tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41264455752690329642024-03-18T09:54:41.702-04:00River ReportUpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comBlogger984125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-23567046390641488162024-03-18T09:53:00.003-04:002024-03-18T09:53:48.519-04:00Monday 3/18/24 Farmington River Report: Flow Cut, Nice Conditions & New Flies<p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b></b></u></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ6LTnesUaZMJ1tNzT32bygT7sWSOxLfz09qiJSoX1RNw_nmM1QbFDPC6KPUkymo9MgXBokoZTOHuFoALeR6KPhvdj6lwbctITErhv2FkbflF_9I2Mpl0Dp5gCetWwV7II5rX8D42zVqor3EUMfghzOBge9Z1F286oNxOf2yIbGY6Wx75QEDFky7BFbAlU/s1280/HunterStAmandBIGbrownMarch2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="986" data-original-width="1280" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ6LTnesUaZMJ1tNzT32bygT7sWSOxLfz09qiJSoX1RNw_nmM1QbFDPC6KPUkymo9MgXBokoZTOHuFoALeR6KPhvdj6lwbctITErhv2FkbflF_9I2Mpl0Dp5gCetWwV7II5rX8D42zVqor3EUMfghzOBge9Z1F286oNxOf2yIbGY6Wx75QEDFky7BFbAlU/w400-h309/HunterStAmandBIGbrownMarch2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></u></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Store Hours</b></u>: 8am-5pm, 7 days a week. <br /><br />Rich Strolis just dropped off a big batch of his streamers, check ‘em out. Bruce Marino’s Hendrickson Nymph is back in stock and ready for the upcoming hatch- also check out his new Early Black Stonefly nymph.<br /><br />We have a new spot in the Book Room with some FREE Fly Tying Materials. We will be adding to it regularly, we have to thin out the three massive fly tying collections we bought in the last year. There will be some good stuff that will get snapped up quickly so make sure to check it out every time you come in.<br /><br />Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off. 2023 Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off. Hardy Ultralites also 40% off.<br /><br />Pictured above is Hunter, son of guide Zach St. Amand, with a nice brown trout from a recent outing.<br /><br /><u><b>Current Conditions</b></u>:<br />River is in great shape now, a huge improvement over last week. And as of 9am today (Monday 3/18), they are reducing the dam release by 120cfs. Total flow in the permanent TMA/C&R as I write this is 543cfs, this flow cut will drop it to about 420cfs. From the Goodwin (Hogback) Dam to the center of Riverton the flow is 337cfs, flow cut will drop this to about 215cfs. The Still River is adding 206cfs below that. Spring weather here now has the tributaries cracking into the mid/upper 40’s to low 50’s on sunny afternoons, and this will boost water temps as you go down river away from the dam. Looks like good fishing weather this week. <br /><br />Riverton was 39.5 degrees this morning at 8am, it reached 42 degrees Sunday afternoon. Downstream water temps, further from the dam, are higher. Sunny mild days will see the biggest water temperature increases, with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.<br /><br />New Hardy Marksman rods arrived for 2024, this replaces the Ultralite series (not the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.</span></span><p></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />BIG fly tying material orders from both Wapsi & Hareline recently arrived. Nature’s Spirit also arrived last week, with Hanak & Daiichi hooks, tying materials from Hends, Sybai, FNF, high quality deer & elk hair, dubbings, and lots of other natural materials. We received a big batch of natural colored CDC from Fulling Mill, and it looks fantastic.</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />A big Fishpond order arrived recently with lots of assorted packs (including chest packs), waterproof packs/bags, landing nets, and all sorts of accessories. The holes on the walls are getting filled daily, along with some cool new products in the mix.</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />I put literally hundreds of hooks on sale in the book room at about 40% off It’s a mix of overstocked hooks, ones we are no longer going to carry, and discontinued models from Hanak, Fasna, Tiemco, and Gamakatsu.<br /><br />There have been plenty of recently stocked trout caught along with some bigger wild & holdover fish. The early season Blue Winged Olive hatch has begun, they run #16-18 and hatch in the afternoons. We are even seeing a few Blue Quills. The state stocked the lower river from the Collinsville dams down to the Rt 177 Unionville bridge, which means that other than the permanent C&R/TMA, the entire river from the dam in Riverton down to Unionville has been recently stocked. The freshly stocked trout compete with the resident & wild fish getting them feeding more aggressively. If you want to avoid the recent stockers and target mainly holdover & wild browns, then focus on the permanent TMA/C&R- expect to work a lot harder for each and every fish, but the average size will be larger (mid to upper teens browns with an occasional 20”+ fish).<br /><br />Recently stocked trout don’t know how to feed naturally, so try things like Junk Flies (Squirmy Worms, Mops, Egg Flies, Green Weenies), Woolly Buggers, and smaller jigged streamers. Frenchies, Walt’s Worms & Sexy Waltz can also be very good. Nymphs with hot spots usually work well.</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />There has been some limited dry fly activity, both in the mornings to Winter/Summer Caddis, and in the afternoons to Blue Winged Olives/Baetis, Blue Quill, Midges, and Early Black Stones. Underwater, EarlyStoneflies are active andin the drift. If you are nymphing, I’d pair up something in the #12-16 range that could be imitative of an Early Stonefly (black, brown), or immatureHendrickson nymph (something Mayfly shaped & brown), with a slim #16-20 fly in a darker color that could imitate things like Baetis/BWO nymphs & Midges. Early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch aside, the bug activity is confined to the afternoons when water temps rise a little. Blue Winged Olives favor cloudy afternoons, and the Stoneflies are most active on warm, sunny days. <br /><br />Effective nymphs lately include Junk Flies (especially Eggs & Mops), Winter Caddis Larva #18, and Mayfly Nymphs #14-20 such as Pheasant Tails & BWO’s (Blue Winged Olives). Also Olive/Green Caddis Larva #14-16, Cased Caddis #10-16, Walt’s Worms/Sexy Waltz #10-18, Attractor & Hot-Spot Nymphs #14-18 (Triple Threats, Frenchies, Perdigons, etc.). Nymphs with metallic pink beads can be above average producers in cold water on stocked trout, holdover trout, and even big wild brown trout. </span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth imitating. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone.</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />The state has begun stocking the Farmington River, but not the permanent TMA/C&R which will be stocked sometime in April. Remember that from September 1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release until the second Saturday in April.</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />***********************************************************************</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Hatches/Dries</b></u>:</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Summer/Winter Caddis#18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long<br /></span></span><br /><br /></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Blue Winged Olives #16-18: afternoons (especially cloudy days)<br /></span></span><br /><br /></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Early Black Stoneflies #14-16: afternoons (especially sunny days)<br /></span></span><br /><br /></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Early Brown Stonefly #14-16: afternoons (a few)<br /></span></span><br /><br /></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Midges #22-28: afternoons through dusk<br /></span></span><br /><br /></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Blue Quills/Mahogany Dun (Paraleptophlebia) #16-18: afternoons, a few</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><br /><br /></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b></u>:</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />-Strolis Infant Stones #14 (black, brown): this popular pattern imitates the Early Brown & Early Black Stoneflies, with the brown version also passing for a Hendrickson nymph.</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): killer on recently stocked trout, good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs. Good also when nothing seems to be working. </span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />-Blue Winged Olive Nymphs (BWO's/Olives) #16-18, hatching in afternoons</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: will continue to produce right through the early Spring, and are also very good on recently stocked trout- they will hammer an egg fly until they get dialed in on real nymphs, larva & pupa. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. There will also be spawning Rainbows in March, and Suckers in April. </span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red, purple</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />-Winter Caddis Larva #18: surprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown.</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Isonychia, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. </span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, but can also be drifted under an indicator. Excellent choice to fish in March, especially for bigger trout, or after you have nymphed a run. Tan, olive, and white have been the best recently.</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc. Great on recently stocked fish, but big holdovers & wilds eat them too. </span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /><u><b>Streamers</b></u>:<br />To a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. Hot colors recently have been white, tan, and olive.</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, deadly fished on a tight-line/Euro rig, often sorts out bigger fish. Great to use as a clean-up fly after you nymph a run.</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />-Wooly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors</span></span></p>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-58716607978212119792024-03-15T09:45:00.009-04:002024-03-16T10:06:41.568-04:00Friday 3/15/24 Farmington River Report: BIG Flow Cut today, smaller flow cut Sat morning<p style="line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b></b></u></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr-vdSjaD-lW4HVWzgDFZ9-7He0kRoRK4lKJAzNx74fvV2KQB9CbscRDmIi8Y5aaRrbQ16RkK2sLY3UyFHbpFHgXL3-A3WrU17Cu17QHo0yes3-d53yIBuHMvk40ALluJJDUqm0dnAr1Y5StzgTCJBIMQ-gNXuobYrRPd6LgQOMObyRSOmZwTwR5BnhAik/s1290/MikeBoyle20inchWIldBrownMarch2024.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1290" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr-vdSjaD-lW4HVWzgDFZ9-7He0kRoRK4lKJAzNx74fvV2KQB9CbscRDmIi8Y5aaRrbQ16RkK2sLY3UyFHbpFHgXL3-A3WrU17Cu17QHo0yes3-d53yIBuHMvk40ALluJJDUqm0dnAr1Y5StzgTCJBIMQ-gNXuobYrRPd6LgQOMObyRSOmZwTwR5BnhAik/w400-h297/MikeBoyle20inchWIldBrownMarch2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></u></span></span></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Store Hours</b></u>: 8am-5pm, 7 days a week. <br /><br />We have a new spot in the Book Room with FREE Fly Tying Materials. We will be adding to it regularly, we have to thin out the 3 massive fly tying collections we bought in the past year or so. There will be some good stuff that will get snapped up quickly so make sure to check it out every time you come in.<br /><br />Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off. 2023 Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off. Hardy Ultralites also 40% off. <br /><br />Pictured up top is customer Mike Boyle with his new PB wild brown from last weekend, way to go!</span></span><div><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><u>12:45pm update Friday 3/15</u></b>:</span></span></div><div><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">The flow cut for today is going down to 500cfs at the dam, and then down to 300cfs Saturday morning. It will read slightly higher than this on the Riverton USGS gauge, and you need to add 250cfs (and dropping) from the Still River if you are downstream from there (as in the permanent TMA/C&R). Should be a great weekend for fishing with mild weather and greatly improved flows. <br /><br /><u><b>Current Conditions</b></u>:<br />The dam release is going down as I write this, and I'll update again this afternoon when we know exactly how low the dam is going to go. The big release over this past week was to get the water level down at Colebrook Reservoir after 3 rain events last week. Not only will this flow cut today put us back to nice conditions, but the water temps will go back up which should get both the trout and the bugs a lot more active. The previous high water this week likely also spread the recently stocked fish out. Heavy water releases in the early season means they are pumping water in the high 30’s out of the dam, and flow reductions mean higher/better water temps. Warm weather here now has the tribs cracking well into the 50’s on sunny afternoons, and this will boost water temps as you go downriver away from the dam. Look for water temps to jump up now that they cut the flow. Current conditions are more like April than March. Early season water temps are always better downstream of the Still River, which is the first major tributary to enter. <br /><br />Total flow downstream of the Still River in the permanent TMA/C&R was 1,700cfs at 8am. Riverton USGS gauge was reading 1,450fs, and the Still River was adding in 250cfs. At the 9:30am flow update, Riverton was dropping vertically on the graph and reading 1,290cfs and should go waaaay lower than that. I’m guessing this flow cut will ultimately bring Riverton down to 250-300cfs (again, this is an educated guess)- this will also raise water temps, which in March is a good thing. Riverton was 39.5 degrees this morning at 8am, it reached 41 degrees Thursday afternoon. Downstream water temps, further from the dam, water temps are higher. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases, with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.</span></span><p></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">New Hardy Marksman rods arrived for 2024, this replaces the Ultralite series (not the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">BIG fly tying material orders from both Wapsi & Hareline recently arrived. Nature’s Spirit also arrived this week, with things like Hanak & Daiichi hooks, tying materials from Hends, Sybai, FNF, high quality deer & elk hair, dubbings, and lots of other natural materials. We received a big batch of natural colored CDC from Fulling Mill, and it looks fantastic.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">A big Fishpond order arrived recently with lots of assorted packs (including chest packs), waterproof packs/bags, landing nets, and all sorts of accessories. The holes on the walls are getting filled daily, along with some cool new products in the mix. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">I put literally hundreds of hooks on sale in the book room at about 40% off- it’s a mix of overstocked hooks, ones we are no longer going to carry, and discontinued models. This includes includes hooks from Hanak, Fasna, Tiempo, Ahrex, and Gamakatsu. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Some good fishing reports from last week before the flow increase, and after the flow cut today we should be back to good conditions again. There were plenty of recently stocked trout caught along with some bigger wild & holdover fish. The early season Blue Winged Olive hatch has begun, they run #16-18 and hatch in the afternoons. We are even seeing a few Blue Quills. Last week the state stocked the lower river from the Collinsville dams down to the Rt 177 Unionville bridge, which means that other than the permanent C&R/TMA, the entire river from the dam in Riverton down to Unionville has been recently stocked. The freshly stocked trout compete with the resident fish & wild and will get them feeding more aggressively. If you want to avoid the recent stockers and target mainly holdover & wild browns, then focus on the permanent TMA/C&R, but expect to work a lot harder for each and every fish, but the average size will be larger.</span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Recently stocked trout don’t know how to feed naturally (takes about 3 weeks), so try things like Junk Flies (Squirmy Worms, Mops, Egg Flies, Green Weenies), Woolly Buggers, and smaller jigged streamers. Frenchies, Walt’s Worms & Sexy Waltz can also be very good. Nymphs with hot spots usually work well. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">There has been some limited dry fly activity, both in the mornings to Winter/Summer Caddis, and in the afternoons to Blue Winged Olives/Baetis, Paraleps, small Midges, and potentially Early Black Stones. Underwater, all three varieties of Stoneflies are active & in the drift (Tiny Winter Black, Early Black, and Early Brown). </span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Nymphing has generally been more consistent than streamer fishing over the past several weeks. I’d pair up something in the #12-16 range that could be imitative of an Early Stonefly (black, brown), immature Golden Stone, or a smaller Hendrickson nymph (something Mayfly shaped & brown), with a slim #18-20 fly in a darker color that could imitate things like Baetis/BWO nymphs & Midges. Early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch aside, the bug activity is confined to the afternoons when water temps rise a little. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Streamers don’t always catch the most fish, but often enough they do trigger bigger fish to eat your fly. Better streamers colors lately are tan, olive, and white- fish them slow & deep for best results. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Winter nymphs typically include Junk Flies (especially Eggs & Mops), Midges #18-22 in black/red/olive (Zebra Midge, etc.), Winter Caddis Larva #18, and small Mayfly Nymphs #16-20 such as Pheasant Tails & BWO’s (Blue Winged Olive). Also Olive/Green Caddis Larva #14-16, Cased Caddis #10-16, Walt’s Worms/Sexy Waltz #10-18, Attractor & Hot-Spot Nymphs #14-18 (Triple Threats, Frenchies, Perdigons, etc.). Nymphs with metallic pink beads can be above average producers in cold water on stocked trout, holdover trout, and even big wild brown trout.</span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">The state has begun stocking the Farmington River, but not the permanent TMA/C&R which will be stocked in April. Remember that from September 1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release until the second Saturday in April.</span></span></div><p style="line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />***********************************************************************</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><u>Hatches</u></b></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><u>Dries</u></b>:</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Summer/Winter Caddis#18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Blue Winged Olives #16-18: afternoons</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Early Black Stoneflies #14-16: afternoons</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Early Brown Stonefly #14-16: afternoons</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Midges #22-28: afternoons through dusk</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Blue Quills/Mahogany Dun (Paraleptophlebia) #16-18: afternoons</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b></u>:</span></span></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Strolis Infant Stones #14 (black, brown): this popular pattern imitates the Early Brown & Early Black Stoneflies, with the brown version also passing for a Hendrickson nymph.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): killer on recently stocked trout, good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs. Good also when nothing seems to be working. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Blue Winged Olive Nymphs #16-18, hatching in afternoons</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Egg Flies #12-18: will continue to produce right through the early Spring, and are also very good on recently stocked trout- they will hammer an egg fly until they get dialed in on real nymphs, larva & pupa. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. There will also be spawning Rainbows in March, and Suckers in April. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red, purple</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Winter Caddis Larva #18: surprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Isonychia, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, but can also be drifted under an indicator. Excellent choice to fish in March, especially for bigger trout, or after you have nymphed a run. Tan, olive, and white have been the best recently.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc. Great on recently stocked fish, but big holdovers & wilds eat them too. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Streamers</b></u>:<br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">To a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. Hot colors recently have been white, tan, and olive.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, deadly fished on a tight-line/Euro rig, often sorts out bigger fish. Great to use as a clean-up fly after you nymph a run.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Wooly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Zonker #4-6: white, natural</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors</span></span></span></div><p></p></div>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-5736509289430232222024-03-11T14:43:00.001-04:002024-03-14T08:48:48.402-04:00Thursday 3/14/24 Farmington River Report: High flow for now, Most likely dropping for the weekend.<p style="line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2nUoRD0SP02k4SKPjhWkTlMHA3aY3qCRcBTeOxBS5O599-4FPPFrUhtFosFLRt3p_hiuPuV772VoLTr-HzMwfQ4APPWrxZUja5nVxKUTcuJGHW16UfURpJlAeAK6Q0fU9Qu2Sy0_G49jt9yM2skUugrgrc-_yS-lwvWpTDjwFN8FTh0tUvA7fPaG-edx7/s1290/BenCaninoMarchFloatBrown2024.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1209" data-original-width="1290" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2nUoRD0SP02k4SKPjhWkTlMHA3aY3qCRcBTeOxBS5O599-4FPPFrUhtFosFLRt3p_hiuPuV772VoLTr-HzMwfQ4APPWrxZUja5nVxKUTcuJGHW16UfURpJlAeAK6Q0fU9Qu2Sy0_G49jt9yM2skUugrgrc-_yS-lwvWpTDjwFN8FTh0tUvA7fPaG-edx7/w400-h375/BenCaninoMarchFloatBrown2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Store Hours: 8am-5pm, 7 days a week. <br /><br />We have a new bin in the Book Room with FREE Fly Tying Materials. We will be adding to it regularly, we have to thin out the 3 massive fly tying collections we bought in the past year or so. There will be some good stuff that will get snapped up quickly so don’t wait too long.<br /><br />Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off. 2023 Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off. Hardy Ultralites also 40% off. <br /><br />Pictured first is Ben Canino with a really good holdover brown trout he got while floating the river<br /><br />Current Conditions:</span><div><div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The dam release was bumped up to 1500cfs for the next several days until they get the water level down at Colebrook Reservoir. Total flow its a very high 1800cfs. Downstream from the Still River, the Farmington River has mostly been averaging low to mid 40’s in the afternoons. On days with sunny & mild weather the Still River becomes a warming influence in the afternoons. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases. with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">New Hardy Marksman rods arrived for 2024, this replaces the Ultralite series (not the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.