up a handful of punes.
I took another break and ate a snad while waiting for the sulfur hatch to start. The bugs started round 6 and were pretty much done by 7:30. I probably had 100 refusals it was maddening and most of what I brought to hand was punish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061023-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061023-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061023-5.jpg)
I ran into Howard again who was in the turtle creek run, he told me that Jason had placed my repaired Sage One tip on my windshield and he was fishing upriver. I ran into him as Sally's and we walked out together.
On the drive home the 2015 CR-V hit a milestone.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061023-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutboy_II on June 11, 2023, 13:55:10 PM
Post by: troutboy_II on June 11, 2023, 13:55:10 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on June 11, 2023, 09:41:58 AM
On the drive home the 2015 CR-V hit a milestone.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061023-6.jpg)
We're on our third CR-V. Only 80k on this one so far. Every time I think we'll get something else, I compare to the latest CR-V and wind up getting another one. Just a great car - perfect for FS roads and everything else. Still, that Porsche Cayenne would look good on gravel too. Now if I can just find where a stuck that extra $100k I had? d:b
TB
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 11, 2023, 15:14:12 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 11, 2023, 15:14:12 PM
Progress d:b
IMG_8276.jpg
IMG_8276.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on June 11, 2023, 17:14:20 PM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on June 11, 2023, 17:14:20 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on June 11, 2023, 15:14:12 PMProgress d:b
[url="https://www.brfff.com/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;attach=40666;type=preview;file"]IMG_8276.jpg[/url]
I've never seen the inside of the Martinsville jail. It appears recently painted.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on June 11, 2023, 18:38:26 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on June 11, 2023, 18:38:26 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on June 11, 2023, 15:14:12 PMProgress d:b
IMG_8276.jpg
Wow, that's nice. Much larger than I pictured. If ya need a hand lugging them to the river, give me a yell and I'll meet you there.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 13, 2023, 08:18:24 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 13, 2023, 08:18:24 AM
#23 - 48 80s windy with scattered clouds -- gas $3.19
I went for the evening hatch... I got there around three, one NC Tacoma, and a drive by from Doug who stopped in before driving home, he was done for the day. He said he hadn't seen the other angler, Chuck from Durham area. I hiked in to Sally's and found him working that pool. I moved on down to the left hander and hopped in to cool off. EG's blue raft was making its way down. I waited for them to pass and then worked the far side and caught a few punes. EG mentioned that they were picky today and he had better success with a CDC sulfur and that the noon hatch lasted until two.
I sat and ate my dinner while waiting for the evening hatch.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061223-1.jpg)
The bugs started around 6 and continued until about 7:30 but the wind was blowing them off of water and the fish only liked my fly when it was twitched. I caught punes, but worked some better fish. I watched a few off them follow the fly and and rise to kiss it without commitment.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061223-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061223-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061223-4.jpg)
little bastards..
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061223-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 14, 2023, 07:56:27 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 14, 2023, 07:56:27 AM
Quote from: trout-r-us on June 11, 2023, 18:38:26 PMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on June 11, 2023, 15:14:12 PMProgress d:b
IMG_8276.jpg
Wow, that's nice. Much larger than I pictured. If ya need a hand lugging them to the river, give me a yell and I'll meet you there.
The hard way?..lets just float them down there
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 14, 2023, 11:31:41 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 14, 2023, 11:31:41 AM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on June 14, 2023, 07:56:27 AMThe hard way?..lets just float them down there
Sounds like a plan...
#23 - 49 80s windy with scattered clouds
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061323-1.jpg)
I tried to get up early enough to hit the noon hatch but got tied up and didn't arrive until 2:00. It was mostly over but a few fish were rising. I got a handful of punes at sally's. Two Smithfly/RiverRat rafts floated through one behind the other. They pounded the lower hole, three casting on the first raft and just one in the second. I waited, swung some flies and then moved on down and ate my dinner while waiting for the eveing hatch to start. It wasn't as intense as other nights and the trouts were missing naturals as well as my flies .
https://vimeo.com/836230360
A miss and a take...
The ospreys were out on patrol today
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061323-2.jpg)
I got a few good fish to rise, couldn't seal the deal. Handfuls of punes was all I got.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 15, 2023, 14:08:08 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 15, 2023, 14:08:08 PM
At the hardware store I noticed that they are selling a Leopold Bench made of 2x6 — I chose 2x8 — much sturdier
IMG_8328.jpg
IMG_8332.jpg
IMG_8328.jpg
IMG_8332.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 16, 2023, 15:11:12 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 16, 2023, 15:11:12 PM
IMG_8341.jpg
And happy Father's Day to all y'all
IMG_8338.jpg
We celebrated early!
And happy Father's Day to all y'all
IMG_8338.jpg
We celebrated early!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on June 16, 2023, 16:51:57 PM
Post by: Phil on June 16, 2023, 16:51:57 PM
Damn, Woolly. Lobster -- that's a durn celebration! 'c;
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 18, 2023, 08:38:06 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 18, 2023, 08:38:06 AM
#23 - 50 Gas $3.26 low 80s
My intent was to get to the water by noon, I failed, and it was 1:34 when I made my first cast. I caught a dink.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061723-1.jpg)
I had cleaned out the CR-V for the lobster fest and I thought I put all my fishing gear back, but I forgot the wading staff. I knew that would eliminate some of the usually spots but I could manage. It became apparent how much I rely on the staff when I entered the stream an it was slow going as I worked my way around.
You know the fishing is slow when I start taking pictures of mushrooms.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061723-2.jpg)
There were really no bugs to speak of and the fish weren't showing themselves, so I switched over to soft hackles and swung up a handful.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061723-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061723-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061723-5.jpg)
A pair of kayakers passed and a raft with two adults and 6 children followed by 6 more kayakers late in the day.
Then Driver sent a text from upriver wanting to know if i had bugs. "only a few," was my reply.
I was sitting on the bank eating my dinner waiting for the hatch when I saw a sandle on top of a rock in the middle of the river. I went and took closer look.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061723-6.jpg)
Birkenstock and Beer
I'm running low on sulfurs and the ones I had left were being refused by most of the fish. I really need to spend time on the bench refilling the fly box.
All the browns were small except for on, but it escaped in a flubbed photo attempt, so you'll just have to look at a couple of the stockbows..
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061723-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/06/061723-8.jpg)
Things were winding down and I needed to be home, so I began hiking out at 7:15 I ran into Howard who asked me, "Where the hatch was"? "6 to 7," I replied, "Go down and catch some before it's over>"
I stopped in at Sally's and talked to Driver and Driver's Dad. They also reported finicky fish.
'till next time.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: shackfishes on June 28, 2023, 09:03:42 AM
Post by: shackfishes on June 28, 2023, 09:03:42 AM
Is it too high to throw big streamers this afternoon? I've waded up to 800cfs without a problem but wanted to get some input before I drive up there.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 28, 2023, 09:08:25 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 28, 2023, 09:08:25 AM
Quote from: shackfishes on June 28, 2023, 09:03:42 AMIs it too high to throw big streamers this afternoon? I've waded up to 800cfs without a problem but wanted to get some input before I drive up there.
Unless you're 6'7" 350lbs, you'll be moon walking downstream
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 04, 2023, 18:38:13 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 04, 2023, 18:38:13 PM
https://youtu.be/3Ma1IU82jm4
#23 - 51, Upper 80s, Gas $1.776 at Sheetz if you were crazy enough to wait for an hour, I moved on away from that cluster fuck.
We've been waiting for the spigot on the dam to be tightened up after all that rain and for the field to be cut. They cut the flow on Monday and @streamereater_101691 reported hearing tractors up in the field as he floated by on Sunday. I checked with @Dougfish about helping put the bench in place and we agreed to meet on Tuesday. As soon as I left home I realized that the MP gate would be closed for the holiday.
I stopped and helped a box turtle cross the road.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070423-1.jpg)
I pulled into the parking lot around nine and was rigging up a rod when a truck with a flatbed trailer pulled up to the gate and the guy unlocked it and drove on in and then got out to close the gate, but he stood there and I realized he must be waiting for someone, so I walked on over and explained about how we wanted to drive across the to field to drop off a bench and he agreed to let me in. I walked back the CRV and just then Doug pulled in. I told him to hop in and we took off and drove in and dropped off the bench at Sally's, drove back out and geared up and walked back in. We cleared a spot and trimmed some branches and set the bench in place.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070423-2.jpg)
We rigged up for soft hackles and I headed upstream, and Doug took off down the river. i caught a handful and then took a lunch break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070423-3.jpg)
Flotillas of kayakers passed, and they reported seeing a lot of fish jumpin', but there weren't many insects for fish activity to be seen where I was. I swung up another handful of pune brown trouts.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070423-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070423-5.jpg)
I could feel the extra 65 cfc as I waded back up to the path. I hiked on down to see how Doug was doing, but he was going on down below to the low hole and didn't want to fight the river coming back up from there, so I swung through the pool and caught nothing. I was done, so I hiked back up to Sally's, sat on the bench for a while before picking up the tools and hiking out.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 04, 2023, 20:13:29 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 04, 2023, 20:13:29 PM
37
It had been a month since I was on the river.
Too long.
Met Woolly.
Did the bench.
Yada, yada.
The first batch of plastic botes come by before we rigged up.
Keith waded up to start fishing.
I used the new bench to sit and rebuild the lower half of my leader before heading downstream.
(https://i.imgur.com/Tj8kocp.jpg)
Rhododendron maximum showing it's stuff.
(https://i.imgur.com/MDIt54r.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/oqXtF9u.jpg)
It was a soft hackle up some punes day.
I lost the two nicest fish.
Of course. b';
30 something botes.
The 4th bought out a rather nonathletic navy.
And I'm being kind.
The last group of six approached me and 3 dumped in the semi-technical water.
(https://i.imgur.com/bDuRrGw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1DJA101.jpg)
One of the last boaters encountered:
(https://i.imgur.com/dcBYgVD.jpg)
They hauled out a trailer or two of the bales today.
70 still on the ground at the hike out.
(https://i.imgur.com/7696QNj.jpg)
25 feesh to hand.
Stay hydrated, my friends.
(https://i.imgur.com/KDG0FRf.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 05, 2023, 19:48:56 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 05, 2023, 19:48:56 PM
38
I was going.
I was not.
I had no business going.
Got a long "do list" at home and three landscape plans to finish up.
I went.
Early.
Started high.
Meh. Two fish in a 10 fish run.
(https://i.imgur.com/xlME2pP.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ei443y6.jpg)
Back down.
Some better fish today.
(https://i.imgur.com/uTOKXna.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/wVTzCyv.jpg)
Spunky bow day.
(https://i.imgur.com/yVLXfeC.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/aTGYFaJ.jpg)
Saw Keith upstream as I finished up.
Hiked up, said my goodbyes and home by 2:30.
18 to hand.
Had a productive rest of the day.
It will be a week or more til I get back.
Party on, Garth!
:cheers
I was going.
I was not.
I had no business going.
Got a long "do list" at home and three landscape plans to finish up.
I went.
Early.
Started high.
Meh. Two fish in a 10 fish run.
(https://i.imgur.com/xlME2pP.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ei443y6.jpg)
Back down.
Some better fish today.
(https://i.imgur.com/uTOKXna.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/wVTzCyv.jpg)
Spunky bow day.
(https://i.imgur.com/yVLXfeC.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/aTGYFaJ.jpg)
Saw Keith upstream as I finished up.
Hiked up, said my goodbyes and home by 2:30.
18 to hand.
Had a productive rest of the day.
It will be a week or more til I get back.
Party on, Garth!
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on July 05, 2023, 22:07:40 PM
Post by: Fishbug on July 05, 2023, 22:07:40 PM
Nice bench! Did you sign it?
Doug slaying it! save some trouts for the rest of us!
Doug slaying it! save some trouts for the rest of us!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 06, 2023, 08:17:33 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 06, 2023, 08:17:33 AM
Quote from: Fishbug on July 05, 2023, 22:07:40 PMNice bench! Did you sign it?
I've been debating whether or not to put plaque or sticker on it... survey to follow....
https://youtu.be/v_iPAUplrdI
#23 - 52 Gas $3.29 although I passed a station @ $2.99 -+; Mid to upper 80s cooling off to mid 70s
I arrived after noon and planned to stay late to see if there would be a hatch in the evening.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070523-1.jpg)
mimosa
Doug was already there, and I saw him working turtle creek run as I started at Sally's. I swung up a couple of punes. Doug came up and we talked for a bit before he ended his day early. I commented that I thought they would have lowered to flow to the new normal but we concurred that it may stay high for a week or two.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070523-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070523-3.jpg)
trumpet creeper
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070523-4.jpg)
fleabane
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070523-5.jpg)
Indian Pipe
After catching another handful, I moved on down and swung up some more pune brown trouts, and one bow while waiting for a hatch.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070523-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070523-7.jpg)
Rhodos
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070523-8.jpg)
I began hiking out at 7:30 as nothing appeared to be happening. I stopped in at Sally's and some sulfurs began to pop off and they were eagerly nabbed by the trouts. It was 7:55 and lasted all of ten minutes. I managed to catch two on the surface before it abruptly ended.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 07, 2023, 08:35:18 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 07, 2023, 08:35:18 AM
https://youtu.be/5icrWZnl_1w
#23 - 53 90! cooling off to 77 Cumulus clouds, light breeze.
AS I stepped into the cool water to get some relief from crossing the feild in the heat of the day, I noticed a fish rise. I still had a dry tied on from yesterday, three cast later I brought the first of 20+ fish to hand. They weren't all targeted risers, but the fish were definitely looking up.
Worked some fish under the rhododendron, lost flies, got them to rise and put them down. Had too much pepper on some hook sets and lost some better fish. Took some leisurely beer breaks while sitting on the bench. Doug commented the other day, "You're not going to fish anywhere else," referring to the bench at Sally's. I had intended to work my way downstream, but really didn't need to.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070623-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070623-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070623-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070623-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070623-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070623-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070623-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on July 07, 2023, 18:46:52 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on July 07, 2023, 18:46:52 PM
Some nice looking rainbows.👍
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 09, 2023, 10:05:36 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 09, 2023, 10:05:36 AM
#23 -- 54 Gas $3.26 clearing Thunderstorm 80s
I expected today to be as good as yesterday, I should have known better, but wanted to get another day in before the storms forecast for Sunday.
I waited for a storm to pass in the empty lot.
There weren't as many bugs today, and only a few trout rose. The fog on the water was so thick that it was difficult see my fly on the water past 25 feet and it hid the rings of the rising fish. I stayed at Sally's for a bit and then headed on downstream. There wasn't much activity, I threatened to switch to a nymphing rig but stayed with the dry fly. I caught a few and then headed back up to Sally's around 7. As I sat and waited for bug to appear, I hear voices from upstream, at first I thought it was late kayakers, but realized it was a pair of fishermen. I could barely see them through the fog. They left just after 8 and I stayed for another 30 minutes, catching the occasional pune.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070823-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070823-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070823-3.jpg)
paw paws
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070823-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070823-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070823-6.jpg)
The view from the bench. I must admit that I spend more time sitting on the bench and watching the water than I had anticipated. Having a place to sit while rebuilding a leader, eating a snack, drinking a beer, or just watching the water, is more relaxing that I thought it would be. I should have the next bench ready in a week or so...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070823-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/070823-8.jpg)
last fish 8:31
Back at the lot a father and son were packing up. the dad asked about the sulfurs and mentioned that his son has caught his first trout and that they were camping at fairystone.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 13, 2023, 19:21:54 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 13, 2023, 19:21:54 PM
Went yesterday to the mirror plant. First time in a good while, probably 2 years. Had to check out the bench and catch a few. Beetle worked good. Few sulphurs out. 12 to the hand in an hr. New guy in the lot full of questions. I told him the "upper" river is best. He talked about fishing below mville. I promptly told him it's currently too hot at 20 degrees celcius. His attitude changed pretty quick.
Al was out of town tending to a friend for the upper sampling this year so my report is the best you've got.
We sampled the upper on tuesday 7/11. Lots of nice browns in the special reg section. Better than years past. I think we got 4 or 5 that were over 18" Normally we only sample 1 or 2. Lots of rainbows above philpott bridge. Some also below philpott bridge which isn't normal compared to normal years. They need a good thinning out. People aren't keeping fish these days. Catch and release has taken over the trout world in years past. George is going to cut the stocking poundage in the next season. If only we could eliminate stocking all together, but that'd be met with hell and fury. Overall the browns are fat and healthy.
Al was out of town tending to a friend for the upper sampling this year so my report is the best you've got.
We sampled the upper on tuesday 7/11. Lots of nice browns in the special reg section. Better than years past. I think we got 4 or 5 that were over 18" Normally we only sample 1 or 2. Lots of rainbows above philpott bridge. Some also below philpott bridge which isn't normal compared to normal years. They need a good thinning out. People aren't keeping fish these days. Catch and release has taken over the trout world in years past. George is going to cut the stocking poundage in the next season. If only we could eliminate stocking all together, but that'd be met with hell and fury. Overall the browns are fat and healthy.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on July 14, 2023, 06:07:36 AM
Post by: Onslow on July 14, 2023, 06:07:36 AM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on July 13, 2023, 19:21:54 PMWent yesterday to the mirror plant. First time in a good while, probably 2 years. Had to check out the bench and catch a few. Beetle worked good. Few sulphurs out. 12 to the hand in an hr. New guy in the lot full of questions. I told him the "upper" river is best. He talked about fishing below mville. I promptly told him it's currently too hot at 20 degrees celcius. His attitude changed pretty quick.
Al was out of town tending to a friend for the upper sampling this year so my report is the best you've got.
We sampled the upper on tuesday 7/11. Lots of nice browns in the special reg section. Better than years past. I think we got 4 or 5 that were over 18" Normally we only sample 1 or 2. Lots of rainbows above philpott bridge. Some also below philpott bridge which isn't normal compared to normal years. They need a good thinning out. People aren't keeping fish these days. Catch and release has taken over the trout world in years past. George is going to cut the stocking poundage in the next season. If only we could eliminate stocking all together, but that'd be met with hell and fury. Overall the browns are fat and healthy.
Glad to hear the fish on the upper are doing better.
VA has a stocking addiction just as WV and PA does. NC is much smarter about stocking. Stocking should only take place at streams where zero natural reproduction takes place. Any piss poor stream can be turned into a put and take stocker stream. Stock the hell out of urban greenways. Put and take fishing on wild waters like WTL or the Smith is just poor management. Put and take on Tinker creek would make more sense.
Secondly, VA needs to special reg all publicly owned streams to single hook that have reproducing trout. NC has it mostly right. VA's trout program is 30 years behind the time and should be the leader, not follower of WV.
Many freshly stocked trout in VA are gross AF. Who wants to eat that?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 15, 2023, 11:08:58 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 15, 2023, 11:08:58 AM
#23 -56 upper 80s, late thunderstorms
https://youtu.be/CKw9JA66H-A
Pulled up next to a BMW suv, and as I was gearing up, a couple came out from across the field. They were from Charlottesville and had been fishing for three days in a row. On the first day they met Streamereater, the next day they ran into Doug. They had been fishing down past the end of the trail, looking for bigger fish, but caught only the standard punes. The lady said to say hi to Doug!
The creek was pumping an extra 20 cfs and added a little stain. I sat on the bench to rig up and sip a cold beverage. I noticed a pair of nippers that someone left behind. Stepping into the river I realized that I had high holed a pair of anglers, but I saw a riser directly across from me and went after it.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/071423-1.jpg)
I had never tried a Truly before, but while shopping I saw 24 variety packs on closeout for sixteen bucks at 66 cents each. How could I pass that deal? Well after drinking the fruity sweet concoction, I'll tell you that it's not my jam and would pass on any future purchases.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/071423-2.jpg)
left behind nipperrs.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/071423-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/071423-4.jpg)
I managed a handful of fish on the surface, before switching over to a soft hackle as there were very few bugs hatching, other than #22 bwos but no fish were rising.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/071423-5.jpg)
I took a break around 6 o'clock while waiting to see if there would be an evening hatch.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/071423-6.jpg)
These lemon olive anchovies are delicious.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/071423-7.jpg)
Birds started swooping in to pick off the sulfurs as they hatched, it was all over in five minutes.
I group of four kayaks passed by and one guy had pulled out a tire on a rim and was hauling it out, it got away from him but floated and he recaptured it loading it onto the back of his yak.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/071423-8.jpg)
But a few fish took the soft hackle.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/071423-9.jpg)
Thunderstorms to the north and south began to close in and I booked out at eight as lightning strikes were too close for comfort.
The drive home was pleasant until I hit the interstate and a torrential downpour that reduced visibility to 30 feet and slowed traffic to a crawl.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 15, 2023, 12:12:56 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 15, 2023, 12:12:56 PM
I slipped her some soft hackles. :laugh:
And retied her rig.
She was a novice.
And hubbie was not being attentive.
I thought those were your nippers and left them, also.
And retied her rig.
She was a novice.
And hubbie was not being attentive.
I thought those were your nippers and left them, also.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 15, 2023, 13:00:12 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 15, 2023, 13:00:12 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on July 15, 2023, 12:12:56 PMI slipped her some soft hackles.
she mentioned fishing with soft hackles that you recommended.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 15, 2023, 17:26:04 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on July 15, 2023, 17:26:04 PM
No chick on Wednesday evening or I would've been a little nicer. My money was on them being woollys nippers. Turly sucks. I think the bench needs a flybrary or something of that nature.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 15, 2023, 20:56:02 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 15, 2023, 20:56:02 PM
40
Slipped down early Thursday. Storms forecasted for the PM.
Slow, steamy day.
(https://i.imgur.com/M1lmD3R.jpg)
Took the pruners and whacked back some aggressive roses and greenbrier.
Missed fish, caught fish. Small fish all day.
I did break off a really nice fish. b';
I know where he lives.
(https://i.imgur.com/ARUKPMR.jpg)
Worked down, worked up.
Nothing was happening on top. No Bugs. Few emerger feeders.
(https://i.imgur.com/iKdNeUn.jpg)
Obligatory fish pic.
(https://i.imgur.com/K5L1gow.jpg)
Saw the folks up stream as I was quitting, and went up to say hello/see who the fuk it was.
If I had stayed silently on the bench, I don't think they would have seen me.
I like to think I'm more aware than that while fishing.
I mean, I had a kingfisher accompanying me all day.
Got low altitude bracketed by 2 Osprey.
Counted all the Sourwood trees in bloom as I fished. (19)
Anyhow.
15-18 feesh.
(https://i.imgur.com/aVvQDye.jpg)
Progress. Little soldiers, joining ranks.
(https://i.imgur.com/Mr0cXv2.jpg)
:cheers
Slipped down early Thursday. Storms forecasted for the PM.
Slow, steamy day.
(https://i.imgur.com/M1lmD3R.jpg)
Took the pruners and whacked back some aggressive roses and greenbrier.
Missed fish, caught fish. Small fish all day.
I did break off a really nice fish. b';
I know where he lives.
(https://i.imgur.com/ARUKPMR.jpg)
Worked down, worked up.
Nothing was happening on top. No Bugs. Few emerger feeders.
(https://i.imgur.com/iKdNeUn.jpg)
Obligatory fish pic.
(https://i.imgur.com/K5L1gow.jpg)
Saw the folks up stream as I was quitting, and went up to say hello/see who the fuk it was.
If I had stayed silently on the bench, I don't think they would have seen me.
I like to think I'm more aware than that while fishing.
I mean, I had a kingfisher accompanying me all day.
Got low altitude bracketed by 2 Osprey.
Counted all the Sourwood trees in bloom as I fished. (19)
Anyhow.
15-18 feesh.
(https://i.imgur.com/aVvQDye.jpg)
Progress. Little soldiers, joining ranks.
(https://i.imgur.com/Mr0cXv2.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on July 16, 2023, 12:02:34 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on July 16, 2023, 12:02:34 PM
I hung a Flybrary board down at "Sallies" back in April. I've not been back since. Anybody know if it's still there?
IMG_0494.jpg
IMG_0494.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 16, 2023, 12:10:56 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 16, 2023, 12:10:56 PM
Quote from: trout-r-us on July 16, 2023, 12:02:34 PMI hung a Flybrary board down at "Sallies" back in April. I've not been back since. Anybody know if it's still there?
IMG_0494.jpg
Still there
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 16, 2023, 18:14:54 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 16, 2023, 18:14:54 PM
Second bench waiting for stain and spar varnish — going for a dark Kona!
IMG_8662.jpg
This one is going to the left handers pool!
"Sit more, fish less"
IMG_8662.jpg
This one is going to the left handers pool!
"Sit more, fish less"
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 20, 2023, 20:14:00 PM
Post by: Dougfish on July 20, 2023, 20:14:00 PM
41
We had a little rain overnite, but nothing to concern me.
So I headed down.
Hiked in and found this.
(https://i.imgur.com/9bSEIVH.jpg)
Rut roh. Choco milk. b';
(It appeared it rained over 3/4" early in the morning on Town Ck watershed.)
I told WB I would clear the underbrush for bench #2, so I stashed my fishing gear
and headed down further to do the deed. Took care of that, drank the first beer of
the day and headed back to the truck.
Went upstream.
The recent lack of bugs drove me back to the euro rod.
It took me a while to regain the groove, but feesh started coming to hand.
(https://i.imgur.com/RXmyivu.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8K9JWaX.jpg)
Water up here was still stained a bit.
And the wading has always been fun in this stretch.
Carried on.
(https://i.imgur.com/VMW9T1D.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/CO6wJJX.jpg)
Snagged one nice brown. And tenish of his friends.
Reached the turn around point.
Ate lunch, switched reels to the DT 3 and tied on a soft hackle rig.
Swung back down to the truck and took 5-6 more including a tank of a 15-16" bow.
He was flamed up pink/red. And would not pose. b';
Koozie season.
(https://i.imgur.com/4lLDuZQ.jpg)
Back home at a decent hour.
:cheers
We had a little rain overnite, but nothing to concern me.
So I headed down.
Hiked in and found this.
(https://i.imgur.com/9bSEIVH.jpg)
Rut roh. Choco milk. b';
(It appeared it rained over 3/4" early in the morning on Town Ck watershed.)
I told WB I would clear the underbrush for bench #2, so I stashed my fishing gear
and headed down further to do the deed. Took care of that, drank the first beer of
the day and headed back to the truck.
Went upstream.
The recent lack of bugs drove me back to the euro rod.
It took me a while to regain the groove, but feesh started coming to hand.
(https://i.imgur.com/RXmyivu.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8K9JWaX.jpg)
Water up here was still stained a bit.
And the wading has always been fun in this stretch.
Carried on.
(https://i.imgur.com/VMW9T1D.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/CO6wJJX.jpg)
Snagged one nice brown. And tenish of his friends.
Reached the turn around point.
Ate lunch, switched reels to the DT 3 and tied on a soft hackle rig.
Swung back down to the truck and took 5-6 more including a tank of a 15-16" bow.
He was flamed up pink/red. And would not pose. b';
Koozie season.
(https://i.imgur.com/4lLDuZQ.jpg)
Back home at a decent hour.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 21, 2023, 09:18:12 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 21, 2023, 09:18:12 AM
#23 - 57
Checked some intown spots on the way up to the damn dam, it was stained and probably would fish ok, but I didn't have a lot of time so took the easy access up near the dam.
I guy in a truck with PA tags had been wet wading and was leaving as I pulled in. That water is too damn dam cold for me to even think about wet wading, in the past I've even put on fleece during the summer as its running at 50 degrees.
As I was wading down to the lower riffle, I noticed sulfurs popping off and some fish rising at the tailout of the pool. I swung for them and had a couple of hits. There was a huge amount of diddymo floating and fouling the fly. I moved on down and swung up a brown and a couple of rainbows before rigging for dry fly action. The game was on. In the next couple of hours I caught many rainbows and a few more brown trout. A roar announced a war bird flying up the river, followed by an even louder one flying at tree top level (guessing 300 feet) as it approached the dam.
By six o'clock the hatch petered out and I had had enough of the cold water.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072023-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072023-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072023-3.jpg)
The browns were pushed out of the main feeding lanes and were found in the margins, close to the bank, and less favorable edges of the current or perhaps just hanging out on the bottom.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072023-4.jpg)
Stopped at the boat ramp, watched the birds work the water, didn't see any fish rise. Dude with a dog in a flycraft pulled out in a jeep with VA tags.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 22, 2023, 09:39:11 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 22, 2023, 09:39:11 AM
#23 - 58 Gas $3.49 :o pretty damn hot.
Just a Range Rover in the lot, I never saw them on the water.
I should have known better, catching the sulfur hatch and all those rainbows on dry flies yesterday was a lot of fun, not to mention it is so much cooler up there, but I like the solitude of the old special regs section. So, I hiked in just after noon and headed to the bench, but before I sat down to eat my lunch, I waded out balls deep to cool off a bit. I watched the water for signs of life as I chowed down on a sandwich which I washed down with an ice-cold beer. No visible bugs or rising fish but I did see a muskrat swim by.
I tried to entice a fish to rise to dry, but it wasn't happening, so I tied on a beetle and cast it under the rhododendron. I caught a handful of punish brown trout. I do prefer to catch the wild browns over the stocker bows, but the ones I caught yesterday did put a decent bend in to rod and they were chunky and fought hard. I was tempted to keep a few, maybe next time I'll bring something to cook up a few for dinner.
I moved on down and checked out the spot Doug cleared for the next bench then continued down to the Trestle pool. I swung up another handful of punes. I took a beer break and spied a few sulfurs hatching. Some fish began to rise sporadically, and I tied on a dry and went after them. I got a lot of refusals, and I cussed the picky punes and flailed away, only then noticing I had been high holed. An angler was working the dead pine pool above me. I couldn't make him out much as the glare of the setting sun. I was time for me to leave, I wanted to stay a bit longer, but had to be home by 9:30.
I stopped in at Sally's just to check for risers, I saw one guy working the run above and a couple of anglers down below, crowded conditions for an evening.
Back at the lot the Ranger Rover was replaced by three other vehicles.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072123-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072123-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072123-3.jpg)
Tree down at the bottom of the pool
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072123-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072123-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072123-6.jpg)
Widow maker on the trail,
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072123-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 24, 2023, 10:56:18 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 24, 2023, 10:56:18 AM
#23 - 59
I was planning to hit the hatch up at the damn dam, but when I saw that the mp lot was empty I decided to go there instead.
