Today stood out in last week's forecast as being nice. I scheduled an AM appointment with the Doc, and took the rest of the day off. What a splendid day it was. Some indecision as to where to go, but ended up at a reliable stream in VA that generally produces in the Winter.
The flows were normal, the weather has normal, everything seemed normal.
First little fishy of the day.
(https://i.imgur.com/GU0b92A.jpg)
This drainage is on the Old Plateau. Per usual, streams tend to be on the skinny side.
(https://i.imgur.com/VF6Zuvz.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Ritifyt.jpg)
Just upstream of this point, a cataract begins. Great fishing in this area, but not today. Snagged brush in one of the best pools, stung a 15, and lost a 13 at the net.
(https://i.imgur.com/fXUBaZt.jpg)
More good looking water. Day is still young.
(https://i.imgur.com/N9gBZB1.jpg)
While I must confess I don't fish year round every year, I've never seen witch hazel not open this time of year until this trip.
(https://i.imgur.com/SHTKePy.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/cz9H6Zr.jpg)
This fish felt like it just dropped eggs
(https://i.imgur.com/DHbZTNM.jpg)
Red Brown
(https://i.imgur.com/9SnIoBp.jpg)
Best fighting turbo tail of the day. Interesting scar on the head.
(https://i.imgur.com/giFPVZ1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/yRCM306.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/2a1SWhw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/9npTAQn.jpg)
I pushed up this creek as far as I ever have, and I'm glad I did. I started encountering civilization, and had to retreat. It was a heavenly 3 hours on the stream.
(https://i.imgur.com/hAdtiIb.jpg)
The only way out of the stream is to brush beat to the road, and walk back.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ft7inVQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pzbMtaZ.jpg)
This is a state maintained road by VA standards. I think Doug needs to drive his lesbaru to these parts, and do some Pro Rally shreddin.
(https://i.imgur.com/JvRtNyQ.jpg)