<br /><br />BIG fly tying material orders from both Wapsi & Hareline recently arrived. Nature’s Spirit also arrived this week, with things like Hanak & Daiichi hooks, tying materials from Hends, Sybai, FNF, high quality deer & elk hair, dubbings, and lots of other natural materials. </span><span style="font-size: large;">We received a big batch of natural colored CDC from Fulling Mill, and it looks fantastic</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">A big Fishpond order arrived recently with lots of assorted packs (including chest packs), waterproof packs/bags, landing nets, and all sorts of accessories. The holes on the walls are getting filled daily, along with some cool new products in the mix. <br /><br />I put literally hundreds of hooks on sale in the book room at about 40% off- it’s a mix of overstocked hooks, ones we are no longer going to carry, and discontinued models. This includes includes hooks from Hanak, Fasna, Tiempo, Ahrex, and Gamakatsu. <br /><br />Some good fishing reports from last week. There were plenty of recently stocked trout caught along with some bigger wild & holdover fish. The early season Blue Winged Olive hatch has begun, they run #16-18 and hatch in the afternoons. We are even seeing a few Blue Quills. Last week the state stocked the lower river from the Collinsville dams down to the Rt 177 Unionville bridge, which means that other than the permanent C&R/TMA, the entire river from the dam in Riverton down to Unionville has been recently stocked. The freshly stocked trout compete with the resident fish & wild and will get them feeding more aggressively. If you want to avoid the recent stockers and target mainly holdover & wild browns, then focus on the permanent TMA/C&R, but expect to work a lot harder for each and every fish, but the average size will be larger.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><br />Recently stocked trout don’t know how to feed naturally (takes about 3 weeks), so try things like Junk Flies (Squirmy Worms, Mops, Egg Flies, Green Weenies), Woolly Buggers, and smaller jigged streamers. Frenchies, Walt’s Worms & Sexy Waltz can also be very good. Nymphs with hot spots usually work well. <br /><br />There has been some limited dry fly activity, both in the mornings to Winter/Summer Caddis, and in the afternoons to Blue Winged Olives/Baetis, Paraleps, small Midges, and potentially Early Black Stones. Underwater, all three varieties of Stoneflies are active & in the drift (Tiny Winter Black, Early Black, and Early Brown).<br /><br />Nymphing has generally been more consistent than streamer fishing over the past several weeks. I’d pair up something in the #12-16 range that could be imitative of an Early Stonefly (black, brown), immature Golden Stone, or a smaller Hendrickson nymph (something Mayfly shaped & brown), with a slim #18-20 fly in a darker color that could imitate things like Baetis/BWO nymphs & Midges. Early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch aside, the bug activity is confined to the afternoons when water temps rise a little. <br /><br />Streamers don’t always catch the most fish, but often enough they do trigger bigger fish to eat your fly. Better streamers colors lately are tan, olive, and white- fish them slow & deep for best results. Winter nymphs typically include Junk Flies (especially Eggs & Mops), Midges #18-22 in black/red/olive (Zebra Midge, etc.), Winter Caddis Larva #18, and small Mayfly Nymphs #16-20 such as Pheasant Tails & BWO’s (Blue Winged Olive). Also Olive/Green Caddis Larva #14-16, Cased Caddis #10-16, Walt’s Worms/Sexy Waltz #10-18, Attractor & Hot-Spot Nymphs #14-18 (Triple Threats, Frenchies, Perdigons, etc.). Nymphs with metallic pink beads can be above average producers in cold water on stocked trout, holdover trout, and even big wild brown trout.<br /><br />Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing farther away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs, up close where you have at least some current, and deadly in pocket water). Trout are still mainly holding in Winter water, which means slower & deeper water. They may move up into moderate riffles to feed in the afternoons- this is especially true of wild & holdover brown trout. <br /><br />We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone.<br /><br />The state has begun stocking the Farmington River, but not the permanent TMA/C&R which will be stocked in April. Remember that from September 1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release until the second Saturday in April.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br />Hatches/Dries:<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives #16-18 (Baetis Tricauditus, formerly Vagans): afternoons<br /><br />-Early Black Stoneflies #14-16: afternoons<br /><br />-Early Brown Stoneflies #14-16: afternoons, a few<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk<br /><br />-Paraleps (Blue Quills) #16-18: afternoons, a few<br /><br /><br />Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles:<br /><br />-Strolis Infant Stones #14 (black, brown): this popular pattern imitates the Early Brown & Early Black Stoneflies, with the brown version also passing for a Hendrickson nymph. These always sell out fast. <br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): killer on recently stocked trout, good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs. Good also in the winter when nothing seems to be working. <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives Nymphs #16-18, hatching in afternoons<br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: will continue to produce right through the early Spring, and are also very good on recently stocked trout- they will hammer an egg fly until they get dialed in on real nymphs, larva & pupa. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. There will also be spawning Rainbows in March, and Suckers in April. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red, purple<br /><br />-Winter Caddis Larva #18: surprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). <br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: many of the bugs are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common this time of year. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, and in assorted colors like olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are often more important than exact fly pattern, but some days the specific pattern is critical. <br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Isonychia, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. <br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, but can also be drifted under an indicator. Excellent choice to fish in March, especially for bigger trout, or after you have nymphed a run. Tan, olive, and white have been the best recently.<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc. Great on recently stocked fish, but big holdovers & wilds eat them too. <br /><br />Streamers:<br /><br />To a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. Hot colors recently have been white, tan, and olive.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, deadly fished on a tight-line/Euro rig, often sorts out bigger fish. Great to use as a clean-up fly after you nymph a run.<br /><br />-Wooly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors</span><p></p></div></div>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-90541902211398512992024-03-08T11:04:00.009-05:002024-03-08T12:26:25.044-05:00Friday 3/8/24 Farmington River Report: More Stocking & Big Trout<p align="left" style="line-height: 18.4px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKpsaabYgvpfOM1QU-BuE41fZUzMYc1QmdBxyAudOt4DGvAQzsdpO9UhAXxDevp48cUqAlLAjx7UzLt11j_FpY1vxDT20dFuJQ506hImEovNwzl27de8FSV6h2VUELghCFOqWKXQ4Zo-FbreSgSsnf6hQXHmxbRl76PEpRf_O4WYq7gsyfjfsPEV7iJzCW/s2016/WillRyanWildBrownMarch2024.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKpsaabYgvpfOM1QU-BuE41fZUzMYc1QmdBxyAudOt4DGvAQzsdpO9UhAXxDevp48cUqAlLAjx7UzLt11j_FpY1vxDT20dFuJQ506hImEovNwzl27de8FSV6h2VUELghCFOqWKXQ4Zo-FbreSgSsnf6hQXHmxbRl76PEpRf_O4WYq7gsyfjfsPEV7iJzCW/w400-h300/WillRyanWildBrownMarch2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Store Hours</b>: 8am-5pm, 7 days a week. <br /><br />Stop by for some bargains! Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off. 2023 Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off. Hardy Ultralites also 40% off. </span><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkKiOr0FSluaMZx0_QLqL7PEM1vDaYDh3EGBgxJcWOTM0LJYfTLMxl-lmit2UNPYA8ARdih6JQutgKci6sYNK_saAyuVqb8YGWy7Lg8-dXfmU0ckYOGMTfqTLYnX9tTMyLbJpGJFTWecM96phlBUgaKz4qndwvefxZaR5Lirq30xzINHI4LeleFUyV2iDO/s1280/Zach20inchWildBrownMarch2024.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkKiOr0FSluaMZx0_QLqL7PEM1vDaYDh3EGBgxJcWOTM0LJYfTLMxl-lmit2UNPYA8ARdih6JQutgKci6sYNK_saAyuVqb8YGWy7Lg8-dXfmU0ckYOGMTfqTLYnX9tTMyLbJpGJFTWecM96phlBUgaKz4qndwvefxZaR5Lirq30xzINHI4LeleFUyV2iDO/w400-h263/Zach20inchWildBrownMarch2024.jpg" /></span></a><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div>Pictured first is Will Ryan with a beautiful wild brown caught Wed. on a black Stonefly. Also caught were a bunch of stocked rainbows using Frenchies, Sexy Waltz, Mops & streamers. Second pic is local guide Zach St. Amand with a 20” brown.</div><br /><b><u>Morning Conditions 3/8/24</u></b>:<br />Currently the Riverton USGS gauge is reading 142cfs at the Rt 20 bridge (above the Still River), and the Still River is adding in 808cfs, giving us a total flow in the permanent Catch & Release area of 950cfs & dropping- I’d call this a high flow for sure, but not unfishable. Water temps reached 43 degrees yesterday afternoon in Riverton. Downstream from the Still River to the lower Farmington River has been averaging up to there mid 40’s. On days with sunny & mild weather the Still River becomes a warming influence in the afternoons. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases. with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.<br /><br />New Hardy Marksman rods arrived for 2024, this replaces the Ultralite series (not the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.<br /><br />BIG fly tying material orders from both Wapsi & Hareline recently arrived, and both are up on the walls now. We also received a large Simms preseason order, which includes the new heavy duty brand new Simms Confluence Wader. A big Fishpond order arrived last week. I placed a Nature’s Spirit order (things like Hanak & Daiichi hooks, and tying materials from Hends, Sybai, FNF, high quality deer & elk hair, dubbings, and lots of natural materials), we will see that very soon. The holes on the walls are getting filled daily, along with some cool new products in the mix. We received a big batch of natural colored CDC from Fulling Mill, and it looks fantastic- at least as good as the now unavailable TroutHunter CDC. We also have a limited quantity of their Mustard Walt’s Dubbing. <br /><br />I put literally hundreds of hooks on sale in the book room at about 40% off- it’s a mix of overstocked hooks, ones we are no longer going to carry, and discontinued models. This includes overstocked & discontinued hooks from Hanak, Fasna, Tiempo, Ahrex, and Gamakatsu. <br /><br />Flows are currently are 950cfs and dropping in the permanent TMA/C&R- pretty high but fishable with standard high water tactics (Junk flies, streamers, bigger and/or attractor nymphs, all fished close to the bank, out of the heavy main current.). Today (Friday) and tomorrow (Saturday) will be the best window of fishing, and the Still River is dropping fast. Potentially heavy rain Saturday night may change things totally around for Sunday, although Riverton above the Still River will likely remain fishable due to them holding back water at the dam and only releasing about 150 cfs as of this morning. <br /><br />Some good fishing reports from this week, with plenty of recently stocked trout caught along with some bigger wild & holdover fish. The early season Blue Winged Olive hatch has begun, they run #16-18 and hatch in the afternoons. This week the state stocked the lower river from the Collinsville dams down to the Rt 177 Unionville bridge, which means that other than the permanent C&R/TMA (about 6 miles), the entire river from the dam in Riverton down to Unionville has been recently stocked. The freshly stocked trout compete with the resident fish & wild and will get them feeding more aggressively. If you want to avoid the recent stockers and target mainly holdover & wild browns, then focus on the permanent TMA/C&R, but expect to work a lot harder for each and every fish. <br /><br />Early last week, the state stocked the upper river (Whittemore to the dam in Riverton), and below the 219 bridge in New Hartford (the Wall) all the way downstream to a little below the 202 bridge in Canton. These trout will be more willing to eat your flies than the holdovers & wilds already in the river, and the competition from the fresh stockers should get the resident fish eating more aggressively. <br /><br />Recently stocked trout don’t know how to feed naturally (takes about 3 weeks), so try things like Junk Flies (Squirmy Worms, Mops, Egg Flies, Green Weenies), Woolly Buggers, and smaller jigged streamers. Frenchies, Walt’s Worms & Sexy Waltz can also be very good. Nymphs with hot spots usually work well. <br /><br />The holdover & wild fish you will catch in the next month or two will typically average the biggest of the year. As you’ve seen from the pictures posted, some browns in 18-22” range are getting landed every day by persistent anglers, with some big holdover FRAA rainbows showing up. Sometimes it’s on imitative nymphs/larva, sometimes Junk Flies, sometimes dry flies, and sometimes on streamers fished slow & deep. Be flexible!<br /><br />There has been some limited dry fly activity, both in the mornings to Winter/Summer Caddis, and in the afternoons to small Midges and potentially Early Black Stones. Underwater, all three varieties of Stoneflies are active & in the drift (Tiny Winter Black, Early Black, and Early Brown).<br /><br />Nymphing has generally been more consistent than streamer fishing over the past several weeks. I’d pair up something in the #12-16 range that could be imitative of an Early Stonefly (black, brown), immature Golden Stone, or a smaller Hendrickson nymph (something Mayfly shaped & brown), with a slim #18-22 fly in a darker color that could imitate things like Tiny Black Winter Stoneflies or Midges. Early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch aside, the bug activity is confined to the afternoons when water temps rise a little. <br /><br />Streamers often don’t catch the most fish, but often enough they do trigger bigger fish to eat your fly. Better streamers colors lately are tan, olive, and white- fish them slow & deep for best results. Winter nymphs typically include Junk Flies (especially Eggs & Mops), Midges #18-22 in black/red/olive (Zebra Midge, etc.), Winter Caddis Larva #18, and small Mayfly Nymphs #16-20 such as Pheasant Tails & BWO’s (Blue Winged Olive). Also Olive/Green Caddis Larva #14-16, Cased Caddis #10-16, Walt’s Worms/Sexy Waltz #10-18, Attractor & Hot-Spot Nymphs #14-18 (Triple Threats, Frenchies, Perdigons, etc.). Nymphs with metallic pink beads can be above average producers in the winter on stocked trout, holdover trout, and even wild trout.<br /><br />Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing farther away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs and up close where you have at least some current). Trout are still mainly holding in Winter water, which means slower & deeper water. They may move up into moderate riffles to feed in the afternoons- this is especially true of wild & holdover brown trout. <br /><br />We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone.<br /><br />The state has just begun stocking the Farmington River, but not the permanent TMA/C&R which will be stocked in April. Remember that from September 1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release until the second Saturday in April).<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives #16-18 (Baetis Tricauditus, formerly Vagans): afternoons<br /><br />-Early Black Stoneflies #14-16: afternoons<br /><br />-Early Brown Stoneflies #14-16: afternoons<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br />-Tiny Black Winter Stoneflies #18-24: afternoons<br /><br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Strolis Infant Stones #14 (black, brown): this popular pattern imitates the Early Brown & Early Black Stoneflies, with the brown version also passing for a Hendrickson nymph. These always sell out fast. <br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): killer on recently stocked trout, good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs. Good also in the winter when nothing seems to be working. <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives Nymphs #16-18, hatching in afternoons<br /><br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: will continue to produce right through the early Spring, and are also very good on recently stocked trout- they will hammer an egg fly until they get dialed in on real nymphs, larva & pupa. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. There will also be spawning Rainbows in March, and Suckers in April. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red, purple<br /><br />-Winter Caddis Larva #18: suprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). <br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: many of the bugs are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, and in assorted colors like olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. <br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Isonychia, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. <br /><br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, but can also be drifted under an indicator. Excellent choice to fish in the Winter. Tan, olive, and white have been the best lately.<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />To a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. Hot colors in 2024 have been white, tan, and olive.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, deadly fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Wooly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors</span></div></div>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-4096962445813056522024-03-04T11:26:00.000-05:002024-03-04T11:26:21.272-05:00Monday 3/4/24 Farmington River Report: Mild & Fishy<p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLOhMdzTjU0dPgiH4BTBxFSTmjGy7a3v0RHTuOJv5TB-0h3JerQHhwWJ4cH3KRJE0ZIcFzXlscQW-RD8u1Ms-j2nHhA-6n3AlZ_rwQAqI9qp-Jug5433ztLuFtm8Ef4e7BZuGhK2odCsSYs6mqANcEtilfXcPiU1hTNND1xbLKJWkD9DDhZxnr_880Bj-o/s1280/JamesNicholasBrownMarch2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1031" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLOhMdzTjU0dPgiH4BTBxFSTmjGy7a3v0RHTuOJv5TB-0h3JerQHhwWJ4cH3KRJE0ZIcFzXlscQW-RD8u1Ms-j2nHhA-6n3AlZ_rwQAqI9qp-Jug5433ztLuFtm8Ef4e7BZuGhK2odCsSYs6mqANcEtilfXcPiU1hTNND1xbLKJWkD9DDhZxnr_880Bj-o/w323-h400/JamesNicholasBrownMarch2024.jpg" width="323" /></a></b></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. </span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><u><b>Don't forget to have a 2024 CT Fishing license plus a $5 Trout/Salmon Stamp</b></u></span> if you are planning to fish the Farmington River. All 2023 CT fishing licenses expired after December 31st.<br /><br /><span style="color: purple;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span>:<br />Stop by for some bargains! <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span>. <i><b>2023 Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i>. <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u>(</u><i><u>not</u></i><u> the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>also 40% off</u></span>. <br /><br />We purchased purchased several huge collections of quality fly tying materials in 2023. Stop by and check it all out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. As we sell through these materials, we keep putting more out. <br /><br />UpCountry also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels in 2023. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis3vBkMn16Cs7UlnoP-6o1yFXwcTDjfj_SDmvAV9em5ap3wMBhmg5FIDzoO4z5Vq7OdPX_jfaK-W8lTlN_ZEysZXjwcuTDxHpVpHE4mfSjPCWGprE0iUtG8aGv3lt8JARRx0q8iSmRQCEEuOHzoaVv0-qfCbD9vYGTpauPL8hpCm4bXwfypJORwnqSfWZB/s1280/GordonPerkinsBrownMarch2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1023" data-original-width="1280" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis3vBkMn16Cs7UlnoP-6o1yFXwcTDjfj_SDmvAV9em5ap3wMBhmg5FIDzoO4z5Vq7OdPX_jfaK-W8lTlN_ZEysZXjwcuTDxHpVpHE4mfSjPCWGprE0iUtG8aGv3lt8JARRx0q8iSmRQCEEuOHzoaVv0-qfCbD9vYGTpauPL8hpCm4bXwfypJORwnqSfWZB/w400-h320/GordonPerkinsBrownMarch2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Pictured up top is James Nicholas with the best of 4 fish from the weekend, and below that is Gordon Perkins with a handful of quality butter.<p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><b>Morning Conditions 3/</b></u><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><b>4</b></u><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><b>/24:</b></u></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Currently the Riverton USGS gauge is reading 165cfs at the Rt 20 bridge (above the Still River), and the Still River is adding in 293cfs & dropping below this, giving us a total flow in the Permanent TMA/Catch & Release of 458cfs & dropping- I’d call this a medium flow and a nice water level to fish in many spots. Water temp this morning in Riverton was is 39 degrees, it reached 42.5 degrees yesterday afternoon in Riverton. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging upper 30’s to mid 40’s, depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. When you have sunny & mild weather the Still River becomes a warming influence on water temps in the afternoons. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases (especially after a milder night), with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.<br /><br />Because the MDC has been defaulting to a very frustrating minimum legal flow regime since early 2022 (50cfs–150cfs, plus any water released from Otis Reservoir in MA), that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full (except during droughts), and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump big water for a few days to a week. Historically they did a good job managing the water and had the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls & snowmelt, but they stopped doing this in 2022. <br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods arrived for 2024</b></u></i></span>, this replaces the Ultralite series (<i>not </i>the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.<br /><br /><u><b>Mon</b></u><u><b>day Morning 3/</b></u><u><b>4</b></u><u><b>/24 Report:<br />BIG</b></u> <b>fly tying material orders (and some fly boxes) from both Wapsi & Hareline recently</b> <b>arrived, and both are up on the walls now</b>. We also received a large <b>Simms preseason order</b>, which includes the new heavy duty brand new <b>Simms Confluence Wader</b>. A big <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Fishpond order </b></span>arrived last week. I placed a <b>Nature’s Spirit </b>order (things like Hanak & Daiichi hooks, and tying materials from Hends, Sybai, FNF, high quality deer & elk hair, dubbings, and lots of natural materials), so we should see that next week. The holes on the walls are getting filled weekly, along with some cool new products in the mix. <u><br /><br />I put literally hundreds of hooks on sale in the book room at about </u><u><b>40% off</b></u><u>- it’s a mix of overstocked hooks, ones we are no longer going to carry, and discontinued models</u>. This includes overstocked & discontinued hooks from <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Hanak </b></span>(lots of different models & sizes), <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Fasna </b></span>(we have to drop them because our supplier dropped them), <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Tiemco/TMC</b></span>, <span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>Ahrex</b></span>, and <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Gamakatsu</b></span>. FYI these sale hooks are for <u>walk-in customers only</u>, so we will not be taking phone orders for them. We got in a big Rezetti vise order, more Regal vises, and we are well stocked with the brand new 2024 Hardy fresh & saltwater fly rods. <br /><br />A lot of anglers were out over the past weekend, taking advantage of the amazing mild weather, nice water levels, and recently stocked trout (see paragraph below for where they stocked). Mixed in with the stocked rainbows, there were some nice holdover & wild browns. It seems like the freshly stocked trout compete with the resident fish and get them feeding more aggressively. If you want to avoid the recent stockers and target mainly holdover & wild browns, then focus on the permanent TMA/C&R, but expect to work a lot harder for each and every fish. Quality over quantity. FYI, in March bigger wild & holdover brown trout will often start to move into somewhat faster water to feed in. Water temps are rising, and even right below the dam is getting into the low 40’s on mild/sunny afternoons, and downstream is warmer than that in the afternoons. I got 46.5 degrees for a water temp in the Still River late on Sunday, making it a warming influence on the Farmington River from the junction and downstream. <br /><br />Early last week, the state stocked the upper river (Whittmore to the dam in Riverton), and below the 219 bridge in New Hartford (the Wall) all the way downstream to a little below the 202 bridge in Canton. These trout will be more willing to eat your flies than the holdovers & wilds already in the river, and the competition from the fresh stockers should get the resident fish eating more aggressively. We received a big batch of natural colored CDC from Fulling Mill (it was backordered), and it looks fantastic- at least as good as the now unavailable TroutHunter CDC. We also have a limited quantity of their Mustard Walt’s Dubbing. <br /><br />Recently stocked trout don’t know how to feed naturally (takes about 3 weeks), so try things like Junk Flies (Squirmy Worms, Mops, Egg Flies, Green Weenies), Woolly Buggers, and smaller jigged streamers. Walt’s Worms & Sexy Waltz can also be very good. Nymphs with hot spots usually work well too. <br /><br />The holdover & wild fish you will catch in the next month or two will typically average the biggest of the year. As you’ve seen from the pictures posted, some browns in 18-22” range are getting landed every day by persistent anglers, with some big holdover FRAA rainbows showing up. Sometimes it’s on imitative nymphs/larva, sometimes Junk Flies, sometimes dry flies, and sometimes on streamers fished slow & deep. Be flexible!