It was close to four o'clock when I got on the water. There were a few bugs in the air and a fish or two were rising.
Swung up a few before switching over to a comparadun. After catching a handful at Sally's I hiked on down the trail. I heard voice from up on the tracks and I thought I might get low holed, so I booked on down the trail to the T-pool. The hatch started later than yesterday and was sparce. I went back to swinging flies and caught a few. Streamereater came floating down with clients and we spoke as he went by. The few bugs that hatched floated for 30 or 40 feet before getting picked off by the trout if they didn't take off.
https://vimeo.com/848045457
I caught a few by "walking the dog" on down the pool. Two couples in kayaks floated by, the womem were wearing bonnets and the men hats, they said they were from Rocky Mount, I assume they are Mennonites.
The hatch never really got going and was over by 7:30, I left after 8.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072223-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072223-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072223-3.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 27, 2023, 08:52:20 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 27, 2023, 08:52:20 AM
#23 - 60 Gas $2.99 (30 cent discount) 85 and sunny
Only day this week to fish and I went up to the damn dam to get as much relief from the heat as possible.
As I was gearing up a fly fisherman came out and I asked if there were Sulfurs, he replied that they were popping off in a heavy hatch. I asked where he had been fishing and I was disappointed to hear that he had slayed them in the honey hole where I had intended to go. He also commented that the size of the browns he had been catching were noticeable smaller than years past but he had caught some better sized rainbow.
I waded up to a different spot, but there were no bugs or fish rising. I cast blindly and caught nothing. After a brief spell I heard the splash of a rising fish downstream. I turned and watched, then cast downstream. I missed the first two fish with peppery hooksets, but finally connected with a 14" bow. I was tempted to whack it but ended up releasing it. I would have taken a photo but realized that I left the phone in the car.
After catching another nice rainbow I waded out to the car to retrieve the forgotten phone. By the time I got back in the water more sulfurs were popping and an Eastern Green Drake stopped by for a photo.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072623-1.jpg)
I caught about a dozen browns in this run before heading on down to the honey hole which I figured wound have a better hatch.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072623-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072623-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072623-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072623-5.jpg)
A heavy mist started to form and its cool dampness brought waves of relief from the heat of the day.
The hatch was petering out but I managed a handful of pune browns and a bow or two.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072623-6.jpg)
Moving on down to the boat ramp with plans to eat dinner and drink a beer, I noticed the birds working and fish rising. Still wadered up I went in after them and caught a half dozen in short order, it was getting difficult to see the #18 comparadun in the fading light and thickening mist, so I quit just before eight and ate my dinner and had my beer as the sunset.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072623-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/072623-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on July 28, 2023, 06:46:01 AM
Post by: Dougfish on July 28, 2023, 06:46:01 AM
42
https://youtu.be/lm8fYf53SMg
Hot. Mid 90's.
I've had a severe acid reflux attack the past couple of months.
Besides a cheap med (that seems to be the fix!) my doc wanted me to switch to decaff coffee.
And cut back on alcohol.
So I hiked in with a lighter load of beer. :laugh:
One RAV 4 in the lot. Slightly stained water from pop up storms.
Ultra foggy.
(https://i.imgur.com/eOB87px.jpg)
It was tough to tie tippet and flies with my glasses fogging up constantly.
Euro'd again.
(https://i.imgur.com/oor4pCA.jpg)
Anchor fly action. All day.
(https://i.imgur.com/IEbpJsu.jpg)
I finally saw the other guy way up above me.
Headed up the trail at 3:30 to move up towards the damn dam.
He was gone by the time I got to the truck.
I was all alone up by the launch.
Switched to the regular fly line reel.
Started to wade into position and the bugs were beginning to pop.
It was fast and furious for an hour.
(https://i.imgur.com/GU24lmI.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/mCMd2Cp.jpg)
Lots of green slime coming down stream. Much cleaning of flies and line.
If you left a long loop of fly line dragging in the water, you'd get a pound of greenery hanging on it.
(https://i.imgur.com/n6ZjpSm.jpg)
A little before 5 some thunder started up and the sky darkened.
Headed to the shore. Rain started as I got out.
A bolt of lightning hit close by as I got to the truck. :o
A downpour now. Put the rod on the back of the truck and hopped in, waders and all.
It finally slowed a bit and I stowed the rod.
Picked right back up again and I drove out in my waders.
20 mph top speed for a few miles.
Stopped about 2/3's of the way home and got out of the boots and waders.
See you next week.
:cheers
https://youtu.be/lm8fYf53SMg
Hot. Mid 90's.
I've had a severe acid reflux attack the past couple of months.
Besides a cheap med (that seems to be the fix!) my doc wanted me to switch to decaff coffee.
And cut back on alcohol.
So I hiked in with a lighter load of beer. :laugh:
One RAV 4 in the lot. Slightly stained water from pop up storms.
Ultra foggy.
(https://i.imgur.com/eOB87px.jpg)
It was tough to tie tippet and flies with my glasses fogging up constantly.
Euro'd again.
(https://i.imgur.com/oor4pCA.jpg)
Anchor fly action. All day.
(https://i.imgur.com/IEbpJsu.jpg)
I finally saw the other guy way up above me.
Headed up the trail at 3:30 to move up towards the damn dam.
He was gone by the time I got to the truck.
I was all alone up by the launch.
Switched to the regular fly line reel.
Started to wade into position and the bugs were beginning to pop.
It was fast and furious for an hour.
(https://i.imgur.com/GU24lmI.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/mCMd2Cp.jpg)
Lots of green slime coming down stream. Much cleaning of flies and line.
If you left a long loop of fly line dragging in the water, you'd get a pound of greenery hanging on it.
(https://i.imgur.com/n6ZjpSm.jpg)
A little before 5 some thunder started up and the sky darkened.
Headed to the shore. Rain started as I got out.
A bolt of lightning hit close by as I got to the truck. :o
A downpour now. Put the rod on the back of the truck and hopped in, waders and all.
It finally slowed a bit and I stowed the rod.
Picked right back up again and I drove out in my waders.
20 mph top speed for a few miles.
Stopped about 2/3's of the way home and got out of the boots and waders.
See you next week.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 30, 2023, 13:00:32 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 30, 2023, 13:00:32 PM
https://youtu.be/ch7XgS4xFs8
#23 - 61 Gas $3.49 -+; 93 in the flatlands, 85 up by the river, 68 after the storm blew through
Needed some relief from the heat, the lower river was muddy, so I went up to the damn dam on Saturday! :o
Anglers were out in force all along the river road and the parking lot was full. Fortunately, no fishermen were in either of the spots I planned on fishing. I had arrived before the hatch, so I euroed the deep runs at the first spot and caught 4 rainbows and one brown in short order, moving on I struggled to find more fish in other likely spots. Returning to the run I picked off a few more before the bug started popping.
I headed back to the car to change rods and ran into a family getting ready to float the river in kayaks and a canoe. A mother sat with an infant as the rest prepared for the trip. I assumed she was the shuttle driver.
On down in the second spot I was enjoying a bountiful hatch with multiples of birds working and many trout rising. Each of the cedar waxwings were picking off multiple bugs on each transfer across the river only resting momentarily before leaving their perch to feed again.
The group paddled through, the father in lead, and I was surprised to see the mother in a kayak with the infant sitting between her legs as she floated by.
A few Green Drakes and Olives were mixed in with the prolific sulfur hatch.
I fished for another hour or so, the fish became pickier as the hatch diminished and the bugs appeared to be smaller, I had to change to a #18 cdc. With all the rock snot fouling the flies I gave up as the weather approached.
I managed to get home just before the bottom dropped out, and I couldn't shake the thoughts of that infant on the river.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/073023-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/073023-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/073023-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/073023-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/07/073023-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on July 30, 2023, 19:14:27 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on July 30, 2023, 19:14:27 PM
Was the child even wearing a PFD?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 30, 2023, 21:24:43 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 30, 2023, 21:24:43 PM
Quote from: trout-r-us on July 30, 2023, 19:14:27 PMWas the child even wearing a PFD?
I think so, although I could see enough to be certain —- they were insistent that the older boy wear his
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 01, 2023, 20:44:14 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 01, 2023, 20:44:14 PM
43
https://youtu.be/ZNTQ2DuJKtU
May the wind take your troubles away...
And create trail maintenance issues...
Found Bob's truck in the lot.
Hiked in to Sally's and found that Keith's teetering tree had fallen the rest of the way down.
Into the path.
I climbed over it.
Saw Bob's lunch cooler by the bench.
Not in sight upstream or down.
The elusive Troutrus remains elusive.
Climbed back out and headed down further.
Found numerous branches, one tree and a couple of felled grape and trumpet creeper vines.
(https://i.imgur.com/IlOiZc1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4zqAWDJ.jpg)
This is on top of what came down last week.
Will be packing in the saw on the next trip.
I swung up a dozen feesh before I took a lunch break.
Flub on the nicest one.
(https://i.imgur.com/bzja2fq.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Z90MDg6.jpg)
Good wildlife day.
(https://i.imgur.com/9HU9tYQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/j1kgC7Z.jpg)
Osprey
(https://i.imgur.com/jS9tdlX.jpg)
Cool Damselfly.
(https://i.imgur.com/EQkoLX9.jpg)
And summer fauna.
Dodder.
(https://i.imgur.com/IxvVaJ5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GolQxxC.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/UIyNtGo.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GtoGUjK.jpg)
Cell signal was pretty sucky and I needed to get a call soon, so I hiked out.
And found Keith had taken Bob's place. :laugh:
We game planned the next bench placement and saw work and I boogied.
Went to the Bassett launch.
Swung up another 8 fish and took my call midstream.
(https://i.imgur.com/bLHxIEn.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/M5a5c51.jpg)
:cheers
https://youtu.be/ZNTQ2DuJKtU
May the wind take your troubles away...
And create trail maintenance issues...
Found Bob's truck in the lot.
Hiked in to Sally's and found that Keith's teetering tree had fallen the rest of the way down.
Into the path.
I climbed over it.
Saw Bob's lunch cooler by the bench.
Not in sight upstream or down.
The elusive Troutrus remains elusive.
Climbed back out and headed down further.
Found numerous branches, one tree and a couple of felled grape and trumpet creeper vines.
(https://i.imgur.com/IlOiZc1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4zqAWDJ.jpg)
This is on top of what came down last week.
Will be packing in the saw on the next trip.
I swung up a dozen feesh before I took a lunch break.
Flub on the nicest one.
(https://i.imgur.com/bzja2fq.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Z90MDg6.jpg)
Good wildlife day.
(https://i.imgur.com/9HU9tYQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/j1kgC7Z.jpg)
Osprey
(https://i.imgur.com/jS9tdlX.jpg)
Cool Damselfly.
(https://i.imgur.com/EQkoLX9.jpg)
And summer fauna.
Dodder.
(https://i.imgur.com/IxvVaJ5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GolQxxC.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/UIyNtGo.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GtoGUjK.jpg)
Cell signal was pretty sucky and I needed to get a call soon, so I hiked out.
And found Keith had taken Bob's place. :laugh:
We game planned the next bench placement and saw work and I boogied.
Went to the Bassett launch.
Swung up another 8 fish and took my call midstream.
(https://i.imgur.com/bLHxIEn.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/M5a5c51.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 02, 2023, 07:54:31 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 02, 2023, 07:54:31 AM
https://youtu.be/a03NI7QFME0
#23 - 62 Gas $3.30
Three PSYCHO's on the river. Doug's truck was in the lot, and Bob was just leaving after fishing Sally's and upriver, we chatted for a bit, he was done for the day, I was just getting started.
A solo Osprey flew in at tree top level.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080123-1.jpg)
I swung a soft hackle on the 2/3 Wt. Upper Smith Special rod and caught a half dozen in short order. Only a few sulfurs were spotted along with bwo and midges, but a number of Drakes (Yellow or Green, I couldn't tell) were popping off.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080123-2.jpg)
Moving up to another usually productive run, I caught nothing. Maybe it was because I was "fishing on credit"
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080123-3.jpg)
Oh, Snap a broken hook (The Fly Shop Brand)
After I while I noticed Doug wading up and I waded down and talked to him before he went off to an in-town spot for better cell reception.
I headed on downstream. swung up a few more trouts, took a snack break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080123-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080123-5.jpg)
Waited for a hatch that never came, I finally tied on a nymph rig and found some more fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080123-6.jpg)
On the hike out, I got tangled in trees and snapped the tip of the Smith River Special.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 02, 2023, 09:10:44 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 02, 2023, 09:10:44 AM
Ouch.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on August 02, 2023, 15:06:35 PM
Post by: Phil on August 02, 2023, 15:06:35 PM
Breaking rods sucks
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 02, 2023, 15:18:24 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 02, 2023, 15:18:24 PM
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 02, 2023, 16:52:02 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 02, 2023, 16:52:02 PM
#23 — sunny 63 77 going in and a very hot 83 coming out
Trail maintenance day! I carried in a saw, and grass whip to do some trail maintenance. After clearing the trail at Sally's I moved on down to take care of the beaver felled tree. I also whacked some briars along the trail.
I reward edmyself with the Lagunitas, and then went fishing with my orvis 1 ounce rod.
I took one fish on a beetle and then snapped the rod while trying to free a nymph from a tree, you would think the 6x would break first. But no, it snapped the butt section!
IMG_8918.jpg
IMG_8922.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on August 02, 2023, 18:15:07 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on August 02, 2023, 18:15:07 PM
Sorry I missed ya Doug. Guessing I was up fishing the mirror pool when you came by.
Good seeing you Bossman.
My first trip up there with a rod in over a year. Figured I had to check out the bench. It was so comfy and the weather so nice, I spent about as much time relaxing on the bench as I did fishing.
A nice few hours for sure. Even caught a few fish.
The Flybrary grew since placed up there in the spring.
IMG_0282.jpg
IMG_0284.jpg
IMG_0280.jpg
Good seeing you Bossman.
My first trip up there with a rod in over a year. Figured I had to check out the bench. It was so comfy and the weather so nice, I spent about as much time relaxing on the bench as I did fishing.
A nice few hours for sure. Even caught a few fish.
The Flybrary grew since placed up there in the spring.
IMG_0282.jpg
IMG_0284.jpg
IMG_0280.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 02, 2023, 19:12:41 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 02, 2023, 19:12:41 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on August 02, 2023, 15:18:24 PMQuote from: Dougfish on August 02, 2023, 09:10:44 AMOuch.
Two for two —
IMG_8922.jpg[
Jeebus. You are a unique talent.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on August 02, 2023, 21:30:11 PM
Post by: driver on August 02, 2023, 21:30:11 PM
I see that giant streamer I left on the flybrary is still there.
Keith, send me a pic of that break, I'll see if I can repair it. The Orvis... can't help you there.
Keith, send me a pic of that break, I'll see if I can repair it. The Orvis... can't help you there.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 03, 2023, 17:27:10 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 03, 2023, 17:27:10 PM
#23 - 64 rain and 67 degrees
Doug said it would be a good day to install the bench at the left hander pool. He said the rain would come later in the day; he was wrong. I sent a text when I got on the road, "ETA 9:10" We had plans to meet at the end of the field, but when I drove in he wasn't there. He later explained that he thought my text said "10 O'clock" I dropped off the bench and pavers and drove back out to park in the. By the time I hiked back in the bench and pavers were gone. Way to go Doug! Hiking on down, I almost busted my ass on the rain slicked bank of Turtle Creek, but managed to regain my balance just as I thought I was going to splash down in the mud. We leveled the ground and placed the bench and talked while watching the rain fall on the river. We drank a couple of beers and solved none of the problems of the world.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080323-1.jpg)
We headed up to the damn dam to see if we could swing up a few trouts, we did not and left after an hour or so.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080323-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080323-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080323-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080323-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 03, 2023, 17:35:29 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 03, 2023, 17:35:29 PM
The pack mule managed to carry the bench in, go back and carry the pavers in.
Without slipping or busting my ass. :laugh:
20230803_123935.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 03, 2023, 20:22:44 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 03, 2023, 20:22:44 PM
Quote from: driver on August 02, 2023, 21:30:11 PMI see that giant streamer I left on the flybrary is still there.
Keith, send me a pic of that break, I'll see if I can repair it. The Orvis... can't help you there.
I took the One Ounce to the Orvis Store, paid my $60 fee and am waiting (4-6 weeks) for the outcome; a) "unrepairable" return, b) new butt section, or c)a new superfine glass rod
IMG_8938.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on August 03, 2023, 21:00:42 PM
Post by: driver on August 03, 2023, 21:00:42 PM
Just checked to see if I can order that blank. Not on the site anymore. I sent an email the determine the future of that blank.
But can be repaired with a stint. Can move the guide to cover the break so it won't change the action much.
But can be repaired with a stint. Can move the guide to cover the break so it won't change the action much.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 06, 2023, 17:06:26 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 06, 2023, 17:06:26 PM
45
https://youtu.be/tRwYQgk05DY
"Someone left the cake out in the rain..."
It's been a surreal two weeks for me.
Fishing quiets my mind.
The week ahead looks really unpredictable.
And the weather looked semi- cooperative for this morning.
I hate to fish the Smiff on the weekend.
But ya gotta do, what ya gotta do.
Got there early and there were two guys rigging up.
I hurried up and hiked around the fence with them.
They wanted to go high. I went low.
Extra foggy.
(https://i.imgur.com/nJNXmUD.jpg)
Spooky.
(https://i.imgur.com/FpyIF8k.jpg)
Fishing was slow. Little bug activity.
The usual flies and techniques were not killing it.
I muddled on.
Downstream further.
Meh.
Headed up after a Smithfly went by.
Passed one of the two guys working downstream.
Downstream dry flies. /"\
Found the other fellow up near the new bench.
Watched him cast away while I enjoyed my lunch.
He missed one, caught one. We conversed.
He went in search of his buddy, I moved up.
I coerced a few more and called it quitski.
(https://i.imgur.com/sX5cNiO.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/qOfDRtl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/kQ21NZs.jpg)
Hiked out in a light rain from a blue sky.
(https://i.imgur.com/f1NGq14.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/sKHUVSF.jpg)
Two more vehicles in the lot.
One angler at Sallys.
Two guys rigging up. Looked like they were wet wading. :bow
Asked for advice. Showed them what was on my line and boogied.
Should have told them to bail.
Got hammered by storms on the way home.
Radar showed the Smiff got hammered too.
:cheers
https://youtu.be/tRwYQgk05DY
"Someone left the cake out in the rain..."
It's been a surreal two weeks for me.
Fishing quiets my mind.
The week ahead looks really unpredictable.
And the weather looked semi- cooperative for this morning.
I hate to fish the Smiff on the weekend.
But ya gotta do, what ya gotta do.
Got there early and there were two guys rigging up.
I hurried up and hiked around the fence with them.
They wanted to go high. I went low.
Extra foggy.
(https://i.imgur.com/nJNXmUD.jpg)
Spooky.
(https://i.imgur.com/FpyIF8k.jpg)
Fishing was slow. Little bug activity.
The usual flies and techniques were not killing it.
I muddled on.
Downstream further.
Meh.
Headed up after a Smithfly went by.
Passed one of the two guys working downstream.
Downstream dry flies. /"\
Found the other fellow up near the new bench.
Watched him cast away while I enjoyed my lunch.
He missed one, caught one. We conversed.
He went in search of his buddy, I moved up.
I coerced a few more and called it quitski.
(https://i.imgur.com/sX5cNiO.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/qOfDRtl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/kQ21NZs.jpg)
Hiked out in a light rain from a blue sky.
(https://i.imgur.com/f1NGq14.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/sKHUVSF.jpg)
Two more vehicles in the lot.
One angler at Sallys.
Two guys rigging up. Looked like they were wet wading. :bow
Asked for advice. Showed them what was on my line and boogied.
Should have told them to bail.
Got hammered by storms on the way home.
Radar showed the Smiff got hammered too.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 09, 2023, 10:33:12 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 09, 2023, 10:33:12 AM
https://youtu.be/72D3dPnjtcI
#23 - 65 Gas $3.49
Water was a little stained and up a bit. Bobby's car was in the lot as I went in during the heat of the day. I euroed up some fish at Sally's, then hiked on down to the left handers where I made some adjustments to the bench's footings before euroing up some nice-looking rainbows.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080923-1.jpg)
Moving on down I ran into Bobby who had been fishing "down around the bend" and stated that "they are holding deep today" I said that was why I brought in the euro rod, but also carried another rod it hopes of some dry fly action.
He commented that we wouldn't see him for a while as he's going to EMT school.
At the trestle, I started off with the euro and caught a few. Later the fish started rising but I couldn't see what they were hitting. I switched rods, swung a soft hackle, and caught a number of punes.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080923-2.jpg)
It was getting late, and I began making my way out, stopping at spots along the way.
There were a number of fish rising steadily, I caught a few and was stripping in an eight incher when a big brown came out of the depth and struck at the fish. It inhaled it and I had it on the line, it put a good bend in the 3 wt and just as I was getting ready to net the fish it released its grip on the hooked fish and swam away. The little brown had teeth marks from its tail to its gill plate.
I continued to swing the fly and kept missing fish. Bump, bump, bump, set and nothing, finally after missing a dozen fish I checked the fly.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080923-3.jpg)
Damn it, I could hear Croaker's voice telling me that I was "fishing on credit" with that broken hook.
I stopped in at sally's and swung up a couple more before taking a beer break before crossing the field at 8 o'clock.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080923-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080923-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 10, 2023, 08:22:22 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 10, 2023, 08:22:22 AM
https://youtu.be/xTOXHtlMKA0
#23 - 66 82 but it felt like 100 walking across the field.
Cashed in my Mega Millions lottery ticket, a $4 "winner" and headed up to the river. Driver's Dad pulled in as I was gearing up. He came over to talk, I was ready to go fishing. I had a mental list of things to get done; lubricate the CFO reel, take the es that I tied, and don't forget the fluorocarbon. I lubed the reel and put my waders on and chatted with Driver's Dad for a bit. I headed out, but turned back before I got to the fence, forgot the tippet. Left again, turned back at the picnic table, forgot the flies.
It was around three o'clock when I started swinging flies in the trestle pool, I caught a handful of browns in short order.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080923a-1.jpg)
A pair of fishermen came through in inflatable kayaks, they threw lures in the tail of the pool and caught nothing. I looked upstream and saw two fly anglers working the run below Sally's one could have been Driver's dad, don't know the other guy.
I tried out the new bench while drinking a beer (Third bench in under way, cut and sanded, may assemble today)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080923a-2.jpg)
I went down to the dead pine hole, and waded out until I ran out of freeboard on my wader pants. Caught about a dozen before moving on.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080923a-3.jpg)
An osprey bird, as opposed to aircraft, flew overhead and later a flock of a dozen or more ducks flew upstream not more than 20 feet off the water as I was walking the trail.
Worked the trestle pool riffles and swung up a good number of punish fish before switching to a small sulfur dry and catching a few more. The hatch was sparce and petered out early. I headed back upstream after 7:30 and fished another run for a half hour and swung up a few more in the fading light.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080923a-4.jpg)
Last fish 8:13.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/080923a-5.jpg)
Returned to an empty parking lot and drove home.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 10, 2023, 15:19:21 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 10, 2023, 15:19:21 PM
IMG_9027.jpg
Numero tres headed to the finishing room !
3" longer!
Numero tres headed to the finishing room !
3" longer!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 10, 2023, 17:33:24 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 10, 2023, 17:33:24 PM
That's what she requested!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JCB3 on August 11, 2023, 10:25:54 AM
Post by: JCB3 on August 11, 2023, 10:25:54 AM
37481C34-9615-4521-B3A2-F84DE40F9E63.jpgEBB08E55-158F-4C19-98AB-94C4F64DA386.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on August 11, 2023, 10:27:27 AM
Post by: creakycane on August 11, 2023, 10:27:27 AM
Generally have found better fish hitting weighted/bh/tungsten nymphs and almost all fish on the surface on the smallish end. This is in contrast to a month ago. Basically over the entire run of the river down to Mville. I haven't been staying for the evening rise, so might be better with nice fish looking up. Also, until yesterday, I've been stumbling on more very nice rainbows than in other July/Augs, but not sure that is helping the browns. A few very slow days, but most have been worth the drive/effort.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 12, 2023, 11:01:52 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 12, 2023, 11:01:52 AM
#23 - 67 Gas $3.49 83 and partly cloudy
The Orvis store called, "We got your rod back, they can't repair it. Come on into the store and we can talk about a credit we can give you on a replacement." Damn it. n!n
I had to run some errands and it was 3 o'clock when I pulled into the lot. There was a grey Tacoma in the lot.
I took the euro rod as a backup just in case there wasn't any top water action. Despite some sun blocking cloud cover I still worked up sweat walking into Sally's. Some of the grass is getting pretty tall. if they'll do a second cutting at the end of the month. With all the bales of hay left in the field I wonder if they'll do a second cutting at the end of the month.
I sat down on the bench and rigged up the euro rod while drinking an ice-cold barley pop all the while keeping an eye on the water for rises. There were none. I worked the runs and pools and caught the usual suspects, nothing really photo worthy, you've seen them all before, but I snapped this big tailed bow anyway.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081223-1.jpg)
The jewelweed (Impatiens capensis) is blooming along the banks.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081223-2.jpg)
I went on down the river and found the Tacoma driver casting into the riffles at the head of the pool. I moved on down to dead pine and watch a blue raft bump, grind and spin its way down into the head of trestle where it got stuck and the oarsman pulled, pushed, and spun in a 1080 before finally moving on down. Thats when I first noticed a pair of wet waders down below at the top of the bend. They were shoulder to shoulder, and it wondered if it was a guide and client. How did they get down there, there was only the Tacoma it the lot, did they come it late and hike the tracks? Or were they in a boat and got out to wade? I couldn't figure it out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081223-3.jpg)
The fog began rolling in with undulating whisps of coolness that obscured the rings of rising fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081223-4.jpg)
I swung up a few on a soft hackle and enticed a few more with a dry fly as sulfurs began to pop off. I wanted to stay late but had to be back home by 9:30.
I began to hike out, stopping along the way to take advantage of any rising fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081223-5.jpg)
There were few rising fish to be seen and I kept moving, stopping at Sally's to sit and drink my last beer while the clock ticked down to departure time. Damn it, I saw a fish rise and then another, with only minutes left before I had to leave, I put down my beer, set a timer on my phone, and waded in to catch them. I caught three and got two more to rise before the timer sounded its alarm and I reeled in.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081223-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081223-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081223-8.jpg)
I was back at the lot, which was empty, (how did those guys get down to the bend/) at 8:02 and walked in the door at 9:28.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 12, 2023, 15:39:15 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 12, 2023, 15:39:15 PM
QuoteThe Orvis store called, "We got your rod back, they can't repair it. Come on into the sore and we can talk about a credit we can give you on a replacement." Damn it. n!n
My bad, was apparently some misinformation/communications with the store clerk and the repair process — when I went in to the store today we rectified the situation and a new replacement Superfine has been ordered. Should arrive by Wednesday.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 13, 2023, 21:50:43 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 13, 2023, 21:50:43 PM
#23 68 87 but felt like 107 partly cloudy
So I went up to the Damn Dam on Sunday.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081323-1.jpg)
The parking lot was empty, but a guy pulled in as I was gearing up. It was just after two and I went down to the honey hole and swung flies and waited for the afternoon evening hatch.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081323-2.jpg)
I swung up some punes and waited and waited for the hatch. I started to see some bug around 3:15 but the fish weren't looking up, so I waited some more.
a pair of trout bros came on down and worked the water above me and then steadily moved closer and closer. One stayed on the far side and worked a run.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081323-3.jpg)
the other guy was actually drifting down into the head of the pool I was working. I gave him the stink eye. A few trout rose to the sulfurs and I targeted them, I caught some, others just never looked up again. I took my time and fished to fish I selected, no blind casting, so it was a waiting game. I felt pressure from these two guys and decided to stay until I was good and ready to leave. At one point I almost said, "If you're waiting form me to leave, it will be a while. The closer you get the longer I'm going to stay."
I changed flies and got a couple of fish to rise right up against the bank, but I missed the hook set, or they missed the fly. Anyway, I just was enjoying the day standing in the cold water.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081323-4.jpg)
Then the guy over my shoulder, who had been yakking on his phone, asked me, "Hey, are you parked in the handicap spot?" Puzzled I turned and said, "No, why?" To which he replied, "cause I thought you were disabled, you haven't moved out of that spot for three hours and the guy behind you has been waiting to fish it." Damn, I thought, what a fucking asshole, "Fuck you, it's a big river!"
He came back with, "Yeah it's a big river, why don't you go somewhere, I pay just as much as you do to fish the river motherfucker, do you think you own the river?"
"Just as much as you, asshole"
"Fuck you"
"Fuck you"
and so it went back and forth, I can't be sure of the exact sequence of the conversation, but you get the idea...
After all ff that they moved on around me and started fishing the long pool below.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081323-5.jpg)
I let them move on down a ways and then I left.
Up at the lot there was a pair of F150s, one a King Ranch with GA TU Tags, and the other one was black with VA tags...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/loseit.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dee-Vo on August 13, 2023, 22:26:49 PM
Post by: Dee-Vo on August 13, 2023, 22:26:49 PM
Hmmm, vehicles and assholeness duly noted.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on August 14, 2023, 06:46:45 AM
Post by: Onslow on August 14, 2023, 06:46:45 AM
Was this a guide/client dou?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on August 14, 2023, 07:01:25 AM
Post by: Phil on August 14, 2023, 07:01:25 AM
These days you had better not be the first one to say "Fuck you, asshole." It might get ya shot.... :o
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 14, 2023, 07:02:57 AM
Post by: Dougfish on August 14, 2023, 07:02:57 AM
Douches.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 14, 2023, 07:37:06 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 14, 2023, 07:37:06 AM
Quote from: Onslow on August 14, 2023, 06:46:45 AMWas this a guide/client dou?
