Fly Fishing the White River

Early last spring I took the fly lessons Kath bought for me, and was fortunate to be the only student that weekend.

Then right after taking them, the rains came, the lake kept on rising, and around the clock generation of 7 units went on for several months, trying to get the lake level back to normal.

But last weekend, I finally, along with a huge group of Fly Fishing enthusiasts got to fish in wadable waters. I had waited for this for a long time.

I drove down to the State park, got my waders on along with a warm sweater, and headed for the river. A short walk was needed to get an area where I wouldn't be interfearing with anyone, or would they me.

I started off with a black Woolybugger, and had no sucess at all. I changed to an olive one and within maybe 10 casts, I had my first Rainbow of the day on my line. I took my time bringing it in, trying to savour every moment. The first was my largest of the day, I would guess around 13 inches. Throughout the 3 hours I fished, I hooked 4, but only landed two. The second was around 11 or 12 inches I would guess.

The thing that adds to the thrill of the catch, is the way in which you retrieve them. You do what is called "stripping the line". This is also done as you are fishing. You are simply bringing in your line with one hand, and holding it in the other so it doesn't release. The way it feels is that you are more connected with the fish being brought in, rather then turning a handle on a reel. Don't get me wrong, I still love casting my spinning rod, and catching a nice rainbow, or a brown trout as we drift down river.

The picture of the trout in the water, is the second one I caught that day. Fly Fishing and photography at the same time is kind of tough, so you will have to excuse me on this one!

But to be out in the water, and fishing this way, it is something you have to experience.
Till the next time
B