<br /><br />There has been some limited dry fly activity, both in the mornings to Winter/Summer Caddis, and in the afternoons to small Midges and potentially Early Black Stones. Underwater, all three varieties of Stoneflies are active & in the drift (Tiny Winter Black, Early Black, and Early Brown).<br /><br />Nymphing has generally been more consistent than streamer fishing over the past several weeks. I’d pair up something in the #12-16 range that could be imitative of an Early Stonefly (black, brown), immature Golden Stone, or a smaller Hendrickson nymph (something Mayfly shaped & brown), with a slim #18-22 fly in a darker color that could imitate things like Tiny Black Winter Stoneflies or Midges. Early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch aside, the bug activity is confined to the afternoons when water temps rise a little. <br /><br />Streamers often don’t catch the most fish, but often enough they do trigger bigger fish to eat your fly. Better streamers colors lately are tan, olive, and white- fish them slow & deep for best results. Winter nymphs typically include Junk Flies (especially Eggs & Mops), Midges #18-22 in black/red/olive (Zebra Midge, etc.), Winter Caddis Larva #18, and small Mayfly Nymphs #16-20 such as Pheasant Tails & BWO’s (Blue Winged Olive). Also Olive/Green Caddis Larva #14-16, Cased Caddis #10-16, Walt’s Worms/Sexy Waltz #10-18, Attractor & Hot-Spot Nymphs #14-18 (Triple Threats, Frenchies, Perdigons, etc.). Nymphs with metallic pink beads can be above average producers in the winter on stocked trout, holdover trout, and even wild trout.<br /><br />Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing farther away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs and up close where you have at least some current). Trout are still mainly holding in Winter water, which means slower & deeper water. They may move up into moderate riffles to feed in the afternoons- this is especially true of wild & holdover brown trout. <br /><br />We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone.<br /><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state has just begun stocking the Farmington River, but not the permanent TMA/C&R- that gets stocked in April. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October 2023 with quite a few pretty rainbows and they are still there (it's C&R in that section from 9/1 until the second Saturday in April).<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />***Midges are the main afternoon hatch, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings. The Tiny/Micro Black Winter Stones have started up (afternoons), and we are beginning to see Early Black Stones and even a few Early Brown Stones***<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br />-Tiny Black Winter Stoneflies #18-24: afternoons<br /><br />-Early Black Stoneflies #14-16: afternoons, just starting<br /><br />-Early Brown Stoneflies #14-16: afternoons, a few<br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Strolis Infant Stones #14 (black, brown): this popular pattern imitates the Early Brown & Early Black Stoneflies, with the brown version also passing for a Hendrickson nymph. These always sell out fast. <br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): killer on recently stocked trout, good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs. Good also in the winter when nothing seems to be working. <br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: Egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter/early Spring, and are also very good on recently stocked trout- they will hammer an egg fly until they get dialed in on real nymphs, larva & pupa. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. There will also be spawning Rainbows in February/March, and Suckers in April. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red, purple<br /><br />-Winter Caddis Larva #18: suprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns, all year long<br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, and in assorted colors like olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences. High fishing pressure usually means you want to fish drabber & smaller flies that are more natural looking. Black beadheads can be good on trout that have seen too many gold, copper & silver beads.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River. These catch fresh stockers, holdovers, and big wilds too. <br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work especially well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river, are an especially good fly to use in late winter/early spring. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam. They also Behavioral Drift in the daytime, unlike most bugs that do it in low light or even in the dark.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, but can also be drifted under an indicator. Excellent choice to fish in the Winter. Tan, olive, and white have been the best lately.<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />To a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. Hot colors in 2024 have been white, tan, and olive.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, <i>deadly </i>fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes tradtional featherwing & bucktail streamers work better than bulky modern patterns, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. Especially in low/clear water with sunshine, these sparser/drabber flies can be just the ticket. Use split shot, sinking leaders, or sink-tip/sinking fly lines to get these flies down (unless you are fishing shallow water).<br /><u><b>Try</b></u>: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></p>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-73386717989497425942024-03-01T10:19:00.004-05:002024-03-01T10:19:51.978-05:00Friday 3/1/24 Farmington River Report: More Trout Stocking & Mild Weather is Back<p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZfaDZQ8vgZxM22NPCuRVuCvwzM-u0GQbCfANvIoKdLhMPDM3Ki3uEqg23ZgPDdl_6lG8x-4rm8SDFp7okJYgYEWbvoLcR9u0kyLvOoyj07MwvfOnhxSxcE4CgZCYeS6f-3IFaRdvvgBGCn0tCvnTs8HmMiENYmZMyzZaYVNekT8z06lQILryvAar-zYhS/s2016/Thai21inchPBbrownMarch1st2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZfaDZQ8vgZxM22NPCuRVuCvwzM-u0GQbCfANvIoKdLhMPDM3Ki3uEqg23ZgPDdl_6lG8x-4rm8SDFp7okJYgYEWbvoLcR9u0kyLvOoyj07MwvfOnhxSxcE4CgZCYeS6f-3IFaRdvvgBGCn0tCvnTs8HmMiENYmZMyzZaYVNekT8z06lQILryvAar-zYhS/w300-h400/Thai21inchPBbrownMarch1st2024.jpg" width="300" /></a></b></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. </span></span><p></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><u><b>Don't forget to have a 2024 CT Fishing license plus a $5 Trout/Salmon Stamp</b></u></span> if you are planning to fish the Farmington River. All 2023 CT fishing licenses expired after December 31st.<br /><br /><span style="color: purple;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span>:<br />Stop by for some bargains! <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span>. <i><b>2023 Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i>. <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u>(<i>not</i> the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>also 40% off</u></span>. <br /><br />We purchased purchased several huge collections of quality fly tying materials in 2023. Stop by and check it all out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. As we sell through these materials, we keep putting more out. <br /><br />UpCountry also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels in 2023. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.</span></span></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Pictured up top is Thai Tran’s new PB Farmington Brown trout at 21”, caught at 8am this morning (22 degrees out!!!) on a Junk Fly, way to go Thai! I ventured out in the cold & wind late on Thursday expecting to catch stocked rainbow trout, and 10 casts in I got the nice wild brown pictured (second pic), also on the Junk lol. Go figure.<br /><br /><u><b></b></u></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtb0-zl4j-IVvrWLnrLVgPuxKnVC9cthYy1a8dZX-6rlMDkn8DK_GNzIfHXiomnSJBv3NBbF1MfYGT0nB5JdYAtPHYoydIy51_cLc00NjqGCsNCDH31_W-qpTFcqpNv507EwFL1PSu5RfZC221F0AlgkOyZkSXMDsZYdar49MZmRWHdwKb5ypdEoYCO80g/s2016/TorreyWildBrownFeb29th2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtb0-zl4j-IVvrWLnrLVgPuxKnVC9cthYy1a8dZX-6rlMDkn8DK_GNzIfHXiomnSJBv3NBbF1MfYGT0nB5JdYAtPHYoydIy51_cLc00NjqGCsNCDH31_W-qpTFcqpNv507EwFL1PSu5RfZC221F0AlgkOyZkSXMDsZYdar49MZmRWHdwKb5ypdEoYCO80g/w300-h400/TorreyWildBrownFeb29th2024.jpg" width="300" /></a></b></u></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Morning Conditions </b></u><u><b>3/1/24</b></u><u><b>:<br /></b></u>Currently the Riverton USGS gauge is reading 165cfs at the Rt 20 bridge (above the Still River), and the Still River is adding in 263cfs & dropping below this, giving us a total flow in the Permanent TMA/Catch & Release of 428cfs & dropping- I’d call this a medium-high flow and a nice water level to fish in many spots. Water temp this morning in Riverton was is 36 degrees, it reached 39 degrees yesterday afternoon in Riverton, and I got a water temps late yesterday afternoon of just under 39 degrees in New Hartford. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging mid 30’s to low 40’s, depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. Cold snaps will drop water temps, but if you have sunny & mild weather it can be a warming influence on water temps in the afternoons. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases (especially after a milder night), with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.<br /><br />Because the MDC has been defaulting to a very frustrating minimum legal flow regime since early 2022 (50cfs–150cfs, plus any water released from Otis Reservoir in MA), that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full (except during droughts), and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump big water for a few days to a week. Historically they did a good job managing the water and had the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls & snowmelt, but they stopped doing this in 2022. <br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods recently arrived for 2024</b></u></i></span>, this replaces the Ultralite series (<i>not </i>the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.<br /><br /><u><b>Fri</b></u><u><b>day Morning </b></u><u><b>3/1</b></u><u><b>/24 Report:<br /></b></u><u><b>BIG</b></u><b> fly tying material orders (and some fly boxes) from both Wapsi & Hareline recently</b> <b>arrived, and both are up on the walls now</b>. We also received a <b>BIG Simms preseason order</b>, which includes the new heavy duty brand new <b>Simms Confluence Wader</b>. A big <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Fishpond order </b></span>arrived this week. I will be placing a <b>Nature’s Spirit </b>order (things like Hanak & Daiichi hooks, and tying materials from Hends, Sybai, FNF, high quality deer & elk hair, dubbings, and lots of natural materials), so we should see that soon. The holes on the walls are getting filled weekly, along with some cool new products in the mix. <u><br /><br />I put literally hundreds of hooks on sale </u><u>in the book room </u><u>at about </u><u><b>40% off</b></u><u>- it’s a mix of overstocked hooks, ones we are no longer going to carry, and discontinued models</u>. This includes overstocked & discontinued hooks from <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Hanak </b></span>(lots of different models & sizes), <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Fasna </b></span>(we have to drop them because our supplier dropped them), <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Tiemco/TMC</b></span>, <span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>Ahrex</b></span>, and <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Gamakatsu</b></span>. FYI these sale hooks are for <u>walk-in customers only</u>, so we will not be taking phone orders for them. We got in a big Rezetti vise order, more Regal vises, and we are well stocked with the brand new 2024 Hardy fresh & saltwater fly rods. <br /><br /><b>Rich Strolis dropped off a batch of his famous Infant Stones</b>, #14’s in black and in brown. They imitate the Early Black & Early Brown Stoneflies, both of which are active subsurface currently, and contsitute a legit hatch in March. Each color has moments they work better, and the brown ones double to imitate a Hendrickson nymph. These sell out fast!<br /><br />So a few things to update y’all on. Flow bumped up to 800+ cfs on Wednesday from the rain, but it’s already down in the low 400cfs & dropping nicely so we’re back in good shape and looking good for the weekend. After the cold, windy day on Thursday, things are already warming up with highs in the mid 40’s for today (Friday) & Saturday, and almost 60 degrees with sun & clouds on Sunday! The state stocked the upper river (Whittmore to the dam in Riverton) on Monday, and on Tuesday they did from just below the 219 bridge in New Hartford (the Wall) all the way downstream to a little below the 202 bridge in Canton. These trout will be more willing to eat your flies than the holdovers & wilds already in the river, and the competition from the fresh stockers should get the resident fish eating more aggressively. We received a big batch of natural colored CDC from Fulling Mill (it was backordered), and it looks fantastic- at least as good as the now unavailable TroutHunter CDC. We also have a limited quantity of their hot Mustard Walt’s Dubbing. <br /><br />Things are looking good for the long range forecast, with highs mostly in the 40’s to 50’s. This should get both the bugs & the trout more active. They don’t stock the permanent TMA/C&R (Campround down to Rt 219 bridge) until sometime in April. This week’s stocking will provide some much easier targets, but it will also get the holdover & wild trout feeding due to competition with the fresh stockers. These recent additions won’t know how to feed naturally (takes about 3 weeks), so try things like Junk Flies (Squirmy Worms, Mops, Egg Flies, Green Weenies), Woolly Buggers, and smaller jigged streamers. Walt’s Worms & Sexy Waltz can also be very good. Nymphs with hot spots usually work well too. <br /><br />This warmer weather should correlate to a rise in water temps & increased bug activity. I would expect to see water temps get into the 40’s most afternoons, and the further you go downstream on mild/sunny days, the higher the temps will get. Water temps typically peak in mid/late afternoon, and warm sunny days will see the highest water temps of all. <br /><br />Remember, technically it’s still winter, so that usually means you will work hard for every single bite from holdover & wild trout- if you find stocked trout they will be much easier to catch. Sometimes you will get lucky and stumble upon a bite window and a pod of holdover/wild trout. The keys to success are good water reading skills, patience, slow & repeated thorough presentations, and changing fly patterns until you find what the trout want. Bites in cold water (30’s to maybe low 40’s) are typically quite light & gentle, so set the hook on anything. “Hook sets are free!”- look for a reason on every drift to potentially set the hook. The best nymphers set their hooks the most, even when they aren't sure if it's a trout. Nymphs, streamers, and dries are all possibilities, with the edge lately going to nymphing- no surprise there. <br /><br />It’s still typical winter tactics with it being a quality over quantity situation- unless you find a pod of recently stocked trout. The holdover & wild fish you will catch in the next month or two will typically average the biggest of the year. As you’ve seen from the pictures posted, some browns in 18-22” range are getting landed every day by persistent anglers, with somebig holdover FRAA rainbows showing up. Sometimes it’s on imitative nymphs/larva, sometimes Junk Flies, sometimes dry flies, and sometimes on streamers fished slow & deep. Be flexible!<br /><br />Be flexible in your approach. If you can, fish from mid morning to late afternoon, and at some point during the day you should catch a bite window where the trout decide to feed for 1-3 hours. It’s important to be very patient in the winter, more so than the spring through fall season. You need to cover the water thoroughly, and be in the right water when the fish finally decide to feed. It can redeem what was a slow outing. If you are pretty sure you are over fish when nymphing, change flies until you figure out the trout’s preference. Fish pod up in the winter- where you catch one there could be a lot more, so make sure to fish surrounding area thoroughly. In cold water trout won’t move as far to eat, so it’s important to identify the holding water, and then saturation bomb it with plenty of casts to ensure you get at least one good drift very close to a trout’s mouth. In the winter, it’s often literally a game of inches.<br /><br />There has been some limited dry fly activity, both in the mornings to Winter/Summer Caddis, and in the afternoons to small Midges. There have even been some of the Early Black Stonefly adults spotted recently. Underwater, all three varieties of Stoneflies are active & in the drift.<br /><br />Nymphing has generally been more consistent than streamer fishing over the past several weeks. I’d pair up something in the #12-16 range that could be imitative of an Early Stonefly (black, brown), immature Golden Stone, or a smaller Hendrickson nymph (something Mayfly shaped & brown), with a slim #18-22 fly in a darker color that could imitate things like Tiny Black Winter Stoneflies or Midges. The tiny Stones (#18-24) are starting to mix in with the Midges in the afternoons, and the Early Stones (both black & brown #14 or so) are active subsurface. Early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch aside, the bug activity is confined to the afternoons when water temps rise a little. <br /><br />Better streamers colors lately are tan, olive, and white- fish them slow & deep for best results. Winter nymphs typically include Junk Flies (especially Eggs & Mops), Midges #18-22 in black/red/olive (Zebra Midge, etc.), Winter Caddis Larva #18, and small Mayfly Nymphs #16-20 such as Pheasant Tails & BWO’s (Blue Winged Olive). Also Olive/Green Caddis Larva #14-16, Cased Caddis #10-16, Walt’s Worms/Sexy Waltz #10-18, Attractor & Hot-Spot Nymphs #14-18 (Triple Threats, Frenchies, Perdigons, etc.). Nymphs with metallic pink beads can be above average producers in the winter.<br /><u><b><br /></b></u>The best time to be out in the Winter is typically late morning through dusk (early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch excepted), but some days lately it’s been better from 9am-1pm. Afternoons are when it’s the most comfortable, water temps are rising and/or at their highest, bugs are most likely to be active, and the time of day when trout are most apt to do a little feeding. Trout don’t normally feed heavily in the Winter- cold temps slow down their metabolism a lot so they don’t need to eat much, plus there are minimal hatches and food is much less available.<u><b><br /><br /></b></u>Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing farther away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs and up close where you have at least some current). Trout are holding in Winter water now, which means slower & deeper water. They may move up into moderate riffles to feed in the afternoons. They will often pod up in cold water, so if you find one, thoroughly fish that area as there are likely a bunch more nearby. Refuge from the current & predators supersedes access to food in the Winter, as their metabolism is slower. This means they don’t have to eat very much, plus there is way less food available & not a lot hatching. However, under normal flows, trout will sometimes rise to the morning Winter Caddis & afternoon Midges. <br /><br />We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. <br /><br />Nymphing remains a consistent producer <i><b>if </b></i>you are proficient at it and combine that with some patience, no surprise there. Sometimes in cold water, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier and/or bigger flies <i><b>sometimes </b></i>do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. </span></span><p></p><p align="left" style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">*************************************************************************************</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">The state has just begun stocking the Farmington River, but not the permanent TMA/C&R- that gets stocked in April. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October 2023 with quite a few pretty rainbows and they are still there (it's C&R in that section from 9/1 until the second Saturday in April).</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">***********************************************************************</span><br /><br /><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Hatches/Dries</b><span style="font-size: medium;">:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">***Midges are the main afternoon hatch, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings. The Tiny/Micro Black Winter Stones have started up (afternoons), and we are beginning to see Early Black Stones and even a few Early Brown Stones***</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Tiny Black Winter Stoneflies #18-24: afternoons</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Early Black Stoneflies #14-16: afternoons, just starting</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Early Brown Stoneflies #14-16: afternoons, a few</span><br /><br /><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b><span style="font-size: medium;">:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Strolis Infant Stones #14 (black, brown): this popular pattern imitates the Early Brown & Early Black Stoneflies, with the brown version also passing for a Hendrickson nymph. These always sell out fast. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): killer on recently stocked trout, good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs. Good also in the winter when nothing seems to be working. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Egg Flies #12-18: Egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter/early Spring, and are also very good on recently stocked trout- they will hammer an egg fly until they get dialed in on real nymphs, larva & pupa. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. There will also be spawning Rainbows in February/March, and Suckers in April. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red, purple</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Winter Caddis Larva #18: suprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns, all year long</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, and in assorted colors like olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences. High fishing pressure usually means you want to fish drabber & smaller flies that are more natural looking. Black beadheads can be good on trout that have seen too many gold, copper & silver beads.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River. These catch fresh stockers, holdovers, and big wilds too. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work especially well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river, are an especially good fly to use in late winter/early spring. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam. They also Behavioral Drift in the daytime, unlike most bugs that do it in low light or even in the dark.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, but can also be drifted under an indicator. Excellent choice to fish in the Winter. Tan, olive, and white have been the best lately.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime</span><br /><br /><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Streamers</b><span style="font-size: medium;">:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">To a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. Hot colors in 2024 have been white, tan, and olive.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;">deadly </i><span style="font-size: medium;">fished on a tight-line/Euro rig</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Zonker #4-6: white, natural</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes tradtional featherwing & bucktail streamers work better than bulky modern patterns, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. Especially in low/clear water with sunshine, these sparser/drabber flies can be just the ticket. Use split shot, sinking leaders, or sink-tip/sinking fly lines to get these flies down (unless you are fishing shallow water).</span><br /><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Try</b></u><span style="font-size: medium;">: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></span></p>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-56800873584141947182024-02-26T11:16:00.003-05:002024-02-26T15:26:17.856-05:00Monday 2/26/24 Farmington River Report: Trout Stocking, Excellent Flows, and Big Trout<p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in; text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOWkonO7RaA6DW68wWYo-2BWz_12Et2khncxTsRIyzZbfSAsQ9siIqBUqcmY7Y4tSwp02qkQVhcKPpzx0zzrXhCeSxiPf5E22qGxzyZ0GQRvoRA8qM5eZQNFEBHke5ZXtle8Xgrmtv12BvMF_5Wg9gMLmg577tXaLDf6NHsiKw4kLWDqzDgQJOF7UPzydt/s1280/ChrisParisiFRAAbowFeb2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1151" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOWkonO7RaA6DW68wWYo-2BWz_12Et2khncxTsRIyzZbfSAsQ9siIqBUqcmY7Y4tSwp02qkQVhcKPpzx0zzrXhCeSxiPf5E22qGxzyZ0GQRvoRA8qM5eZQNFEBHke5ZXtle8Xgrmtv12BvMF_5Wg9gMLmg577tXaLDf6NHsiKw4kLWDqzDgQJOF7UPzydt/w360-h400/ChrisParisiFRAAbowFeb2024.jpg" width="360" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. </span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in; text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><u><b>Don't forget to have a 2024 CT Fishing license plus a $5 Trout/Salmon Stamp</b></u></span> if you are planning to fish the Farmington River. All 2023 CT fishing licenses expired after December 31st.<br /><br /><span style="color: purple;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span>:<br />Stop by for some bargains! <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span>. <i><b>2023 Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i>. <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u>(not the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>also 40% off</u></span>. <br /><br />We purchased purchased several huge collections of quality fly tying materials in 2023. Stop by and check it all out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. As we sell through these materials, we keep putting more out. <br /><br />UpCountry also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels in 2023. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.<br /><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQVH7algYd3wb85xV07DUoF5rUnwSnh9BwVubO-DJ0vnV6Qx3usKJN0xARKLfPsses4PkaWtQ5UjkXZr0K0yXtwb6EYQml4fEG_UtylxTrD6Df3ZMCZEA-zq_aI2mTLu8IFqOy7JQNxqpTYLPIHyjSddGUOmkVz3Ex7u1DEogMBhcO_eaw6zFNOsZhfeNB/s980/GrantMageeBigBrownLateFeb2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="980" height="391" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQVH7algYd3wb85xV07DUoF5rUnwSnh9BwVubO-DJ0vnV6Qx3usKJN0xARKLfPsses4PkaWtQ5UjkXZr0K0yXtwb6EYQml4fEG_UtylxTrD6Df3ZMCZEA-zq_aI2mTLu8IFqOy7JQNxqpTYLPIHyjSddGUOmkVz3Ex7u1DEogMBhcO_eaw6zFNOsZhfeNB/w400-h391/GrantMageeBigBrownLateFeb2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Pictured up top is a very pumped up Chris Parisi with a big holdover FRAA rainbow he landed several days ago. Next down is Grant Magee with a hefty holdover brown trout, and third down is once again Rich Foster gettin’ it done with yet another big brown. <br /><br /><u><b>Monday Afternoon 2/26 3pm Flow Update</b></u>:<br />As expected, the MDC reduced the dam release today from 192cfs to 137cfs. The Riverton USGS gauge is reading 152cfs at the Rt 20 bridge, and combined with 139cfs from the Still River the <b>total downstream flow is </b><span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>291cfs </b></span><span style="color: #2a6099;"></span>in the permanent TMA/C&R, a very good/normal, medium flow.<br /><br /><u><b>Morning </b></u><u><b>Conditions 2/26</b></u><u><b>:<br /></b></u>Currently the Riverton USGS gauge is reading 201cfs at the Rt 20 bridge, and the Still River is adding in 141cfs below this, giving us a total flow in the Permanent TMA/Catch & Release of 342cfs. I’d call this a medium flow and a great water level for all angling methods. It is likely you will see a modest flow cut at the dam today, I’m guessing a 40-50 cfs reduction. Water temp this morning in Riverton was is 37 degrees, it reached 39 degrees Sunday afternoon in Riverton. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging mid 30’s to low 40’s, depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. Cold snaps will drop water temps, but if you have sunny & mild weather it can be a warming influence on water temps in the afternoons. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases (especially after a milder night), with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg90uKz7TGuD2T7-_wqcoUGbiDKtUpYtVcSUQH3yzAbz60aF2wIdb6FOf4dnNkUngaZqb1Gp14kECTmQPsY7QKt9J2s2PYDT8Mf3BdFVp-YRkNEQkjEYfIPfLV4Hs0UE0Msz-wrGdblEOGhbmClLpgoac9zCJ-vsoV8hMBw45q_uvKJVeYUgZeWLaaqVuoU/s2055/RichFosterBigFebBrownCloseup2024.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1021" data-original-width="2055" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg90uKz7TGuD2T7-_wqcoUGbiDKtUpYtVcSUQH3yzAbz60aF2wIdb6FOf4dnNkUngaZqb1Gp14kECTmQPsY7QKt9J2s2PYDT8Mf3BdFVp-YRkNEQkjEYfIPfLV4Hs0UE0Msz-wrGdblEOGhbmClLpgoac9zCJ-vsoV8hMBw45q_uvKJVeYUgZeWLaaqVuoU/w400-h199/RichFosterBigFebBrownCloseup2024.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>Because the MDC has been defaulting to a very frustrating minimum legal flow regime since early 2022 (50cfs–150cfs, plus any water released from Otis Reservoir in MA), that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full (except during droughts), and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump big water for a few days to a week. Historically they did a good job managing the water and had the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls & snowmelt, but they stopped doing this in 2022. <br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods recently arrived for 2024</b></u></i></span>, this replaces the Ultralite series (<i>not </i>the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.<br /><br /><u><b>Mon</b></u><u><b>day Morning 2/2</b></u><u><b>6</b></u><u><b>/24 Report:<br /></b></u>After running our inventory down last year due to to very rough water conditions in the summer & fall of 2023, we have been doing some <i>serious </i>restocking in February and have filled some holes recently, with lots more stuff arriving weekly. Filled in with <b>Fulling Mill </b>on <b>tungsten beads</b>, their excellent <b>barbless hooks</b>, <b>fly boxes, CDC & stripped peacock quills</b>. We now have a good selection of <b>fly lines from Scientific Anglers, Rio & Airflo, </b>and <b>Airlock strike indicators </b>are back in stock. <br /><br /><b>HUGE fly tying material orders (and some fly boxes) from both Wapsi & Hareline recently</b> <b>arrived, and both are up on the walls now</b>. We also received a <b>BIG Simms preseason order</b>, which includes the new heavy duty brand new <b>Simms Confluence Wader</b>. We have a <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Fishpond order </b></span>arriving this week. I will be placing a <b>Nature’s Spirit </b>order (things like Hanak & Daiichi hooks, and tying materials from Hends, Sybai, FNF, high quality deer & elk hair, dubbings, and lots of natural materials) today or tomorrow, so we should see that later next week. The holes on the walls are getting filled weekly, along with some cool new products in the mix. <u><br /><br />I put literally hundreds of hooks on sale at about </u><u><b>40% off</b></u><u>- it’s a mix of overstocked hooks, ones we are no longer going to carry, and discontinued models</u>. This includes overstocked & discontinued hooks from <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Hanak </b></span>(lots of different models & sizes), <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Fasna </b></span>(we have to drop them because our supplier dropped them), <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Tiemco/TMC</b></span>, <span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>Ahrex</b></span>, and <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Gamakatsu</b></span>. FYI these sale hooks are for <u>walk-in customers only</u>, so we will not be taking phone orders for them. We got in a big Rezetti vise order, more Regal vises, and we are well stocked with the brand new 2024 Hardy fresh & saltwater fly rods. <br /><br /><b>Rich Strolis dropped off a batch of his famous Infant Stones</b>, #14’s in black and in brown. They imitate the Early Black & Early Brown Stoneflies, both of which are active subsurface currently, and contsitute a legit hatch in March. Each color has moments they work better, and the brown ones double to imitate a Hendrickson nymph. These sell out fast!<br /><br />Things are looking very good for now and the near future, with highs mostly in the 50’s for the long range forecast, and medium flows. This should get both the bugs & the trout more active.We saw the state stocking truck driving by the morning, I imagine you will see both upriver (Whittemore to the dam in Riverton) and downriver (below Rt 219 bridge in New Hartford down to the Nepaug River in Canton) stocked this week- not sure which section they are doing today. They don’t stock the permanent TMA/C&R (Campround down to Rt 219 bridge) until sometime in April. This week’s stocking will provide some much easier targets, but it will also get the holdover & wild trout feeding due to competition with the fresh stockers. These recent additions won’t know how to feed naturally (takes about 3 weeks), so try things like Junk Flies (Squirmy Worms, Mops, Egg Flies, Green Weenies), Woolly Buggers, and smaller jigged streamers. Walt’s Worms & Sexy Waltz can also be very good. Nymphs with hot spots can also work very well. <br /><br />I’m expecting a small flow cut today (Monday), probably a reduction of 40-50cfs (that’s a guess), which would put the total flow around 300cfs, give or take. This warmer weather should correlate to a rise in water temps & increased bug activity. I would expect to see water temps get into the 40’s most afternoons, and the further you go downstream on mild/sunny days, the higher the temps will get. Water temps typically peak in mid/late afternoon, and warm sunny days will see the highest water temps of all. <br /><br />Remember it’s still winter, so that usually means you will work hard for every single bite from holdover & wild trout. Sometimes you will get lucky and stumble upon a bite window and a pod of trout. The keys to success are good water reading skills, patience, slow & repeated thorough presentations, and changing fly patterns until you find what the trout want. Bites in cold water (30’s to maybe low 40’s) are typically quite light & gentle, so set the hook on anything. “Hook sets are free!”- look for a reason on every drift to potentially set the hook. The best nymphers set their hooks the most, even when they aren't sure if it's a trout. Nymphs, streamers, and dries are all possibilities, with the edge lately going to nymphing- no surprise there. <br /><br />It’s still typical winter tactics with it being a quality over quantity situation. The holdover & wild fish you will catch in the next month or two will typically average the biggest of the year. As you’ve seen from the pictures posted, some browns in 18-22” range are getting landed every day by persistent anglers, with somebig holdover FRAA rainbows showing up. Sometimes it’s on imitative nymphs/larva, sometimes Junk Flies, sometimes dry flies, and sometimes on streamers fished slow & deep. Be flexible!<br /><br />Be flexible in your approach. If you can, fish from mid morning to late afternoon, and at some point during the day you should catch a bite window where the trout decide to feed for 1-3 hours. It’s important to be very patient in the winter, more so than the spring through fall season. You need to cover the water thoroughly, and be in the right water when the fish finally decide to feed. It can redeem what was a slow outing. If you are pretty sure you are over fish when nymphing, change flies until you figure out the trout’s preference. Fish pod up in the winter- where you catch one there could be a lot more, so make sure to fish surrounding area thoroughly. In cold water trout won’t move as far to eat, so it’s important to identify the holding water, and then saturation bomb it with plenty of casts to ensure you get at least one good drift very close to a trout’s mouth. In the winter, it’s often literally a game of inches.<br /><br />There has been some limited dry fly activity, both in the mornings to Winter/Summer Caddis, and in the afternoons to small Midges. There have even been some of the Early Black Stonefly adults spotted recently, usually we don’t see them until March, but I guess the mild weather has them going early. February Stonefly activity is usually the Tiny/Micro Winter Black Stones #18-24. Underwater, all three varieties of Stoneflies are active & in the drift.<br /><br />Nymphing has generally been more consistent than streamer fishing over the past few weeks. I’d pair up something in the #12-16 range that could be imitative of an Early Stonefly (black, brown), immature Golden Stone, or a smaller Hendrickson nymph (something Mayfly shaped & brown), with a slim #18-22 fly in a darker color that could imitate things like Tiny Black Winter Stoneflies or Midges. The tiny Stones (#18-24) are starting to mix in with the Midges in the afternoons, and the Early Stones (both black & brown #14 or so) are active subsurface. Early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch aside, the bug activity is confined to the afternoons when water temps rise a little. <br /><br />Better streamers colors lately are tan, olive, and white- fish them slow & deep for best results. Winter nymphs typically include Junk Flies (especially Eggs & Mops), Midges #18-22 in black/red/olive (Zebra Midge, etc.), Winter Caddis Larva #18, and small Mayfly Nymphs #16-20 such as Pheasant Tails & BWO’s (Blue Winged Olive). Also Olive/Green Caddis Larva #14-16, Cased Caddis #10-16, Walt’s Worms/Sexy Waltz #10-18, Attractor & Hot-Spot Nymphs #14-18 (Triple Threats, Frenchies, Perdigons, etc.). Nymphs with metallic pink beads can be above average producers in the winter.<br /><u><b><br /></b></u>The best time to be out in the Winter is typically late morning through dusk (early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch excepted), but some days lately it’s been better from 9am-1pm. Afternoons are when it’s the most comfortable, water temps are rising and/or at their highest, bugs are most likely to be active, and the time of day when trout are most apt to do a little feeding. Trout don’t normally feed heavily in the Winter- cold temps slow down their metabolism a lot so they don’t need to eat much, plus there are minimal hatches and food is much less available.<u><b><br /><br /></b></u>Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing farther away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs and up close where you have at least some current). Trout are holding in Winter water now, which means slower & deeper water. They may move up into moderate riffles to feed in the afternoons. They will often pod up in cold water, so if you find one, thoroughly fish that area as there are likely a bunch more nearby. Refuge from the current & predators supersedes access to food in the Winter, as their metabolism is slower. This means they don’t have to eat very much, plus there is way less food available & not a lot hatching. However, under normal flows, trout will sometimes rise to the morning Winter Caddis & afternoon Midges. <br /><br />We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. <br /><br />Nymphing remains a consistent producer <i><b>if </b></i>you are proficient at it and combine that with some patience, no surprise there. Sometimes in the colder water of Winter, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to far less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier and/or bigger flies <i><b>sometimes </b></i>do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. </span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in; text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state has just begun stocking the Farmington River (2/26), but not the permanent TMA/C&R- that gets stocked in April. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October 2023 with quite a few pretty rainbows.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />***Midges are the main afternoon hatch, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings. The Tiny/Micro Black Winter Stones have started up (afternoons), and we are beginning to see Early Black Stones too- usually they don’t start up until about March***<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br />-Tiny Black Winter Stoneflies #18-24: afternoons<br /><br />-Early Black Stoneflies #14-16: afternoons, just starting (early this year)<br /><br />-Early Brown Stoneflies #14-16: afternoons, a few<br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Strolis Infant Stones #14 (black, brown): this popular pattern imitates the Early Brown & Early Black Stoneflies, with the brown version also passing for a Hendrickson nymph. These always sell out fast. <br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): killer on recently stocked trout, good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs. Good also in the winter when nothing seems to be working. <br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: Egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter/early Spring, and are also very good on recently stocked trout- they will hammer an egg fly until they get dialed in on real nymphs, larva & pupa. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. There will also be spawning Rainbows in February/March, and Suckers in April. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red, purple<br /><br />-Winter Caddis Larva #18: suprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns, all year long<br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, and in assorted colors like olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences. High fishing pressure usually means you want to fish drabber & smaller flies that are more natural looking. Black beadheads can be good on trout that have seen too many gold, copper & silver beads.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River. These catch fresh stockers, holdovers, and big wilds too. <br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work especially well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river, are an especially good fly to use in late winter/early spring. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam. They also Behavioral Drift in the daytime, unlike most bugs that do it in low light or even in the dark.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, but can also be drifted under an indicator. Excellent choice to fish in the Winter. Tan, olive, and white have been the best lately.<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />To a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. Hot colors in 2024 have been white, tan, and olive.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, <i>deadly </i>fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes tradtional featherwing & bucktail streamers work better than bulky modern patterns, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. Especially in low/clear water with sunshine, these sparser/drabber flies can be just the ticket. Use split shot, sinking leaders, or sink-tip/sinking fly lines to get these flies down (unless you are fishing shallow water).<br /><u><b>Try</b></u>: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></p></div>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-9144022674068355162024-02-23T10:30:00.001-05:002024-02-23T10:30:48.112-05:00Friday 2/23/24 Farmington River Report: Still very nice conditions<p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7cJrswUROApj5uDnjfdyV-1nR-R8dxmnvxEWZUamuNMrWM1x2KkGkxEDKsh9uXJ-Sg5JmbqQdzVwb93aEaTeG8DDiz1GbcAMJbq0MwnJvZnLAsdVCquIPXyGMhvocyszB6kVAaGGHRhV-pjmDMj5bmX48MVSvtWAqH6nuY944-TJ8kwMAeE7uoizIKtxN/s640/AlexisBigFRAAbowFeb2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="462" data-original-width="640" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7cJrswUROApj5uDnjfdyV-1nR-R8dxmnvxEWZUamuNMrWM1x2KkGkxEDKsh9uXJ-Sg5JmbqQdzVwb93aEaTeG8DDiz1GbcAMJbq0MwnJvZnLAsdVCquIPXyGMhvocyszB6kVAaGGHRhV-pjmDMj5bmX48MVSvtWAqH6nuY944-TJ8kwMAeE7uoizIKtxN/w400-h289/AlexisBigFRAAbowFeb2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. </span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span><span style="color: #134f5c; font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Don't forget to have a 2024 CT Fishing license plus a $5 Trout/Salmon Stamp</b></u></span><span style="font-size: medium;"> if you are planning to fish the Farmington River. All 2023 CT fishing licenses expired after December 31</span><sup style="font-size: 14pt;">st</sup><span style="font-size: medium;">.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: purple; font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span><span style="font-size: medium;">:</span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Stop by for some bargains! </span><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span><span style="font-size: medium;">. </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>2023 Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i><span style="font-size: medium;">. </span><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u style="font-size: 14pt;">(not the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><u>also 40% off</u></span><span style="font-size: medium;">. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">We purchased purchased several huge collections of quality fly tying materials in 2023. Stop by and check it all out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. As we sell through these materials, we keep putting more out. </span><br /><br /></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 14pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBfbk6G-7psYatQ9-BWZ7BPVkcetLoyUI-rrLnWu98jW5XbOVSEsDt-GSCx7u6LmGLdufl3WfhojDig_fZLW3uv0XtQ9APpRfdqclY9za90ckNPRvfouI7uGKGsUBGIpYuRJYKCp-Qt11yPq2LriewVQOlsaq1OC6KIz0h7S8Pp1rBGQb6JCdlzydEdcGx/s2016/NickYardleyFebWildBrown2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBfbk6G-7psYatQ9-BWZ7BPVkcetLoyUI-rrLnWu98jW5XbOVSEsDt-GSCx7u6LmGLdufl3WfhojDig_fZLW3uv0XtQ9APpRfdqclY9za90ckNPRvfouI7uGKGsUBGIpYuRJYKCp-Qt11yPq2LriewVQOlsaq1OC6KIz0h7S8Pp1rBGQb6JCdlzydEdcGx/w400-h300/NickYardleyFebWildBrown2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span><span style="font-size: medium;">UpCountry also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels in 2023. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Pictured up top is customer and frequent flyer at UpCountry Alexis with a big colorful FRAA holdover rainbow, part of the batch they stocked in early June of 2023. Quite a few have showed up in angler catches over this winter, good to see them being released & holding over. Next down is Fulling Mill USA president Nick Yardley with his first fish of 2024 while fishing with myself & Joey this past Wednesday, a flawless wild brown trout. He lives in VT where it's a lot colder and doesn’t normally get to trout fish until about April, so he was psyched to get a head start to the season and be on the boards already. Water temps cracked 40 degrees on that afternoon.