Don't know but I was thinking after the fact and seeing that one was from out of state it could have been a "I got a spot you have to fish" kinda deal
Why would you wait, not catching anything, just to get into a spot to nymph up some 12" rainbows?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 14, 2023, 08:26:03 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 14, 2023, 08:26:03 AM
Quote from: Phil on August 14, 2023, 07:01:25 AMThese days you had better not be the first one to say "Fuck you, asshole." It might get ya shot.... :o
https://youtu.be/qMx-Lv_eZ3s
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on August 14, 2023, 11:14:11 AM
Post by: Fin on August 14, 2023, 11:14:11 AM
QuoteSilene virginica (Fire Pink)
Back tracking a report but since Doug has been traveling I felt compelled to step in with this correction.
Your pic is actually of Lobelia cardinalis, Cardinal flower. :Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 16, 2023, 22:00:35 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 16, 2023, 22:00:35 PM
#23 - 69 77 and partly cloudy to partly sunny
My new Orvis Super Fine arrived and I made a quick trip up to the river to break it in.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081623-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081623-3.jpg)
Damn that damn water is cold. I tried the upper run and swung a soft hackle as the sulfurs sparsely started to hatch.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081623-4.jpg)
I had a lot of grabs but no real commitment, only brought a few to hand. I was ready to move down to the lower hole or switch to the euro.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081623-5.jpg)
cool mushroom
An older women was gearing up in the lot and I asked where she was headed. She was joining her husband who was already on the trail. Her waders and boots looked brand new, so I asked her what she was tying on. I suggested a sulfur but she didn't have any, so I gave her a comparadun. I snagged a beer and headed back to the upper run. I tied on a dry and caught a handful of rainbows and browns.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081623-6.jpg)
The hatch never took off and my knees were becoming numb in the frigid water, and I even felt chilled when the sun disappeared for long stretches, so I headed down to the boat ramp and ate my dinner while watching a trout bro cast his way up the river.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081623-7.jpg)
I didn't see him catch anything; he was moving quickly. After he passed and went under the bridge, I saw a couple of fish rise where he had been. I hopped in and caught one on the first cast. Severaal more hit the dry fly. I quit around 7:30 as I needed to be back home.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081623-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on August 17, 2023, 08:12:50 AM
Post by: Phil on August 17, 2023, 08:12:50 AM
Do ya think that bro has a big enough net?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 17, 2023, 08:33:30 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 17, 2023, 08:33:30 AM
Quote from: Phil on August 17, 2023, 08:12:50 AMDo ya think that bro has a big enough net?
(https://media0.giphy.com/media/CoDp6NnSmItoY/giphy.gif)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on August 17, 2023, 19:12:11 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on August 17, 2023, 19:12:11 PM
What is the definition of "trout bro"?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on August 17, 2023, 19:45:29 PM
Post by: Onslow on August 17, 2023, 19:45:29 PM
Quote from: trout-r-us on August 17, 2023, 19:12:11 PMWhat is the definition of "trout bro"?
You might be a troutbro if you
Take one's self way too seriously
Take your trouting way too seriously
Post annoying instaspam posts about trouting....selfies with flyrod behind neck.
Listen to Orvis podcasts about trouting
Wear hipster fishing gear
Wear lumberjack/hipster beard while trouting.
Wear a bill cap while trouting. This is the worst. Bill caps are so low rent.
Wear waders when the water temps are above 45.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on August 18, 2023, 08:53:32 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on August 18, 2023, 08:53:32 AM
Quote from: Onslow on August 17, 2023, 19:45:29 PMQuote from: trout-r-us on August 17, 2023, 19:12:11 PMWhat is the definition of "trout bro"?
You might be a troutbro if you
Take one's self way too seriously
Take your trouting way too seriously
Post annoying instaspam posts about trouting....selfies with flyrod behind neck.
Listen to Orvis podcasts about trouting
Wear hipster fishing gear
Wear lumberjack/hipster beard while trouting.
Wear a bill cap while trouting. This is the worst. Bill caps are so low rent.
Wear waders when the water temps are above 45.
Thanks!
I notice you said "might be". So how many boxes would one need to check before assuring membership in that group?
I do use a couple Orvis items, but I don't know anyone who wears a Bills cap ever since they lost four consecutive super bowls back in the early '90's.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 18, 2023, 09:00:17 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 18, 2023, 09:00:17 AM
Quote from: trout-r-us on August 18, 2023, 08:53:32 AMBills cap
I think he was referring to a FLAT BRIM cap...
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 18, 2023, 13:03:38 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 18, 2023, 13:03:38 PM
IMG_9173.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on August 18, 2023, 17:49:26 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on August 18, 2023, 17:49:26 PM
Here's my new outfit.
IMG_0543.jpgIMG_0539.jpg
IMG_0543.jpgIMG_0539.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on August 19, 2023, 07:03:16 AM
Post by: Onslow on August 19, 2023, 07:03:16 AM
Quote from: trout-r-us on August 18, 2023, 17:49:26 PMHere's my new outfit.
IMG_0543.jpgIMG_0539.jpg
The hat needs to be Howler Bros brand. Must be overpriced.
Also need a custom guide net.
Once you present yourself on the river with these two fashion elements, you will officially be a trout bro.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 19, 2023, 07:35:13 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 19, 2023, 07:35:13 AM
Quote from: Onslow on August 19, 2023, 07:03:16 AMThe hat needs to be Howler Bros brand. Must be overpriced.
Also need a custom guide net.
Once you present yourself on the river with these two fashion elements, you will officially be a trout bro.
Don't forget the sling pack...
And the rooftop rod carrier
Yeti cooler/stickers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutboy_II on August 19, 2023, 12:46:55 PM
Post by: troutboy_II on August 19, 2023, 12:46:55 PM
Quote from: Phil on August 17, 2023, 08:12:50 AMDo ya think that bro has a big enough net?
[/quoteQuote from: Phil on August 17, 2023, 08:12:50 AMDo ya think that bro has a big enough net?
It's now how big it is but how he uses it?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on August 19, 2023, 21:27:46 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on August 19, 2023, 21:27:46 PM
If I'm still alive when Smith River flows get back down to where I feel more comfortable wading, I would like to shoot for a more traditional look.
IMG_0555.jpg
IMG_0555.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 19, 2023, 21:51:06 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 19, 2023, 21:51:06 PM
Ads really add some punch to some replies.
A "traditional" look with garters and such. :laugh:
Screenshot_20230819_204610_Firefox.jpg
A "traditional" look with garters and such. :laugh:
Screenshot_20230819_204610_Firefox.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on August 20, 2023, 07:44:04 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on August 20, 2023, 07:44:04 AM
I sorta like this look for open meadow cricks that can be fished without waders.
IMG_0547.jpg
IMG_0547.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on August 20, 2023, 07:51:30 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on August 20, 2023, 07:51:30 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on August 19, 2023, 21:51:06 PMAds really add some punch to some replies.
A "traditional" look with garters and such. :laugh:
Screenshot_20230819_204610_Firefox.jpg
I don't normally see those type pop up ads on my device. Normally ads are personalized and generated by algorithm based on web browsing history. 🤔
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 20, 2023, 11:08:34 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 20, 2023, 11:08:34 AM
#23 - 70 Gas $3.59, sunny and 77
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081923-1.jpg)
They are getting ready for the second cutting, so they finally cleared the bales from the first cut.
Ahhh, the tranquility of fishing.
https://vimeo.com/856176169
Only to be disturbed by boom box kayakers.
https://vimeo.com/856176303
In between the flotillas of kayaks, I got a few fish to rise to my sulfur despite there only being a few naturals in the air. There were a lot of tiny bows coming off though and the few fish that rose may have been taking them, but I wasn't ready to switch to a miniscule dry fly, nor was I interested in nymphing. I would have brought the euro if I needed to catch more fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081923-2.jpg)
I turned my head upstream and caught sight of an osprey diving down and hitting the water with loud thud and then the commotion of wings flapping as it took off with a trout in its talons. Pretty cool.
As more kayakers passed, one hollered out, "Is that your bench?" Later the family with the infant that I saw the other week came paddling by. I still think this child is too young to be floating like this.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081923-3.jpg)
A pair of hummingbirds kept me entertained as they flew back and forth along the bank, and I even saw one snag a bug flying above the river as Kingfishers patrolled their beat.
I ventured on down after taking a beer break and caught more of the usual punes on the surface or swinging flies. Not much of a hatch at all, a few yellow bugs popped beginning at 6 but the sulfur season for 2023 is way past prime. I did see a huge yellow drake fluttering in the film, trying to take off and I was rooting for it, but just as it was about to escape the surface a trout swallowed it whole.
I couldn't stay too late, on the hike out I spied a pair of forceps, almost kept them, but tied them to the lost and found bush.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/081923-5.jpg)
Home at 9:30
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 21, 2023, 09:58:21 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 21, 2023, 09:58:21 AM
https://youtu.be/0P5jV4lHHR0
#23 - 71 damn hot, 90+
"Big browns dine at dusk"
Now that the sulfur hatch is over perhaps it's time to start tossing streamers'
I pulled into the lot at 5ish, there was a truck and a car parked and as I got out another truck with two trout bros pulled in. I grumbled my answer to their questions and headed out as quickly as possible. I was going after a fish, one that had twice attacked a pune brown that I was stripping into the net on consecutive trips.
The hike across the field was miserable and I decided to force march to the left-hand pool where I planned to cool off. I wasn't in a hurry to start fishing, as I planned to go after that fish at dusk. There was a pair of anglers in Beaver Creek Run and I stopped and watched them casting bobber rigs 30 feet across the river. One didn't make false cast but the other, and I counted, made 6 or 7 false cast each time. They caught nothing and I moved on.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/082023-1.jpg)
Ice cold refreshment.
I worked some of the lower runs, casting an articulated zoo cougar. I hooked an overachiever that measured 12 inches and then a nice chubby 16 incher with butter brown coloring.
A new star raft with rowing frame and two anglers came on down, the oarsman apologized for coming into my space. "Sorry for getting into your shit, new guy on the oars," he explained.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/082023-2.jpg)
A little later I hooked a solid 14 incher and had a big fish follow. It was about time to go after the fish I came for. It was a quarter to eight when I entered its domain and began working down and across. Every cast was filled with anticipation. There was no love and I left after covering the water thoroughly.
I hiked out and stopped at Sally's bench and sat in the dark stillness of the evening listening to the cicada and drinking a beer planning a return trip to catch my Nijinsky.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/082023-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/082023-4.jpg)
Of course, I was the last one to leave the river and the lot was empty.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on August 21, 2023, 14:50:43 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on August 21, 2023, 14:50:43 PM
Visited the smith greenway in Eden this morning. Big ol' tree laying completely across just down from the canoe access.
That's an island out there, so it's really only half the river width.
Ya just never know when one will let go.
IMG_0322.jpg
IMG_0324.jpg
That's an island out there, so it's really only half the river width.
Ya just never know when one will let go.
IMG_0322.jpg
IMG_0324.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on August 21, 2023, 20:37:00 PM
Post by: Dougfish on August 21, 2023, 20:37:00 PM
Lots of trees ready to sacrifice every mile or so on the whole river.
Bugs and fish say Wood is good.
Bugs and fish say Wood is good.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 28, 2023, 09:43:01 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 28, 2023, 09:43:01 AM
#23 - 72, cloudy and cooler but the humidity was high
I drove the new ride up to the river the other day and when I got up to gear up, I decided it was just too damn hot and didn't want to soil the RAV4 with muddy boots, besides I was engrossed in listening to American Prometheus - The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer which runs 27 hours. So, after a short walk-about I drove on home.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/082723-10.jpg)
A day or two passed and I decided that the CRV was my fishing vehicle and I'll continue to use it. I transferred my gear back into the Honda and hopped it, I felt more "at home" in the car that I've driven to the river around 500 times. It just felt right.
I pulled into an empty lot on Sunday afternoon and began to gear up. A blue coupe pulled in and two youngsters hopped out and began getting their gear out of the trunk. Waders, a Simms boot box and rods. Then the driver started talking and talking and talking about euros rods being gay and needing new boots, felt verses rubber and sandy stream bottoms and on and on. Then he told his companion, "I don't carry my gun inside my waders, it's in my pack on my back, in case you need it. You never know when you'll need it." And then he continued talking about fishing and bobbers and dry flies and on and on.
I was stashing some beer and my dinner when I realized that I left my vest in the Toyota. Crap, I scrounged though the car and found a puck of flies that would make do. Then the driver hollers, "Don't worry we'll be fishing way down below you." And I asked, "How far down are you going?" To which he asked, "Where are you fishing?" "I'm going down to the trestle pool." He obviously didn't know where that was because he asked, "How far is that?" "It's about a mile down" to which he stated, "We're going to the end of the field" "OK," I replied and headed on out of the lot as he continued to chatter with his friend.
The grass is going to seed and about six feet tall, but the tractor tracks cleared a path to the edge where the grass doesn't grow so tall. I was sweating when I got to the left-hand pool and sat down to watch the water and cool off with an ice-cold barley pop.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/082723-1.jpg)
Nothing was happening on the surface there, so I went on down to the dead tree pool and swung a soft hackle and picked off the punes that were rising to midges or tiny bwos.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/082723-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/082723-3.jpg)
Moving on down I sung up another handful of trout as I watched and listened to a pair of kingfisher chase after each other in what I would call a "dogfight". They headed off in circles downstream only to return in fast flight upstream passing me at eye level.
I wish the fish were eating something bigger like these.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/082723-4.jpg)
DSFK
If I needed to catch more or bigger fish I would have nymphed, but as it was, I enjoyed the day. I switched to a midge pattern and took several on the surface. It's a game I'm not fond of, I hate midges...
Later another angler came down to the end of the trail and waved, then continued to the bottom of the pool where he stood for a long time trying to figure out where to cross.
I headed home, the duo in the blue car from Lynchburg were gone and I continued to listen to the Oppenheimer story.
I stopped in for a libation and reflection on the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/08/082723-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Rhody on August 29, 2023, 08:52:11 AM
Post by: Rhody on August 29, 2023, 08:52:11 AM
How's that book?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on August 29, 2023, 09:25:50 AM
Post by: creakycane on August 29, 2023, 09:25:50 AM
Good to see you reading some of Prof Wickstrom's best. His other book, Notes from an Old Fly Book, is another great read. I miss his newsletter, the Boulder Creek Angler, that he produced for quite a few years. Interesting fellow to say the least.....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 01, 2023, 07:22:49 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 01, 2023, 07:22:49 AM
Quote from: Rhody on August 29, 2023, 08:52:11 AMHow's that book?
Filled with essays, little nuggets of fly fishing, philosophy, and life.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on September 02, 2023, 16:06:19 PM
Post by: creakycane on September 02, 2023, 16:06:19 PM
Some little caddis on this AM, as well as a couple of small dun mayflies. One nice brown early on, followed by a few smaller ones all on dries. Then a couple of rainbows on beadheads. Water now at typical 300 level, though a bit turbid. Just after dawn felt chilly. Lots of kayaks and canoes on trucks/ cars headed upstream, but did not see even one coming down by the time I left at 1130. Gonna get hot again, the cool morning just a temporary taste of fall.........
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 04, 2023, 08:24:32 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 04, 2023, 08:24:32 AM
#23 - 73 -- 85 sunny, Gas $3.31
I thought it might be crowded being Labor Day weekend, but I drove on up anyway. Didn't have a specific spot in mind, but I wated to check to see if the field had been cut. As I came up over the hill, I saw that they were working on those upper fields bailing the hay. On down, at the bottom all the fields had been cut and baled. There was hope! But s I rounded the corner and approached the lot, I could see that the grass had not been cut. That was the bad news, the good news was that the lot was empty!
d:b
It was blazing hot in the afternoon sun as I donned my waders and trekked through the grass that now towered above my head it spots. Fortunately, there is still a manageable path beaten down by the tractor from when they loaded up the bales from the first cutting several weeks ago.
I headed to the bench at Sally's where I jumped a vulture. I could smell some carrion but didn't go looking for it. I waded out into the river to cool off. There was only the occasional solitary yellow drake floating on the surface and they got snagged by hungry trout. I tried swinging flies but came up empty handed. I switched to a beetle and caught a few under the Rhodos. The Rhodo also caught several flies. Only one pair of kayakers paddled through, I thought there would have been a major plastic hatch day.
I moved on down the trail, and I was certain by the number of spider webs I ran into that I was the first person to venture down the path that day.
(https://media0.giphy.com/media/5wPBTvRODO7Ly/giphy.gif)
A hatch started about 6 o'clock and I managed a few on the surface but missed a couple of the better fish. I cursed them as they rejected the fly.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/090323-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/090323-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/090323-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/090323-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 07, 2023, 09:01:06 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 07, 2023, 09:01:06 AM
https://youtu.be/_YSigW4DzEk
#23 - 74 -- 95 sunny
Wednesday, the field remains uncut. Back in 2021 the second cutting had already been bailed. As I approached the tall grass I could feel the humidity rise, the grass held the heat in and it was a brutal walk into the river. I made it to Sally's and jumped in wading out into the deep slots and began casting soft hackles. The sun was intense, buff wearing intense, and the fishing was slow, but I managed to bring a handful to hand with a 5 to 1 ratio of bumps to hookups.
Took a break on the bench and then moved on down to the Left-hand pool.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/090623-1.jpg)
Doug came along after I had just released this fish and he watched me fish the far side of the pool, I caught nothing else. I came out and we talked, drand a beer, and solved none of the world's problems. It was a year ago the I started exploring the idea of putting benches on the river, and Doug and I discussed the location for the third bench which we'll put in after they mow and the weather cools off a bit. We parted ways, he was headed back up and I went to the lower parts of river.
It was fairly slow, but I swung up another handful of fish while waiting to see if a hatch would come off in the evening.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/090623-2.jpg)
There was an inch worm, or in this case a centimeter worm, hatch.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/090623-3.jpg)
Some fish started to rise around sixish and I took a few on the surface with diaphanous 7x tippet and a #18 looping bwo before switching over to a streamer. The mist was forming on the river and offered cool relief from the day's heat. I had a couple of fish blow up on that fly.
.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/090623-4.jpg)
Headed out at 7:30 and was surprised to see a truck from Alabama in the lot. As I was putting my gear away a couple came out from across the field and we talked, they had moved to Greensboro for work. I was too tired to carry on much of a conversation and I hit the road.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 13, 2023, 08:32:18 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 13, 2023, 08:32:18 AM
#23 - 75 -- 85 slight overcast partly cloudy
I arrive at an empty lot around noon and was glad to see that they have started to mow the field. It looked like it was cut yesterday, and they stopped after mowing only a small portion and the perimeter along the river. Maybe they checked the weather and realized rain was on the way. It made the hike easier as there was only a small amount of tall grass to cross.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091223-1.jpg)
When I got to Sally's I waded out into a deep slot to cool off as I worked up a good sweat. I didn't even change my rig and just cast the streamer that was on the rod from the other evening. I worked the water up and down from there and had four or five fish blow up on the fly. Rejected I sat on the bench and enjoyed a beer while watching the water and listening to a Carolina Wren chip.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091223-2.jpg)
I hiked down the field, goldfinches darted off, I assumed they were eating the goldenrod seed. Once in the woods I noticed that the pawpaws were starting to drop and I picked up a nice large one. On down the trail I ran into a blow down or the next trail project.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091223-3.jpg)
I hit the head of a pool with the streamer and caught nothing. Thunder started booming and I pulled up the radar on the phone and was concerned enough to head back up closer to the car. Back at Sally's there was a small hatch of sulfurs and I rigged up with a rabbit foot emerger and got several punes to rise to the fly narrowly avoiding a skunk.
I snapped a pic before bolting out as the wind started to blow down the stream and the sky darkened.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091223-4.jpg)
I made it back to the CRV before the heavy rain started, the drive home was taxing in spots as torrents of rain reduced visibility and wipers were on high.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 14, 2023, 09:22:46 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 14, 2023, 09:22:46 AM
#23 - 76 -- 78 slight overcast partly cloudy
The rain from last night had bumped the gauge but it was only running 10cfs above normal, I was hoping that the river wouldn't be too muddy, and if it was I would just clear the trail and move on up to the damn dam. It was a bit cooler and less humid but the sun was intense, I hiked straight into the deadfall about a mile down the trail. As I entered the woods I could smell the tropical fruit fragrance of the ripening pawpaws.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091323-1.jpg)
My Corona Tools 10-Inch RazorTOOTH Folding Saw made quick work of the downed branches.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091323-2.jpg)
I was sweating pretty good by the time I finished, so I rewarded myself with an ice-cold beverage.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091323-3.jpg)
I watched a dragonfly snatching invisible bugs out of the air above the flowing riffles of the river. The birds were nowhere to be seen, I guess they couldn't be bothered with the miniscule midges that attracted the dragonfly.
With no visible surface activity and not wanting to nymph, I rigged up with a black sex dungeon and worked the head of the pool. About halfway down I hooked into a nice brown which fought with vigor and flopped out of my hand for a photo flub. I moved around a bit but didn't get another fish to hit the streamer. I was relaxing on the left-hand bench when I saw Alex coming down with a couple of gals, turns out they are shuttle drivers for SRO.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091323-5.jpg)
I hollered out as they passed and Alex offered up a beer, but as I had one in hand I declined. They continued down and I moved up where I saw a small hatch going on a i was able to target some fish with a dry fly. It was rewarding to catch this sipper that was just off the bank under the Rhodos and almost as rewarding as the big brown that I caught on the streamer.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091323-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on September 15, 2023, 13:34:51 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on September 15, 2023, 13:34:51 PM
I took advantage of the beautiful weather yesterday by running up to the Smith. Spent more time on Woolly's bench than anything else. 😁. I did fish for awhile and was lucky enough to hook some. Got to the lot about 10:30 and left around 3. No cars and no peoples. Life is good sometimes.
P9140022.jpg
P9140022.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 16, 2023, 08:58:25 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 16, 2023, 08:58:25 AM
Glad to hear that the bench is getting some use! :Dance
#23 - 77 --much cooler at 73 and down in the 60s when I left, slight overcast partly cloudy, gas $3.39
There was an older model F250 with vanity plates in the lot when I pulled in at two in the afternoon. Gearing up it looks like I'm going to have some Aquaseal repair work on the LL Bean Pro Waders' "waterproof" pocket
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091523-1.jpg)
Found this White-marked Tussock Moth caterpillar (Orgyia leucostigma) on the bench, colorfull critter don't you think. Its one of those look but don't touch deals, you know they can cause allergic reactions!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091523-2.jpg)
I only stopped at Sally's briefly to scope out the water, look for the other fisherman, and drink a beer before heading on down the trail. There are a few Aphrodite fritillary butterflies fluttering about.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091523-3.jpg)
and the bottle gentian (Gentiana clausa) are blooming
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091523-4.jpg)
Since the water was still sained, I was planning to nymph today, but when I got down to the left hander's pool, I decided to rive the dry fly that was already tied on the rod. I waded out to the edge of the drop off mid rib deep and cast 40 feet to the run of the far bank. The fish were looking up and I caught a number of browns in a short time. A few of them were decent sized too! Standing in water that deep I can't easily take photos.
I moved on down and caught a few more at the trestle pool and there was even a hatch that lasted for a few short minutes. By the time the evening rolled around I had switched to a #20 bwo and caught a few more but still got a number of refusals. Realizing that I hadn't taken any fish photos and I was running out of time I snapped this pune.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091523-5.jpg)
Hiking back out to Sally's I caught a few more before leaving the water at seven. I never saw the other angler and the truck was gone when I got back.
#23 - 77 --much cooler at 73 and down in the 60s when I left, slight overcast partly cloudy, gas $3.39
There was an older model F250 with vanity plates in the lot when I pulled in at two in the afternoon. Gearing up it looks like I'm going to have some Aquaseal repair work on the LL Bean Pro Waders' "waterproof" pocket
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091523-1.jpg)
Found this White-marked Tussock Moth caterpillar (Orgyia leucostigma) on the bench, colorfull critter don't you think. Its one of those look but don't touch deals, you know they can cause allergic reactions!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091523-2.jpg)
I only stopped at Sally's briefly to scope out the water, look for the other fisherman, and drink a beer before heading on down the trail. There are a few Aphrodite fritillary butterflies fluttering about.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091523-3.jpg)
and the bottle gentian (Gentiana clausa) are blooming
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091523-4.jpg)
Since the water was still sained, I was planning to nymph today, but when I got down to the left hander's pool, I decided to rive the dry fly that was already tied on the rod. I waded out to the edge of the drop off mid rib deep and cast 40 feet to the run of the far bank. The fish were looking up and I caught a number of browns in a short time. A few of them were decent sized too! Standing in water that deep I can't easily take photos.
I moved on down and caught a few more at the trestle pool and there was even a hatch that lasted for a few short minutes. By the time the evening rolled around I had switched to a #20 bwo and caught a few more but still got a number of refusals. Realizing that I hadn't taken any fish photos and I was running out of time I snapped this pune.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091523-5.jpg)
Hiking back out to Sally's I caught a few more before leaving the water at seven. I never saw the other angler and the truck was gone when I got back.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 19, 2023, 18:47:18 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 19, 2023, 18:47:18 PM
#23 - 78 mid 70s but I packed a jacket as I planned to stay late
It was around 2 when I pulled in to find a couple of vehicles parked in the lot. I hiked in, stopped at Sally's
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091823-1.jpg)
There was an angler in the run casting away in his spiffy showroom clean waders. I moved on.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091823-2.jpg)
Down at the left handers pool I waded out to the submerged pinnacles in the middle where I hate to stand especially when the water is dingy, and I can't see the bottom. It's a precarious perch and I fully expect to slip and float my hat one day. I saw a trout rise about 50 feet out, cast and skated the fly across the seam, the trout in an aerobatic leap snagged the fly.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091823-3.jpg)
A nice cast, an awesome eat, I couldn't have ended the day right there. I continued to wobble on the rocks and continued to fish catching a handful before retreating to the bank.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091823-4.jpg)
I finally switched over to nymphing and dredged up some trouts, including this rainbow. I've not been catching many of them lately.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091823-5.jpg)
And then a snack of Smoked Pacific Salmon, the brand is Bar Harbor, but upon close inspection the fine print says "Product of Latvia", damn!
Towards the end of the day there was a chill in the air above the river and I donned my jacket as I began to trek out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091823-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091823-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091823-9.jpg)
I passed on Turtle Creek run despite seeing a rise or two and continued up to Sally's where there were some bugs and willing fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091823-10.jpg)
As I glanced downstream I saw that an angler had jumped in to the run below and was still fishing as darkness descended upon the water and I left the river to him.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 19, 2023, 19:41:46 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 19, 2023, 19:41:46 PM
#23 - 78 a cool 62 degrees when I drove across the field at 10 o'clock to drop the third and perhaps final bench and pavers at the trailhead. Doug "The Mule" fish was down the trail clearing a spot and I drove out to park in the lot. When I returned, I slogged down the trail with the pavers until I got to Tuttle creek and then realized that I would be better off dropping my rod, cooler, and grass whip off on the other side. As I was walking to stash the gear, I ran into doug on his return trip and "The Mule" picked up the pavers and carried them in as I finished clearing the site for the bench.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091923-1.jpg)
We needed some hydration after the installation and sat on the bench while consuming a couple of beers, and discussed the world and personal life events, solving no problems. Finally, we decided that it was time to go fishing.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091923-2.jpg)
I got some fish to rise to an emerger and caught a few up against the bank. A few sulfurs were floating down unmolested but they were rising to some small bwos or midges. I had to take a shore break and noticed this DSFK still life.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091923-3.jpg)
Back out in the run I caught another pune and decided to take a photo of the fish with doug in the background, if you squint really hard you might be able to make him out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091923-4.jpg)
Trying out the bench, I noticed this colorful moth, I thought it resembled the invasive Lantern moth and almost smashed it, but let it go. Later I checked and discovered that it is a native species, a Virgin Tiger Moth.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091923-5.jpg)
I looked up and saw doug catch a fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091923-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091923-7.jpg)
I left shortly after that.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/091923-8.jpg)
As I was coming out of the woods at the corner of the field a pickup truck with a couple drove up and said,"Oh, look a fisherman!" I said hello and asked if they were in charge of mowing the field, they said, "We are relatives of the owner and have somebody that takes care of that. Did you catch anything?" Figuring that one of them was offspring of Old Man Phillpott I stated, "Just some little brown trout. Oh, I met your father and his dogs, I've been fishing down here for over 30 years.'
"Well, you must have if figured out by now," the driver stated. "Somedays, I do and other days not so much," to which they laughed, and asked if I needed a ride. I thanked them and said, "I'm planning to fish a little more on up a ways, have a good day.: And they drove off around the perimeter of the field.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 20, 2023, 10:32:40 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 20, 2023, 10:32:40 AM
48
I have not posted in a while. I have been three times since the last one.
Just not much happening when I was there, I have been distracted, or I just never pulled the camera out. :;!
Third bench day.
First, WB was coming early.
Then he was coming later. OK, I'll get some fishing in before he gets there.
I'm pulling on the waders and he says he's 30 miles out. :laugh:
Hiked in, stashed my rods, pack, etc. Hike back out. Clipped back some encroaching roses.
Bench had arrived. Yada, yada.
The fukkin pavers were the bitch.
Two guys in an orange raft were headed downstream throwing streamers.
They spotted the idiot carrying the bench.
We had a short convo and I continued down.
I don't think they were harming any fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/KUCVGw3.jpg)
We finally picked up rods and went fishing.
He went down and threw emergers.
I went straight out and threw a streamer through some deeper water.
No bumps. Nothing.
Switched to the euro rod and started getting some fish.
Caught seven and rejoined bossman on the drinking bench.
A little later he headed up and I went down to euro the water he had fished.
Caught a few more and then snapped of my sighter and two flies on a submerged snag.
Waded in to repair. Ziplock bag with the euro spools were not in the pack.
Switched reels to the regular line and started swinging soft hackles.
(https://i.imgur.com/HNk9bne.jpg)
I quit early at 12 feesh to hand.
(https://i.imgur.com/H8yqeRF.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/joX8IZZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/F5djr5o.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/e6rxby8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iIEJuUK.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ypXhKCq.jpg)
Snake skin.
(https://i.imgur.com/zagTjgA.jpg)
Yes, Keith. That was me who knocked down the tree at Turtle Ck.
Grabbed it on the way to picking up the pavers. It cracked.
Gave it a tug and it it toppled.
:Dance
:cheers
I have not posted in a while. I have been three times since the last one.
Just not much happening when I was there, I have been distracted, or I just never pulled the camera out. :;!
Third bench day.
First, WB was coming early.
Then he was coming later. OK, I'll get some fishing in before he gets there.
I'm pulling on the waders and he says he's 30 miles out. :laugh:
Hiked in, stashed my rods, pack, etc. Hike back out. Clipped back some encroaching roses.
Bench had arrived. Yada, yada.
The fukkin pavers were the bitch.
Two guys in an orange raft were headed downstream throwing streamers.
They spotted the idiot carrying the bench.
We had a short convo and I continued down.
I don't think they were harming any fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/KUCVGw3.jpg)
We finally picked up rods and went fishing.
He went down and threw emergers.
I went straight out and threw a streamer through some deeper water.
No bumps. Nothing.
Switched to the euro rod and started getting some fish.
Caught seven and rejoined bossman on the drinking bench.
A little later he headed up and I went down to euro the water he had fished.
Caught a few more and then snapped of my sighter and two flies on a submerged snag.
Waded in to repair. Ziplock bag with the euro spools were not in the pack.
Switched reels to the regular line and started swinging soft hackles.
(https://i.imgur.com/HNk9bne.jpg)
I quit early at 12 feesh to hand.
(https://i.imgur.com/H8yqeRF.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/joX8IZZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/F5djr5o.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/e6rxby8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iIEJuUK.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ypXhKCq.jpg)
Snake skin.
(https://i.imgur.com/zagTjgA.jpg)
Yes, Keith. That was me who knocked down the tree at Turtle Ck.
Grabbed it on the way to picking up the pavers. It cracked.
Gave it a tug and it it toppled.
:Dance
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on September 20, 2023, 14:27:38 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on September 20, 2023, 14:27:38 PM
Nice job guys. 👍
I know the older folk will appreciate it.
I know the older folk will appreciate it.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on September 20, 2023, 14:45:57 PM
Post by: creakycane on September 20, 2023, 14:45:57 PM
Nice benches, I finally strolled in the other AM, early. Thanks for your efforts.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 21, 2023, 07:46:11 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 21, 2023, 07:46:11 AM
IMG_2926.jpg
Even Neil approves!
Even Neil approves!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on September 21, 2023, 08:07:02 AM
Post by: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on September 21, 2023, 08:07:02 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on September 21, 2023, 07:46:11 AMIMG_2926.jpg
Even Neil approves!
Are these benches for leisurely resting or props for drinking and missing the remainder of the day?
I don't believe Neil drinks.
drunkbench.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 21, 2023, 08:14:31 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 21, 2023, 08:14:31 AM
Quote from: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on September 21, 2023, 08:07:02 AMAre these benches for leisurely resting or props for drinking and missing the remainder of the day?
I was inspired to make them not because I needed a better place to sit, the stream bank, the odd rock, the railroad tie, were all good for sitting, it was the getting up part that was getting harder.
I'm not so sure that I've done a good thing, will it entice more people to explore that section of the river? Perhaps we all will sit more and fish less, just a place to relax and observe.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutboy_II on September 21, 2023, 08:26:29 AM
Post by: troutboy_II on September 21, 2023, 08:26:29 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on September 21, 2023, 08:14:31 AMQuote from: Mudwall Gatewood 3.0 on September 21, 2023, 08:07:02 AMAre these benches for leisurely resting or props for drinking and missing the remainder of the day?
I was inspired to make them not because I needed a better place to sit, the stream bank, the odd rock, the railroad tie, were all good for sitting, it was the getting up part that was getting harder.
I'm not so sure that I've done a good thing, will it entice more people to explore that section of the river? Perhaps we all will sit more and fish less, just a place to relax and observe.
Sounds like a very "good thing" to me. Bravo!
TB
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on September 21, 2023, 09:32:23 AM
Post by: Fin on September 21, 2023, 09:32:23 AM
QuoteEven Neil approves!Well done bossman; the bench sits well.
QuoteI don't believe Neil drinks.You are correct, I've never indulged much in adult beverages. Well, except for coffee... Anyway, I feel the senses need to be sharp to do battle with all those 6-8" brown trout.
I told Woolly and Doug I felt like I was trespassing. :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 23, 2023, 08:58:37 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 23, 2023, 08:58:37 AM
https://youtu.be/D8oxbwx2xAI
#23 - 79
last day of summer, much cooler in the 60s with scattered clouds.
I half expected to see a few cars in the lot, but it was empty on a Friday afternoon. There was a mile long train stopped on the tracks. I geared up and hiked in to Sally's where I rigged up my rod. That's when I realized that I only had one rabbit foot emerger left and I also knew that I only had one puff daddy in the fly box as well.
To do:
Tie up
12 - Rabbit foot emergers
12 - Puff Daddy
12 - Partridge & Orange
I didn't want to chance losing the fly on the Rhodos at sally's, so I went on down to the Left-Hand pool where nothing was happening, Moved on down to the tail of the Trestle pool and started picking up fish on the surface. There were just a few fish hitting the surface sporadically, but when I got the fly over their head most of them took a look and most took the fly. A few fish were tight to the bank and aggressively hit the fly. It was a fun hour as I moved up slowly to the head of the pool.
(https://brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092223-1.jpg)
(https://brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092223-2.jpg)
(https://brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092223-3.jpg)
(https://brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092223-4.jpg)
I took a break and heard the sound of engines running, it sounded like it was coming from downstream a ways but perhaps from up in the woods on the hillside behind the train. Later I heard the boom boom of the bass as music was being played. I thought that maybe some people were camping on the river below the bend. It was just a bit odd.
I worked my way back up the river and continued to hear the music, which got louder and then diminished depending on the direction of the wind. At one point I almost sounded like it was coming up the river as if on a boat, getting closer and closer, but then it grew fainter.
By this time, I had lost the one emerger and the puff daddy, I took a few more fish on a comparadun and a few on a bwo dry before switching over to a tandem of soft hackles. The fish really went for them, and I caught a handful or two before I quit around 7:15.
(https://brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092223-5.jpg)
(https://brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092223-6.jpg)
Fall is coming.
(https://brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092223-7.jpg)
Back at the lot, a train crew pulled up in a taxi from PTI and a young guy came over to ask about the fishing. He was a fly fisher and was curious about the river that he had passed many times but seldom had an opportunity to fish.
Bird of the day; pileated woodpecker, they were chattering up and calling from both sides of the river for most of the afternoon and into the evening.
I've ordered some plaques for the benches... should arrive in a week or two. Also looked at some ground anchors to secure the benches, I'm most concerned about the third bench as it's not as high off the water as the others. I was thinking about putting an eyebolt in the leg and attaching it to the anchor. May or may not happen....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 23, 2023, 12:43:16 PM
Post by: Dougfish on September 23, 2023, 12:43:16 PM
49
https://youtu.be/Del3C2W63Pk
The best Radiohead song you didn't know?
Dark and brooding can still be beautiful.
Put my wife on the plane early Thursday.
Took care of some chores and left later with the intention of fishing til dark.
Had the river to myself. No other waders or floaters.
(https://i.imgur.com/nIAzWio.jpg)
Speaking of dark and brooding.
The river was more stained than on Tuesday!
Neil had complained about the wading on Wed. No shit!
Tall Phlox.
(https://i.imgur.com/SbgI9aL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TvTpK1z.jpg)
Aster
(https://i.imgur.com/yKRBozb.jpg)
Neil had good luck on small streamers.
I could not entice any feesh. Just a few bumps.
Need to acquire some of his special sauce.
Tied on a dropper soft hackle and took some at the end of some across and down swings.
(https://i.imgur.com/IUIP0YU.jpg)
Switched to the euro rod and dredged up some more.
But not at the rate I was used to.
Switched back to soft hackles and took some more as I worked to some lazy risers at the end of the pool.
(https://i.imgur.com/LtNMQh4.jpg)
Took lunch on the newest bench and spotted some aggressive risers up at the Sourwood run.
Started a fresh barley pop, tied on a dry/emerger combo and headed up to try my hand.
Struggled to get into position. Deep wading, mini-fridge sized random rocks and shitty visibility.
There are varying currents and eddy's to deal with.
In spite of some looong sloppy casts and dragging drifts I managed a few more.
Lots of rejections though. And some big blow ups at the dry.
It was like they were telling me to get that shit out of there.
I finally decided I didn't have it in me to stay late and eventually shuffled out.
Dark and brooding.
Soapwort. You can actually use the sap as soap.
(https://i.imgur.com/pLVa897.jpg)
The find of the day.
Euonymus americanus. Strawberry Bush.
Or as I prefer, Hearts-a-bustin'.
(https://i.imgur.com/m2iEB7h.jpg)
:cheers
https://youtu.be/Del3C2W63Pk
The best Radiohead song you didn't know?
Dark and brooding can still be beautiful.
Put my wife on the plane early Thursday.
Took care of some chores and left later with the intention of fishing til dark.
Had the river to myself. No other waders or floaters.
(https://i.imgur.com/nIAzWio.jpg)
Speaking of dark and brooding.
The river was more stained than on Tuesday!
Neil had complained about the wading on Wed. No shit!
Tall Phlox.
(https://i.imgur.com/SbgI9aL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TvTpK1z.jpg)
Aster
(https://i.imgur.com/yKRBozb.jpg)
Neil had good luck on small streamers.
I could not entice any feesh. Just a few bumps.
Need to acquire some of his special sauce.
Tied on a dropper soft hackle and took some at the end of some across and down swings.
(https://i.imgur.com/IUIP0YU.jpg)
Switched to the euro rod and dredged up some more.
But not at the rate I was used to.
Switched back to soft hackles and took some more as I worked to some lazy risers at the end of the pool.
(https://i.imgur.com/LtNMQh4.jpg)
Took lunch on the newest bench and spotted some aggressive risers up at the Sourwood run.
Started a fresh barley pop, tied on a dry/emerger combo and headed up to try my hand.
Struggled to get into position. Deep wading, mini-fridge sized random rocks and shitty visibility.
There are varying currents and eddy's to deal with.
In spite of some looong sloppy casts and dragging drifts I managed a few more.
Lots of rejections though. And some big blow ups at the dry.
It was like they were telling me to get that shit out of there.
I finally decided I didn't have it in me to stay late and eventually shuffled out.
Dark and brooding.
Soapwort. You can actually use the sap as soap.
(https://i.imgur.com/pLVa897.jpg)
The find of the day.
Euonymus americanus. Strawberry Bush.
Or as I prefer, Hearts-a-bustin'.
(https://i.imgur.com/m2iEB7h.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 25, 2023, 08:55:29 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 25, 2023, 08:55:29 AM
#23 80 Gas $3.40 73 overcast
I got to the lot around 2, I wasn't in a hurry, I expected to have a repeat of Friday's successful wet fly action. There was a Highlander with NC plates parked on the grass. I had to make a few adjustments to my gear, changing tippet spools and filling my fly box with some freshly tied soft hackles and snowshoe emergers. Before I had finished donning my gear, I heard voices of the the fishermen coming out. They were from Durham, when I asked where they had fished, they said, "We don't know the names of the pools, but we were three benches down." I went on to tell them the names of the pools and then they asked, "What organization is responsible for the benches and the trail maintenance?" I thumped my chest and said, "I am, about a year ago I decided we needed some benches on the river. My fried Doug and I put them in and we do a bit of week whacking on the trail now and then. A few years back it was really overgrown, and I had to take a manchette to clear out some sections." They, Nathen and John, thanked us for our efforts and then we talked about the river and the damn dam for a while before I headed out across the field.
The water was heavily stained from the muddy creek. I figured that would be a good day to fish streamers. I stted off with a brace of wet flies and struggled to catch fish, What a difference a couple of days make. I was determined to swing up some fish and although I should Have, I never changed my tactics. The Durham boys had taken fish on the surface with sulfurs, but there were no fish rising it the late afternoon. I had enough bumps and grabs along with catching a fish every so often to keep me hopeful that the action would heat up as the evening approached.
I finally switched over to an articulated streamer and went after some meat eaters, but I struck out on that effort.
At one point a pair of Ospreys flew overhead.
I saw a large otter slide into the pool I was fishing and thought he must be well fed. Later a yellow drake that appeared to be the size of a hummingbird flew past me; I snagged it out of the air, but it flew off before I could take a photo.
As darkness approached, I retreated across the field and headed home.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 26, 2023, 08:54:17 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 26, 2023, 08:54:17 AM
#23- 81 overcast 72
I could see some blue sky when I left home but as I drove north the scattered clouds congealed into a grey sky.
The lot was empty but as I was gearing up a Honda Element did a drive by and turned back to enter the lot. The driver was from Richmond and the passenger from Idaho, they were scoping out the river and were dismayed at the muddy color of the water. The driver wasn't fishing as his foot was in a cast, but his transplant passenger was hoping to find better conditions in the future. They asked about access and the chances of good dry fly action. After giving them the 411, they thanked me and drove on.
I packed up my dinner and some refreshments and headed out across the field.
Sitting on the bench I rigged up a fresh leader and tied on the fly that I should have used yesterday. Despite the lack of rising fish, they were looking up and voraciously attacked the fly. I stayed at Sally's longer than I had intended to catching a couple of handfuls of fish.
I eventually moved on down the river pool after pool and continued having great success. Today I heard fighter jets scream overhead in the thickly clouded sky. Taking a break for a snack around 5 I listened to Red-Bellied and Pileated Woodpeckers along with some Carolina Wrens.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092523-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092523-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092523-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092523-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092523-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092523-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092523-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092523-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092523-9.jpg)
The days are getting shorter and with the heavy clouds it was getting dark on the river early, having caught enough fish on the day I didn't stay past seven.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 28, 2023, 20:28:24 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 28, 2023, 20:28:24 PM
https://youtu.be/ZHFz4TwhzqA
#23- 82 clear skies 67
I had the whole section to myself today. It was a pleasant 67 degrees at one in the afternoon. As I approached Sally's I heard the cry of an Osprey and looked up to see it flying overhead with a trout in its talons. Pretty cool way to start the day. However, the river still looked muddy, a very heavy turbid stain with limited visibility. No bugs, no risers, but I figured I could get one to rise from under the overhanging rhododendrons. I used the fly that was still on the rod from Monday, a snowshoe emerger. Nobody was looking up in the nearby runs and I didn't get any hits as I worked across the river. However, a well-placed cast in the bubble line under the overhanging shrubs resulted in an explosive take.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092823-1.jpg)
I worked the rest of the pool and didn't see another fish, so I took a break and found this marbled orb weaver spider weaving a web.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092823-2.jpg)
Back to fishing, I caught a few more before heading down the trail.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092823-3.jpg)
A katydid flew across my path and landed on a leaf.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092823-4.jpg)
down in the lower runs a few more punish fish took the fly, but it was maddingly slow. I think the time has come to rig for nymphing. There were mostly midges and a few miniscule BWOs flying about. Dragonflies were darting about and picking them off in the air and on the surface.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092823-5.jpg)
I found this guy clinging to my hat.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092823-6.jpg)
Arrowhead Spider
All was quiet on the river, so I left at six to find the field finally being mowed.
The pawpaw are falling and are a delicious snack, I've eaten a few streamside!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/09/092823-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on September 29, 2023, 09:35:26 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on September 29, 2023, 09:35:26 AM
The photo of the Arrowhead Spider is cool. Which camera did you use for it?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 29, 2023, 09:43:27 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 29, 2023, 09:43:27 AM
Quote from: trout-r-us on September 29, 2023, 09:35:26 AMThe photo of the Arrowhead Spider is cool. Which camera did you use for it?
That's from the iPhone 14 pro -- I'm so impressed with the quality that I'm no longer using the Olympus TG
The photo is cropped from the full image....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on September 30, 2023, 07:27:58 AM
Post by: Dougfish on September 30, 2023, 07:27:58 AM
50
A song for all the conspiracy theorists out there. <-;:
A lazy day.
No one else at home.
Slung a streamer.
Three blowups, a couple of bumps, no hookups.
Or as Keith says, a normal streamer day ratio.
(https://i.imgur.com/ds60SyI.jpg)
80 degree, bluebird day.
But make no mistake, Autumn has arrived.
Hornbeams and Boxelders are starting to drop.
Sourwoods and Dogwoods are turning.
(https://i.imgur.com/Q1osyhp.jpg)
All hail the leaf hatch.
And the aquatic vegatation is starting to die off, too.
Every step sends spinach downstream.
(https://i.imgur.com/Hj4quoG.jpg)
I switched and swung up a handful.
I encountered a string of lazy sippers in the foam against the far back.
Managed some on emergers.
(https://i.imgur.com/bsXRkn3.jpg)
Spent a lot of time on the bench.
Should have brought a book.
Motivation was low.
My mind is elsewhere.
And the milky green water kept me from roaming far and deep.
Chewy beer, ftw.
(https://i.imgur.com/2iLzhgJ.jpg)
I decided to stay away next week. Maybe more.
I'll go fuk with some small streams.
I heard tractors on the hike out.
Progress.
The field is now completely mowed.
(https://i.imgur.com/xQF9ZIV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1fdGcqY.jpg)
I had not seen 2023 katydids until a week or two ago.
10-15 big, fluttering katydids flew towards the treeline/river with each pass of the tractors.
Twas a lovely sight.
2 + 2 = 4, friends.
:cheers
A song for all the conspiracy theorists out there. <-;:
A lazy day.
No one else at home.
Slung a streamer.
Three blowups, a couple of bumps, no hookups.
Or as Keith says, a normal streamer day ratio.
(https://i.imgur.com/ds60SyI.jpg)
80 degree, bluebird day.
But make no mistake, Autumn has arrived.
Hornbeams and Boxelders are starting to drop.
Sourwoods and Dogwoods are turning.
(https://i.imgur.com/Q1osyhp.jpg)
All hail the leaf hatch.
And the aquatic vegatation is starting to die off, too.
Every step sends spinach downstream.
(https://i.imgur.com/Hj4quoG.jpg)
I switched and swung up a handful.
I encountered a string of lazy sippers in the foam against the far back.
Managed some on emergers.
(https://i.imgur.com/bsXRkn3.jpg)
Spent a lot of time on the bench.
Should have brought a book.
Motivation was low.
My mind is elsewhere.
And the milky green water kept me from roaming far and deep.
Chewy beer, ftw.
(https://i.imgur.com/2iLzhgJ.jpg)
I decided to stay away next week. Maybe more.
I'll go fuk with some small streams.
I heard tractors on the hike out.
Progress.
The field is now completely mowed.
(https://i.imgur.com/xQF9ZIV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1fdGcqY.jpg)
I had not seen 2023 katydids until a week or two ago.
10-15 big, fluttering katydids flew towards the treeline/river with each pass of the tractors.
Twas a lovely sight.
2 + 2 = 4, friends.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 30, 2023, 08:30:55 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 30, 2023, 08:30:55 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on September 30, 2023, 07:27:58 AMSpent a lot of time on the bench.
I find that once I sit down on a bench I tend to stay there for a while, watching, waiting, reflecting, I always have a book in the car, will start packing one in. "Sit more, fish less."
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on October 02, 2023, 13:37:46 PM
Post by: Fishbug on October 02, 2023, 13:37:46 PM
Trouts eating those katydids?!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 02, 2023, 17:03:26 PM
Post by: Dougfish on October 02, 2023, 17:03:26 PM
Quote from: Fishbug on October 02, 2023, 13:37:46 PMTrouts eating those katydids?!
Not unless they can climb trees. :Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 03, 2023, 08:56:13 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 03, 2023, 08:56:13 AM
https://youtu.be/nUUyFrHERpU
#23- 83 clear skies 80+
It was hot going in but I put my waders on anyway. Tried beetles under the Rhodos, no takers, water very off color, like coffee with cream, only about a foot of visibility. I had to change tactics, first switched to a brace of wet flies and swung up some punes, then just casting a large wet that I fished like a streamer. The fish liked it. I had blow-ups and bumps and landed a fish here and there, some were lost at the net, others only stayed on the line for a couple of seconds. Cast after cast brought a response. I wore that spot out and moved on to a place where I have to wade deep to make the cast to the far bank, the fly swings through the current and I hook up with a decent fish, but it takes to the wood and I'm hopelessly snagged to some unseen submerged structure. Damn it, that was the only one of those flies left in the box, I thought there were several, time to add those to the list of flies needing to be tied.
The shadows of September shade the river and by 6:30 the light is low, I tied on an articulated fly and hit a couple of spots. I had three blow-ups, two grabs, and one follow. The fly swung in front of the ledge and the brown took a swipe at the fly, missing it by an inch or two.
Upstream I noticed an angler fishing up near Sally's and as I hiked out at dusk a guy comes out of the woods, steps into the field and then turns back. I decided to check on him, as I walked down the path, I see him sitting on the bench with a bunch of professional camera gear and another guy standing with rod in hand. We talked for a bit, they were filming "fly fishing from the angler's perspective" and the fisherman had caught, a "14-inch brown down by the log in the river" on his nymph rig. They were wet wading.
I headed out across the field as the sun set behind the hills and dewadered while drinking a beer. The other guys came out a few minutes later and I found out they were from Lynchburg and were making a promotional video for his business. I offered them up a beer, the angler declined, but the film guy, Greg, if I remember correctly accepted my offer. I cranked up the honda ad 7:45 and was home by 9:15.
Now I have a question for all y'all.
Is this rainbow wild or stocked?
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/100223-1.jpg)
and just another brown trout pic...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/100223-2.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on October 03, 2023, 10:14:28 AM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on October 03, 2023, 10:14:28 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on October 03, 2023, 08:56:13 AM
Now I have a question for all y'all.
Is this rainbow wild or stocked?
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/100223-1.jpg)
Stocked. Been in there awhile. I've been getting a bunch down there. I've got a pic of what I thought was a wild one somewhere, but it was in a section where TIC releases fish so who knows.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 03, 2023, 10:26:13 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 03, 2023, 10:26:13 AM
Quote from: streamereater_101691 on October 03, 2023, 10:14:28 AMStocked. Been in there awhile. I've been getting a bunch down there.
so zero chance that there is any rainbow reproduction? <-;:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 03, 2023, 12:13:21 PM
Post by: Dougfish on October 03, 2023, 12:13:21 PM
DWR says no reproduction.
I have caught bows with par marks.
Either reproducing or TIC fish?
I have caught bows with par marks.
Either reproducing or TIC fish?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on October 03, 2023, 12:35:45 PM
Post by: Onslow on October 03, 2023, 12:35:45 PM
If reproduction is taking place, peeps should be catching 4-6 inch fish.
That being said, is it possible for bows to swim down Shooting Creek down to Philpott, then get through the dam?
That being said, is it possible for bows to swim down Shooting Creek down to Philpott, then get through the dam?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 04, 2023, 08:45:09 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 04, 2023, 08:45:09 AM
https://youtu.be/O_xtTI3Ssps
#23 - 84 Sunny 80+, Gas $3.40
Met two old guys coming out as I pulled in, I asked where they had been. "Down at the trestle pool" was their reply, "Caught lots of small fish" I asked, "How did you like the benches?" "They are great, that took a lot of work putting them in" they stated. "My friend, Doug, the mule, hauled them in, we drove to the end of the field, and he carried them in from there." "Oh, we met Doug the other day," they commented.
The sun was intense, and it felt more like the dog days of summer as I crossed the field at two in the afternoon. I was going to hike all the way down to the trestle, but stopped in at Sally's to cool off. I had the spey pole with me and waded out into the run and began to swing a Fish Taco intruder. It had worked in the past, but not today. Sometimes my casting was really good, but when I thought about the motions, I flubbed it. The more that I relaxed, the better the cast, but if I tried to concentrate too hard, the cast fell apart. I worked up and down all of that section with out so much as a bump. After an hour I moved on down and took a beer break.
I worked the left handed pool from top to bottom and had one bump for all of that effort.
I moved on down to the trestle bench and my phone blew up as I regained my MINT coverage. Mom had called eleven times and appeared confused, when I returned the call a fireman first responder answered the phone. From what I gathered, mom "accidently" called 911 because she couldn't contact me. I headed home. The neighbor had come over to sit with her, but mom sent her back. What I determined was that the power had gone off and the clocks started flashing, this had happened before and it caused her to become confused, thinking that there is something wrong with the oven. She denied calling me eleven times and said that she didn't call 911 either. The neighbor had come over to sit with her, but mom sent her back.
The power outage was caused by a naked lunatic who climbed a high-tension power tower and Duke Energy had to de-energize the lines for safety as the fire department "rescued" him from the tower and then carted him off for "treatment".
No fish caught, but it felt good to swing some flies on the spey pole.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/100321-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 04, 2023, 18:29:37 PM
Post by: Dougfish on October 04, 2023, 18:29:37 PM
I was there twice in the last 2 weeks and never saw a soul.
There must be a Doug impersonator? :laugh:
:Dance
There must be a Doug impersonator? :laugh:
:Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 05, 2023, 09:59:28 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 05, 2023, 09:59:28 AM
IMG_9818.jpg
:Dance :Dance :Dance
:Dance :Dance :Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutboy_II on October 06, 2023, 11:43:19 AM
Post by: troutboy_II on October 06, 2023, 11:43:19 AM
Did you ask us to contribute to cost of the benches ? If not, please do.
TB
TB
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 06, 2023, 14:27:30 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 06, 2023, 14:27:30 PM
Quote from: troutboy_II on October 06, 2023, 11:43:19 AMDid you ask us to contribute to cost of the benches ? If not, please do.
TB
Thanks, I didn't seek any contributions, they weren't that expensive; @creakycane sent some funds via the DONATE button on the home page.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutboy_II on October 06, 2023, 15:37:20 PM
Post by: troutboy_II on October 06, 2023, 15:37:20 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on October 06, 2023, 14:27:30 PMQuote from: troutboy_II on October 06, 2023, 11:43:19 AMDid you ask us to contribute to cost of the benches ? If not, please do.
TB
Thanks, I didn't seek any contributions, they weren't that expensive; @creakycane sent some funds via the DONATE button on the home page.
I can send a bit. Think is was cool of you to do this.
TB
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 06, 2023, 19:03:10 PM
Post by: Dougfish on October 06, 2023, 19:03:10 PM
The truth is, he whined about the cost. :wave
But he is a cheap bastard.
And we love him.
:Dance
But he is a cheap bastard.
And we love him.
:Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutboy_II on October 06, 2023, 20:35:40 PM
Post by: troutboy_II on October 06, 2023, 20:35:40 PM
Come on guys. He needs to improve his beer selection. Obviously he doesn't have sufficient funds to do so. Help him out...
TB
TB
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 10, 2023, 08:50:08 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 10, 2023, 08:50:08 AM
#23 - 86
https://youtu.be/BeDylD8dV7U
There was a Tundra parked sideways, again, the lot. I geared up, another vehicle pulled up and the other angler asked where I planned to fish, after I told him he said he would go in the opposite direction and then I commented that I didn't know where the other guy was. We had sort of boxed him in, not to the point where he would have any trouble getting out, but as I told the other guy, perhaps we will "learn him how to park" by our example.
It was a pleasant 65 degrees and partly cloudy as I hiked in across the field and it was the first time in a long time that I didn't work up a sweat crossing the now mowed field. It dawned on me at that point that in my haste to get on the road I had forgotten the plaques for the benches.
The river looked muddier than ever especially after fishing the crystal-clear waters of the Watauga, and I didn't see any bugs other than midges. I rigged up and waded out to cast across to the far bank run where I had seen a fish rise. Got him!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/100923-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/100923-2.jpg)
I managed to get close to a dozen fish on the surface. They liked the emerger when I could get it in front of them, I missed few at the sourwood hole on long casts across the current to the slack water where they were sipping emergers and the drift only lasted seconds. The games we play.
The skies darkened in the late afternoon, and I switched to a streamer and had no luck other than one blow-up and a single bump.
Then the rain started, it was unexpected, and I didn't have a jacket with me. I began to work my way back upstream. I saw a pair of anglers up near Turtle Creek standing close together up against the bank, I couldn't tell if they were using spinning gear or spey casting. I assumed that they were the fishermen from the Tundra. The left by the time I got up past the left hand pool.
I sat in the rain and ate my dinner on Sally's bench, all the time watching the water. I thought of the Hatch Mag article that I had read in the morning; Angry -- When hidden places become found (https://www.hatchmag.com/articles/angry/7715796), as I saw the outfitter's raft float over the rising fish that I had been watching. They passed at 5:00, kind of late in the day I thought. They never saw me. I slipped into the run after they passed and caught one last fish and then headed out to the promise of another day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/100923-3.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 11, 2023, 20:49:51 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 11, 2023, 20:49:51 PM
https://youtu.be/PMHfYLZS4cI
#23 -- 87 Gas $3.49
Odd, convict looking critter.
Messatoporus discoidalis
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/101123-1.jpg)
Mission accomplished, the main reason I went up today.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/101123-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/101123-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/101123-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/101123-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/101123-6.jpg)
The fish were mostly up against the bank under the Rhodos, they took emergers and cdc midges
EJ did another late float, water still ugly
I forgot to mention the warbirds flying at treetop level, the lowest I.ve ever seen them as the flew up the river to the damn dam.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 16, 2023, 18:46:37 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 16, 2023, 18:46:37 PM
https://youtu.be/9TyzAAwJnIw
#23 88 - Gas $32.9 58 and mostly cloudy.
A little urban fishing today. With the cooler temps I figured it was about time to hit some other spots to toss streamers.
Ten cast in and this over achiever hit the fly.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/101623-2.jpg)
I thought it would be a grand day, but after working that whole section I only had three additional bumps.
I thought about quitting but moved on down the road and hit another spot and caught a fourteen in bow, it got off at the net while I was deciding whether or not to take a pic.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/101623-3.jpg)
I got low holed on the river and headed for home.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 20, 2023, 09:59:14 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 20, 2023, 09:59:14 AM
#23 -89 - Gas $3.39 66 and partly cloudy
https://youtu.be/nXbEFTv9zr0
A nice Audi Q7 was in the lot, he was fishing the flat water called the mirror pool.
Tried to get the GF out in the river, she preferred sitting on the bench, drinking wine, watching, and reading, over wading in the stained water.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102023-1.jpg)
A fish or two were hooked, but it was a slow afternoon.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102023-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102023-3.jpg)
The Audi was gone when we got back to the car. Checking out the boat ramp there was an angler in the water and we watched him catch a pune while talking to his partner. They were from Richmond and had floated with EJ the day before and reported a good trip. EJ's truck was in the lot so he was running another trip. The Audi's driver had gone down around the bend.