</span><br /><br /><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Conditions:<br /></b></u><span style="font-size: medium;">Currently the Riverton USGS gauge is reading 204cfs at the Rt 20 bridge, and the Still River is adding in 151cfs below this, giving us a total flow in the Permanent TMA/Catch & Release of 355cfs. I’d call this a medium flow and a great water level for all angling methods. Water temp this morning in Riverton was is 37.5 degrees, it reached about 39 degrees Sunday afternoon in Riverton. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging mid 30’s to low 40’s, depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. Cold snaps will drop water temps, but if you have sunny & mild weather it can be a warming influence on water temps in the afternoons. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases (especially after a milder night), with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Because the MDC has been defaulting to a very frustrating minimum legal flow regime since early 2022 (50cfs–150cfs, plus any water released from Otis Reservoir in MA), that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full (except during droughts), and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump big water for a few days to a week. Historically they did a good job managing the water and had the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls & snowmelt, but they stopped doing this in 2022. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d; font-size: 14pt;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods recently arrived </b></u></i></span><span style="color: #55308d; font-size: 14pt;"><i><u><b>for 2024</b></u></i></span><span style="font-size: medium;">, this replaces the Ultralite series (</span><i style="font-size: 14pt;">not </i><span style="font-size: medium;">the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.</span><br /><br /><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Fri</b></u><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>day Morning 2/</b></u><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>23</b></u><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>/24 Report:<br /></b></u><span style="font-size: medium;">After running our inventory down last year due to to very rough water conditions in the summer & fall of 2023, we have been doing some </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;">serious </i><span style="font-size: medium;">restocking in February and have filled some holes recently, with lots more stuff arriving weekly. Filled in with </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Fulling Mill </b><span style="font-size: medium;">on </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">tungsten beads</b><span style="font-size: medium;">, their excellent </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">barbless hooks</b><span style="font-size: medium;">, </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">fly boxes, CDC & stripped peacock quills</b><span style="font-size: medium;">. We now have a good selection of </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">fly lines from Scientific Anglers, Rio & Airflo, </b><span style="font-size: medium;">and </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Airlock strike indicators </b><span style="font-size: medium;">are back in stock. </span><br /><br /><b style="font-size: 14pt;">HUGE </b><b style="font-size: 14pt;">fly tying material orders (and some fly boxes) from both </b><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Wapsi </b><b style="font-size: 14pt;">& Hareline </b><span style="font-size: medium;"><b></b></span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">recently</b><b style="font-size: 14pt;"> arrived, and </b><b style="font-size: 14pt;">both are </b><b style="font-size: 14pt;">up on the walls now</b><span style="font-size: medium;">. We also received a </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">BIG Simms preseason order</b><span style="font-size: medium;">, which includes the new heavy duty brand new </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Simms Confluence Wader</b><span style="font-size: medium;">. I’m working on a </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Nature’s Spirit </b><span style="font-size: medium;">order (things like Hanak & Daiichi hooks, and tying materials from Hends, Sybai, FNF, highest quality deer & elk hair, dubbings, and lots of natural materials). You will see the holes on the walls getting filled weekly, along with some cool new products in the mix. </span><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /><br /></u><u style="font-size: 14pt;">I </u><u style="font-size: 14pt;">put literally hundreds of hooks on sale at about </u><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>40% off</b></u><u style="font-size: 14pt;">- it’s a mix of overstocked hooks, ones we are no longer going to carry, and discontinued models</u><span style="font-size: medium;">. This includes overstocked & discontinued hooks from </span><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><b>Hanak </b></span><span style="font-size: medium;">(lots of different models & sizes), </span><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><b>Fasna </b></span><span style="font-size: medium;">(we have to drop them because our supplier dropped them), </span><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><b>Tiemco/TMC</b></span><span style="font-size: medium;">, </span><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: 14pt;"><b>Ahrex</b></span><span style="font-size: medium;">, and </span><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><b>Gamakatsu</b></span><span style="font-size: medium;">. FYI these sale hooks are for </span><u style="font-size: 14pt;">walk-in customers only</u><span style="font-size: medium;">, so we will not be taking phone orders for them. We got in a big Rezetti vise order, more Regal vises, and we are well stocked with the brand new 2024 Hardy fresh & saltwater fly rods. </span><br /><br /><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Rich Strolis dropped off a batch of his famous Infant Stones</b><span style="font-size: medium;">, #14’s in black and in brown. They imitatate the Early Black & Early Brown Stoneflies, both of which are active subsurface currently. Each color has moments they work better, and the brown ones double to imitate a Hendrickson nymph. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Once again the weekend is at hand, with Sunday looking like the nicer day (40 degrees, sunny, very little wind). Water conditions remain excellent, with a total flow in the permanent TMA/C&R in the mid 300cfs range, and Riverton is about 200cfs (above the Still River). Remember it’s still winter, so that usually means you will work hard for every single bite. Sometimes you will get lucky and stumble upon a bite window and a pod of trout. You are also fishing for 100% holdover & wild trout, no recent dumb stockers as yet (soon though). The keys to success are good water reading skills, patience, slow & repeated thorough presentations, and changing fly patterns until you find what the trout want. Bites in cold water (30’s to maybe low 40’s) are typically quite light & gentle, so set the hook on anything. “Hook sets are free!”. The best nymphers set their hooks the most, even when they aren't sure if it's a trout. Nymphs, streamers, and dries are all possibilities, with the edge lately going to nymphing- no surprise there. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">It’s still typical winter tactics with it being a quality over quantity situation. The holdover & wild fish you will catch in the next month or two will typically average the biggest of the year. As you’ve seen from the pictures posted, some browns in 18-22” range are getting landed every day by persistent anglers, with an occasional big holdover FRAA rainbow. Sometimes it’s on imitative nymphs/larva, sometimes Junk Flies, sometimes dry flies, and sometimes on streamers fished slow & deep.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">The state just started stocking trout streams this week (2/22) along with some lakes, and once they stock the Farmington River, the fishing will get a lot easier. We won't know if they are going to stock here until after they do it, they don't announce it in advance. Should be any day now. Not only will the fresh stockers be easier to catch, but the competition with the holdover & wild trout usually gets them feeding more aggressively too. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Be flexible in your approach. If you can, fish from mid morning to late afternoon, and at some point during the day you should catch a bite window where the trout decide to feed for 1-3 hours. It’s important to be very patient in the winter, more so than the spring through fall season. You need to cover the water thoroughly, and be in the right water when the fish finally decide to feed. It can redeem what was a slow outing. If you are pretty sure you are over fish when nymphing, change flies until you figure out the trout’s preference. Fish pod up in the winter- where you catch one there could be a lot more, so make sure to fish surrounding area thoroughly. In cold water trout won’t move as far to eat, so it’s important to identify the holding water, and then saturation bomb it with plenty of casts to ensure you get at least one good drift very close to a trout’s mouth. In the winter, it’s often literally a game of inches.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">There has been some limited dry fly activity, both in the mornings to Winter/Summer Caddis, and in the afternoons to small Midges. There have even been some of the Early Black Stonefly adults spotted recently, usually we don’t see them until March, but I guess the mild weather has them going early. February Stonefly activity is usually the Tiny/Micro Winter Black Stones #18-24. Underwater, all three varieties of Stoneflies are active & in the drift.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Nymphing has generally been more consistent than streamer fishing over the past few weeks. I’d pair up something in the #12-16 range that could be imitative of an Early Stonefly (black, brown), immature Golden Stone, or a smaller Hendrickson nymph (something Mayfly shaped & brown), with a slim #18-22 fly in a darker color that could imitate things like Tiny Black Winter Stoneflies or Midges. The tiny Stones (#18-24) are starting to mix in with the Midges in the afternoons, and the Early Stones (both black & brown #14 or so) are active subsurface. Early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch aside, the bug activity is confined to the afternoons when water temps rise a little. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Better streamers colors lately are tan, olive, and white- fish them slow & deep for best results. Winter nymphs typically include Junk Flies (especially Eggs & Mops), Midges #18-22 in black/red/olive (Zebra Midge, etc.), Winter Caddis Larva #18, and small Mayfly Nymphs #16-20 such as Pheasant Tails & BWO’s (Blue Winged Olive). Also Olive/Green Caddis Larva #14-16, Cased Caddis #10-16, Walt’s Worms/Sexy Waltz #10-18, Attractor & Hot-Spot Nymphs #14-18 (Triple Threats, Frenchies, Perdigons, etc.). Nymphs with metallic pink beads can be above average producers in the winter.</span><br /><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><br /></b></u><span style="font-size: medium;">The best time to be out in the Winter is typically late morning through dusk (early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch excepted), but some days lately it’s been better from 9am-1pm. Afternoons are when it’s the most comfortable, water temps are rising and/or at their highest, bugs are most likely to be active, and the time of day when trout are most apt to do a little feeding. Trout don’t normally feed heavily in the Winter- cold temps slow down their metabolism a lot so they don’t need to eat much, plus there are minimal hatches and food is much less available.</span><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><br /><br /></b></u><span style="font-size: medium;">Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing farther away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs and up close where you have at least some current). Trout are holding in Winter water now, which means slower & deeper water. They may move up into moderate riffles to feed in the afternoons. They will often pod up in cold water, so if you find one, thoroughly fish that area as there are likely a bunch more nearby. Refuge from the current & predators supersedes access to food in the Winter, as their metabolism is slower. This means they don’t have to eat very much, plus there is way less food available & not a lot hatching. However, under normal flows, trout will sometimes rise to the morning Winter Caddis & afternoon Midges. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Nymphing remains a consistent producer </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>if </b></i><span style="font-size: medium;">you are proficient at it and combine that with some patience, no surprise there. Sometimes in the colder water of Winter, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to far less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier and/or bigger flies </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>sometimes </b></i><span style="font-size: medium;">do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. </span></span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state stocked the river with good sized brown trout in early October from just below the Rt 219 bridge in New Hartford all the way down to Collinsville & Unionville and below that too. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October with quite a few pretty rainbows.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />***Midges are the main afternoon hatch, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings. The Tiny/Micro Black Winter Stones have started up (afternoons), and we are beginning to see Early Black Stones too- usually they don’t start up until about March***<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br />-Tiny Black Winter Stoneflies #18-24: afternoons<br /><br />-Early Black Stoneflies #14-16: afternoons, just starting (early this year)<br /><br />-Early Brown Stoneflies #14-16: afternoons, a few<br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Strolis Infant Stones #14 (black, brown): tied by the man himself, this popular pattern imitates the Early Brown & Early Black Stoneflies, with the brown version also passing for a Hendrickson nymph. These always sell out fast. <br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): especially good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs, also killer on recently stocked trout. Good also when nothing seems to be working. <br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: the brown trout spawn has been done for a while, but egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter/early Spring. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. There will also be spawning Rainbows in February/March, and Suckers in April. Plus fresh stocked trout in the Spring will hammer an egg fly until they get dialed into natural nymphs, larva & pupa. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red, purple<br /><br />-Winter Caddis Larva #18: suprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns, all year long<br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, and in assorted colors like olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences. High fishing pressure usually means you want to fish drabber & smaller flies that are more natural looking. Black beadheads can be good on trout that have seen too many gold, copper & silver beads.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River.<br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work especially well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam. They also Behavioral Drift in the daytime, unlike most bugs that do it in low light or even in the dark.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, but can also be drifted under an indicator. Excellent choice to fish in the Winter. Tan, olive, and white have been the best lately.<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />To a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. Hot colors in 2024 have been white, tan, and olive.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, <i>deadly </i>fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes tradtional featherwing & bucktail streamers work better than bulky modern patterns, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. Especially in low/clear water with sunshine, these sparser/drabber flies can be just the ticket. Use split shot, sinking leaders, or sink-tip/sinking fly lines to get these flies down (unless you are fishing shallow water).<br /><u><b>Try</b></u>: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></p>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-86047801351714917882024-02-19T09:51:00.002-05:002024-02-19T09:57:54.568-05:00Monday 2/19/24 Farmington River Report: This week looks great<p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYKpDv9Cm5Zvu5VxxTL-HJL_LmdUrW_sck-uB1IFK92gyqm3RJX73cmk2itA77t1AV9m80hAZZ2kDfxsRlItzVH0x8t6T6Hf_5MCtod3gw8KKnmaKGYEmT6_w5griJf2slZ30mnshSkrKQYbdFpDgYfRM-Igp4WcoFl7p42Qg9JnDz2NKB7JHnRC6cBlcW/s1280/LeoMichalskiBigBrownFeb2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="608" data-original-width="1280" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYKpDv9Cm5Zvu5VxxTL-HJL_LmdUrW_sck-uB1IFK92gyqm3RJX73cmk2itA77t1AV9m80hAZZ2kDfxsRlItzVH0x8t6T6Hf_5MCtod3gw8KKnmaKGYEmT6_w5griJf2slZ30mnshSkrKQYbdFpDgYfRM-Igp4WcoFl7p42Qg9JnDz2NKB7JHnRC6cBlcW/w400-h190/LeoMichalskiBigBrownFeb2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. </span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><u><b>Don't forget to have a 2024 CT Fishing license plus a $5 Trout/Salmon Stamp</b></u></span> if you are planning to fish the Farmington River. All CT fishing licenses expire after December 31<sup>st</sup>.<br /><br /><span style="color: purple;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span>:<br />Stop by for some bargains! <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span>. <i><b>2023 Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i>. <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u>(not the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>also 40% off</u></span>. <br /><br />We purchased purchased several huge collections of quality fly tying materials in 2023. Stop by and check it all out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. As we sell through these materials, we keep putting more out. <br /><br /></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8kLg6Ymea9U58cja24LBrzRLlUaJBqFIDIkkhCyxoYuibF8H3GcKh6-Dlc0y1Ca9cZjD7UKAejRsc75v679ciTawE5a28VCvTTTBd1dL_qsoE_hRAt0KoF5mzsidwa-Jpldh5SP4ASKQOG5aYYzsPRzvx6ZICKlpH-P0RuTXGLpsEZiUMYmeGIEiHRf5N/s1280/BenToscanoBrownFeb2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="954" data-original-width="1280" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8kLg6Ymea9U58cja24LBrzRLlUaJBqFIDIkkhCyxoYuibF8H3GcKh6-Dlc0y1Ca9cZjD7UKAejRsc75v679ciTawE5a28VCvTTTBd1dL_qsoE_hRAt0KoF5mzsidwa-Jpldh5SP4ASKQOG5aYYzsPRzvx6ZICKlpH-P0RuTXGLpsEZiUMYmeGIEiHRf5N/w400-h299/BenToscanoBrownFeb2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">UpCountry also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels in 2023. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.<br /><br />Pictured up top is Leo Michalski with a very large male brown trout from the weekend. Second pic is Ben Toscano with an above average brown, also from the weekend. <br /><br /><u><b>Guide Mark Swenson will be doing a Beginner Fly Tying class on Sunday Feburary 11th</b></u>, it will run from 9:30am-4pm with a lunch break in the middle. Cost is $150, class limit is 6P, contact Mark directly at 203-586-8007 to sign up. Vise & tools can be provided for you if needed, or you can bring your own. <u><b>Update</b></u>: Mark’s Beginner Tying Class is full as of 1/31. He has started a waiting list for any cancellations AND for a possible second class (middle/end of Feb), depending on response. Call Mark for more info.<br /><br /><u><b>Conditions:<br /></b></u>Currently the Riverton USGS gauge is reading 210cfs at the Rt 20 bridge, and the Still River is adding in 145cfs below this, giving us a total flow in the Permanent TMA/Catch & Release of 355cfs. I’d call this a medium flow and and damn near a perfect water level. <br /><br />Water temp this morning in Riverton was is 36.5 degrees, it reached about 39 degrees Sunday afternoon in Riverton. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging mid to upper 30’s, depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. Cold snaps will drop water temps, but if you have sunny & mild weather it can be a warming influence on water temps in the afternoons. But mostly the Still River tends to be a cooling influence in the Winter, especially in the mornings after a colder night. In the Summer it’s a warming influence. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases, with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.<br /><br />Because the MDC has been defaulting to a very frustrating minimum legal flow regime since early 2022 (50cfs–150cfs, plus any water released from Otis Reservoir in MA), that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full (except during droughts), and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump big water for a few days to a week. Historically they did a good job managing the water and had the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls & snowmelt, but they stopped doing this in 2022. <br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods recently arrived</b></u></i></span>, this replaces the Ultralite series (<i>not </i>the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.<br /><br /><u><b>Monday Morning 2/19/24 Report:<br /></b></u>After running our inventory down last year due to to very rough water conditions in the summer & fall of 2023, we have been doing some <i>serious </i>restocking in February and have filled some holes recently, with lots more stuff arriving weekly. Filled in with <b>Fulling Mill </b>on <b>tungsten beads</b>, their excellent <b>barbless hooks</b>, <b>fly boxes, CDC & stripped peacock quills</b>. We now have a good selection of <b>fly lines from Scientific Anglers, Rio & Airflo, </b>and <b>Airlock strike indicators </b>are back in stock. <br /><br /><b>A HUGE Wapsi fly tying order arrived and is up on the walls now</b>. We also received a <b>BIG Simms preseason order</b>, which includes the new heavy duty brand new <b>Simms Confluence Wader</b>. I placed a big <b>Hareline </b>fly tying order which is slated to arrive this week, and I’m workingon a <b>Nature’s Spirit </b>order (things like Hanak & Daiichi hooks, and tying materials from Hends, Sybai, FNF, highest quality deer & elk hair, dubbings, and lots of natural materials). You will see the holes on the walls getting filled weekly, along with some cool new products in the mix. <u>I also put literally hundreds of hooks on sale at about </u><u><b>40% off</b></u><u>- it’s a mix of overstocked hooks, ones we are no longer going to carry, and discontinued models</u>. This includes overstocked & discontinued hooks from <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Hanak </b></span>(lots of different models & sizes), <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Fasna </b></span>(we have to drop them because our supplier dropped them), <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Tiemco/TMC</b></span>, <span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>Ahrex</b></span>, and <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Gamakatsu</b></span>. FYI these sale hooks are for <u>walk-in customers only</u>, so we will not be taking phone orders for them. We got in a big Rezetti vise order, more Regal vises, and we are well stocked with the brand new 2024 Hardy fresh & saltwater fly rods. <br /><br /><b>Rich Strolis dropped off a batch of his famous Infant Stones</b>, #14’s in black and in brown. They imitatate the Early Black & Early Brown Stoneflies, both of which are active subsurface currently. Each color can be good, and the brown ones double to imitate a Hendrickson nymph. <br /><br />Today (Monday 2/19) looks like the end of winter weather for now, highs move into the upper 30’s to mid 40’s for the rest of the week, next to no precipitation in sight. Flows are the best they have been in a long time and should stay nice for the next couple of weeks. I would not be surprised to see a small flow cut from the MDC this morning. We’re in the mid 350cfs range for total flow in the permanent TMA/C&R, Riverton above the Still River is just over 200cfs- both are great levels. Water temps have been averaging in the mid to upper 30’s, and you could see them crack 40 degrees in mid/late afternoons on sunny, milder days. <br /><br />It’s still typical winter tactics with it being a quality over quantity situation. Expect to work for each bite, and don’t expect to catch a lot of fish. The holdover & wild fish you will catch in the next month or two will typically average the biggest of the year. As you’ve seen from the pictures posted, some browns in 18-22” range are getting landed every day by persistent anglers. Sometimes it’s on imitative nymphs/larva, sometimes Junk Flies, sometimes dry flies, and sometimes on streamers fished slow & deep.