We had pizza at Papa's before driving home.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: shackfishes on October 22, 2023, 16:34:44 PM
Post by: shackfishes on October 22, 2023, 16:34:44 PM
Does anybody know why the water is so muddy? I just started fishing the smith pretty recently
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 22, 2023, 17:36:29 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 22, 2023, 17:36:29 PM
Quote from: shackfishes on October 22, 2023, 16:34:44 PMDoes anybody know why the water is so muddy? I just started fishing the smith pretty recently
The damn dam, the lake is turning over — it's been ugly for months now- I hope it clears up soon!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on October 22, 2023, 18:22:33 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on October 22, 2023, 18:22:33 PM
I like that dingy water at lower flows as I always found the fish to be more approachable.
However, I was up there a couple days ago and after sitting on the bench at Sally's for about two hours I left without ever getting a line or waders wet. The combination of higher flow and dingy water was more than I wished to deal with. But I did have a pleasant visit. Saw one guy downstream fishing up till he reached the bottom of the field, and a float boat came by and made two stops just below Sally's. Lots of mini bugs in the air with very little activity on the surface.
However, I was up there a couple days ago and after sitting on the bench at Sally's for about two hours I left without ever getting a line or waders wet. The combination of higher flow and dingy water was more than I wished to deal with. But I did have a pleasant visit. Saw one guy downstream fishing up till he reached the bottom of the field, and a float boat came by and made two stops just below Sally's. Lots of mini bugs in the air with very little activity on the surface.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on October 24, 2023, 15:51:33 PM
Post by: creakycane on October 24, 2023, 15:51:33 PM
Was up through town this AM until 2pm. I'd say it is slightly more turbid than a week ago in that area. Feet visible at 2 feet but not clearly at 3ft. Lackluster fishing but I was not on my A game; I've been up a couple times a week since Labor Day, and today was my slowest outing. A few sulphurs around, some midges. Usual browns and occasional stocker on nymphs. But slow. Something about the crisp, gorgeous sunny day makes the Dingy water look that much worse.
Ahh, for the late October afternoons with crystal clear low flows and olives coming off in waves at and below Trestle, and (especially) through Stanleytown. Almost seems like a different river now. Perhaps back to those days when the damn dam gets fixed?
Ahh, for the late October afternoons with crystal clear low flows and olives coming off in waves at and below Trestle, and (especially) through Stanleytown. Almost seems like a different river now. Perhaps back to those days when the damn dam gets fixed?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 24, 2023, 19:24:46 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 24, 2023, 19:24:46 PM
#23 -90 - Gas $3.39 66 sunny
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102423-1.jpg)
I thought I should use a crayfish pattern.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102423-2.jpg)
I caught a couple of these, the other one was bigger.
No trout were caught.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 26, 2023, 09:38:43 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 26, 2023, 09:38:43 AM
https://youtu.be/cXjEI3fdsZ4
#23 -91 - 70s sunny
By the numbers.
Two vehicles in the lot, I geared up and hiked into Sally's there I found two fishermen. I opened a barley pop and watched the guy directly across in thigh deep water struggling with knots as I rigged up my rod and tied on some 7x tippet. The
fisherman out in the water had begun casting his newly tied nymph rig and after three or four cast his stated cussing and said this he had run out of 5x as his rig was hopelessly bird nested (as far as I could tell) I shouted out, "Well, that's fly fishing!, I've got an extra spool of 6x if you need it." He said no, he had 6x and had ordered some 5x, but it hadn't come in yet. We talked for a while shouting back and forth across the water. When I finished my beer, I wished him luck and headed on down the trail.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102523-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102523-2.jpg)
I had to send the Orvis Recon off for repairs, the reel seat was loose, maybe due to the heat of sitting in the back of the CRV with the reel on. My Sage One is exhibiting the same issue. So, I had to take the SP out of the quiver.
I tied on a cdc bwo pattern and caught a couple of punes that had aggressively hit the fly.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102523-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102523-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102523-5.jpg)
I was staring at the water at the Sourwood Hole looking for rises, when Howard came up the trail from down below. He had caught a couple on an ant. I saw a couple of fish rise and i jumped off the bank to get after them. The first one I targeted came clear out of the water, in a thrilling display, but somehow didn't get hooked. The fish eagerly took the emerger that I was now fishing, and I stayed with that fly for the rest of the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102523-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102523-7.jpg)
Howard jumped in at the top of left-hand pool and you can see his silhouette in this photo.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102523-8.jpg)
The last of the wildflowers will be gone soon, as will the leaves on the trees that were falling down in flurries with the occasional gust of wind.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102523-9.jpg)
Time for another IPA
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102523-10.jpg)
Then back to catching.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102523-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102523-12.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102523-13.jpg)
The shadows were getting long and I had caught more than enough for a satisfying day on the river. I lost the cdc bwo erly on and only fished one other fly only having to retie the 7x once.
3 hours windshield time
5 hours on the water
2 dozen fish caught
86 photos taken
2 wraps (sandwiches) eaten
3 beers consumed
1 fly lost
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102523-14.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102523-15.jpg)
The field was finally cleared of the hay bales.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102523-16.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on October 26, 2023, 16:52:04 PM
Post by: Dougfish on October 26, 2023, 16:52:04 PM
Harold.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 26, 2023, 17:06:35 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 26, 2023, 17:06:35 PM
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutboy_II on October 27, 2023, 08:36:10 AM
Post by: troutboy_II on October 27, 2023, 08:36:10 AM
Well, the knee may be limiting getting out like I would want (surgery scheduled late Feb. :o ), but that has not affected my search for a great IPA that is accessible in G-ville. With that in mind, I always take a look at your hoppy pops choices. I make one suggestion that is now available in SC (although I usually got it at the brewery in Ashvagas) and should be available in a store near you - Burial's Surf Wax. You probably already know about it, but if not, reasonably priced and tasty.
May the hops be with you...
TB
May the hops be with you...
TB
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: rbphoto on October 27, 2023, 09:54:18 AM
Post by: rbphoto on October 27, 2023, 09:54:18 AM
Burial makes great beer!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 30, 2023, 09:17:27 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 30, 2023, 09:17:27 AM
#23 -92 - Gas $3.25 82 and partly sunny
Pretty damn hot for the last of October. A few anglers were working the water on the lower reaches, but the lot was empty, and I had that section to myself.
I'm not sure if it was just the light, but the river looked muddier than ever. Midges only and very few risers resulted in low numbers of fish caught. Pretty day non the less. Lots of time spent sitting on the benches, all three as I worked my way down and back up the river.
I forgot that it was race weekend and I got caught up in the traffic. I had sworn to avoid this congestion, but a lapse in memory and the need to fish took over.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102923-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102923-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102923-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102923-4.jpg)
Legacy of San Francisco's Anchor Brewing Company Preserved by Smithsonian and SF Historical Society
San Francisco's historic Anchor Brewing Company, a 127-year-old institution and America's initial craft beer producer, has ceased operations.
However, its legacy will endure through the efforts of historians and curators from the Smithsonian National Museum of American History and the San Francisco Historical Society.
They have gathered a collection of artifacts and records from the groundbreaking brewery, offering an in-depth look into its story and effect on the industry.
https://hoodline.com/2023/10/legacy-of-san-francisco-s-anchor-brewing-company-preserved-by-smithsonian-and-sf-historical-society/
Although Anchor Brewing reported closing business, scuttlebutt info indicates that there is a buyer taking over operations.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102923-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/10/102923-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JCB3 on November 01, 2023, 13:44:16 PM
Post by: JCB3 on November 01, 2023, 13:44:16 PM
Damn 90 CFS
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 01, 2023, 14:31:53 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 01, 2023, 14:31:53 PM
Quote from: JCB3 on November 01, 2023, 13:44:16 PMDamn 90 CFS
that's almost twice the old normal low flow.... just wait until they fix the damn dam. I predict a few rafts will be put up for sale.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 01, 2023, 18:47:46 PM
Post by: Dougfish on November 01, 2023, 18:47:46 PM
53
I have been traveling, working and getting the house ready for us to sell and downsize.
Fishing has been downsized, too. I have been a few times in the last month.
Once on a small stream that was dismal. Feeling not so good about a lot of small streams as they move into recruitment season.
The Smiff has been vexing.
Not digging the 2-3 months of turbid, green water.
Not digging the sparse bug hatches.
Not many feesh to hand.
In fact, last week yielded a skunk.
I fished hard.
Hit em with streamers, soft hackles, nymphs under indicators, dries.
No love. One rising fish all day.
The bench time and quietness were the reward.
Humbling. It's been a while to go empty handed.
Last Gose of the year on a sunny 82 degree Oct day.
20231027_125657.jpg
20231027_124907.jpg
The temps are turning down.
20231031_175259.jpg
Peace, out. I'll be back next week to check out the low flows?
I have been traveling, working and getting the house ready for us to sell and downsize.
Fishing has been downsized, too. I have been a few times in the last month.
Once on a small stream that was dismal. Feeling not so good about a lot of small streams as they move into recruitment season.
The Smiff has been vexing.
Not digging the 2-3 months of turbid, green water.
Not digging the sparse bug hatches.
Not many feesh to hand.
In fact, last week yielded a skunk.
I fished hard.
Hit em with streamers, soft hackles, nymphs under indicators, dries.
No love. One rising fish all day.
The bench time and quietness were the reward.
Humbling. It's been a while to go empty handed.
Last Gose of the year on a sunny 82 degree Oct day.
20231027_125657.jpg
20231027_124907.jpg
The temps are turning down.
20231031_175259.jpg
Peace, out. I'll be back next week to check out the low flows?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on November 01, 2023, 19:04:54 PM
Post by: Onslow on November 01, 2023, 19:04:54 PM
@Dougfish, this was the year for bass. El Nino may change things for next year. Go with the flow.
Yes, there is less food in the small streams due to what I assume is the lack of terrestrial critter flushings from thunderstorms. The trout are half the mass they were 4 years ago.
Yes, there is less food in the small streams due to what I assume is the lack of terrestrial critter flushings from thunderstorms. The trout are half the mass they were 4 years ago.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on November 07, 2023, 17:37:13 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on November 07, 2023, 17:37:13 PM
With the reduced flows, warm weather, and Woolly down the shore, I figured Sally's run would be well rested and I'd go up and catch a few.
Got to the parking lot 'bout 11:15 to find two vehicles already there. One each from NC and VA.
Grabbed my stuff and headed across the field to the bench at Sally's. Water is still dingy as others have been reporting. My hip was killing me from the walk across the field.
Three anglers just down from there and working upstream. They kept working upstream, we exchanged pleasantries and they said they were gonna take a break and keep fishing up. I let the run rest for 20 min while I rigged up, then got in and fished for 30 minutes without any luck. By then, my hip was aching to the point I was concerned whether I'd make it back to the truck. Guessing I might be done with wading. Next time, I'm grabbing a spinning rod and a bucket of minners and fishing from the bank somewhere.
On the way back I met two other anglers heading down to the river. Got packed up and as I was leaving another truck pulled in with two guys.
Don't anybody work no more? 🤔
Got to the parking lot 'bout 11:15 to find two vehicles already there. One each from NC and VA.
Grabbed my stuff and headed across the field to the bench at Sally's. Water is still dingy as others have been reporting. My hip was killing me from the walk across the field.
Three anglers just down from there and working upstream. They kept working upstream, we exchanged pleasantries and they said they were gonna take a break and keep fishing up. I let the run rest for 20 min while I rigged up, then got in and fished for 30 minutes without any luck. By then, my hip was aching to the point I was concerned whether I'd make it back to the truck. Guessing I might be done with wading. Next time, I'm grabbing a spinning rod and a bucket of minners and fishing from the bank somewhere.
On the way back I met two other anglers heading down to the river. Got packed up and as I was leaving another truck pulled in with two guys.
Don't anybody work no more? 🤔
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutboy_II on November 08, 2023, 09:40:54 AM
Post by: troutboy_II on November 08, 2023, 09:40:54 AM
Quote from: trout-r-us on November 07, 2023, 17:37:13 PMGuessing I might be done with wading.
I get it. Knee replacement scheduled for end of Feb. d:b
I wonder what the age spread looks like on this board? Boss?
TB
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 08, 2023, 19:30:12 PM
Post by: Dougfish on November 08, 2023, 19:30:12 PM
54
It had been a week.
I decided to go down and see what the low flow looked like.
Bob said it was still dingy. Another source said it had cleared.
Trout-r-us was correct. b';
(https://i.imgur.com/AlDhQPK.jpg)
And the geese are back....
After my last skunking I decided to stick to a simple plan.
Fish were spotted rising sporadically.
Tiny midges and equally tiny BWO's were coming off.
Size 20 poly wing dry w/a 20 emerger dropped 3' off it.
(https://i.imgur.com/49Rd0gz.jpg)
Picked up a few fish laid up on the far bank.
Decided to move down and see what that held.
(https://i.imgur.com/2qEjfad.jpg)
I've been stalking this Puttyroot Orchid since last winter.
It did not bloom this summer. And was still dormant a week ago.
Boom. Its up and we'll see if it blooms in 2024.
Fished a long pool.
Fish rising the whole way up.
(https://i.imgur.com/bsXRkn3.jpg)
They'd rise, I'd catch.
They'd pause, I'd pause.
So it went for an hour and a half.
(https://i.imgur.com/ebRCXU5.jpg)
DSFK
Finished semi early with 20 smallish, but eager fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/8p0XFI9.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/oEQGYwK.jpg)
Only one on the river.
Just me and the birds.
Too pretty of a day for November.
:cheers
It had been a week.
I decided to go down and see what the low flow looked like.
Bob said it was still dingy. Another source said it had cleared.
Trout-r-us was correct. b';
(https://i.imgur.com/AlDhQPK.jpg)
And the geese are back....
After my last skunking I decided to stick to a simple plan.
Fish were spotted rising sporadically.
Tiny midges and equally tiny BWO's were coming off.
Size 20 poly wing dry w/a 20 emerger dropped 3' off it.
(https://i.imgur.com/49Rd0gz.jpg)
Picked up a few fish laid up on the far bank.
Decided to move down and see what that held.
(https://i.imgur.com/2qEjfad.jpg)
I've been stalking this Puttyroot Orchid since last winter.
It did not bloom this summer. And was still dormant a week ago.
Boom. Its up and we'll see if it blooms in 2024.
Fished a long pool.
Fish rising the whole way up.
(https://i.imgur.com/bsXRkn3.jpg)
They'd rise, I'd catch.
They'd pause, I'd pause.
So it went for an hour and a half.
(https://i.imgur.com/ebRCXU5.jpg)
DSFK
Finished semi early with 20 smallish, but eager fish.
(https://i.imgur.com/8p0XFI9.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/oEQGYwK.jpg)
Only one on the river.
Just me and the birds.
Too pretty of a day for November.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on November 08, 2023, 21:13:06 PM
Post by: driver on November 08, 2023, 21:13:06 PM
I never have seen a blooming puttyroot. I did find a huge patch of them once on a nature preserve in outside Chapel Hill.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 09, 2023, 11:16:09 AM
Post by: Dougfish on November 09, 2023, 11:16:09 AM
Quote from: driver on November 08, 2023, 21:13:06 PMI never have seen a blooming puttyroot. I did find a huge patch of them once on a nature preserve in outside Chapel Hill.
It and Cranefly bloom in July/August. Colors match leaf litter. Very tough to spot. Get down on hands and knees.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on November 12, 2023, 09:04:05 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on November 12, 2023, 09:04:05 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on November 01, 2023, 18:47:46 PMI have been traveling, working and getting the house ready for us to sell and downsize.
I've heard a number of aging folks mention this concept of downsizing. Since your profile indicates your age is 164 (😳), I guess it's definitely a good idea.
I saw this article that reminded me of your post.
https://www.yahoo.com/news/silver-tsunami-downsizing-baby-boomers-233000069.html
Since my house is not very large and is all on one floor, I hope I can stay here 'till
the end, and after that I won't require very much space. I've been looking at these, but haven't settled on any particular one yet.
IMG_0657.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutboy_II on November 12, 2023, 11:08:00 AM
Post by: troutboy_II on November 12, 2023, 11:08:00 AM
I recommend against the downsizing approach. You will regret it. My $.02
And fantastic sculpture! Who was the artist?
TB
And fantastic sculpture! Who was the artist?
TB
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on November 12, 2023, 11:58:30 AM
Post by: creakycane on November 12, 2023, 11:58:30 AM
https://www.gowinmemorials.com/urns/fishing-urns/reading-the-stream-flyfishing-urn/
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 14, 2023, 08:45:36 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 14, 2023, 08:45:36 AM
23 - 98 Gas $2.99 61 and mostly sunny.
Two days without fishing and I was ready to go chase the punes of the Smith with on the low flow.
I can't remember when the last time was that I fished it at a low flow. One blue truck in the lot.
I had unpacked all of the trout gear from the Honda in preparation of the Albie trip but ended up taking the RAV4 chiefly because of the carPlay navigation and better gas milage. So when I got ready for this trip, I had to load up my gear. I realized that I forgot to pack my wading staff as I geared up in the parking lot. Never mind, the river is only at 100 cfs.
I hiked into Sally's and notice fish rising right away. There were fish rising all over and it was difficult to choose a target. I tied on a #20 BWO parachute and picked a target. It was good to see so many fish rise in all of the old "low flow" holding spots and I managed to catch a couple of handfuls in short order. I had several refusals and ended up switching to a midge pattern which they liked.
It's not albie fishing but I had an enjoyable couple of hours on the river catching small brown trout on 7x tippet and small flies.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/111323-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/111323-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/111323-3.jpg)
While there were mostly midges and bwos in the air, there were a surprising number of these as and few other dark mayflies as well.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/111323-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/111323-5.jpg)
When I pulled into the drive, I startled Rocky, and he ran up a dogwood.
can you spot him?
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/111323-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 15, 2023, 21:06:30 PM
Post by: Dougfish on November 15, 2023, 21:06:30 PM
55
Went down mid-week for the low flow.
Nobody in the lot.
Walked down until I found sun on the water and rising fish.
20231115_102152.jpg
The water is clearing.
Decided to go lower and check out those feesh.
20231115_104221.jpg
20231115_104240.jpg
The fish were receptive.
20231115_111300.jpg
20231115_111959.jpg
20231115_123945.jpg
The new emerger pattern was killer.
I lost one in a sycamore on a greedy cast.
I lost another on a vigorous 7x hookset on a husky brown. :;!
I lost another when a better butter brown broke me off.
I was out of my experiment flies.
Fuk me.
20231115_105142_001.jpg
10' tall Joe Pye Weed checking out.
20231115_104848_001.jpg
Out of beer. Out of emergers.
I headed back to the upstream bench.
Found the Bugger.
20231115_153134.jpg
We solved zero problems of the world, he continued just below, I moved up.
20231115_141102_001.jpg
I caught a handful plus more and packed it in.
We walked out together. Both at 25ish feesh.
He went back in at Sally's, I hit the road.
:cheers
Went down mid-week for the low flow.
Nobody in the lot.
Walked down until I found sun on the water and rising fish.
20231115_102152.jpg
The water is clearing.
Decided to go lower and check out those feesh.
20231115_104221.jpg
20231115_104240.jpg
The fish were receptive.
20231115_111300.jpg
20231115_111959.jpg
20231115_123945.jpg
The new emerger pattern was killer.
I lost one in a sycamore on a greedy cast.
I lost another on a vigorous 7x hookset on a husky brown. :;!
I lost another when a better butter brown broke me off.
I was out of my experiment flies.
Fuk me.
20231115_105142_001.jpg
10' tall Joe Pye Weed checking out.
20231115_104848_001.jpg
Out of beer. Out of emergers.
I headed back to the upstream bench.
Found the Bugger.
20231115_153134.jpg
We solved zero problems of the world, he continued just below, I moved up.
20231115_141102_001.jpg
I caught a handful plus more and packed it in.
We walked out together. Both at 25ish feesh.
He went back in at Sally's, I hit the road.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 16, 2023, 08:57:42 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 16, 2023, 08:57:42 AM
#23 - 99 warm for Nov., in the low 60s, mostly cloudy.
https://youtu.be/y4b-vwuzjBM
When I was loading up the Honda, I noticed a note under the windshield. It must have been planted there two days ago up on the river. I've been driving the RAV4 around town and just using the CRV for fishing.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/111523-1.jpg)
Earlier I got a text from @Dougfish, and he was catching on the low clear water One hundred cfs is shockingly low in comparison to the new normal of 300, but still quite a bit better than the old low 65 cfs. Long leaders and 7x days have returned, at least until there is more rain.
Fish were rising everywhere I looked but I went on to the Trestle Pool with plans to fish my way back up the reiver. I rigged up the Super Fine Glass 2 wt., a toothpick of a rod and tied on a BWO parachute and waded out into the run directly out from the bench. It didn't take long to catch the eager fish.
Doug came up from below and shouted words of encouragement as I continued to t whack fish.
As Doug was eating his lunch I moved on down to the head of the pool where many fish were rising, and I was having a blast picking targets and catching them. I was rewarding to make some difficult cast across currents and still manage to hood fish. This went on for quite a while and I think I had over 20 fish before I took a break and had a riverside beer with Doug who had been up at the next run catching fish after fish.
The browns were mostly 8 to 10 inches but put a nice bend in the 2wt
When we hiked out, I stopped at sally's and got plenty of fish to rise to the fly but only caught a couple of them
I'll be back to enjoy more of this low flow dry fly action soon.
The beavers are back building a dam
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/111523-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/111523-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/111523-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/111523-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/111523-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JCB3 on November 17, 2023, 17:38:39 PM
Post by: JCB3 on November 17, 2023, 17:38:39 PM
Who's attending the river clean up tomorrow?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 19, 2023, 09:35:05 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 19, 2023, 09:35:05 AM
https://youtu.be/RsY8l0Jg3lY
#23 - 100 Gas $2.89 65 and windy.
Wind advisories had been issued.
ENHANCED FIRE DANGER TODAY...
Low humidities in the 20 to 30 percent range, combined with the drought conditions, will lead to an increase in fire danger today.
There were two black trucks, a Dodge and a Chevy, in the lot. I pulled out the 5 wt to deal with the wind and hiked across the field to Sally's where I found a fisherman getting ready to leave. Turns out he knows Doug from the TU chapter. We chatted for a spell talking about the water clarity and the wind. As I was rigging my rod, he said he hadn't seen any fish rise. Undeterred, I tied on a #20 bwo onto a sketchy leader with several nail knotted segments terminating in a short piece of 7x, and went to work. Third cast and I hooked up with a pune. There were fish looking up and if you watched closely, you could see the occasional dimple on the water. I caught a handful before lodging the fly in the rhodo and destroyed the leader as yanked it free. I retreated to the bench and selected another gently used leader from the collection in my vest.
I picked off a few more punes before heading on down the river. The left-hand pool didn't look promising as the Canada Geese were occupying that section. I stopped at the big pine hole (formerly known as Sourwood) and caught another handful from that area. The autumnal sun doesn't hit the water in the afternoon once you get past the little creek at the head of this reach and there was a chill in the air. It was a challenge to deliver the fly on target on 7x with the wind whipping down the river corridor.
Down at the trestle pool a few more fish were caught on the surface. The day was getting long and I headed back to the parking lot, the two black truck were gone, replaced by one white truck. As I was dewadering (i'm submitting this word to Websters) a young couple came bounding in with youthful strides. The women was dweaing teal-colored waders, and I hollered out "Where did you get those fancy wader?" the guy replied, "and she's got matching ..." "How did y'all do?", I enquired. "Oh, we only caught 2 in an hour," he replied at the made their way to their truck.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/111823-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/111823-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/111823-3.jpg)
After I got home the headlines blared, "Wildfire burning in Sauratown Mountain in Stokes County"
https://www.wxii12.com/article/north-carolina-fire-breaks-out-in-sauratown/45883265
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 20, 2023, 20:05:09 PM
Post by: Dougfish on November 20, 2023, 20:05:09 PM
56
Monday.
First in the lot.
Rain is a coming.
Now or never for this week.
Boogied down low.
Smoke from the assorted forest fires was prevalent the whole drive down.
On the river, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/PDCSR0O.jpg)
Very few risers today versus the last two trips.
Managed feesh anyhow.
(https://i.imgur.com/45nRS1I.jpg)
Even the rare double.
Its been awhile...
(https://i.imgur.com/xOXH7Ji.jpg)
How much the 100 cfs versus the prior 300 cfs looks like.
12"ish inches.
(https://i.imgur.com/VnwCRCP.jpg)
Most of the fish came from moving water.
Not slick pools.
(https://i.imgur.com/OnGazsM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/0upYZ14.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/h2omTVs.jpg)
Caught up to WB upstream.
Drank a beer as he worked up some more fish.
We hiked out most of the way after that.
I left him to torment a few more.
Another 25ish fish day.
(https://i.imgur.com/TdGDua0.jpg)
I'll let Keith fill you in about dis.
Passed another NC guy walking in at 3:30.
Scattered rain drops started hitting the windshield as soon as I pulled out.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on November 20, 2023, 20:41:01 PM
Post by: Onslow on November 20, 2023, 20:41:01 PM
Damn nice haul.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on November 21, 2023, 09:14:26 AM
Post by: creakycane on November 21, 2023, 09:14:26 AM
A bunch of anglers around Monday up and down. Saw Wooly as he was headed in and we chatted briefly. Pretty much same as Doug's report for me: small fish on surface with olives and midges, not as active as Friday. I figure After river comes down with todays rain, will start back with larger weighted nymphs and buggers. Water was clear, very low to fish some pools. Rain will do everything some good.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 21, 2023, 17:08:30 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 21, 2023, 17:08:30 PM
#23 - 101 Overcast and cooler
With rain on the way Monday looked like the day to go, and after clearing the deck of chores I headed out. As I stepped out I noticed a puck of flies on the driveway beside the Honda's door. I was over in Greensboro and had stopped in at GOPC looking for some #20 bwo flies, they had none, so I headed over to the Orvis store and picked a dozen out of the bin not realizing that they were $3.99 each, holy mackerel, fifty-one dollars, damn! When I went fishing on Saturday, I shoved them into my pocket and got on the road, when I arrived at the river, I couldn't find them. I searched and searched the car and at home, finally retracing my steps I even went to Trader Joe's where I had stopped on the way, there was a slim possibility that i had dropped them as I checked out. They weren't there. So, you can imagine how ecstatic I was when I found them in my driveway where they fell out as I was getting in the Honda on Saturday.
Now armed with a fresh batch of flies, calm winds, and cloudy conditions I was anticipating an enjoyable day of dry fly action. I geared up parked next to Doug's truck and @creakycane pulled up and we chatted for a while before I hiked into the trestle pool. The trees were filled with grackles and when they took to flight in unison it sounded like distant thunder. As I walked along the trail, I heard their dropping spatter like rain.
I'll post a video later, so check back.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/112023-1.jpg)
Along the way I kept glancing over at the water looking for risers, they were there on Saturday, but I didn't see any now. I had rigged the 2wt with a cdc olive and waded out into the top of the run. The grackles were in the trees across the way and every now and then they would all fly off for a bit and the sound of their wings beating in unison resembled the low rumble of distant thunder. I only saw an occasional riser and cast to them when practical. I only managed to entice a few to snatch my fly and it was a lot more difficult than two days prior when I could do no wrong. Perplexed and frustrated, I sat down on the bench, popped the top of a beer and tied on a new leader and a bwo sparkle dun.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/112023-2.jpg)
I finished up working the trestle pool with a couple of punes and then headed up to the Big Pine Hole where I stood and watched for quite some time before finally deciding it was worth the effort to wade out into and across the river. After failing to get the attention of the fish in the closest run, I went out into the middle of the river to cast to a riser that was a bit better than the small fish that had splashy rises. Upstream I saw two anglers working the left-hand pool and then I heard Doug coming up the trail.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/112023-3.jpg)
He stood on the bank and watched me cast to my targeted fish and Bam! Fish on. This little rainbow put the little fiberglass rod to work, and it was an enjoyable fight to the net.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/112023-4.jpg)
After that I tried for a couple of other fish that doug saw rising but I failed, so up on the bank I went a popped a beer as we walked up the trail stopping at the Left-hand bench to watch the pair of angles flail away. It looked like they didn't really know what they were doing. I saw a couple of fish rise up against the far bank, and headed out to catch them as doug began to hike out.
I got both of them to rise, one of them twice, but no hook up today. I left and went to Sally's for a spell, and found more frustration there, changing flies and finally hooking a couple on a wet. I go high holed by some young guy in spiffy waders, he climbed the bank and leapt way on downstream, and I stated a bit longer, because the left hand anglers with out of state plates had driven into the field and I was wondering if they would get locked in when the plant closed. They were headed downstream when I last saw them.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/112023-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/112023-6.jpg)
It was close to five and I had had enough. I turned on some music and ate a snack while dewadering. I was just about to leave when the pair of anglers came up and parked in the lot. We had a nice conversation about the river. Turns out the they are Philpotts, one by marriage, and were up to the area to attend the funeral of John Philpott Sr. (https://obits.nola.com/us/obituaries/martinsvillebulletin/name/john-philpott-obituary?id=53587007)
I asked them if they had seen the benches and they agreed they were a nice addition, although they don't get to fish up here as often as they used to when they lived in Virginia.
On the way home, I called Damselfly to talk about JT as I had just heard that he had gone into hospice that morning.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 25, 2023, 20:30:18 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 25, 2023, 20:30:18 PM
#23 - 102 Overcast and much cooler, gas $3.06
Layered up for this one. On the hike I ran into a pair of young anglers, one was carrying a fly rod and the other spinning gear. They were headed out to switch out the fly rod for another spinning rod. They said that the game was on and the fish were actively feeding. Or at least that is what I deciphered from their heavy southern accents and when I asked where they had been fishing, I just nodded that I understood the location they described and marched on in to Big Pine where I found a number of fish hitting the surface.
I had taken in the 2wt and was already regretting that decision as the wind began to pick up and mess with my cast. I caught a few punes on the margins and missed a few more before I started catching some better fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/112523-1.jpg)
I had 6 to hand and lost a good fish as a quick hook set pulled the #20 hook free. Damn it!