</span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">It's quite likely the state will start stocking trout streams this week, and once they stock the Farmington River, the fishing will get a lot easier. We won't know if they are going to stock here until after they do it, they don't announce it in advance. Should be any day now. Not only will the fresh stockers be easier to catch, but the competition with the holdover & wild trout usually gets them feeding more aggressively too. <br /><br />Be flexible in your approach. If you can, fish from mid morning to late afternoon, and at some point during the day you should catch a bite window where the trout decide to feed for 1-3 hours. It’s important to be very patient in the winter, more so than the spring through fall season. You need to cover the water thoroughly, and be in the right water when the fish finally decide to feed. It can redeem what was a slow outing. If you are pretty sure you are over fish when nymphing, change flies until you figure out the trout’s preference. Fish pod up in the winter- where you catch one there could be a lot more, so make sure to fish surrounding area thoroughly. In cold water trout won’t move as far to eat, so it’s important to identify the holding water, and then saturation bomb it with plenty of casts to ensure you get at least one good drift very close to a trout’s mouth. <br /><br />There has been some limited dry fly activity, both in the mornings to Winter/Summer Caddis, and in the afternoons to small Midges. There have even been some of the Early Black Stonefly adults spotted recently, usually we don’t see them until March, but I guess the mild weather has them going early. February Stonefly activity is usually the Tiny/Micro Winter Black Stones #18-24. Underwater, all three varieties of Stoneflies are active & in the drift.<br /><br />Nymphing has generally been more consistent than streamer fishing over the past 2weeks. I’d pair up something in the #12-16 range that could be imitative of an Early Stonefly (black, brown), immature Golden Stone, or a smaller Hendrickson nymph (something Mayfly shaped & brown), with a slim #18-22 fly in a darker color that could imitate things like Tiny Black Winter Stoneflies or Midges. The tiny Stones (#18-24) are starting to mix in with the Midges in the afternoons, and the Early Stones (both black & brown #14 or so) are active subsurface. Early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch aside, the bug activity is confined to the afternoons when water temps rise a little. <br /><br />Last year the state began stocking the trout streams the second week of February, and I imagine you will see that begin anytime now. Typically the Farmington River and some of the other Catch & Release TMA’s get stocked first. The holdover & wild trout currently in the Farmington are not easy to catch right now, but once the fresh stocked trout go into the river the fishing will become much easier and a lot less technical. Also the competition with the stocked trout will get the holdovers & wilds feeding more aggressively. One thing for sure though, whether they have stocked the Farmington recently or not for a while, there are always a lot of trout in the river, even though it may not seem that way after a slow/tough day.<br /><br />Better streamers colors lately are tan, olive, and white- fish them slow & deep for best results. Winter nymphs typically include Junk Flies (especially Eggs & Mops), Midges #18-22 in black/red/olive (Zebra Midge, etc.), Winter Caddis Larva #18, and small Mayfly Nymphs #16-20 such as Pheasant Tails & BWO’s (Blue Winged Olive). Also Olive/Green Caddis Larva #14-16, Cased Caddis #10-16, Walt’s Worms/Sexy Waltz #10-18, Attractor & Hot-Spot Nymphs #14-18 (Triple Threats, Frenchies, Perdigons, etc.). Nymphs with metallic pink beads can be above average producers in the winter.<br /><u><b><br /></b></u>The best time to be out in the Winter is typically late morning through dusk (early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch excepted),but some days lately it’s been better from 9am-1pm.Afternoons arewhen it’s the most comfortable, water temps are rising and/or at their highest, bugs are most likely to be active, and the time of day when trout are most apt to do a little feeding. Trout don’t normally feed heavily in the Winter- cold temps slow down their metabolism a lot so they don’t need to eat much, plus there are minimal hatches and food is much less available.<u><b><br /><br /></b></u>Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing farther away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs and up close where you have at least some current). Trout are holding in Winter water now, which means slower & deeper water. They may move up into moderate riffles to feed in the afternoons. They will often pod up in cold water, so if you find one, thoroughly fish that area as there are likely a bunch more nearby. Refuge from the current & predators supersedes access to food in the Winter, as their metabolism is slower. This means they don’t have to eat very much, plus there is way less food available & not a lot hatching. However, under normal flows, trout will sometimes rise to the morning Winter Caddis & afternoon Midges. <br /><br />We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. <br /><br />Nymphing remains a consistent producer <i><b>if </b></i>you are proficient at it, no surprise there. Sometimes in the colder water of Winter, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to far less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier and/or bigger flies <i><b>sometimes </b></i>do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. </span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state stocked the river with good sized brown trout in early October from just below the Rt 219 bridge in New Hartford all the way down to Collinsville & Unionville and below that too. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October with quite a few pretty rainbows.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />***Midges are the main afternoon hatch, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings. The Tiny/Micro Black Winter Stones have started up (afternoons), and we are beginning to see Early Black Stones too- usually they start up in March***<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br />-Tiny Black Winter Stoneflies #18-24: afternoons<br /><br />-Early Black Stoneflies #14-16: afternoons, just starting (early this year)<br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Strolis Infant Stones #14 (black, brown): tied by the man himself, this popular pattern imitates the Early Brown & Early Black Stoneflies, with the brown version also passing for a Hendrickson nymph. These always sell out fast. <br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): especially good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs, also killer on recently stocked trout. Good also when nothing seems to be working. <br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: the brown trout spawn has been done for a while, but egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter/early Spring. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. There will also be spawning Rainbows in February/March, and Suckers in April. Plus fresh stocked trout in the Spring will hammer an egg fly until they get dialed into natural nymphs, larva & pupa. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red, purple<br /><br />-Winter Caddis Larva #18: suprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns, all year long<br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, and in assorted colors like olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences. High fishing pressure usually means you want to fish drabber & smaller flies that are more natural looking. Black beadheads can be good on trout that have seen too many gold, copper & silver beads.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River.<br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work especially well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam. They also Behavioral Drift in the daytime, unlike most bugs that do it in low light or even in the dark.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, but can also be drifted under an indicator. Excellent choice to fish in the Winter. Tan, olive, and white have been the best lately.<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />To a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. Hot colors in 2024 have been white, tan, and olive.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, <i>deadly </i>fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes tradtional featherwing & bucktail streamers work better than bulky modern patterns, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. Especially in low/clear water with sunshine, these sparser/drabber flies can be just the ticket. Use split shot, sinking leaders, or sink-tip/sinking fly lines to get these flies down (unless you are fishing shallow water).<br /><u><b>Try</b></u>: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></p></div>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-64082728959132495772024-02-16T10:51:00.006-05:002024-02-16T12:54:16.893-05:00Friday 2/16/24 Farmington River Report: Nice water levels<p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjezoFVifUGkHv7H_2XGJYmY81tTz54iob5oSAZAdDbw6Zq8WdB2wkZwHVOev_7i9VyYxLsCoRPz18hoyqqoyniWe9z6bnYnUsECdnLChr91_OVGnmre4azvJF-h-nZ23KpCZyTlZb9450bew4rEwr7qp0DllkkqsTVtJwmGocqm5DtBOFGmKCZQV1FSd-s/s1280/JimDBigMidFebBrown2024.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="664" data-original-width="1280" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjezoFVifUGkHv7H_2XGJYmY81tTz54iob5oSAZAdDbw6Zq8WdB2wkZwHVOev_7i9VyYxLsCoRPz18hoyqqoyniWe9z6bnYnUsECdnLChr91_OVGnmre4azvJF-h-nZ23KpCZyTlZb9450bew4rEwr7qp0DllkkqsTVtJwmGocqm5DtBOFGmKCZQV1FSd-s/w400-h208/JimDBigMidFebBrown2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></span></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. </span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><u><b>Don't forget to have a 2024 CT Fishing license plus a $5 Trout/Salmon Stamp</b></u></span> if you are planning to fish the Farmington River.<br /><br /><span style="color: purple;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span>:<br />Stop by for some bargains! <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span>. <i><b>2023 Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i>. <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u>(not the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>also 40% off</u></span>. <br /><br />We purchased purchased several huge collections of quality fly tying materials in 2023. Stop by and check it all out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. As we sell through these materials, we keep putting more out. <br /><br /></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjKY3y1Cp49cMqeh8cgkN_8LQxEI6KHB4V1Psqa8jjIN7gFnNbLdDGOSvPKCWRrga53ffdngzqW2vWgSp6DT94bn6uh8x0jTcgp2Icx3W2pnTRL_NrI9uszzayevnO3STjQPv3opNqnf3jOkERtGUc5GpEMniy0-1JcKhL5aG4Bon6zfwH8vE-_8ulw-sq/s1280/JamesVeitMidFebBigBrown2024.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1267" data-original-width="1280" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjKY3y1Cp49cMqeh8cgkN_8LQxEI6KHB4V1Psqa8jjIN7gFnNbLdDGOSvPKCWRrga53ffdngzqW2vWgSp6DT94bn6uh8x0jTcgp2Icx3W2pnTRL_NrI9uszzayevnO3STjQPv3opNqnf3jOkERtGUc5GpEMniy0-1JcKhL5aG4Bon6zfwH8vE-_8ulw-sq/w400-h396/JamesVeitMidFebBigBrown2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></span></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">UpCountry also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels in 2023. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Come and take a look before someone gets there first. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.<br /><br />Pictured up top is Jim DeCesare with a beauty from yesterday. Jim works hard to catch these high quality fish, fishing briefly but on an almost daily basis. Sometimes he gets skunked, but his repeated efforts inevitably result in some big trout landed on a regular basis. Next down is again James Veit with yet another big brown, way to go James!<br /><br /><u><b>Guide Mark Swenson will be doing a Beginner Fly Tying class on Sunday Feburary 11th</b></u>, it will run from 9:30am-4pm with a lunch break in the middle. Cost is $150, class limit is 6P, contact Mark directly at 203-586-8007 to sign up. Vise & tools can be provided for you if needed, or you can bring your own. <u><b>Update</b></u>: Mark’s Beginner Tying Class is full as of 1/31. He has started a waiting list for any cancellations AND for a possible second class (middle/end of Feb), depending on response. Call Mark for more info.<br /><br /><u><b>Conditions:<br /></b></u>Currently the Riverton USGS gauge is reading 248cfs at the Rt 20 bridge, and the Still River is adding in 170cfs below this, giving us a total flow in the Permanent TMA/Catch & Release of 418cfs. I’d call this a medium flow and a VERY fishable level. <br /><br />Water temp this morning in Riverton was is 37 degrees, it reached 38.5 degrees Thursday afternoon in Riverton. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging mid to upper 30’s, depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. Cold snaps will drop water temps, but if you have sunny & mild weather it can be a warming influence on water temps in the afternoons. But mostly the Still River tends to be a cooling influence in the Winter, especially in the mornings after a colder night. In the Summer it’s a warming influence. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases, with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.<br /><br />Because the MDC has been defaulting to a very frustrating minimum legal flow regime since early 2022 (50cfs–150cfs, plus any water released from Otis Reservoir in MA), that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full (except during droughts), and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump big water for a few days to a week. Historically they did a good job managing the water and had the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls & snowmelt, but they stopped doing this in 2022. <br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods recently arrived</b></u></i></span>, this replaces the Ultralite series (<i>not </i>the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.<br /><br /><u><b>Fri</b></u><u><b>day Morning 2/1</b></u><u><b>6</b></u><u><b>/24 Report:<br /></b></u>After running our inventory down last year due to to very rough water conditions in the summer & fall of 2023, we have been doing some <i>serious </i>restocking in February and have filled some holes, with lots more stuff arriving weekly. Filled in with <b>Fulling Mill </b>on <b>tungsten beads</b>, their excellent <b>barbless hooks</b>, <b>fly boxes, CDC & stripped peacock quills</b>. We now have a good selection of <b>fly lines from Scientific Anglers, Rio & Airflo,</b>and <b>Airlock strike indicators </b>are back in stock. <br /><br /><b>A HUGE Wapsi fly tying order arrived and is up on the walls now</b>. We also received a <b>BIG Simms preseason order</b>, which includes the new heavy duty brand new <b>Simms Confluence Wader</b>. I placeda big <b>Hareline </b>fly tying order which is slated to arrive 2/21, and now I’ll jump on <b>Nature’s Spirit </b>(also fly tying materials including things like Hanak hooks, and there will be at least one new Hanak hook model- a heavy wire version of the very popular 450 Jig Superb). You will see the holes on the walls getting filled weekly, along with some cool new products in the mix. <u>I also put literally hundreds of hooks on sale at about </u><u><b>40% off</b></u><u>- it’s a mix of overstocked hooks, ones we are no longer going to carry, and discontinued models</u>. This includes overstocked & discontinued hooks from <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Hanak </b></span>(lots of different models & sizes), <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Fasna </b></span>(we have to drop them because our supplier dropped them), <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Tiemco/TMC</b></span>, <span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>Ahrex</b></span>, and <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Gamakatsu</b></span>. FYI these sale hooks are for <u>walk-in customers only</u>, so we will not be taking phone orders for them. We got in a big Rezetti vise order, more Regal vises, and we are well stocked with the brand new 2024 Hardy fresh & saltwater fly rods. <br /><br /><b>Rich Strolis dropped off a batch of his famous Infant Stones</b>, #14’s in black and in brown. They imitatate the Early Black & Early Brown Stoneflies, both of which are active subsurface currently. Each color can be good, and the brown ones double to imitate a Hendrickson nymph. <br /><br />Back to normal winter weather currently with highs in the low 30’s through Monday, and then pushing into the 40’s on Wednesday & Thursday next week. This may push the bite window to starting & ending later as water temps rise up a little during the day, getting the trout & bugs a little more active. It was typically best around 9am-1pm recently, but you <i><b>may </b></i>see that shift from late morning to late afternoon due to the cooler temps here now- afternoons see the highest water temps normally. It’s important to be very patient in the winter, more so than the spring through fall season. You need to cover the water thoroughly, and be in the right water when the fish finally decide to feed. It can redeem what was a slow outing. If you are pretty sure you are over fish when nymphing, change flies until you figure out the trout’s preference. Fish pod up in the winter- where you catch one there could be a lot more, so make sure to fish surrounding area thoroughly. In cold water trout won’t move as far to eat, so it’s important to identify the holding water, and then saturation bomb it with plenty of casts to ensure you get at least one good drift very close to a trout’s mouth. It’ remains a quality over quantity situation for the most part, where I’d expect to work hard for each and every bite. The upside is the average fish is large right now. <br /><br />There has been some limited dry fly activity, both in the mornings to Winter/Summer Caddis, and in the afternoons to small Midges. There have even been some of the Early Black Stonefly adults spotted recently, usually we don’t see them until March, but I guess the mild weather has them going early. February Stonefly activity isusually the Tiny/Micro Winter Black Stones#18-24. Underwater, all three varieties of Stoneflies are active & in the drift.<br /><br />Nymphing has generally been more consistent than streamer fishing over the past week. I’d pair up something in the #12-16 range that could be imitative of an Early Stonefly (black, brown), immature Golden Stone, or a smaller Hendrickson nymph (something Mayfly shaped & brown), with a slim #18-22 fly in a darker color that could imitate things like Tiny Black Winter Stoneflies or Midges. The tiny Stones (#18-24) are starting to mix in with the Midges in the afternoons, and the Early Stones (both black & brown #14 or so) are active subsurface. <br /><br />Last year the state began stocking the trout streams the second week of February, and I imagine you will see that begin anytime now. Typically the Farmington River and some of the other Catch & Release TMA’s get stocked first. The holdover & wild trout currently in the Farmington are not easy to catch right now, but once the fresh stocked trout go into the river the fishing will become much easier and a lot less technical. Also the competition with the stocked trout will get the holdovers & wilds feeding more aggressively. One thing for sure though, whether they have stocked the Farmington recently or not for a while, there are always a lot of trout in the river, even though it may not seem that way after a slow/tough day.<br /><br />It’s back to more standard Farmington River winter tactics now that flows are normal once again. You may also see some trout rising to Winter Caddis in the mornings, and Midges & Stoneflies in the afternoons. Overall, flies will mostly be a mix of nymphs & streamers. Jigged streamers fished slow & deep and be the ticket sometimes, especially on above average sized fish- they can be drifted under an indicator, or fished tight-line on a Euro rig. Better streamers colors lately are tan, olive, and white. Winter nymphs typically include Junk Flies (especially Eggs & Mops), Midges #18-22 in black/red/olive (Zebra Midge, etc.), Winter Caddis Larva #18, and small Mayfly Nymphs #16-20 such as Pheasant Tails & BWO’s (Blue Winged Olive). Also Olive/Green Caddis Larva #14-16, Cased Caddis #10-16, Walt’s Worms/Sexy Waltz #10-18, Attractor & Hot-Spot Nymphs #14-18 (Triple Threats, Frenchies, Perdigons, etc.). Nymphs with metallic pink beads can be above average producers in the winter.<br /><u><b><br /></b></u>The best time to be out in the Winter is typically late morning through dusk (early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch excepted). This is when it’s the most comfortable, water temps are rising and/or at their highest, bugs are most likely to be active, and the time of day when trout are most apt to do a little feeding. Trout don’t normally feed heavily in the Winter- cold temps slow down their metabolism a lot so they don’t need to eat much, plus there are minimal hatches and food is much less available.<u><b><br /><br /></b></u>Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing farther away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs and up close where you have at least some current). Trout are holding in Winter water now, which means slower & deeper water. They may move up into moderate riffles to feed in the afternoons. They will often pod up in cold water, so if you find one, thoroughly fish that area as there are likely a bunch more nearby. Refuge from the current & predators supersedes access to food in the Winter, as their metabolism is slower. This means they don’t have to eat very much, plus there is way less food available & not a lot hatching. However, under normal flows, trout will sometimes rise to the morning Winter Caddis & afternoon Midges. <br /><br />We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. <br /><br />Nymphing remains a consistent producer <i><b>if </b></i>you are proficient at it, no surprise there. Sometimes in the colder water of Winter, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to far less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier and/or bigger flies <i><b>sometimes </b></i>do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. </span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state stocked the river with good sized brown trout in early October from just below the Rt 219 bridge in New Hartford all the way down to Collinsville & Unionville and below that too. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October with quite a few pretty rainbows.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />***Midges are the main afternoon hatch, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings. The Tiny/Micro Black Winter Stones have started up (afternoons), and we are beginning to see Early Black Stones too- usually they start up in March***<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br />-Tiny Black Winter Stoneflies #18-24: afternoons<br /><br />-Early Black Stoneflies #14-16: afternoons, just starting (early this year)<br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Strolis Infant Stones #14 (black, brown): tied by the man himself, this popular pattern imitates the Early Brown & Early Black Stoneflies, with the brown version also passing for a Hendrickson nymph. These always sell out fast. <br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): especially good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs, also killer on recently stocked trout. Good also when nothing seems to be working. <br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: the brown trout spawn has been done for a while, but egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter/early Spring. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. There will also be spawning Rainbows in February/March, and Suckers in April. Plus fresh stocked trout in the Spring will hammer an egg fly until they get dialed into natural nymphs, larva & pupa. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red, purple<br /><br />-Winter Caddis Larva #18: suprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns, all year long<br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, and in assorted colors like olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences. High fishing pressure usually means you want to fish drabber & smaller flies that are more natural looking. Black beadheads can be good on trout that have seen too many gold, copper & silver beads.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River.<br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work especially well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam. They also Behavioral Drift in the daytime, unlike most bugs that do it in low light or even in the dark.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, but can also be drifted under an indicator. Excellent choice to fish in the Winter. Tan, olive, and white have been the best lately.<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />To a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. Hot colors in 2024 have been white, tan, and olive.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, <i>deadly </i>fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes tradtional featherwing & bucktail streamers work better than bulky modern patterns, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. Especially in low/clear water with sunshine, these sparser/drabber flies can be just the ticket. Use split shot, sinking leaders, or sink-tip/sinking fly lines to get these flies down (unless you are fishing shallow water).<br /><u><b>Try</b></u>: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></p>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-40954307203692522202024-02-12T10:56:00.000-05:002024-02-12T10:56:26.963-05:00Monday 2/12/24 Farmington River Report: Good Flows & Back to Winter<p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgheUuoUu4Y7vOpb3ImUUJ6BtCHOWKVa1Af0E3907KmuLpkkSw2zdnM0OCld_CeFQd-gW_GrGTl6jSplQKGHIZjNsJynEjiqi5N45jMpONc45rQEH4X9hT6Kg4Q8WwYNcWSoxajDn2qTM2BM_g8HFe7KcE6oTebO9pwGfyMoNZe-4JYX_fe39zw1Mc0C6WZ/s2055/RichFosterPBbrownFeb2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="997" data-original-width="2055" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgheUuoUu4Y7vOpb3ImUUJ6BtCHOWKVa1Af0E3907KmuLpkkSw2zdnM0OCld_CeFQd-gW_GrGTl6jSplQKGHIZjNsJynEjiqi5N45jMpONc45rQEH4X9hT6Kg4Q8WwYNcWSoxajDn2qTM2BM_g8HFe7KcE6oTebO9pwGfyMoNZe-4JYX_fe39zw1Mc0C6WZ/w400-h194/RichFosterPBbrownFeb2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. </span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><u><b>Don't forget to have a 2024 CT Fishing license plus a $5 Trout/Salmon Stamp</b></u></span> if you are planning to fish the Farmington River.<br /><br /><span style="color: purple;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span>:<br />Stop by for some bargains! <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span>. <i><b>2023 Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i>. <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u>(not the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>also 40% off</u></span>. <br /><br />We purchased purchased several huge collections of quality fly tying materials in 2023. Stop by and check it all out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. As we sell through these materials, we keep putting more out. <br /><br /></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQl06XUYFcy0fipONTKn55fJu_k8zJDDQuUeZjm4bn76RlvnpAxczykTCqYxqdNuQTwARyg-3lcPXGNXlxi7bBTNe9uQHnw0xe-RM-C1k7BusHe6D_uznGKmwqxDJ4SVrEdANBVkM9QiBKr5LKqsmyc6ITCx1HUg1Je_qo0uctHvCX9NPmODD-o_m_cE6k/s1280/JamesVeitFebruaryBrown2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="951" data-original-width="1280" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQl06XUYFcy0fipONTKn55fJu_k8zJDDQuUeZjm4bn76RlvnpAxczykTCqYxqdNuQTwARyg-3lcPXGNXlxi7bBTNe9uQHnw0xe-RM-C1k7BusHe6D_uznGKmwqxDJ4SVrEdANBVkM9QiBKr5LKqsmyc6ITCx1HUg1Je_qo0uctHvCX9NPmODD-o_m_cE6k/w400-h297/JamesVeitFebruaryBrown2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">UpCountry also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels in 2023. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Come and take a look before someone gets there first. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.<br /><br />Pictured up top for a second time in a row is once again customer Rich Foster with his new PB (personal best) brown trout, what a fish! Second pic is James Veit with a pretty brown from yesterday, he put in the work the past few days and was rewarded.<br /><br /><u><b>Guide Mark Swenson will be doing a Beginner Fly Tying class on Sunday Feburary 11th</b></u>, it will run from 9:30am-4pm with a lunch break in the middle. Cost is $150, class limit is 6P, contact Mark directly at 203-586-8007 to sign up. Vise & tools can be provided for you if needed, or you can bring your own. <u><b>Update</b></u>: Mark’s Beginner Tying Class is full as of 1/31. He has started a waiting list for any cancellations AND for a possible second class (middle/end of Feb), depending on response. Call Mark for more info.<br /><br /><u><b>Conditions:<br /></b></u>Currently the Riverton USGS gauge is reading 275cfs at the Rt 20 bridge, and the Still River is adding in 229cfs below this, giving us a total flow in the Permanent TMA/Catch & Release of 504cfs. I’d call this a medium-high flow and a VERY fishablelevel. <br /><br />Water temp this morning in Riverton was is 37.5+ degrees, it reached 39+degrees Sundayafternoon in Riverton. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging mid to upper 30’s, depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. Cold snaps will drop water temps, but if you have sunny, mild weather it canbe a warming influence on water temps in the afternoons. But mostly the Still River tends to be a cooling influence in the Winter, especially in the mornings after a colder night. In the Summer it’s a warming influence. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases, with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.<br /><br />Because the MDC has been defaulting to a very frustrating minimum legal flow regime since early 2022 (50cfs–150cfs, plus any water released from Otis Reservoir in MA), that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full (except during droughts), and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump big water for a few days to a week. Historically they did a good job managing the water and had the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls & snowmelt, but they stopped doing this in 2022. <br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods recently arrived</b></u></i></span>, this replaces the Ultralite series (<i>not </i>the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.<br /><br /><u><b>Mon</b></u><u><b>day Morning 2/</b></u><u><b>12</b></u><u><b>/24 Report:<br /></b></u>After running our inventory down last year due to to very rough water conditions in the summer & fall of 2023, we have been doing some serious restocking finally in Februaryand have filled some holes, with lots more stuff arriving weekly. Filled in with <b>Fulling Mill </b>on <b>tungsten beads</b>, their excellent <b>barbless hooks</b>, <b>fly boxes, CDC & stripped peacock quills</b>. We now have a good selection of <b>fly lines from Scientific Anglers, Rio </b><b>& Airflo,</b>and <b>Airlock strike indicators </b>are back in stock. <br /><br /><b>A HUGE Wapsi fly tying order arrived and is up on the walls now</b>. We also received a <b>BIG Simms preseason order</b>, which includes the new heavy duty brand new <b>Simms Confluence Wader</b>. I’m currently working on a big <b>Hareline </b>fly tying order, and after that I’ll jump on <b>Nature’s Spirit </b>(also fly tying materials including things like Hanak hooks, and there will be at least one new Hanak hook model- a heavy wire version of the very popular 450 Jig Superb). You will see the holes on the walls getting filled weekly, along with some cool new products in the mix. <u>I also put literally hundreds of hooks on sale at about </u><u><b>40% off</b></u><u>- it’s a mix of overstocked hooks, ones we are no longer going to carry, and discontinued models</u>. This includes overstocked & discontinued hooks from <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Hanak </b></span>(lots of different models & sizes), <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Fasna </b></span>(we have to drop them because our supplier dropped them), <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Tiemco/TMC</b></span>, <span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>Ahrex</b></span>, and <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Gamakatsu</b></span>. FYI these sale hooks are for <u>walk-in customers only</u>, so we will not be taking phone orders for them. We got in a big Rezetti vise order in this week, more Regal vises, and we are well stocked with the brand new 2024 Hardy fresh & saltwater fly rods. <br /><br />LOTS of anglers were out over the weekend to take full advantage of the beautiful weather (50+ degrees & sunny on Saturday) and vastly improved flows. Saturday was very busy, both in the store and on the river. I’ve seen many pictures of above average holdover & wild browns that were landed over the weekend, with Rich Foster’s brown pictured up top being likely the biggest one of all. It’s still a quality over quantity situation for the most part, where I’d expect to work hard for each and every bite. The upside is the average fish is large right now. The best bite window over the past week has typically been about 9am to 1 or 2pm. Back to winter again tonight, with 6-9” of snow predicted by lunchtime Tuesday, and highs all in the 30’s through the weekend.<br /><br />There has been some limited dry fly activity, both in the mornings to Winter/Summer Caddis, and in the afternoons to small Midges. There have even been some of the Early Black Stonefly adults spotted recently, usually we don’t see them until March, but I guess the mild weather has them going early. February Stonefly activity isusually the Tiny/Micro Winter Black Stones#18-24. <br /><br />Nymphing has generally been more consistent than streamer fishing over the past week. I’d pair up something in the #12-16 range that could be imitative of an Early Stonefly (black, brown), immature Golden Stone, or a smaller Hendrickson nymph (something Mayfly shaped & brown), with a slim #18-22 fly in a darker color that could imitate things like Tiny Black Winter Stoneflies or Midges. The tiny Stones (#18-24) are starting to mix in with the Midges in the afternoons, and the Early Stones (both black & brown #14 or so) are active subsurface. <br /><br />Last year the state began stocking the trout streams the second week of February, and I imagine you will see that begin anytime now. Typically the Farmington River and some of the other Catch & Release TMA’s get stocked first. The holdover & wild trout currently in the Farmington are not easy to catch right now, but once the fresh stocked trout go into the river the fishing will become much easier and a lot less technical. Also the competition with the stocked trout will get the holdovers & wilds feeding more aggressively. One thing for sure though, whether they have stocked the Farmington recently or not for a while, there are always a lot of trout in the river, even though it may not seem that way after a slow/tough day.<br /><br />It’s back to more standard Farmington River winter tactics now that flows are normal once again. You may also see some trout rising to Winter Caddis in the mornings, and Midges & Stonefliesin the afternoons. Overall, flies will mostly be a mix of nymphs & streamers. Jigged streamers fished slow & deep and be the ticket sometimes, especially on above average sized fish- they can be drifted under an indicator, or fished tight-line on a Euro rig. Better streamers colors lately are tan, olive, and white. Winter nymphs typically include Junk Flies (especially Eggs & Mops), Midges #18-22 in black/red/olive (Zebra Midge, etc.), Winter Caddis Larva #18, and small Mayfly Nymphs #16-20 such as Pheasant Tails & BWO’s (Blue Winged Olive). Also Olive/Green Caddis Larva #14-16, Cased Caddis #10-16, Walt’s Worms/Sexy Waltz #10-18, Attractor & Hot-Spot Nymphs #14-18 (Triple Threats, Frenchies, Perdigons, etc.). Nymphs with metallic pink beads can be above average producers in the winter.<br /><u><b><br /></b></u>The best time to be out in the Winter is typically late morning through dusk (early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch excepted). This is when it’s the most comfortable, water temps are rising and/or at their highest, bugs are most likely to be active, and the time of day when trout are most apt to do a little feeding. Trout don’t normally feed heavily in the Winter- cold temps slow down their metabolism a lot so they don’t need to eat much, plus there are minimal hatches and food is much less available.<u><b><br /><br /></b></u>Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing farther away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs and up close where you have at least some current). Trout are holding in Winter water now, which means slower & deeper water. They may move up into moderate riffles to feed in the afternoons. They will often pod up in cold water, so if you find one, thoroughly fish that area as there are likely a bunch more nearby. Refuge from the current & predators supersedes access to food in the Winter, as their metabolism is slower. This means they don’t have to eat very much, plus there is way less food available & not a lot hatching. However, under normal flows, trout will sometimes rise to the morning Winter Caddis & afternoon Midges. <br /><br />We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. <br /><br />Nymphing remains a consistent producer <i><b>if </b></i>you are proficient at it, no surprise there. Sometimes in the colder water of Winter, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to far less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier and/or bigger flies <i><b>sometimes </b></i>do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. </span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state stocked the river with good sized brown trout in early October from just below the Rt 219 bridge in New Hartford all the way down to Collinsville & Unionville and below that too. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October with quite a few pretty rainbows.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />***Midges are the main afternoon hatch, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings. The Tiny/Micro Black Winter Stones have started up, and we are beginning to see Early Black Stones too- usually they start up in March***<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br />-Tiny Black Winter Stoneflies #18-24: afternoons<br /><br />-Early Black Stoneflies #14-16: afternoons, just starting (early this year)<br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): especially good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs, also killer on recently stocked trout. Good also when nothing seems to be working. <br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: the brown trout spawn has been done for a while, but egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter/early Spring. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. There will also be spawning Rainbows in February/March, and Suckers in April. Plus fresh stocked trout in the Spring will hammer an egg fly until they get dialed into natural nymphs, larva & pupa. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red, purple<br /><br />-Winter Caddis Larva #18: suprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns, all year long<br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, and in assorted colors like olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences. High fishing pressure usually means you want to fish drabber & smaller flies that are more natural looking. Black beadheads can be good on trout that have seen too many gold, copper & silver beads.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River.<br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work especially well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam. They also Behavioral Drift in the daytime, unlike most bugs that do it in low light or even in the dark.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, but can also be drifted under an indicator. Excellent choice to fish in the Winter. Tan, olive, and white have been the best lately.<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />To a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. Hot colors in 2024 have been white, tan, and olive.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, <i>deadly </i>fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes tradtional featherwing & bucktail streamers work better than bulky modern patterns, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. Especially in low/clear water with sunshine, these sparser/drabber flies can be just the ticket. Use split shot, sinking leaders, or sink-tip/sinking fly lines to get these flies down (unless you are fishing shallow water).<br /><u><b>Try</b></u>: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></p>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-64939710113898975082024-02-09T11:03:00.002-05:002024-02-09T11:03:14.472-05:00Friday 2/9/24 Farmington River Report: Mild Weather & Nice Flows Continue<p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzLVyb2AzAZZ4Fjb6om1EBazLY5SLu6KVFWvETC64Ktgn55jdjCtBHcbJBm1VGA3SdUuNgD0Bcxk5S5d3oTSLrFC5fsk-F_4XeBDg_GBNGeUeOj6370HmiwXgQTRXLVUTucyVpoMbjISXSnZLnNgy5lLKIrUz7Tve2K_5C0TsNo2JfPKAh0RiDV5RcUSKe/s1600/RichFosterBigFebBrown2024.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="819" data-original-width="1600" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzLVyb2AzAZZ4Fjb6om1EBazLY5SLu6KVFWvETC64Ktgn55jdjCtBHcbJBm1VGA3SdUuNgD0Bcxk5S5d3oTSLrFC5fsk-F_4XeBDg_GBNGeUeOj6370HmiwXgQTRXLVUTucyVpoMbjISXSnZLnNgy5lLKIrUz7Tve2K_5C0TsNo2JfPKAh0RiDV5RcUSKe/w400-h205/RichFosterBigFebBrown2024.jpeg" width="400" /></a></b></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. </span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><u><b>Don't forget to have a 2024 CT Fishing license plus a $5 Trout/Salmon Stamp</b></u></span> if you are planning to fish the Farmington River.<br /><br /><span style="color: purple;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span>:<br />Stop by for some bargains! <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span>. <i><b>2023 Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i>. <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u>(not the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>also 40% off</u></span>. <br /><br />We purchased purchased several huge collections of quality fly tying materials in 2023. Stop by and check it all out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. As we sell through these materials, we keep putting more out. <br /><br /></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg35CdEKT4ZLpRjOS5yqSvzVAqmEbCzUXUOjdNTdvuJhdQXbp5BoUgGGDTOQI1bisNxXsTJ2jhnQqE-u-KWDFEzsHt4XiG1R9rXRmpD2T0KQg55khYy2Xagr1rzvtq-GjjuL7ksWKTaTCyaR32WzCSXY_TofavE74khOUIW7QDzmCwaNKuLLXUsE758enYR/s640/ChadHussyBrownInNetFeb2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg35CdEKT4ZLpRjOS5yqSvzVAqmEbCzUXUOjdNTdvuJhdQXbp5BoUgGGDTOQI1bisNxXsTJ2jhnQqE-u-KWDFEzsHt4XiG1R9rXRmpD2T0KQg55khYy2Xagr1rzvtq-GjjuL7ksWKTaTCyaR32WzCSXY_TofavE74khOUIW7QDzmCwaNKuLLXUsE758enYR/w400-h300/ChadHussyBrownInNetFeb2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">UpCountry also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels in 2023. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Come and take a look before someone gets there first. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.<br /><br />Pictured up top is a very photogenic brown trout by customer Rich Foster. It’s currently a quality over quantity situation. Pictured below that is Chad Hussey’s first trout of 2024, and upper teens brown, with 2 other bigger trout lost. <br /><br /><u><b>Guide Mark Swenson will be doing a Beginner Fly Tying class on Sunday Feburary 11th</b></u>, it will run from 9:30am-4pm with a lunch break in the middle. Cost is $150, class limit is 6P, contact Mark directly at 203-586-8007 to sign up. Vise & tools can be provided for you if needed, or you can bring your own. <u><b>Update</b></u>: Mark’s Beginner Tying Class is full as of 1/31. He has started a waiting list for any cancellations AND for a possible second class (middle/end of Feb), depending on response. Call Mark for more info.<br /><br /><u><b>Conditions:<br /></b></u>Currently the Riverton USGS gauge is reading 315cfs at the Rt 20 bridge, and the Still River is adding in 182cfs below this, giving us a total flow in the Permanent TMA/Catch & Release of 497cfs. Finally a nice water level lately! I’d call this a medium-high flow and a good fishing level. <br /><br />Water temp this morning in Riverton was is 37.5+ degrees, it reached 39 degrees Thursday afternoon in Riverton, and hit 40+ degrees in the permanent TMA/C&R. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging mid to upper 30’s, depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. Colder snaps will drop water temps, but if you have sunny, mild weather (like now) it could actually be a warming influence on water temps in the afternoons. But mostly the Still River tends to be a cooling influence in the Winter, especially in the mornings after a colder night. In the Summer it’s a warming influence. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases, with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.<br /><br />Because the MDC has been defaulting to a very frustrating minimum legal flow regime since early 2022 (50cfs–150cfs, plus any water released from Otis Reservoir in MA), that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full (except during droughts), and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump big water for a few days to a week. Historically they did a good job managing the water and had the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls & snowmelt, but they stopped doing this in 2022. <br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods recently arrived</b></u></i></span>, this replaces the Ultralite series (<i>not </i>the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.<br /><br /><u><b>Fri</b></u><u><b>day Morning 2/</b></u><u><b>9</b></u><u><b>/24 Report:<br /></b></u>After running our inventory down last year due to to very rough water conditions in the summer & fall of 2023, we have been doing some serious restocking finally in the past 2 weeks and have filled some holes, with lots more stuff arriving weekly. Filled in with <b>Fulling Mill </b>on <b>tungsten beads</b>, their excellent <b>barbless hooks</b>, <b>fly boxes, CDC & stripped peacock quills</b>. We now have a good selection of <b>fly lines from Scientific Anglers & Rio</b>, and <b>Airlock strike indicators </b>are back in stock. <br /><br /><b>A HUGE Wapsi fly tying order </b><b>arrived and is up on the walls now</b>. We also received a <b>BIG Simms preseason order</b>, which includes the new heavy duty brand new <b>Simms Confluence Wader</b>. I’m currently working on a big <b>Hareline </b>fly tying order, and after that I’ll jump on <b>Nature’s Spirit </b>(also fly tying materials including things like Hanak hooks, and there will be at least one new Hanak hook model- a heavy wire version of the very popular 450 Jig Superb). You will see the holes on the walls getting filled weekly, along with some cool new products in the mix. <u>I also put literally hundreds of hooks on sale at about </u><u><b>40% off</b></u><u>- it’s a mix of overstocked hooks, ones we are no longer going to carry, and discontinued models</u>. This includes overstocked & discontinued hooks from <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Hanak </b></span>(lots of different models & sizes), <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Fasna </b></span>(we have to drop them because our supplier dropped them), <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Tiemco/TMC</b></span>, <span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>Ahrex</b></span>, and <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Gamakatsu</b></span>. FYI these sale hooks are for <u>walk-in customers only</u>, so we will not be taking phone orders for them. We got in a big Rezetti vise order in this week, more Regal vises, and we are well stocked with the brand new 2024 Hardy fresh & saltwater fly rods. <br /><br /><b>Condition remain vastly improved, with a just below 500cfs </b><b>total flow in the Permanent TMA/Catch & Release, water temps hitting about 40 degrees in the afternoons, and highs in the 40’s to 50’s</b>. About time! Even with the nice conditions, it’s still winter and I’d expect to work for your fish. While I historically have done well in mid to late afternoons this time of year, the best window of fishing lately seems to be about mid morning through early afternoon. Nymphing has been better than streamer fishing this past week. I’d pair up something in the #12-16 range that could be imitative of an Early Stonefly (black, brown) or a smaller Hendrickson nymph (something Mayfly shaped & brown), with a slim #18-20 fly in a darker color that could imitate things like Tiny Black Winter Stoneflies or Midges. The tiny Stones (#18-24) are starting to mix in with the Midges in the afternoons, and the Early Stones (both black & brown #14 or so) are active subsurface- they normally hatch in March and they getting active underwater in the month before hatching. <br /><br />Last year the state began stocking the trout streams the second week of February, and I imagine you will see that begin next week- I though they would have started this week with the warmer temps & lack of snow on the ground. Typically the Farmington River and some of the other Catch & Release TMA’s get stocked first. The holdover & wild trout currently in the Farmington are not easy to catch right now, but once the fresh stocked trout go into the river the fishing will become much easier and a lot less technical. Also the competition with the stocked trout will get the holdovers & wilds feeding more aggressively. One thing for sure though, whether they have stocked the Farmington recently or not for a while, there are always a lot of trout in the river, even though it may not seem that way after a slow/tough day.