I was working the far seam now as there were several fish rising regularly. Then I heard the splashing of the newly armed spin fisherman coming across the water in the run above me. Pretty close, I thought. But I was wrong, he came right on down into my back cast and then, standing 6 feet behind me tossed his lure at the fish I had been casting to! WTF? I reeled in and moved on, I know I should have said something to educate this clown, but I figured that the damage was done.
His partner had low holed me, so I sat on a bench, drank a beer, and plotted my next move. Another fly guy came up from down around the corner and then headed out after mentioning to the spinners that he had caught a few. I went down low and tried to entice some risers to eat but it wasn't happening. Then I heard the first spin guy complaining to his buddy that he hadn't had any luck and wanted to try another spot.
After they cleared out I when back to big pine and caught a handful of punes.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/112523-2.jpg)
Things were slowing down and the fish had pretty much stopped feeding on the surface. I hiked up the trail and stopped at the left-hand pool and after a spell and seeing just enough fish poke through the surface I went in after them. Most were small at first, but when I moved over to the head of the pool I started getting into better fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/112523-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/112523-4.jpg)
I caught enough there, and it was getting late, so I headed out with plans to check out Sally's before calling it a day. I saw an angler in the pool below Sally's and when I turned to go in, I saw a wadered up womed by the bench. We spoke for a while and when I asked what they were fishing with she said, "Alex". "No, what fly are you using?" "oh, some dry fly I think". I turned and looked downstream, and her comment made sense as I saw Alex guiding her husband. I told her that I had never seen Alex working before. We chatted some more and then I split.
Back at then parking lot, I was busy dewadering, and storing gear, when the trio came hiking out. We chatted some more and showed off pictures of our catch before I headed out for home.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 25, 2023, 21:53:32 PM
Post by: Dougfish on November 25, 2023, 21:53:32 PM
Weekend.
You deserved that.
You deserved that.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 25, 2023, 21:59:18 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 25, 2023, 21:59:18 PM
here is the grackle video I shot the other day,
at the end you'll hear a pileated woodpecker going to town!
https://vimeo.com/888336659?share=copy
at the end you'll hear a pileated woodpecker going to town!
https://vimeo.com/888336659?share=copy
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 26, 2023, 19:31:15 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 26, 2023, 19:31:15 PM
#23 - 103 Mostly sunny and warmer with a bit more wind.
Unsheathed the SP today, worked one spot, caught a lot of fish on #22 midge pattern. It was mild in comparison to yesterday, perhaps I was layered better. Fished from 2 to 3:30, then thought about going downstream, but drank a beer and watched the water. When the fish started to rise again, I went in and caught some more.
There were a lot of midges on the water and the fish were continually active. I saw one solitary sulfur, which reminded me that I saw a large yellow drake yesterday and watched it float on down for a ways before getting nabbed by a watchful trout.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/112623-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/112623-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/112623-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/112623-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/112623-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/11/112623-6.jpg)
I left by 4:30, someone else came in late, but I didn't see them and they must have fished until dark.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on November 28, 2023, 15:38:57 PM
Post by: Dougfish on November 28, 2023, 15:38:57 PM
57
The Christmas work has picked up.
Other obligations picked up.
I ate too much.
It rained 2.3".
But I had to get out.
It was Mon. 47 degrees, 10-20 winds.
Or Tues. 37 degrees, 15 -20 winds.
Easy decision?
20231127_103642.jpg
The bundled up look for the next few months.
It was blowing right down the river.
Casting an 11' leader with #18's and #20's was a foolish endeavor.
Yet there I was.
And no feesh were rising.
Fished the money stretch with the dry/emerger combo. Nothing.
Switched to a stonefly under a fluffy dry. Managed this guy.
LJzPb8Q.jpg
But that was it.
Reeled up and headed up to the bench.
N7EEN8H.jpg
Ate some lunch, noticed some risers.
Went back to the dry rig and picked off a handful of the residents.
A new crop of bugs looks promising.
sJNOwpp.jpg
Went upstream, following the sun on the water. Found more risers, whacked another handful.
Reeled up and headed home early.
Warmed up.
20231127_165716.jpg
Back to making big and little wreaths on Wed.
20231125_131039.jpg
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JCB3 on November 29, 2023, 15:00:13 PM
Post by: JCB3 on November 29, 2023, 15:00:13 PM
What's up with all the fencing behind the river walk place?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 29, 2023, 15:31:07 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 29, 2023, 15:31:07 PM
Quote from: JCB3 on November 29, 2023, 15:00:13 PMWhat's up with all the fencing behind the river walk place?
That is a very good question — it looks like that have done some improvements to the area but I don't understand the fence - don't know who to ask — you can still access the ramp at the end of the lot
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 30, 2023, 09:59:49 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 30, 2023, 09:59:49 AM
SRAS-Logo.jpg
<-;: <-;: :drum
<-;: <-;: :drum
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on December 01, 2023, 14:25:46 PM
Post by: driver on December 01, 2023, 14:25:46 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on November 30, 2023, 09:59:49 AMSRAS-Logo.jpg
<-;: <-;: :drum
That trout is too big. Make it a pune and you're set.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 01, 2023, 15:41:39 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 01, 2023, 15:41:39 PM
Quote from: driver on December 01, 2023, 14:25:46 PMQuote from: Woolly Bugger on November 30, 2023, 09:59:49 AMSRAS-Logo.jpg
<-;: <-;: :drum
That trout is too big. Make it a pune and you're set.
Artboard 1-80.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 03, 2023, 22:20:39 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 03, 2023, 22:20:39 PM
#23 - 104, gas $2.96 close to 70 and partly cloudy.
https://youtu.be/Kw439o1yxNE
A few years back, before the troubling times, I saw a post about the Raptor Center asking anglers to provide fresh fish to feed their fish-loving birds. At the time I thought that I could benefit the Smith River by harvesting some of the pune trout in the keeper range between 7 and 10 inches. But it was a low priority and I never followed up. Fast forward to last week when I fired off some emails to see if the center was still in need of some fresh fish for rehabbing birds of prey. A few days later I got a reply in the affirmative. With that in mind I set out today to cull some trout.
The weather was supposed to be cloudy with some rain and unseasonably warm, close to 70. I was hoping that there would be a reasonably good bwo or midge hatch. The skies cleared up by the time I got to the lot. One guy was leaving and a pair of young fly fishermen that were driving the stickered up Antique Tracker were headed back in. They had been down at the "end of the trail" and were planning to fish back up from the bottom of the field. I headed down below to the Big Pine Hole.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120323-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120323-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120323-3.jpg)
Fresh out of BRFFF stickers, I left a DSFK to add to their collection.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120323-4.jpg)
It took a while bit. I finally landed a legal-size trout, bonked it on its head and placed it on ice in the cooler. It was getting late in the afternoon, and I was worried that I wouldn't get my limit of trout today. Bugs, including midges were not to be seen and only an occasional trout came to the surface. I covered so water and managed to get two more on ice. A couple were undersized, and one was over.
I began to work my way back up and stopped at the Left-hand pool where another angler had stepped in. Martin, from Martinsville was fishing streamers without much luck. He moved on up to the flat water to give dry flies a chance. He has been fishing the river since he was a boy and recalled the old "opening day, when 100s of angler would line the banks waiting for the start of the season.
I stepped in and caught nothing with a dry fly but switched to a wet and swung up a couple more.
Last chance at Sally's and I got creeled number six. As I admired the sunset I heard the song of an Eastern Screech Owl.
It was after five o'clock and the sun was setting so I headed out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120323-6.jpg)
Martin and his son, Jackson came out shortly afterwards and we chatted in the parking lot before I took off headed home.
I hope to drop off the fish at the raptor center tomorrow.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120323-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 04, 2023, 17:10:17 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 04, 2023, 17:10:17 PM
Long drive down to the raptor center on I-77 — I've. Not been down that road in quite a while !
Dropped off the trout for the birds and got some details on storing them for the next trip
IMG_0871.jpg
They will take then fresh or frozen. I'll save up several limits before making the next trip!
They may send a photo of them feeding the fish to a bird as I requested.
Dropped off the trout for the birds and got some details on storing them for the next trip
IMG_0871.jpg
They will take then fresh or frozen. I'll save up several limits before making the next trip!
They may send a photo of them feeding the fish to a bird as I requested.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 05, 2023, 19:03:13 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 05, 2023, 19:03:13 PM
#23 105, mostly cloudy, cool low 50s
It was kind of a grey day, one that says that the Blue Winded Olives should be out and the fish feeding on them. That wasn't the case, only midges and very few fish to be seen rising. Well it wasn't much of a rise, just a dimple here and there, with a rare splash now and then. I heard them and turned trying to spot the ring of the rise, sometimes I did, other times I just guessed. I didn't have a whole lot of time so I spent a couple of hours at Sally's and filled up my creel with a limit of trout to feed the raptors. They said it would be fine to freeze them, so I'm hoping to get 4 to 6 limits before making the trip down to the Raptor Center again.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120523-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 07, 2023, 20:30:07 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 07, 2023, 20:30:07 PM
#23 -- 106 Low 50s Sunny
Quick trip up to catch some more trout to feet the birds. An Audi was in the lot, I've seen it before. Hiked in to the Left-hand pool, stepped off the bank and then noticed a guy standing 40 feet downstream from me. I called out apologizing for not seeing him. He said there were plenty of fish rising and for me to go ahead. He asked what I thought they were taking and I said midges, but I was fishing a #20 bwo. He said he didn't have anything that small. I ended up giving him a #20 CDC BWO. He's from Pittsboro and has been fishing the Smith for many years. He moved on up to the flat water above and I started catching punes, creeled six in the 7 to 10 inch range, I caught two that were over and a let a few of the smaller ones go. Got about a dozen to hand. It really slowed down after 4 and I called it a day. On the hike out I saw John from Durham fishing the Turtle Creek Run. I stopped at Sally's, it looked like a desert, not one rise.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120723-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120723-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120723-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120723-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120723-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120723-6.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on December 07, 2023, 21:29:32 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on December 07, 2023, 21:29:32 PM
I wish I was closer and you would drop off some of your catch for me to eat! Those little wild browns are tasty.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 08, 2023, 04:57:07 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 08, 2023, 04:57:07 AM
Quote from: itieuglyflies on December 07, 2023, 21:29:32 PMI wish I was closer and you would drop off some of your catch for me to eat! Those little wild browns are tasty.
I've been tempted — but I'm doing it for the birds d:b
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 08, 2023, 19:15:10 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 08, 2023, 19:15:10 PM
58
"You've done nothing wrong
Slide your hand
Jump off the end
The water's clear
And innocent
The water's clear
And innocent"
Went down too early.
Cause the day called for bugging out early.
I knew the bugs weren't gonna be active early.
Packed the pruners for trail work.
Stashed the little cooler and planned to head further down.
Saw these sneaks and one sock.
(https://i.imgur.com/Sxu4QjZ.jpg)
100 ft up river was the other sock.
(https://i.imgur.com/msKFAKl.jpg)
I have questions....
Meanwhile, got to the destination and yep, nothing happening.
Cut open a new section of trail.
Hot now.
Shucked the jacket and beanie.
Decided to switch to the streamer leader.
Looked up the new trail and there was a fellow 50 feet above me.
WTF.
Yelled hello to him, we made introductions, and he continued on below me.
More weird shit.
:Dance
Nothing in response to 100 yards on the streamer. b';
Switched back to small and waded back up.
Risers.
Whacked a few punes.
Ate lunch in the sun and warmed up.
Saw the Bossman upstream.
Whacked a few more.
Headed up towards him, and found him headed down to me.
We solved zero problems and continued on our ways.
I found fish rising in a favorite stretch.
Waded out. There was another guy 200 ft above me.
I started picking up more punes.
Then the best three fish of the day,
Back, to back, to back.
(https://i.imgur.com/AoMzNhF.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QaxRGum.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/zAwlgWX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/wVtQ8WP.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/t7EeM13.jpg)
Hiked out.
Shouted greetings to the dude in a carolina blue ball cap.
I had to get up the hill for a Zoom call.
Right as the fish had turned on.
Back to making pretty greenery tomorrow.
(https://i.imgur.com/3kYwapx.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 08, 2023, 22:03:29 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 08, 2023, 22:03:29 PM
https://youtu.be/OVHNwBbkSj4
#23 -- 107 Gas $2.89 mid 60s mostly sunny
Three vehicles in the lot including Doug's Tacoma. I guess the nice weather brought more people out.
Went directly to the Left-hand pool and saw a few midge dimpling trout, they could care less that my fly flosted directly over them. I went smaller, no luck. They pissed me off enough and I moved and finally caught a few fish to creel. I couple of others were just over 10 inches, and were put back. There just were as many bug or rising fish as yesterday, but I still got a few to take the dry fly.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120823-1.jpg)
I had enough of that section and moved on down, running into Doug along the way. He warned me about socks and shoes as I headed on to check the next couple of spots. Big pine looked lifeless and I continued on down to the next pool. Missed a few good fish and landed a pune or two, but it was slow.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120823-2.jpg)
I failed to see the other sock on the rock in the middle of the river.
I went back up to the left-hand bench and ate a very late lunch.
I still wasn't having much luck with dry flies, so I started swinging a partridge and orange. A few more fish came to hand. With four in the creel, I headed up to Sally's for a last-ditch attempt at reaching my limit.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120823-3.jpg)
Approaching five o'clock the fish became more active, and I caught a nice one.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120823-4.jpg)
One the way home there was a delay due to a 4 car pileup which I'm sure was caused by distracted driving, following too close, or looking at their phone.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120823-5.jpg)
Be safe out there!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on December 09, 2023, 09:10:38 AM
Post by: Onslow on December 09, 2023, 09:10:38 AM
Those are sure colored up nicely.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 10, 2023, 10:32:58 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 10, 2023, 10:32:58 AM
#23 -- 108 upper 50s cloudy, some rain, and some brief sun
One vehicle in the lot, met him down at the LH pool, he was about halfway down up against the bank casting away when I hopped in at the head, I offered to move on down, but he indicated for me to fish away. They were very picky and I only caught a couple, both of which were over the size limit, so the creel stayed empty.
I eventually moved on down to Big Pine and worked the fish that were in the slack water sipping miniscule Blue Winded Olives, my #20 looked huge in comparison.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120923-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120923-2.jpg)
I caught a gorgeous large spotted brown and as I measured it in the net, I thought about taking a photo, but somehow my efforts to keep legal fish to feed the raptors interrupted my process and I let it go. "I should have taken a picture of that fish," I thought to myself.
I took a break and then moved on down.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120923-3.jpg)
I caught this fine specimen on the surface, it was sipping flies in the slack water just outside the current. The hatch was peaking, but wouldn't last too long.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120923-4.jpg)
This 9 incher will go to the Raptor Center.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120923-5.jpg)
I hiked out after missing many fish, the small fly just didn't get enough purchase to hole them. Back at the LH pool after 5 o'clock I watched the newbie angler from Roanoke try to euro up a fish in the run.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/120923-6.jpg)
We walked out together stopping at sally's, but it wasn't happening there besides it was too dark to see my fly. I left him still casting away. He came out fifteen minutes later.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 13, 2023, 13:11:35 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 13, 2023, 13:11:35 PM
#23 -- 109 upper 40s sunny
An inch and a half of rain fell on Sunday, making the river conditions less that favorable, and a cold snap sent temperatures plummeting. On Tuesday the river was still 20% above the normal flow with all of that coming from the creek at the head of the section we decided to fish. Water clarity was good, but the temperature was several degrees cooler, perhaps just enough to put the midge and bwo hatch off.
@rbphoto was up in town, so Doug and I met him for an afternoon of fishing. We hiked into Sally's and while they were crewing the fat and rigging rods, I stepped into the river and got a fish to rise on the first cast, but my line was tangled on my wading staff and I missed the hookset, never mind, on the very next cast I hooked a pune.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/121223-1.jpg)
There were no bugs to speak of and defiantly no fish were rising. After a brief try on this section, we moved on down were the conditions were no better.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/121223-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/121223-3.jpg)
Finally, down at the low hole the fish started showing themselves and I caught a few more, culling one for the birds, Raymond let out a cry when he missed a hookset, and Doug scored a handful too.
By 4:30 we were Benten down by the river and called it a day. Raymond asked if we would have fished on this day if he hadn't been it town. The answer was "Maybe, you really couldn't have predicted the lack of bugs on any particular day. I probably would have given the river one more day to settle down after the rain.
Leaving early, I was able to get over to Greensboro's Flat Iron for an Abigal Down Songwriter Concert featuring Danial Neihoff.
https://youtu.be/mH_ogyzADI8
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/121223-4.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/894202163
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/121223-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 13, 2023, 16:04:26 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 13, 2023, 16:04:26 PM
59
We suck.
Raymond got a skunk.
Hell, I only caught one.
Sat on the bench or stood in the water, yakking more than fishing.
It was a great waste of 3 hours! :laugh:
gUxEQPK.jpg
We'll get luckier next time, Raymond!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: rbphoto on December 13, 2023, 17:43:19 PM
Post by: rbphoto on December 13, 2023, 17:43:19 PM
Report to come. I just landed in Roanoke and haven't slowed down since we got off the water yesterday, except to sleep for a few hours.
Raymond
Raymond
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on December 13, 2023, 20:43:55 PM
Post by: driver on December 13, 2023, 20:43:55 PM
Also good to see Raymond sighting!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 14, 2023, 19:44:23 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 14, 2023, 19:44:23 PM
60
I needed some redemption?
Bluebird day.
Two vehicles in the lot.
One, I knew.
Euro rod day.
Located two anglers and continued down to my target.
Would Chuck be down there?
Negative.
Got rigged up as I observed otters playing downstream.
Then Mama? swarm up by me and was calling/warning her youngsters.
Back and forth she swam. In the run I wanted to fish!
She finally gave up and swam upstream.
(https://i.imgur.com/BaewqhE.jpg)
I waited five minutes and waded in.
Second cast.
(https://i.imgur.com/cX8OVU3.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/rwHcBB7.jpg)
I caught, I missed some, I lost some.
I was rusty, and it showed.
The honey badger sculpin was money.
(https://i.imgur.com/WhgmwCl.jpg)
Waded back up to get lunch and see if any top water action was starting.
Negative.
Euro'd up a few more.
Made the swith to the dry fly reel and started upstream.
Nothing happening at al the usual places.
Blind casted to all the good spots at Sally's.
Negative.
Hiked out.
10 feesh.
F-18's.
3 trains.
Fresh beaver signs.
(https://i.imgur.com/Viu4aru.jpg)
11% beer FTW.
(https://i.imgur.com/qC9OhhA.jpg)
:cheers
I needed some redemption?
Bluebird day.
Two vehicles in the lot.
One, I knew.
Euro rod day.
Located two anglers and continued down to my target.
Would Chuck be down there?
Negative.
Got rigged up as I observed otters playing downstream.
Then Mama? swarm up by me and was calling/warning her youngsters.
Back and forth she swam. In the run I wanted to fish!
She finally gave up and swam upstream.
(https://i.imgur.com/BaewqhE.jpg)
I waited five minutes and waded in.
Second cast.
(https://i.imgur.com/cX8OVU3.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/rwHcBB7.jpg)
I caught, I missed some, I lost some.
I was rusty, and it showed.
The honey badger sculpin was money.
(https://i.imgur.com/WhgmwCl.jpg)
Waded back up to get lunch and see if any top water action was starting.
Negative.
Euro'd up a few more.
Made the swith to the dry fly reel and started upstream.
Nothing happening at al the usual places.
Blind casted to all the good spots at Sally's.
Negative.
Hiked out.
10 feesh.
F-18's.
3 trains.
Fresh beaver signs.
(https://i.imgur.com/Viu4aru.jpg)
11% beer FTW.
(https://i.imgur.com/qC9OhhA.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: rbphoto on December 15, 2023, 06:11:19 AM
Post by: rbphoto on December 15, 2023, 06:11:19 AM
https://youtu.be/vetMdv2bgwI
I've wanted to fish the Smith for years - mostly from watching this thread. I just never have been able to get to Martinsville. That changed this fall when a customer decided to have me up for two days of teaching at their facility. I started planning with Bossman and Doug to see about catching up with them.
When I finally got to the parking spot, an hour after I thought I would be there (customers!) they were both wadered-up and ready. We started chatting while I put stuff together and got ready, walked across the hay field, me learning along the way and finally arrived at Sally's Pool.
The Smith really seems to be "their river", so to speak. The two of them have probably done more for this stretch of river than anyone else, even though they are humble enough to not want the credit. They know it well and have fished it extensively.
(https://www.rbphotostudio.net/img/s/v-10/p3422642410-5.jpg)
I knew I need to learn from them.
I knew the rain was intense over the weekend and the cold wasn't going to help much, but it's called fishing (not catching). That and all these posts about size 18-2x flies that my eyes and ham-fists don't handle very well lowered my expectations dramatically. I'm happy to fish, learn, and hopefully come back better equipped next time.
I met my expectations.
We compared flies, me knowing I didn't have much in my boxes that looked to a size 18 (or smaller) Comparadun or BWO or Puff Daddy or . . .
Doug sort of half-heartedly looked at one of my ideas to tie on and said "it looks sort of 'Caddis-y, but it's close" (or something to that effect - politeness and all). I tied it on with a dropper and moved absolutely nothing.
We wandered downstream a ways and we all tried our hand.
(https://www.rbphotostudio.net/img/s/v-10/p3422640657-5.jpg)
They love their dry/dropper rigs, but there was nothing hatching - maybe a midge here or there.
Doug caught one above me & the Bossman.
(https://www.rbphotostudio.net/img/s/v-10/p3422642388-5.jpg)
but said it wasn't as good as it looked from my perspective.
I knew if I was going to catch a fish, it would definitely be sub-surface. I tried a few things over the next couple of hours, missing a fish on a size 16/18 generic hare's ear with a bead on it. Yes, I was vocal about missing. I thought, "Ha! I moved a fish on the Smith on my first outing in otherwise miserable conditions!" A bit later Woolly looked at my fly box and said "Tie on that little orange Perdigon. I'll give you your money back if you don't catch a fish."
I moved another one, right where it was supposed to be. A great little inside seam about halfway across the river.
Doug gave me a beer.
(https://www.rbphotostudio.net/img/s/v-10/p3422642367-5.jpg)
He told me he had plenty more, but I was enjoying our conversations, catching up with both of them and enjoying the beauty of the day.
I thought about throwing streamers in a couple of pools and probably should have, but overall it was a great day's fishing.
(https://www.rbphotostudio.net/img/s/v-10/p3422642367-5.jpg)
I was fortunate enough to land at a BBQ joint in town that had a great bourbon selection, so this went with dinner:
(https://www.rbphotostudio.net/img/s/v-10/p3422642189-5.jpg)
Great afternoon catching up with friends I haven't seen in far too long but hope to be back that direction more frequently in the next few years.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 15, 2023, 22:10:20 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 15, 2023, 22:10:20 PM
#23 -- 110 Gas $2.89 mid 50s Sunny
https://youtu.be/BEGUVLpTzOs
Two cars in the lot and one in the field. I jumped in at Sally's and saw a guy up against the bank below and another angler working the mirror pool. No bugs, a solitary riser who didn't like my fly but I got another one to hit it. I moved down and ran into the person who was below me, he said he was looking for arrowheads. I wished him good luck. Down at Big Pine I saw another fisherperson working the trestle pool.
I tied on a streamer and got several fish to flash on the fly, felt a few bumps and had a blow up before I caught one.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/121523-1.jpg)
John, who had been working Turtle Creek run came on down and we talked for a while. I got a few more bumps and then he split and I went on down to the Trestle Pool where I got another grab.
And so it went, I hit all the spots again on the way out and only got two more fish to hand, all over the size limit, so no fish were creeled today.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/121523-2.jpg)
One more fish on the line at dusk and that was it.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/121523-3.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 19, 2023, 08:52:33 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 19, 2023, 08:52:33 AM
Mathias form the Raptor Center sent this video of an eagle enjoying a Smith River Brown Trout!
https://vimeo.com/896184703
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 19, 2023, 18:09:08 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 19, 2023, 18:09:08 PM
I took 18 frozen trout down to the Raptor Center Hospital, they were in a staff meeting so I didn't get to talk to them.
Mathias sent an email later, " ... sorry for missing your drop off, Staff Meeting! The fish are a good size and we are getting pretty low so we will take all that you and your friends are willing to bring. Take care and happy holidays. - Mathias"
So all you guys, put your catch on ice and then freeze 'em, we can coordinate a handoff later.
The raptor center is located in a large park and I hiked a trail while down there, I had planned to visit the public Raptor Center, but the are closed Monday and Tuesday during the winter.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/122023-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/122023-12jpg)
Mathias sent an email later, " ... sorry for missing your drop off, Staff Meeting! The fish are a good size and we are getting pretty low so we will take all that you and your friends are willing to bring. Take care and happy holidays. - Mathias"
So all you guys, put your catch on ice and then freeze 'em, we can coordinate a handoff later.
The raptor center is located in a large park and I hiked a trail while down there, I had planned to visit the public Raptor Center, but the are closed Monday and Tuesday during the winter.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/122023-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/122023-12jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 19, 2023, 19:38:39 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 19, 2023, 19:38:39 PM
they bumped the flow from the damn dam to 264 cfs today.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 19, 2023, 20:44:07 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 19, 2023, 20:44:07 PM
Need to replenish the soft hackles.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: driver on December 20, 2023, 12:04:12 PM
Post by: driver on December 20, 2023, 12:04:12 PM
That's better than the local tailwater here in PA, it's running 2500cfs b';
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 20, 2023, 22:18:33 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 20, 2023, 22:18:33 PM
#23 -- 111, sunny, gas $2.89
I got up later in the afternoon than I had hoped. I took the 6wt and planned to toss streamers, but it was rigged with some nymphs, so I gave that a shot for a while and was totally denied. I just couldn't find a fish. The water has only been up for 24 hours and maybe the fish are just adjusting to the higher flow, that's what I told myself anyway.
Switched to a streamer and wore out the section where I started. Time to move. Worked the Left-hand pool, nothing.
Next stop was the ticket and I caught one, too big to creel by an inch or two...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/122023-3.jpg)
I seriously considered rigging for nymphing again, but it was getting late and I had enough punishment for the day.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 22, 2023, 08:58:39 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 22, 2023, 08:58:39 AM
#23 -- 112 / Solstice / 55 with hazy sun
Making a push at the end of the year to take advantage of the weather. The river is back up and along with that are rafts. As I passed over the devil bridge, I saw several trucks in the lot and that should have clued me into the possibility of traffic on the river.
It was one thirty when I pulled into the lot and there was only on locally tagged Honda in the lot. I geared up and made my way across the field to Sally's and sat down to eat my lunch and rig my rod. Just as I was ready to step into the water I heard voices coming from upstream. Damn it.
Not one, but two rafts of streamer slinging trout bros. "Damn, it's beginning to look like the SoHo," I shouted to the guy on the sticks.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/122123-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/122123-2.jpg)
They pounded Sally's hole for way too long, one after the other and slowly moved on down the river, an hour later, as I moved on down the run, I could still see a raft at the top of the Left-hand pool.
There weren't any bugs that I saw and only a few risers were spotted. n!n
I had been swinging soft hackle and picked off a handful of punes, I wanted to cull them, but they were on the small end of the slot and I was hoping to bag 9-10 inchers, I only kept one. I later switched to streamers and had two blowups and three or four grabs but was denied. I fished until dark, here is looking up to Big Pine.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/122123-3.jpg)
New stickers arrived.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/122123-4.jpg)
Back at it on Friday, @Dougfish is supposed to be there, so maybe we'll score some fish for the birds.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on December 22, 2023, 20:45:08 PM
Post by: Dougfish on December 22, 2023, 20:45:08 PM
61
Cruising into Christmas on newly raised water.
Not sure the fish and bugs have settled in yet.
(https://i.imgur.com/ITLE3II.jpg)
Very little going on on top.
Those that were rising were extra picky.
(https://i.imgur.com/WuAvxeQ.jpg)
Fooled just one on top, swung up some more, dredged up zero.
(https://i.imgur.com/5xx9YDM.jpg)
Sent Keith home with 2 for the big birds.
Might be the last trip down before 2024.
:cheers
Lets see what the new year holds.
Cruising into Christmas on newly raised water.
Not sure the fish and bugs have settled in yet.
(https://i.imgur.com/ITLE3II.jpg)
Very little going on on top.
Those that were rising were extra picky.
(https://i.imgur.com/WuAvxeQ.jpg)
Fooled just one on top, swung up some more, dredged up zero.
(https://i.imgur.com/5xx9YDM.jpg)
Sent Keith home with 2 for the big birds.
Might be the last trip down before 2024.
:cheers
Lets see what the new year holds.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 23, 2023, 09:39:26 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 23, 2023, 09:39:26 AM
#23 -- 113 Gas $2.84, low 50s/high 40s, hazy shade of winter winter.
https://youtu.be/TxrwImCJCqk
The days will be getting longer now, I've fished three days in a row. Will i make it four?
Fishing for the birds. Doug was already there when I pulled in around noon. He was down at the trestle pool and I jumped in at Big Pine and threw a streamer, had a couple of blow-ups and several grabs but no fish to hand. We took a break at the bench and I ranted about the dire situation in Gaza, we solved no world problems, but Doug handed over two 10 inch trout for the birds.
He went upstream to try some spots and I threw the streamer at the head of the pool and was denied. I switched to a soft hackle and it was working for a while. I managed to creel three keepers before the action died down and I hiked out.
Dewadering at the car, I noticed some wet spots near my knees.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/wader-1.jpg)
It appears the there is a seam failure and I'll be taking the Aquaseal out of the freezer to do some maintenance.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/wader-2.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 23, 2023, 21:10:48 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 23, 2023, 21:10:48 PM
#23 -- 114 mid 50s
On the walk in I stumbled across this DSFK
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/122323-1.jpg)
Looks like there were a few rafts on the water today, passed one in town on the way up and a second one came down while I was working some risers in the Big Pine pool. Guy in the bow hailed me, I don't remember him, but he said he met me over in East Tennessee. He complemented the benches too. I went back to work trying to figure out what the fish were hitting. All I got was a few punes and a lot of frustration. There were a couple of good fish that I spent way too much time trying to get to strike a fly. Finally, I either put them down permanently or the hatch was over.
I moved on down and swung up a some trouts. Two ten inchers, a nine, and a pair of eights went into the cooler for the birds. I put back a number of seven inch or smaller fish and I caught a couple that were oversized.
I fished on, trying to get a limit, as the waxing moon rose between the silhouetted trees below Sally's Pool.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/122323-2.jpg)
Drove home as the sunset.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/122323-3.jpg)
Santa's new ride.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2023/12/122323-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on December 30, 2023, 12:14:17 PM
Post by: Fishbug on December 30, 2023, 12:14:17 PM
Fishing drought for me for a bit.
Living vicariously through you guys - good stuff.
WB - Got a bunch of frozen salty fish - Mackeral/tuna - that is exceeding my human timeline for consumption (though vacuum packed in deep freezer) that you can bring to the birds if they want it.
Living vicariously through you guys - good stuff.
WB - Got a bunch of frozen salty fish - Mackeral/tuna - that is exceeding my human timeline for consumption (though vacuum packed in deep freezer) that you can bring to the birds if they want it.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 30, 2023, 13:33:00 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on December 30, 2023, 13:33:00 PM
Quote from: Fishbug on December 30, 2023, 12:14:17 PMWB - Got a bunch of frozen salty fish - Mackeral/tuna - that is exceeding my human timeline for consumption (though vacuum packed in deep freezer) that you can bring to the birds if they want it.
They want whole fish, and small ones at that.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on January 01, 2024, 10:49:32 AM
Post by: trout-r-us on January 01, 2024, 10:49:32 AM
"The center is asking for whole fish that are three to 12 inches long and have not been frozen for more than three months. Any fish will be accepted except for catfish due to the toxins that they can potentially carry."
https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/local/donations-needed-carolina-raptor-center/275-3ef204ad-45a3-4673-b47a-80624a669936
https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/local/donations-needed-carolina-raptor-center/275-3ef204ad-45a3-4673-b47a-80624a669936
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 09, 2024, 18:04:35 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 09, 2024, 18:04:35 PM
https://www.instagram.com/p/C15asKKxBKp/
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 19, 2024, 20:51:51 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 19, 2024, 20:51:51 PM
It's been cold and the river has been high, and during the fifth winter of Covid I finally caught that bitch. So with all of that going on there hasn't been the opportunity to go fishing. The heavy rains of last week gave me concern about the benches being swept away. I needed to check on them despite Doug saying "Have a little faith", and I'm thinking faint in what?
The Raptor center sent out an urgent message for fish the other day, and once they dropped to flow down to 500+ cfs I figured that I could euro up a few pune trouts to add to my measly collection. I checked some lower spots on the way a was surprised to see how muddy it was, it looked terrible. Surely this couldn't all be coming out of Town creek I thought as I drove on up to the dam. But the water along the river road looked just as bad.
I saw a drift boat coming down and I hollered out, "You guys doing alright?" "Got any extra handwarmers?" "Twenty bucks" "We came down from Roanoke and decided to go despite the mud." and they floated around the bend.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/011924-2.jpg)
When I reached the damn dam, the wind was howling, and my face froze as I got out to take a look around. Doesn't look like much progress is being made with the dam repairs, but maybe it's all being done on the inside for now.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/011924-3.jpg)
I debated to hike into the benches, thought about driving down the field, but then I noticed some new signs on the plant gates shouting, "AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL ONLY", well I'll deal with that another day. I geared up in the empty lot and hiked in without a rod.
Sally's bench was intact, and it looked like the water just came up to the feet of the bench.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/011924-4.jpg)
On down the trail you can see how high the water was up over the bank.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/011924-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/011924-6.jpg)
The left hand bench survived too, but you can see how high the water was there, lapping at the feet.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/011924-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/011924-8.jpg)
Further on down the trail more evidence of flooding and a new widow maker.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/011924-9.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/011924-10.jpg)
Finally, the Trestle bench, the one I was most concerned about as it wasn't up on a high bank. The river is a bit wider down here and that let the waters spread out..
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/011924-11.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/011924-13.jpg)
The bench was probably standing in 6 to 8 inches of water but it didn't budge. I think it needs to be moved across to the other side of the trail.
Here's a project fo Dough to work on.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/011924-12.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on January 20, 2024, 10:22:19 AM
Post by: Onslow on January 20, 2024, 10:22:19 AM
I don't believe the self emptying rain gages are terribly accurate during rainfall events that consist of high density rain w/small droplets. The Yakin was at its second highest level in Elkin in 15 years. My rain gage showed over 4 inches of rain for 1/5-6 event with a a total exceeding 6 inches for the week. Many official readings were suggesting lower amounts.
The weather next week looks splendid, lol. Not a good Winter for fishing for sure. A high water float down a trout creek next weekend might work. Upper SF New, Linville well above the falls, etc.
The weather next week looks splendid, lol. Not a good Winter for fishing for sure. A high water float down a trout creek next weekend might work. Upper SF New, Linville well above the falls, etc.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 20, 2024, 17:28:23 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 20, 2024, 17:28:23 PM
Here's to gauge for the flooding event
IMG_1319.jpg
IMG_1319.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on January 20, 2024, 18:48:41 PM
Post by: Dougfish on January 20, 2024, 18:48:41 PM
Nice 5' bump. :Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on January 24, 2024, 09:39:37 AM
Post by: Fishbug on January 24, 2024, 09:39:37 AM
Drift boat may not have made it on regular flows :wave
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on January 24, 2024, 20:47:37 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on January 24, 2024, 20:47:37 PM
Quote from: Fishbug on January 24, 2024, 09:39:37 AMDrift boat may not have made it on regular flows :wave
I can confirm its not fun
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 25, 2024, 10:21:09 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 25, 2024, 10:21:09 AM
#23 - 3, gas $2.89 rain and 57 at home 47 at the river
They dropped the river, 300+ in town and it was running clear. As this was my first post covid trip I thought about hitting the easy access points, but there were anglers in almost every spot, and I moved on to the usual. There was even a car parked there, but Durham John (DJ) came out as I was gearing up, he was hoping for a bwo hatch, he saw none, but said there were eating streamers. Later he commented that he had fished for 3 hours and caught just two.
Birt of the day; Killdeer. As I walked in a killdeer called out as it flew along the edge of the field.
I carried the euro and the SP, when I got to Sally's I started swinging a soft hackle, but the fish weren't looking up. I wasted an hour or more trying to swing one up, and finally quit after seeing a large fat otter working the same run.
Moving on down the muddy trail I slipped on the approach to Turtle Creek and slimed my side with a coating of mud before I cautiously crossed and made my way up the other side. I stopped at a spot that I hadn't fished before and worked the run with the euro and creeled two brown trout.
I failed to connect at the left hand run, but caught another brace at the trestle. I didn't see any bugs at all, no midges, now bwo, and not one rising fish. It was getting late and I was feeling cold so I headed out at five o'clock.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/012424-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/012424-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/012424-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/012424-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/012424-5.jpg)
Thought that Doug lost his hemos again...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/012424-6.jpg)
Raptor Food
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/012424-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: shackfishes on January 26, 2024, 15:48:26 PM
Post by: shackfishes on January 26, 2024, 15:48:26 PM
First non Pune from the smith. 6x tippet and size 16 stonefly
IMG_0039.jpg
IMG_0039.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 27, 2024, 09:57:16 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 27, 2024, 09:57:16 AM
#24 - 4 Gas $2.85 70, yes 70 degrees, partly cloudy
With just a slight chance of rain and warm weather I had to hit the river in the afternoon.
There was a raft floated through town and there were other anglers gearing up along the way to the usual where there was a Toyota
A fairly dense fog obscured the view up the river and I could only make out one anger fishing just below Sallys as I jumped in just above the LH pool. I picked up a couple of slot fish and packed them in the cooler just as a trio of anglers made their way down the trail. "Awe, fuck," I thougth. They hit all the spots down low and I wasn't willing to go around the bend, so when I caught up to them, I sat down and had my first beer of 2024, breaking my "Dry January" spell.
I found a new hole as I worked down the LH pool and almost topped my waders and almost lost my footing, fortunately the current wasn't very strong, and I tip-toed back up. Later, while dewadering, I discovered that while I may have fixed some leaks, it was evident that it may in fact be time for a new pair.
Two of the guys came back up and one stopped to talk, they were from Roanoke and worked together at a nursing home. They all appeared to be "new to the game", and he had floated the river with @streamereater_101691 during sulfur hatching days. The younger of the trio worked the pool methodically but I didn't see him land a fish. He finally finished the run and I hopped in at the head. Caught a nice brown that I released and then a couple more in the "Raptor Food" size.
I fished for a while longer and despite the warm air I was getting cold wading in the deep end of the pool and was only picking off the occasional fish, so I headed on out at 4:30, stopping at some spots along the way but didn't find any more fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/012624-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/012624-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/012624-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/01/012624-4.jpg)
I spoke with Jesse of Red Wiggler Worms and convinced him to help feed the Raptor with white perch from Lake Hickory, where he can catch a cooler full in short order, freeze them, and UPS to the raptor center.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on January 27, 2024, 15:48:04 PM
Post by: Phil on January 27, 2024, 15:48:04 PM
Jesse just caught a cooler full yesterday and is sending em off.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fishbug on January 29, 2024, 16:05:48 PM
Post by: Fishbug on January 29, 2024, 16:05:48 PM
The trout bros disapprove of your misgendering of the Titan----Nissan Titan; Toyota Tundra. :;!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 29, 2024, 18:16:26 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 29, 2024, 18:16:26 PM
Quote from: Fishbug on January 29, 2024, 16:05:48 PMThe trout bros disapprove of your misgendering of the Titan----Nissan Titan; Toyota Tundra. :;!
First you forget names, then you forget faces, then you forget to zip up, then you forget to zip down!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: itieuglyflies on January 29, 2024, 18:58:32 PM
Post by: itieuglyflies on January 29, 2024, 18:58:32 PM
The new excuse for folks not catching trout on the Smith.....the Raptors ate them!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: streamereater_101691 on January 29, 2024, 21:28:43 PM
Post by: streamereater_101691 on January 29, 2024, 21:28:43 PM
Quote from: itieuglyflies on January 29, 2024, 18:58:32 PMThe new excuse for folks not catching trout on the Smith.....the Raptors ate them!
Don't get Roanoke TU started please... :laugh:
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 31, 2024, 15:09:57 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 31, 2024, 15:09:57 PM
The call for fish was heard and in addition to a box of Perch from Jesse and a dozen brown trout from me, these guys sent a cooler full of fish.
IMG_1383.jpg
They may just have put me out of the Raptor Feeding Business!
IMG_1383.jpg
They may just have put me out of the Raptor Feeding Business!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 06, 2024, 13:16:01 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 06, 2024, 13:16:01 PM
Looks like they'll be cutting the flow this weekend.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 09, 2024, 09:46:29 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 09, 2024, 09:46:29 AM
#24 - 5 mid 50s partly cloudy
They dropped the flow earlier than I anticipated, I was alerted by @Dougfish, so I headed out and hit the usual.
I took the euro and a second rod rigged with a soft hackle.
I only saw one bug all day, looked like a caddis, no fish were seen rising.
The water was looking nice a clear but I had difficulty finding fish at my first stop.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/020724-3.jpg)
Moved on down and got into some browns that were pushing 11 inches, and I culled a few slot punes for the raptors.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/020724-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/020724-5.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 09, 2024, 10:00:37 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 09, 2024, 10:00:37 AM
#24 - 6 Mostly sunny and warmer, gotta go and get my numbers up
I got off to an earlier start. I was working a run with the euro and struggled to catch fish I noticed some caddis hatching and then a splashy rise got my attention and I switched to the soft hackle. For the next twenty minutes it was on and I caught fish after fish and too many short strikes to boot.
I went back to euroing for the rest of the day and ended up with a limit of fish for the birds.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/020824-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/020824-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/020824-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/020824-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/020824-5.jpg)
A pair of anglers came down a pounded the run above big pine from the left and right. I didn't see them catch any but as I walked out at the end of the day, they both waved like Forrest Gump and hollered out to ask how I had done. "I caught about 20," I replied. "Twenty!, did you say twenty," was the astonished reply. "What were they hitting?" "Soft hackles, there was a nice hatch earlier," I reported. "I've only caught two," the younger of the two men reported. I moved on and fished my way back up the river and explored an enticing run where I caught nothing.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 09, 2024, 23:04:06 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 09, 2024, 23:04:06 PM
https://youtu.be/QAo1Ingszws
#24 7 Gas $2.92 60 and overcast with an occasional drizzle
With rain coming this weekend I decided to hit the river again. I don't know why, perhaps there is nothing better to do, but it never gets old.
I started off in my new spot and caught a number of fish that were too nice to keep so I let them all go.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/020924-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/020924-2.jpg)
I wore that spot out and moved on down, I studied the water while drinking a malt beverage and saw a pair of fat otters working the deep part of the pool.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/020924-3.jpg)
https://vimeo.com/911751129
I started to work the near side run but those pesky mammals popped up and gave me the stare down. I cussed them and moved on.
I caught several more good fish before I started culling the 8 to 10 inch fish for the birds.
I reported yesterday that I thought there was a caddis hatch, I was wrong they were #16 BWOs.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/020924-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on February 10, 2024, 07:36:48 AM
Post by: creakycane on February 10, 2024, 07:36:48 AM
There were periods of time last few days where lifting a bh-pt in 16/18 on the swing would draw a strike every time. Light hatches of bwo's and a couple of little stones were all the insect activity I saw above water, though plenty going on underwater!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on February 10, 2024, 07:45:32 AM
Post by: Onslow on February 10, 2024, 07:45:32 AM
Mojo Nixon FTW,lol.
Now I have a Girlfriend in a Coma earworm.
Now I have a Girlfriend in a Coma earworm.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 13, 2024, 21:02:45 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 13, 2024, 21:02:45 PM
#24 - 8 Sunny, upper 40s, and very windy.
The Raptor Center has received a lot of fish in recent weeks, so I was curious if they still needed me to continue to harvest trout for them.
Here is their reply.
[indent-both]
QuoteDespite all the fish donations we have been getting recently we could still use your fish. Currently we have one Bald Eagle in rehab that only eats fish. In addition, several of our resident eagles need fish several times a week. So we have been using the recent donations at a pretty fast pace.[/indent-both]
Please continue to save fish - the birds (and staff) appreciate it.
Vacuum sealing is a nice bonus.
Well the river is blown out below the creek, so I headed up to the damn dam. The wind was pretty wicked, and I put on some layers to try and keep warm. I caught a couple of small browns and four very fat rainbows, to which I promptly administered the priest. I finally gave up after battling the wind.
All the time I was fishing I heard work being done up at the damn dam, so I walked up to see what was going on.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/021324-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/021324-2.jpg)
I guess it's progress, as none of that was in place the last time I drove up to look.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 15, 2024, 21:35:37 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 15, 2024, 21:35:37 PM
IMG_1526.jpg
IMG_1535.jpg
https://www.wfdd.org/weeklyphoto
IMG_1535.jpg
https://www.wfdd.org/weeklyphoto
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 20, 2024, 09:59:54 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 20, 2024, 09:59:54 AM
#24 -9
Can't exactly remember what went on this day other than I creeled a limit of trout for the raptors.
Used the euro rod and caught dozens of small browns. It was a feckless day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/021524-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/021524-2.jpg)
#24 - 10
The rafters were out in abundance. Saw two close together as they passed through the old special regs section. Mark and Jason from Clemmons were in a NSR and were followed up with blue raft possibly a SRO bote?
Did the usual with the euro, but swung up some too.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/021624-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/021624-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/021624-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/021624-4.jpg)
#24 - 11
I dropped off about 30 trout to the Raptor Center the day before,
Back to collecting some more, caught and released a half dozen that were right at the cusp of the slot limit. Then I got serious about keepers, but only had three on the day. For a while, when I hooked one and said to myself, "I'm going to bonk this one", they wriggled free at the net. Pretty day and a nice sunset to boot.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/021824-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/021824-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/021824-3.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on February 21, 2024, 13:29:26 PM
Post by: Dougfish on February 21, 2024, 13:29:26 PM
Crushing it.
I will return next week.
:Dance
I will return next week.
:Dance
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 23, 2024, 11:10:56 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 23, 2024, 11:10:56 AM
#24 -13
Went up to the usual after noon and fond an empty lot, just took the euro, and caught a couple of handfuls, I was standing in a run and noticed a bunch of rather large BWOs popping off and I did see a fish rise, but there wasn't enough surface activity to go fetch the other rod to swing soft hackles or cast a dry. Later I ran into a spin guy wearing neoprene waders, he reported catching three small rainbows.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/022124-1.jpg)
I ended up whacking four fish for the birds.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/022124-2.jpg)
I forgot to mention that the rafters, Jason and Mark, used Sally's Bench as their lunch stop.
#24 - 14
Drove up late in the day hit a spot near the road, caught 2, headed home after an hour or so.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/022224-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 24, 2024, 20:54:43 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 24, 2024, 20:54:43 PM
#24 -15 Gas $3.26
https://youtu.be/0tx8GiTFK-I
Wayne Kramer, MC5 Co-Founder and Activist, Dead at 75
Drove up in the afternoon and found 5 vehicles in the lot, turned around and went up to the damn dam.
Two guys were spinning their way up though the run, but didn't get up too far before quitting. They didn't catch any. I rigged up the euro and geared up. It was cloudy and spitting rain on and off with a bit of wind. It felt colder than what the thermometer read. I caught a stockerbow on the second cast, and hooked several more in short order, but they managed to wriggle off the barbless hook as I stripped in line the leader knot got caught in the guides and the slack allowed them to escape. This happened several time and I'm going to get rid of the "competition" leader and go full mono rig.
The wind started blowing fiercely and a squall started dumping some rain and the temperature dropped, I headed back to the car with three rainbows in the cooler. I wasn't ready to quit so I hit a popular spot on the way home and caught a couple of browns, released one that was close to the slot limit and culled the smaller one.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/022324-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/022324-2.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 25, 2024, 23:08:46 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 25, 2024, 23:08:46 PM
#24 -16
I stopped at a lower boat ramp where I intended to catch some rainbows but there was some sketch activity going on and I kept on driving on up the road. There were several anglers on the river and I saw one trailer parked at another ramp. I didn't bother checking the MP lot instead choosing to drive directly up to the damn dam. Nobody parked in the lower lot but there were a lot of horse trailers in the next spot. I started gearing up, first rigging up the euro which I had fubared the other day and one of the reasons that I quit early. I was just tired of losing flies and rigging up the double nymphs A truck pulls in beside me and a family hops out three or four kid, (hard to count because they were running around crazy. The dad hollers out to me, "Hey Bossman, how are you doing?" I get a kick out of that being the BRFFF Bossman and all.
I worked the runs and was not treated kindly, I didn't even feel a strike. I moved on to the lower "honey hole" and hooked but didn't land a 14" bow. It would probabley been too big for me to harvest anyway.
I had spent a couple of hours there and needed to find some fish, so I drove to the MP and was surprised to see it empty. I hiked on in and caught a handful of fish, some were just at the slot size, so they were released, but I took one nine incher. Moved on down and hooked a few more but it wasn't easy, and I was getting fed up with getting hung up in the diddymo covered bottom and I broke off a couple of times too. Time to tie up some more frenshies.
Stopped at Sally's on the way out and caught another 10+ inch brown.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/022524-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 26, 2024, 19:21:28 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 26, 2024, 19:21:28 PM
#24 — 17
Quick run up to hit a few roadside spots with a mission to cull some stockers. Caught 5 browns that were over 10 by a tad and one under and I ran into some rainbows one was too big for the birds at about 14" but I whacked two that were 10 and 11 or so!
Snapseed.jpg
Quick run up to hit a few roadside spots with a mission to cull some stockers. Caught 5 browns that were over 10 by a tad and one under and I ran into some rainbows one was too big for the birds at about 14" but I whacked two that were 10 and 11 or so!
Snapseed.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 29, 2024, 09:04:12 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 29, 2024, 09:04:12 AM
#24 — 18 Gas $3.26, overcast - rain late in the day
Mission to harvest some rainbows at some easy access points in town wasn't as productive as I had hoped, but I did manage to creel a few. Several wild browns were released.
IMG_1698.jpg
IMG_1706.jpg
IMG_1710.jpg
IMG_1712.jpg
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 29, 2024, 22:52:21 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 29, 2024, 22:52:21 PM
#24 -- 19 mid to upper 40s some sunshine
Leap day fishing.
There was just a smattering of bugs, but I was able to swing up a dozen or so on the Superfine Glass 2 wt after getting a handful on the euro. All were smallish with a couple that appeared to be just over 10. I forgot my fleece pants and realized how much of a difference they make.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/022924-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/022924-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/02/022924-3.jpg)
I feel like I'm getting back on track with fishing days.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 04, 2024, 10:19:54 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 04, 2024, 10:19:54 AM
#24 - 20 - a cold rain fell
https://youtu.be/mYONvSlT1Cg
With rain in the forecast, I knew the river would be blown out over the weekend and I planned to deliver a load of trouts to the raptor center. I decided to go and catch one more limit. It started to rain as soon as I got into the swing of things, not too hard, but enough to don the reconditioned raincoat. It wetted out after a while, but that didn't bother me as I was layered up.
I just swung up a couple dozen smallish trout, the largest being just over 10 inches (streamside measurements V:; ) and I culled 5 that were in the 8 - 9 inch range.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/030124-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/030124-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/030124-3.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 04, 2024, 21:07:44 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 04, 2024, 21:07:44 PM
#24 - 22 65 mostly sunny
The river is still up just a bit, I hit a spot in town looking for rainbows, I found one, I deemed it too large for raptor food. Mama duck kept an eye on me as I walked by.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/030424-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/030424-1.jpg)
I hit a few other spots and couldn't find a fish. I stopped in at a new to me spot and looked around. Water was moving too fast for my taste, and I found no fish.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/030424-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/030424-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/030424-5.jpg)
Stopped to look at another spot and Steve from Thomasville pulled in behind me and we got to talking and in all honesty that was the highlight of the day. We swapped some flis and fishing tails before departing to hit one last spot where I found no fish.
Work is being done on the damn dam
https://vimeo.com/919394405
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on March 09, 2024, 10:03:09 AM
Post by: creakycane on March 09, 2024, 10:03:09 AM
Lower river stocked this week, so Saw about 10 or 12 guys fishing the pools at the higher water levels Thurs/Fri. If you pick your spots, there is fishable water all over, but it is amazing how 3 or 4 inches higher water changes the wading game. A couple of small stoneflies, and a couple of small browns. Had a very nice brown on a big nymph second cast of the day, but he threw the hook at my feet. Nothing even close after that. Had enough by 1 pm and left. Not good to be tired/wading sloppy the way it is...... Probably will wait till sub 400cfs to go out again..... BTW, 2 boats in town.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 09, 2024, 11:08:27 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 09, 2024, 11:08:27 AM
I'll be after those stickers for the birds when the river drops!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 12, 2024, 18:13:28 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 12, 2024, 18:13:28 PM
Quote from: creakycane on March 09, 2024, 10:03:09 AMIf you pick your spots, there is fishable water all over, but it is amazing how 3 or 4 inches higher water changes the wading game.
I fished or should I say I tried to fish a run today. It wasn't any fun and I didn't catch anything, but only gave it a half hearted effort. Maybe this crow was an omen.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/031224-1.jpg)
Drove up to the damn dam, ran into an fly fisherman who was taking a break, he had nymphed up a few. We talked for a while, then I went up the road to look at the work being done on the hillside.
It appears that these workers are making a rock barrier fence, but what do I know.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/031224-2.jpg)
The hillside has been partially terraced
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/031224-3.jpg)
Heavy equipment moved into positon.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/031224-4.jpg)
Don't sell your raft yet.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 16, 2024, 22:38:19 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 16, 2024, 22:38:19 PM
#24 25 72 blue skies
I just happened to check the river gauges and saw that the flow had been cut to the new low normal, so I made a hasty exit and drove on up. I had the river to myself for a while, then got low holed at the trestle pool by a spin guy and his dog, while two trout bros came down into the tail of the left-hand pool.
But before that happened, I swung up a few trout and as I was fishing, I heard a crashing sound behind me and as I turned, I saw an osprey fly off clutching a trout in its talons. Pretty cool!
Bluebells are getting ready to pop, the trout lilies are at peak as are the bloodroot.
There was a mixed hatch during the day they brought fish to the surface.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/031624-4.jpg)
Half-price beer for the win!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/031624-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/031624-6.jpg)
DSFK
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/031624-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/031624-8.jpg)
Towards the end of the day there were tremendous swarms of small caddis flies on the water.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 18, 2024, 08:38:33 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 18, 2024, 08:38:33 AM
#24 — 26 a bit cooler with a few clouds,gas $3.18
Gotta fish when you can, even on a Sunday. I got to the lot just after noon and there was only one vehicle there. As I got ready the angler came out and I asked if he was done already. "It's too windy, I only fish dry flies and the wind is terrible. The weatherman said 10, but he was wrong! You've got the whole river to yourself now."
I left the euro in the car and headed out with just the 2 wt and some soft hackles.
The wind was brutal, with hold onto your hat gusts the rippled the water. There was no way to euro or tight line nymph let alone cast a dry. However, swinging the wet was the ticket.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/031724-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/031724-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/031724-6.jpg)
Eight or nine were caught, which I thought was a decent number under the conditions. I found a jar of salmon eggs at the Trestle Pool Creek where the spin guy had been yesterday and added it to the "Trash Pile" behind the TP Bench. I need to remember to take a trash bag in to carry it out next time!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: JCB3 on March 18, 2024, 10:01:44 AM
Post by: JCB3 on March 18, 2024, 10:01:44 AM
Smith River / Road Clean Up
April 20th 9am-12..!!!
Meet at the Bassett Boat Access,
271 Trent Hill Dr.
(Off Route 57 E. In Bassett)
April 20th 9am-12..!!!
Meet at the Bassett Boat Access,
271 Trent Hill Dr.
(Off Route 57 E. In Bassett)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 22, 2024, 19:24:11 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 22, 2024, 19:24:11 PM
1
Its been a hell of a year.
We bought a smaller/grow old in it house. Sold the big one.
Moved 4200 sg ft and two car garage into 2400 sq ft with no garage.
Dug, and in the process of moving hundreds of prized plants.
And it's Spring. Which means I'm extra busy at work.
And I have not fished in 2024. WTF!?!?
That got corrected today.
(https://i.imgur.com/dqbfjSh.jpg)
Harold and Harold were in the lot getting suited up.
A Tesla pulled in and the bro started suiting up.
OK.
H & H & I walked in and I peeled off upstream of them.
Swung up 4.
(https://i.imgur.com/l5OfLA1.jpg)
The woods are coming alive.
(https://i.imgur.com/3mEF9gE.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Nfo3MPM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/23GwQqi.jpg)
Moved on down and watched the guys work the lower reaches.
Drank the first stream beer of the year.
They backed off to warm their feet and I dove in to swing up a couple more.
(https://i.imgur.com/mO3dIJx.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/y1mdWcL.jpg)
Went back to the bench, had lunch.
Then committed to switch to the Euro rig and headed down.
Scores came quickly.
(https://i.imgur.com/5XLHpr3.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/vDbLPNg.jpg)
I ended up back at the bench.
Keith had joined H & H. We shot the shit for a while and then split up.
(https://i.imgur.com/9J6t7j5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pKgwyrI.jpg)
Fearless leader.
(https://i.imgur.com/R90tv1s.jpg)
Work to be done.
(https://i.imgur.com/Q16Kwh8.jpg)
I still know how to fish.
The song remains the same.
:cheers
Its been a hell of a year.
We bought a smaller/grow old in it house. Sold the big one.
Moved 4200 sg ft and two car garage into 2400 sq ft with no garage.
Dug, and in the process of moving hundreds of prized plants.
And it's Spring. Which means I'm extra busy at work.
And I have not fished in 2024. WTF!?!?
That got corrected today.
(https://i.imgur.com/dqbfjSh.jpg)
Harold and Harold were in the lot getting suited up.
A Tesla pulled in and the bro started suiting up.
OK.
H & H & I walked in and I peeled off upstream of them.
Swung up 4.
(https://i.imgur.com/l5OfLA1.jpg)
The woods are coming alive.
(https://i.imgur.com/3mEF9gE.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Nfo3MPM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/23GwQqi.jpg)
Moved on down and watched the guys work the lower reaches.
Drank the first stream beer of the year.
They backed off to warm their feet and I dove in to swing up a couple more.
(https://i.imgur.com/mO3dIJx.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/y1mdWcL.jpg)
Went back to the bench, had lunch.
Then committed to switch to the Euro rig and headed down.
Scores came quickly.
(https://i.imgur.com/5XLHpr3.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/vDbLPNg.jpg)
I ended up back at the bench.
Keith had joined H & H. We shot the shit for a while and then split up.
(https://i.imgur.com/9J6t7j5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pKgwyrI.jpg)
Fearless leader.
(https://i.imgur.com/R90tv1s.jpg)
Work to be done.
(https://i.imgur.com/Q16Kwh8.jpg)
I still know how to fish.
The song remains the same.
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 23, 2024, 12:21:32 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 23, 2024, 12:21:32 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on March 22, 2024, 19:24:11 PMWork to be done.
I told you to bring a saw!
#24 -- 27 Overcast and high 40s to low 50s
On the road in I spied trouts being dumped off the bridge and a caravan of vehicles following the truck. Don't know if they were assisting or waiting to jump in a catch a few.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032224-4.jpg)
Wow, "Doesn't anybody work anymore?', that what I asked the guy who was gearing up, he's from Pittsboro, NC and has fished the river a few time before. The train crew pulled in and they swapped out with the guys in the train that had just pulled in. In the lot was a truck (Howard & Howard), Doug's yota, The Pittsboro guys suv, my honda and a Tesla? WFT? First time I've seen a tesla fishing vehicle. Doug said that he/they were Trout Bros. I don't know, never saw them close up.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032224-5.jpg)
I hightailed it down the path but when I reached the Lefty pool I saw three anglers down at the Trestle pool, I back tracked and jumped in below turtle creek, I euroed up nothing and switched to a soft hackle swung up a few and had a dozen tickle the fly. A few bugs were coming off so I switched to a dry and got a few to rise and hooked up with a nice 10t incher, I took a photo and it turned out like this:
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032224-6.jpg)
Obviously I mashed the wrong button and went into selfie mode.
By this time "Pittsboro" had moved into the LH pool and I was going on down to see if I could locate Doug as it was approaching beer thirty. Just after the pool, where I pick up cell signal, I got a call from my son and we had a nice 25 minute conversation, looks like he's staying in Utah for a while as he pursues a PhD in Environmental Engineering at the University of Utah.
Contiuing of down saw some Bluebells, May Apples, and Dutchman's Breetches popping out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032224-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032224-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032224-9.jpg)
Back to catching I swung up a couple more at Big Pine and then headed down to the trestle pool for the gathering of the river geezers, shooting shit about life and basketball and stuff.
Then on to catch a few more...
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032224-10.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032224-11.jpg)
Doug, Howard, and Howard, left and I fished on for while, then the sky darkened and it started to rain, I began the hike out, stopping at Sally's where I got two fish to rise to a dry, but missed both of them.
Somebody, maybe Tesla Boy, left a White River net on the bench. I didn't bring it out as I figured it would get snagged quickly and left it there for the owner to recover.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032224-12.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on March 24, 2024, 06:18:33 AM
Post by: Onslow on March 24, 2024, 06:18:33 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on March 22, 2024, 19:24:11 PM
Its been a hell of a year.
We bought a smaller/grow old in it house. Sold the big one.
Moved 4200 sg ft and two car garage into 2400 sq ft with no garage.
Downsizing is good, but getting the women folk to go along with the plan seems to be tedious.
1000 sq ft. heated space with full unfinished basement and garage is what I want. Not going to happen according to my wife. She also will not discard bulbs/roots that reproduce like rabbits. Too many irises, strawberries, bulbs, well except for Amarylis.
My neighbor(husband) built a smaller house out in the sticks, his wife refused to sell the 4200 sq footer, so now they have two homes. The larger house in town is now largely an airbnb. She did catch a couple big fish by hosting Josh Stein (Dem Gov Candidate) and Mo Green (State school superintendent candidate) for a fundraising event last week. The wife now is fully validated, lol.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Phil on March 24, 2024, 06:37:52 AM
Post by: Phil on March 24, 2024, 06:37:52 AM
Downsizing. Heh. My home/cabin of 30 years has 900 square feet upstairs and a ship type spiral staircase down to a 500 sf basement with laundry and storage space.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 24, 2024, 06:38:26 AM
Post by: Dougfish on March 24, 2024, 06:38:26 AM
My wife is all in.
1800 Sq ft heated. 600 unheated in basement.
She's also good for my 260 sq ft shop addition. :Dance
She gets a new kitchen and expanded shower out of the deal. And laundry comes upstairs in a few years.
1800 Sq ft heated. 600 unheated in basement.
She's also good for my 260 sq ft shop addition. :Dance
She gets a new kitchen and expanded shower out of the deal. And laundry comes upstairs in a few years.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on March 25, 2024, 17:58:09 PM
Post by: creakycane on March 25, 2024, 17:58:09 PM
Pretty day today. Perhaps the clear, cold nights have suppressed bug activity. Took a couple on nymphs, but slow going for me today. Fished 10:30- 230 or so, water up a little and fairly clear once Town Creek dropped off. Rain coming weds/Thurs will almost certainly require an increase in flow.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 26, 2024, 08:27:40 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 26, 2024, 08:27:40 AM
#24 -- 28 mid to upper 50s to low 60s partly cloudy
There was one TACO in the lot, at first I thought it was Doug but it was someone else. I hiked in with two rod and watched a hawk and crow do battle in the sky above the field. I hit a run, swinging flies but didn't even get a bump. Decided I'd do some trail maintenance while waiting for the day to warm up and give the bugs some time to get active. I ran into the other fisherman reting his rig at the T-pool bench.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032524-2.jpg)
After clearing the path I swung flies for the next couple of hours and caught nothing.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032524-1.jpg)
Moving back upstream I finally started to get some bumps and brought a few small fish to hand.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032524-3.jpg)
I spent quite a bit of time just sitting on the benches and watching the water flow by while sipping on a beer or two.
A raft with a pair of bobber fishermen floated by in the afternoon and anglers chased stockers in town.
Some rain in the forecast may change my outlook for the rest of the week but I hope to get another day or two in before the end of the month.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 26, 2024, 15:52:33 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 26, 2024, 15:52:33 PM
72 hour forecast is only .25 inches of rain!
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Fin on March 27, 2024, 08:29:52 AM
Post by: Fin on March 27, 2024, 08:29:52 AM
Quote72 hour forecast is only .25 inches of rain!
Passed over the river this morning by the sports complex. Water still looks good.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on March 27, 2024, 12:50:42 PM
Post by: creakycane on March 27, 2024, 12:50:42 PM
Looks like reservoir level is already shooting up.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on March 27, 2024, 13:42:05 PM
Post by: Dougfish on March 27, 2024, 13:42:05 PM
Quote from: creakycane on March 27, 2024, 12:50:42 PMLooks like reservoir level is already shooting up.
Up 0.06' since yesterday. :wave
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on March 27, 2024, 15:34:04 PM
Post by: creakycane on March 27, 2024, 15:34:04 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on March 27, 2024, 13:42:05 PMQuote from: creakycane on March 27, 2024, 12:50:42 PMLooks like reservoir level is already shooting up.
Up 0.06' since yesterday. :wave
Yes I stand corrected. My auto-scaling on this new site made the jump look worse than it is......
Seems most of rain is staying south and east toward I95 and further east.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 28, 2024, 07:09:40 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 28, 2024, 07:09:40 AM
#24 -- 29 overcast, slight drizzle, clearing skies 50s
Last minute decision to hit the river in the afternoon as it was a dreary morning with periods of heavy rain. Since I got a late start I just hit the roadside attractions in town. As I was gearing up a wildlife officer pulled in and asked me if I had seen a Subaru. I had not. He drove on. I waded out to the top of the run and was surprised by catching a fish on the first cast. The one was quickly followed by a half dozen. I made a quick trip back to the car which was within sight to take off a layer of clothing and put four fish on ice. Back in the water I worked my way down to the bottom of the run and caught fish all along the way, culling two more for my limit. The river was up just enough to give me pause in crossing the deep run and I waded back upstream to the car. It was beer thirty and as I enjoyed my malty beverage a guy pulled in and asked how I did, "I caught dozen on a soft hackle." With a puzzled look, he replied, "I'm going down to the honey hole to catch my limit. They like powerbait and (undecipherable)."
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032824-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032824-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032824-3.jpg)
Testing the limits. I was listening to "Not so Quiet on the Western Front" podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/not-so-quiet-on-the-western-front-a-battle-guide-production/id1716885995
and failed to notice the warning light. It went to zero before I was able to pull into a station. It appears that I had about 1/2 gallon left.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032824-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 28, 2024, 20:34:25 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 28, 2024, 20:34:25 PM
#24 -- 30 Coudy turning to clear skies with brutal wind.
As March is coming to an end I'm trying to squeeze in a few more trips. I settled for some easy access fishing and managed to swing up a half dozen and culled four for the birds. The wind blew up and down the river and it wasn't a lot of fun casting the 2 wt. After working the big run, the clear skies allowed me to see the streambed and I crossed over where I had turned back the other day. Back at the car I had a beer while deciding to call it quits. Mr. Powerbait drove on by and asked how I had done and reported that he got two yesterday.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032824-a-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on March 29, 2024, 06:29:40 AM
Post by: Onslow on March 29, 2024, 06:29:40 AM
Sinful indulgence.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 29, 2024, 22:05:06 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 29, 2024, 22:05:06 PM
#24 -- 31 Gas $3.29 Partly cloudy upper 60s and WINDY
I checked the Windy App last night and I knew it was going to blow hard, but I went anyway. As I drove through town I saw a gaggle of trout bros, dressed in spiffy new waders hovering around a FlyCraft that was on top of a vehicle parked at the Historic Center, oh, great, everybody is out on a holiday.
I checked the boat ramp lot and there was a Tacoma with a nice dented rear quarter panel with a trailer and three other trucks parked alongside. I moved on up to the MP and there were two trucks there too.
I rigged up the 5 wt to battle the wind and began my hike in. Fishbug was coming out and reported a half dozen or so on a small streamer. I ran into a couple of NC trout bros coming up from "several miles below" one had caught several but the other was struggling. Both were casting bobber rigs.
I took the newly cleared path to avoid the mud of turtle creed, thanks Doug. I swung my soft hackle at LH and them moved to Big Pine where I caught a pune. It was about this time that I noticed that the river was higher than yesterday, and I checked the app to see that they had increased by about 50 cfs. A raft was coming down and I didn't want to get caught mid-channel so I moved on down further where I caught nothing. The raft came on down and I hollered, "Are we having fun yet?" They replied in the affirmative and continued to cast their bobber rigs. I decided that it was time to photograph flowers and butterflies and drink some beer and eat a sandwich.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032924-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032924-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032924-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032924-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032924-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032924-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032924-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032924-8.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/03/032924-9.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 30, 2024, 17:38:28 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 30, 2024, 17:38:28 PM
#24 -- 32 Mostly sunny with a few scattered clouds upper 70s. Gas $3.36
I should have know better, its a holiday weekend but I went up to the river anyway with plans to whack a few more trout before I make a deliver to the Raptor Center. I stopped in at a nice little roadside run where I can usually swing up a couple of fish, but with that extra 50 cfs the wading is a little dicy and my knee started to complain so I didn't get to venture too far down. I hooked into a nice little brown that jumped before breaking off as I played it. I thought that it just unbuttoned, but once I inspected the tippet I realized that I had a wind knot and the fly broke off. Alex had his Hooligan with a couple of dudes anchored upstream. I headed out to another ez access spot, didn't even bother looking at the mirror plant.
There were three trailer rigs and several other trout bro vehicles in the lot but the run was empty so I jumped in. I got a few bumps and tugs as I worked my way downstream. A nice NRS Fishing Raft came down behind me, a dude with his pregnant wife and a toddler rounded out the crew. I hooked a pune and let it go before catching one that qualified as food for the birds and I whacked it but somehow it slipped from my grip, and I watch it float away on the swift current. Damn it.
Back to casting and a few more bumps, then I stuck a low hanging tree branch, I grabbed my wading staff and powered over the knee-deep water to retrieve the fly. As I untangled it from the branch I saw my wading staff float away, awe crap! I was having issues with the clip as it would sometimes slip off the belt loop, and I was getting ready to replace it with a more secure carabiner. Too late for that now, and I was on the far side of the river without a staff to navigate back across the river. I carefully made my way back, that ended the fishing for me.
The couple with the NRS drove off in their Tacoma pulling the raft on a Road King trailer.
I've got a backup staff ready to go and an old metal one too at home, but I'm going to make another DIY staff to have on hand. I'm searching for some rubber handle grips with an inside diameter of 3/4" but google isn't helping me too much other that pointing me to a supplier that will ship 40 of the correct size to me for a price.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Rhody on April 01, 2024, 09:15:34 AM
Post by: Rhody on April 01, 2024, 09:15:34 AM
Get the 40 count and remember Christmas isn't that far away.....
I need the XXXL size staff both for height and overloaded weight permit needed.....
I need the XXXL size staff both for height and overloaded weight permit needed.....
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 02, 2024, 20:25:41 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 02, 2024, 20:25:41 PM
#24 -- 33
I took a load of trout to the raptor center in the morning. They were well received by the technicians, who were especially glad to have some fish for the birds as they were completely out. After heading back home and fixing lunch I headed up the rod to the Smith. I skipped over some spots and saw a raft coming out of River Walk as I headed up the road to fish the ramp run.
As I was gearing up Matt of Lucky Strips Guide Service pulls up and starts chatting me up. He had just finished a 1/2 day spin trip from RW to GR and was just checking things out.
In the waster I swung up a couple of punes but they weren't really looking up or that little extra 80 cfs push was having a negative effect. I got a bunch of grabs as I worked down to the bottom of the run. I refused to nymph, but that would have been a better choice that day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040124-1.jpg)
#24 -- 34 low 80s, cloudy, sunny, partly cloudy and windy early but calm in the evening.
Howard and Howard were fishing down low. I started way upstream from them and swung for a while without any hookups but after about an hour I observed some fish rising to unseen bugs, and I swung them up. They were about 8 inches and I thought about harvesting some for the birds, but they were just too pretty to bonk.
Moving on down, casting the 2 wt. I hooked some better fish, some pushing 11 inches, along with more of the usual smaller fish.
After catching 8 or 9, I took a beer break at the LH bench and Howard the Short came by and we chatted for a while, he and Howard the Tall had caught "about 8 apiece" and were just about done for the day. I stepped into the run and swung up some decent fish there too. Then Howard the Tall stopped by and we talked for a bit before he headed up the trail.
I moved on down to the T pool where things appeared to be a bit slower. I missed a fish or two, but then had a hard take and I stripped in the best fish of the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040224-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040224-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040224-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040224-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040224-5.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040224-6.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040224-7.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040224-8.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2024, 20:51:06 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2024, 20:51:06 PM
#24 -- 34 Partly cloudy, windy and low 50s
I usually stop at the bort ramp to check the raft traffic and checkup on mom on the phone before I loose good cell service. A spin angler was fishing the run wearing camo boot foot waters and sporting a ghost net. He caught a pune, well hooked with the treble of the lure. He held it up on the end of the line and took photo afer photo of it dangling on the line and then and took about two minutes to unhook and release. I tried to see if it floated downstream, but I couldn't see from inside the car. He then, looked at his photos and, I assume, posted a picture to social media. He then got out after that for some reason, went back to his car and fiddled with his gear. I drove on.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040524-1.jpg)
The lot was empty, probably because most anglers were smart enough not to fight the wind. I took the RPL+ 4 wt, to fight the wind, but I kinda messed up by grabbing the wrong reel which had a 3 wf line. I strung up the rod and tested in on the grass and was pleasantly surprised that the RPL+ would punch the line through the wind.
The redbud is out and it looks like somebody drove part way into the field, perhaps to count hay bails?? I don't know.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040524-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040524-3.jpg)
There are a few late blooming Trout Lilies around, and the Trillium are starting to take over.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040524-4.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040524-6.jpg)
I'm going to try and fish a different rod each trip for until I got through all the mid to light weight rods and I started with the RPL+
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040524-5.jpg)
I figured that it would be useless to nymph with the whipping wind, which had hold onto your hat gusts. Of course the wind was blowing straight down the river. I saw a few scattered mayflies and I may have seen a trout or two rise. I went with the usual soft hackle and swung up a handful or so.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040524-8.jpg)
Finally the wind was too much for me to deal with and I headed back.
I stopped in at the boat ramp and watch the show going on. Three anglers in the run, a truck from Maryland with rod carries. The usual assortment of bait and spin guy down at the honey hole.
The fly anglers in the bottom of the run came back up arm in arm against the strong current. The father and son, from Maryland stuck up a conversation with the local spin guy and the talk turned to stocking schedule, 10 pound rainbows, and powerbait.
The father and son headed on down to the big hole at the end of the road, when the passed the back of my stickered up CR-V, the dad commented, "You're a fly fisherman too? What works here?" I told him that I used soft hckles and he looked puzzled and showed me a black woolly bugger tied on the end of his line, "That'll work!" They headed down the path and I headed on down the road.
I had read about this access, so I went to check it out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040524-7.jpg)
The highlights of the day were listening to a hawk cry out on the walk in, and as I was standing in a run, I saw a bald eagle fly up the river and then, as it approached, it veered off and up over the trees. Pretty cool. Also, the usual palliated woodpeckers calling out. lost the last of my orange and partridges, so Saturday had to be a fly-tying day and I wasn't wanting to deal with any more wind for a while.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Onslow on April 07, 2024, 07:03:19 AM
Post by: Onslow on April 07, 2024, 07:03:19 AM
Wow. Trout Lillies have been gone here for 2 weeks and Redbuds are in pedal fall at west Surry/ east Wikes.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: trout-r-us on April 07, 2024, 13:40:11 PM
Post by: trout-r-us on April 07, 2024, 13:40:11 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on April 06, 2024, 20:51:06 PM
#24 -- 34 Partly cloudy, windy and low 50s
I had read about this access, so I went to check it out.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040524-7.jpg)
Woolly, do you happen to know the area code for that number? I tried a couple of the local ones from up that way, without any success.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 10, 2024, 14:19:09 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 10, 2024, 14:19:09 PM
#24 -- 35 Gas $3.29 Sunny and warm 70s
https://youtu.be/l5261s3Z3RU
With just one NC truck in the lot I was surprised to see three anglers fishing below me on a Sunday afternoon. I had struck out on the first run I encountered, there were a couple of risers up against a long on the far side, but I just couldn't get a good angle to get a decent drift in front of them.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040724-1.jpg)
I the next spot where I spied the anglers, two at first, but later joined by the third, I did swing up some fish, but unfortunately, they unbuttoned as they jumped clear of the water.
The "Rod of the Day", was a St. Croix 7'8" Legend Ultra 3 wt., I chose it because I wasn't expecting it to be too windy and it has a fast enough action to drive the fly under the rhodo.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040724-2.jpg)
The three amigos were staying close to the bank and didn't venture out into the middle, they were casting bobber rigs and reported "We've caught 100s" in jest. Truth was they hadn't had much success, but were enjoying the day away from their homes in Riedsville.
They hadn't been down further than the bottom of the trestle pool, my next stop. I chose to take a beer break and "rest the water" . I made three passes through the pool and brought about a dozen fish to hand. They were just punes but pretty.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040724-3.jpg)
I stayed fairly late and caught a couple more in some of the other usual spots.
(http://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/040724-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: troutboy_II on April 10, 2024, 20:03:30 PM
Post by: troutboy_II on April 10, 2024, 20:03:30 PM
"The "Rod of the Day", was a St. Croix 7'8" Legend Ultra 3 wt."
My go-to 3 wt for small streams even if it is a little stout. Fast action sure comes in handy when throwing a pair of bead heads in a stiff wind. Still has a fine touch though, so a good compromise in my opinion. Mine is an early 3 piece while Trout_Girl's is a later 4 piece. Nice rods I bought from the Champions before they got the shop in TN.
Well, I had my right knee replaced by a robot on Tuesday. :-X Not the most fun so far, but they say it just takes time and patience and everyone I know who did it says it was the best thing they ever did. Doesn't feel that way right now but I'm a wimp at heart, so there's that. Anybody else who has done this successfully and who wants to share their own words of wisdom, please steer them my way. I could use them and I suspect our aging membership might have some interest as well. Perhaps not in this thread though if it would be better elsewhere. What do I know - I'm trying to not use too much of the opioids and what I am using plus the dull pain in my leg is confusing me. Perhaps I shouldn't have started down this road. My apologies. -+;
TB (now just mostly original)
My go-to 3 wt for small streams even if it is a little stout. Fast action sure comes in handy when throwing a pair of bead heads in a stiff wind. Still has a fine touch though, so a good compromise in my opinion. Mine is an early 3 piece while Trout_Girl's is a later 4 piece. Nice rods I bought from the Champions before they got the shop in TN.
Well, I had my right knee replaced by a robot on Tuesday. :-X Not the most fun so far, but they say it just takes time and patience and everyone I know who did it says it was the best thing they ever did. Doesn't feel that way right now but I'm a wimp at heart, so there's that. Anybody else who has done this successfully and who wants to share their own words of wisdom, please steer them my way. I could use them and I suspect our aging membership might have some interest as well. Perhaps not in this thread though if it would be better elsewhere. What do I know - I'm trying to not use too much of the opioids and what I am using plus the dull pain in my leg is confusing me. Perhaps I shouldn't have started down this road. My apologies. -+;
TB (now just mostly original)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 10, 2024, 20:48:30 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 10, 2024, 20:48:30 PM
Quote from: troutboy_II on April 10, 2024, 20:03:30 PM"The "Rod of the Day", was a St. Croix 7'8" Legend Ultra 3 wt."
My go-to 3 wt for small streams even if it is a little stout. Fast action sure comes in handy when throwing a pair of bead heads in a stiff wind. Still has a fine touch though, so a good compromise in my opinion. Mine is an early 3 piece while Trout_Girl's is a later 4 piece. Nice rods I bought from the Champions before they got the shop in TN.
Well, I had my right knee replaced by a robot on Tuesday. :-X Not the most fun so far, but they say it just takes time and patience and everyone I know who did it says it was the best thing they ever did. Doesn't feel that way right now but I'm a wimp at heart, so there's that.
TB (now just mostly original)
My St. Croix is a 3 piece
Good luck with your new knee. All I can say is do your rehab!
I just got my 3 ORTHOVISC shots in my right knee — jury is out on effectiveness
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Dougfish on April 11, 2024, 10:32:05 AM
Post by: Dougfish on April 11, 2024, 10:32:05 AM
#3
Still slow to get on the water this year.
And days 2 & 3 proved to be slow fishing.
Swung soft hackles, dry/droppered.
Probably should have euroed.
Saw Bobby for the first time in many months.
(https://i.imgur.com/wzMkUtk.jpg)
Marrried now. And gonna be be a daddy in September.
He had a slow day, too.
Went back on Monday. Similar results.
Went upstream first. Yawn.
Back to the usual. Yawn. Should have gone downstream?
At least the fauna was good.
Bluebells were finishing, Twinleaf was done.
(https://i.imgur.com/Dzr7SQX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/zi2nx8Z.jpg)
Trilliums.
(https://i.imgur.com/GhgftCr.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4ko3AkS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iijnCFX.jpg)
Star Chickeed, Sessile leaf Bellflower, and Bluets.
(https://i.imgur.com/5jPHJtv.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/dHeKFsu.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/BQSvrtM.jpg)
Swallowtails are out in bunches.
(https://i.imgur.com/KQOYBnu.jpg)
Got buzzed but 3 F-18's as I crossed the field.
(https://i.imgur.com/87AluoA.jpg)
Cheers. not many fish were harmed.
Brookie adventure is next.
(https://i.imgur.com/WAMI0ax.jpg)
:cheers
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 12, 2024, 18:33:29 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 12, 2024, 18:33:29 PM
#24 -- 37 Gas $3.56 n!n , mid 60s and strong gusty wind.
Since the river below the creek is up and muddy I drove on up to the Damn Dam to harvest some stockerbows for the birds. I stopped at the boat ramp for a look see and there were seven vechicles in the lot. Holy crap, what's going on? As I drove up river road, I saw not one, not two, but three rafts on the water, a smith fly, a blue raft and Alex's hooligan bringing up the rear. I honked at Alex and he waved back. On up to an empty spot on the river I battled the wind for the next several hours and hooked and landed an handful of browns and rainbows. I culled the bows. The euro rod probably wasn't the best choice for the weather conditions and I'm sure i missed may strikes as the wind was blowing the line. But it was a spectacular day despite the wind.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041224-1.jpg)
It didn't appear that any work was being done on the hillside today, but there is some progress from the last time I took a look.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041224-2.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041224-3.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041224-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 14, 2024, 08:50:48 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 14, 2024, 08:50:48 AM
#24 --38 Upper 60s to low 70s but very windy, not a cloud in the sky
I should mention that I forgot to mention that the other day when I got out of the car, I heard a bald eagle's cry and when I got down to the water one flew overhead, pretty cool. Also there were several of them up on the James.
I know, it's the weekend, and I try not to fish on Saturday or Sunday, but I had to get out. I drove by the Great Road ramp to check the water clarity, it was looking ok, but there was a gaggle of fisherpersons gathered around a truck with a smithfly in the bed and two more wading upstream. I drove on and stopped at the Devil Bridge Ramp to check the phone as I lose signal once I go over the hill. Only one trailer today, haven't seen this one before.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041324-1.jpg)
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041324-2.jpg)
Once I arrived at the parking lot, I was kind of surprised that it was vacant, but when I opened the door and heard the halyard slapping against the flag pole, I realized that the wind was a good reason not to be fishing today.
I went directly down to the left-hand pool, using the path that Doug cut to avoid the graveolent mud of turtle creek, and saw a kaleidoscope of swallowtail butterflies at the confluence.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041324-3.jpg)
More work to be done, I should just take the saw in on every trip!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041324-4.jpg)
I threw a small peanut envy on a sink tip for an hour or so without any results. Maybe he fly was too big?
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041324-5.jpg)
I was fishing the SP 5wt. and switched to soft hackles which the small trout were interested in. They were all in the 7-9 inch range with the exception of one that came in at 3 inches. I didn't cull any as the recent shad delivery should keep the raptors happy for a while.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041324-6.jpg)
The wind was a bitch and I took a break.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041324-7.jpg)
On the way out I stopped to take some flower photos.
The mayapples are blooming.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041324-8.jpg)
And a Showy Orchis popped up trailside.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041324-9.jpg)
Sunday is another high wind day with predicted gust of 25, I may or may not go today?
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 15, 2024, 08:21:59 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 15, 2024, 08:21:59 AM
#24 -- 39 Mid to upper 70s and sunny with scattered cloud
Driving by the takeout I was a bit surprised to see the lot full of trailers. Troutbros and guides!
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041424-1.jpg)
There was only one trailer at teh devil bridge, I think it was EJ's. Busy day of the river with kayaks too.
I was expecting a crowd, but the MP lot was empty and as I geared up, I found this critter on my waders from yesterday. A pair of war birds flew up the river. The situation in the Middle East is troubling especially after listening to Dan Carlin's interview with the author of Nuclear War.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041424-2.jpg)
A pair of war birds flew up the river. The situation in the Middle East is troubling especially after listening to Dan Carlin's interview with the author of Nuclear War.
Just as I was ready to leave a F150 King Ranch with Georgia TU tags, pulls along and backs in next to me. You guessed it, it was one of the assholes from August, as he got out I said, "Hey asshole!" in my mind, but kept my mouth shut. He was all business; I think he might have known who I was.
Across the field and down the path and into cold water.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041424-3.jpg)
I sat down on the bench to cut and retie my tippet and saw a pair of tick racing up my waders -- little fuckers.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041424-4.jpg)
I swung up some fish and moved on down to big pine where I saw the King Ranch Troutbro (KRTB) working the trestle pool. I didn't see him pass me on the trail, he may have walked the tracks.
After catching a few more fish I went on down to the next bench and had a beer, thinking that the troutbro would move on up through the pool.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041424-5.jpg)
this NoDa IPA was impressively fresh tasting with a robust hoppiness!
I checked on KRTB, he was still in the same spot in the middle of the pool. I decided to go down around the bend. The water was a little pushy at 415, but I got down there ok. Swung up a fish or two but the water is really moving though that pool at this flow. Went dark and rigged up with some nymphs and split shot. It tood a bit but a got into fish in a lower run, one of which was a stockerbow who was a little beefier than the wild browns.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041424-6.jpg)
I spent about an hour down there and then headed back to retrieve my cooler that I left on the bank. It was a bit of work for me to get back up against the flow and I don't think I'll head back down there until the water drops to a manageable level for me.
KRTB was pretty much in the same spot flailing away. I sat down and popped a beer and watched the troutbro cast and cast, I wanted to yell out, "Too much wrist!" but started filming instead.
https://vimeo.com/934890434
Question, do you think KRTB caught any fish?
I finished that beer, but the show wasn't over and I popped open another beer. EJ came down with a dude in the bow and he asked me if I had a spare beer, last one I said. He then aske how it was going and if I had seen any March Browns? I had not! He's thinking they'll be out in another week or so.
I moved back up to the bench to cut and retie. KRTB came wading by, didn't say a word, interestingly he was carrying two rod tubes. He settled in at the tail of the LH pool and I headed up a ways, and swung up my last fish of the day.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041424-6.jpg)
Shadows of birds were crisscrossingg the river all day, most were the usual buzzards, but this time when I looked up it was a bald eagle.
https://vimeo.com/934912880
Back at the lot the King Ranch the the GA Troutbro were gong. I checked my waders for ticks and then headed for home.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: creakycane on April 15, 2024, 17:16:59 PM
Post by: creakycane on April 15, 2024, 17:16:59 PM
Beautiful Monday, a bit too hot. Fishing I found slow compared the the last few weeks, but a few stoneflies and mayflies around. They jumped it up a bit this afternoon, so be careful wading if you try this week. 2 trucks with trailers in Bassett, a few kayakers and a couple of anglers.
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 15, 2024, 19:15:06 PM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 15, 2024, 19:15:06 PM
They cut the low flow valves off today to search for a missing person, an elderly black man who was seen near one of the bridges — search was performed, nothing was found. Flows will increase to 440 for sometime to reduce lake level
Title: Re: Smith-Continued
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 16, 2024, 07:52:52 AM
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 16, 2024, 07:52:52 AM
https://youtu.be/NdSyFxTDQUM
#24 -- 40 Is it summer yet? 83 degrees, gas $3.56!
Driving in, there was a police presence at various points along the river below the CVS and I wondered what was up with that. There was a lot of activity at the Basset Rescue Squad too.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041524-2.jpg)
With the heat and the tick hatch I couldn't face walking the field, so I drove up to the damn dam for a look see and was surprised to see the low flow valves cut off. I thought that was a bit odd. I couldn't get motivated to fish and just drove around a bit while listening to the latest episode of , part 2 of "All Along the Watchtower" (https://www.brfff.com/forum/%5C"https://500songs.com/500%20Songs%20that%20Shaped%20Rock%20and%20Roll)
Finally it was fish or go home, so I pulled into to a roadside attraction, took the 2 wt out and began to swing through the run. I got a bunch of grabs and brought three to hand, when I guy up on the bank hollers down to me, "Is that your car over there," pointing to my CRV. Is it okay to park there?" he asked. He was looking for places to fish didn't know where to access the river and he also asked about the "generation" So this was a fairly long conversation shouting across the sounds of the rushing water. He thanked me and moved on, while I finished working that section.
I moved upstream a bit and got into a number of fish, all brown trout, if I caught a rainbow it would have become bird food, but I put all the browns back.
(https://www.brfff.com/btwc/ff2024/04/041524-1.jpg)
I fished on until the heat of the evening left me parched and I headed out for a beer!
As noted above the authorities were searching for a missing person, not a fisherman or a boater. Speaking of boats, there were some rafts about and a few kayakers too. Hillside work continues up at the damn dam and they are still looking to bring the damn dam back online in 2025/26, fish it while the current conditions continue 'cause once they complete the work it'll got back to an all (1400 cfs) or nothing (80 cfs) peak power generation.