<br /><br />It’s back to more standard Farmington River winter tactics now that flows are normal once again. You may also see some trout rising to Winter Caddis in the mornings, and Midges in the afternoons. Overall, flies will mostly be a mix of nymphs & streamers. Jigged streamers fished slow & deep and be the ticket sometime, especially on above average sized fish- they can be drifted under an indicator, or fished tight-line on a Euro rig. Better streamers colors lately are tan, olive, and white. Winter nymphs typically include Junk Flies (especially Eggs & Mops), Midges #18-22 in black/red/olive (Zebra Midge, etc.), Winter Caddis Larva #18, and small Mayfly Nymphs #16-20 such as Pheasant Tails & BWO’s (Blue Winged Olive). Also Olive/Green Caddis Larva #14-16, Cased Caddis #10-16, Walt’s Worms/Sexy Waltz #10-18, Attractor & Hot-Spot Nymphs #14-18 (Triple Threats, Frenchies, Perdigons, etc.). Nymphs with metallic pink beads can be above average producers in the winter.<br /><u><b><br /></b></u>The best time to be out in the Winter is typically late morning through dusk (early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch excepted). This is when it’s the most comfortable, water temps are rising and/or at their highest, bugs are most likely to be active, and the time of day when trout are most apt to do a little feeding. Trout don’t normally feed heavily in the Winter- cold temps slow down their metabolism a lot so they don’t need to eat much, plus there are minimal hatches and food is much less available.<u><b><br /><br /></b></u>Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing farther away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs and up close where you have at least some current). Trout are holding in Winter water now, which means slower & deeper water. They may move up into moderate riffles to feed in the afternoons. They will often pod up in cold water, so if you find one, thoroughly fish that area as there are likely a bunch more nearby. Refuge from the current & predators supersedes access to food in the Winter, as their metabolism is slower. This means they don’t have to eat very much, plus there is way less food available & not a lot hatching. However, under normal flows, trout will sometimes rise to the morning Winter Caddis & afternoon Midges. <br /><br />We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. <br /><br />Nymphing remains a consistent producer <i><b>if </b></i>you are proficient at it, no surprise there. Sometimes in the colder water of Winter, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to far less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier and/or bigger flies <i><b>sometimes </b></i>do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. </span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state stocked the river with good sized brown trout in early October from just below the Rt 219 bridge in New Hartford all the way down to Collinsville & Unionville and below that too. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October with quite a few pretty rainbows.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />***Midges are the main afternoon hatch, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings. The Tiny Black Winter Stones are starting up***<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br />-Tiny Black Winter Stoneflies #18-24: afternoons<br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): especially good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs, also killer on recently stocked trout. Good also when nothing seems to be working. <br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: the brown trout spawn has been done for a while, but egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter/early Spring. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. There will also be spawning Rainbows in February/March, and Suckers in April. Plus fresh stocked trout in the Spring will hammer an egg fly until they get dialed into natural nymphs, larva & pupa. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red, purple<br /><br />-Winter Caddis Larva #18: suprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns, all year long<br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, and in assorted colors like olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences. High fishing pressure usually means you want to fish drabber & smaller flies that are more natural looking. Black beadheads can be good on trout that have seen too many gold, copper & silver beads.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River.<br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work especially well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam. They also Behavioral Drift in the daytime, unlike most bugs that do it in low light or even in the dark.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, but can also be drifted under an indicator. Excellent choice to fish in the Winter. Tan, olive, and white have been the best lately.<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />To a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. Hot colors in 2024 have been white, tan, and olive.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, <i>deadly </i>fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes they work better than bulky modern streamers, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. <br /><u><b>Try</b></u>: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></p>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-84443481005633974052024-02-05T09:58:00.003-05:002024-02-05T09:58:34.705-05:00Monday 2/5/24 Farmington RIver Report: Great Conditions & Big Orders Arriving Today<p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3oIoOYkbOgp7QghDeUUdY2fDqzaqIbMVSBbI0rZl1xIB2_-ChjVuvKsaWFtm3yfGn81ZiDamiU6O-Lge0JXboqBEjjcg5KctAEEze5cTTEVwj5M88bi3vRbeBwXpQCOxVyDF44HyoeNjTs1C2nwjnouKMioFJqo-EndVwRYOwpHti5u3wiKPNSySDztnw/s1280/GordonPerkinsNitrileBrownFeb2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1023" data-original-width="1280" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3oIoOYkbOgp7QghDeUUdY2fDqzaqIbMVSBbI0rZl1xIB2_-ChjVuvKsaWFtm3yfGn81ZiDamiU6O-Lge0JXboqBEjjcg5KctAEEze5cTTEVwj5M88bi3vRbeBwXpQCOxVyDF44HyoeNjTs1C2nwjnouKMioFJqo-EndVwRYOwpHti5u3wiKPNSySDztnw/w400-h320/GordonPerkinsNitrileBrownFeb2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. </span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span><span style="color: #134f5c; font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Don't forget to have a 2024 CT Fishing license plus a $5 Trout/Salmon Stamp</b></u></span><span style="font-size: medium;"> if you are planning to fish the Farmington River.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: purple; font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span><span style="font-size: medium;">:</span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Stop by for some bargains! </span><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span><span style="font-size: medium;">. </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>2023 Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i><span style="font-size: medium;">. </span><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u style="font-size: 14pt;">(not the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><u>also 40% off</u></span><span style="font-size: medium;">. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">We purchased purchased several huge collections of quality fly tying materials in 2023. Stop by and check it all out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. As we sell through these materials, we keep putting more out. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">UpCountry also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels in 2023. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Come and take a look before someone gets there first. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Pictured up top is customer Gordon Perkins with a handful of very healthy brown trout. Nitrile gloves like he’s wearing help keep your hands dry & comfortable and are very trout friendly- they don’t remove the slime coating. Make sure to take your wool & fleece gloves off in the winter before handling trout or you will remove some of their slime coating, which you don’t want to do. But the less you handle trout, the better.</span><br /><br /><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Guide Mark Swenson will be doing a Beginner Fly Tying class on Sunday Feburary 11</b></u><sup style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>th</b></u></sup><span style="font-size: medium;">, it will run from 9:30am-4pm with a lunch break in the middle. Cost is $150, class limit is 6P, contact Mark directly at 203-586-8007 to sign up. Vise & tools can be provided for you if needed, or you can bring your own. </span><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Update</b></u><span style="font-size: medium;">: Mark’s Beginner Tying Class is full as of 1/31. He has started a waiting list for any cancellations AND for a possible second class (middle/end of Feb), depending on response. Call Mark for more info.</span><br /><br /><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Conditions:<br /></b></u><span style="font-size: medium;">Currently the Riverton USGS gauge is reading 1,250cfs at the Rt 20 bridge. The Still River is adding in 211cfs below this, giving us a total flow in the Permanent TMA/Catch & Release of 556cfs. Huge improvement over the super high flows so common this fall & winter, I’d call mid 500cfs medium-high and a very nice fishing level. And this is syncing up with mild temps (highs well into the 40’s and even into the 50’s) and finally some nice sunny days with no rain or snow. At this point, virtually all the snow that was on the ground has melted.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Water temp this morning in Riverton was is 36.5+ degrees, it reached 38.5 degrees Sunday afternoon. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging mid to upper 30’s, depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. Colder snaps will drop water temps, but if you have sunny, mild weather (like now) it could actually be a warming influence on water temps in the afternoons. But mostly the Still River tends to be a cooling influence in the Winter, especially in the mornings after a colder night. In the Summer it’s a warming influence. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases, with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Because the MDC has been defaulting to a very frustrating minimum legal flow regime since early 2022 (50cfs–150cfs, plus any water released from Otis Reservoir in MA), that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full (except during droughts), and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump big water for a few days to a week. Historically they did a good job managing the water and had the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls & snowmelt. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d; font-size: 14pt;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods recently arrived</b></u></i></span><span style="font-size: medium;">, this replaces the Ultralite series (</span><i style="font-size: 14pt;">not </i><span style="font-size: medium;">the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.</span><br /><br /><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Mon</b></u><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>day Morning 2/</b></u><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>5</b></u><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>/24 Report:<br /></b></u><span style="font-size: medium;">After running our inventory down last year due to to very rough water conditions in the summer & fall, we have been doing some serious restocking finally in the past 2 weeks and have filled some holes, with lots more stuff arriving weekly. Filled in with </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Fulling Mill </b><span style="font-size: medium;">on </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">tungsten beads</b><span style="font-size: medium;">, their excellent </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">barbless hooks</b><span style="font-size: medium;">, </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">fly boxes, CDC & stripped peacock quills</b><span style="font-size: medium;">. We now have a good selection of </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">fly lines from Scientific Anglers & Rio</b><span style="font-size: medium;">, and </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Airlock strike indicators </b><span style="font-size: medium;">are back in stock. </span><br /><br /><b style="font-size: 14pt;">A HUGE Wapsi fly tying order </b><span style="font-size: medium;">will should be arriving today or tomorrow, along with a massive </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Simms order </b><span style="font-size: medium;">today (Monday 2/5). I’m currently working on a big </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Hareline </b><span style="font-size: medium;">fly tying order, and after that I’ll jump on </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Nature’s Spirit </b><span style="font-size: medium;">(also fly tying materials including things like Hanak hooks, and there will be at least one new Hanak hook model- a heavy wire version of the very popular 450 Jig Superb). You will see the holes on the walls getting filled weekly, along with some cool new products in the mix. </span><u style="font-size: 14pt;">I also put literally hundreds of hooks on sale at about </u><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>40% off</b></u><u style="font-size: 14pt;">- it’s a mix of overstocked hooks, ones we are no longer going to carry, and discontinued models</u><span style="font-size: medium;">. This includes overstocked & discontinued hooks from </span><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><b>Hanak </b></span><span style="font-size: medium;">(lots of different models & sizes), </span><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><b>Fasna </b></span><span style="font-size: medium;">(we have to drop them because our supplier dropped them), </span><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><b>Tiemco/TMC</b></span><span style="font-size: medium;">, </span><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: 14pt;"><b>Ahrex</b></span><span style="font-size: medium;">, and </span><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><b>Gamakatsu</b></span><span style="font-size: medium;">. FYI these sale hooks are for </span><u style="font-size: 14pt;">walk-in customers only</u><span style="font-size: medium;">, so we will not be taking phone orders for them. We got in a big Rezetti vise order in this week, more Regal vises, and we are well stocked with the brand new 2024 Hardy fresh & saltwater fly rods. </span><br /><br /><u style="font-size: 14pt;">Everything is </u><i style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>FINALLY </b></u></i><u style="font-size: 14pt;">lining up</u><span style="font-size: medium;">: nice water levels, mild weather, and no rain or snow for the next 5 days. Saw a lot of anglers walk through our doors this weekend, excited to take advantage of the good conditions after a rough winter with lots of high water. As mentioned above, we are doing some hardcore restocking in the store with product arriving on an almost daily basis now. I would not be surprised if the state begins stocking the trout streams this week, due to the snow being gone & mild temps- they like to get the trout in the streams early nowadays if they can. If not this week, I’m sure they will start next week, last week they started the second </span><span style="font-size: medium;">week in February. In our case though, there are always plenty of trout in the Farmington River no matter whether they have stocked recently or not in a long time. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">It’s back to more standard Farmington River winter tactics now that flows are normal once again. You may also see some trout rising to Winter Caddis in the mornings, and Midges in the afternoons. Overall, flies will mostly be a mix of nymphs & streamers. Jigged streamers fished slow & deep and be quite effective, especially on above average sized fish- they can be drifted under an indicator, or fished tight-line on a Euro rig. Better streamers colors lately are tan, olive, and white. Winter nymphs typically include Junk Flies (especially Eggs & Mops), Midges #18-22 in black/red/olive (Zebra Midge, etc.), Winter Caddis Larva #18, and small Mayfly Nymphs #16-20 such as Pheasant Tails & BWO’s (Blue Winged Olive). Also Olive/Green Caddis Larva #14-16, Cased Caddis #10-16, Walt’s Worms/Sexy Waltz #10-18, Attractor & Hot-Spot Nymphs #14-18 (Triple Threats, Frenchies, Perdigons, etc.). Nymphs with metallic pink beads can be above average producers in the winter.</span><br /><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><br /></b></u><span style="font-size: medium;">The best time to be out in the Winter is typically late morning through dusk (early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch excepted). This is when it’s the most comfortable, water temps are rising and/or at their highest, bugs are most likely to be active, and the time of day when trout are most apt to do a little feeding. Trout don’t normally feed heavily in the Winter- cold temps slow down their metabolism a lot so they don’t need to eat much, plus there are minimal hatches and food is much less available.</span><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><br /><br /></b></u><span style="font-size: medium;">Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing farther away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs and up close where you have at least some current). Trout are holding in Winter water now, which means slower & deeper water. They may move up into moderate riffles to feed in the afternoons. They will often pod up in cold water, so if you find one, thoroughly fish that area as there are likely a bunch more nearby. Refuge from the current & predators supersedes access to food in the Winter, as their metabolism is slower. This means they don’t have to eat very much, plus there is way less food available & not a lot hatching. However, under normal flows, trout will sometimes rise to the morning Winter Caddis & afternoon Midges. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Nymphing remains a consistent producer </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>if </b></i><span style="font-size: medium;">you are proficient at it, no surprise there. Sometimes in the colder water of Winter, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to far less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier and/or bigger flies </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>sometimes </b></i><span style="font-size: medium;">do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. </span><br /><br /><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Fishing Advice After the Spawn</b><span style="font-size: medium;">:</span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Keep an eye out for redds, the oval light colored depressions in gravel riffles where trout deposit their eggs. These are commonly located in riffle water in pool tailouts and in side channels, often in shallow water. Trout look to spawn where there is pea sized gravel with the right amount of current. Avoid those areas and the first 10-15 feet below them (many eggs drift downstream), otherwise you will crush the eggs if you walk there. The eggs don’t hatch out until February/early March, so </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>watch where you walk or you will be crushing & killing future wild trout</b></i><span style="font-size: medium;">. </span></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state stocked the river with good sized brown trout in early October from just below the Rt 219 bridge in New Hartford all the way down to Collinsville & Unionville and below that too. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October with quite a few pretty rainbows.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />***Midges are the main afternoon hatch, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings***<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): especially good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs, also killer on recently stocked trout. Good also when nothing seems to be working. <br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: the brown trout spawn has been done for a while, but egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter/early Spring. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. There will also be spawning Rainbows in February/March, and Suckers in April. Plus fresh stocked trout in the Spring will hammer an egg fly until they get dialed into natural nymphs, larva & pupa. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red, purple<br /><br />-Winter Caddis Larva #18: suprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns, all year long<br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, and in assorted colors like olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences. High fishing pressure usually means you want to fish drabber & smaller flies that are more natural looking. Black beadheads can be good on trout that have seen too many gold, copper & silver beads.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River.<br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work especially well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam. They also Behavioral Drift in the daytime, unlike most bugs that do it in low light or even in the dark.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, but can also be drifted under an indicator. Excellent choice to fish in the Winter. Tan, olive, and white have been the best lately.<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />To a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. Hot colors in 2024 have been white, tan, and olive.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, <i>deadly </i>fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes they work better than bulky modern streamers, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. <br /><u><b>Try</b></u>: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></p>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-79402126496162621492024-02-02T10:52:00.005-05:002024-02-03T08:07:46.038-05:00Friday 2/2/24 Farmington River Report: BIG Flow Cut, More New Products<p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgheeYWw3rcT8aZUVkcUWgHBcQPPVUZVgvh3JAv6qKjved_43NvxCX1VUvwH2bgJUR_bf14WWNo-5sIHefn4Nb3FOR_DTQd1yU3C7w94SVIYfSwGZky6hyLnOJnHLIadGVBUU_amqrsWD8OxN5kOsneXJ5vDJivcqKIwm6rasq3L-jSFu-nt6TiwBCkPM0b/s1290/MikeAndrewBigMotorBrownFeb2024.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1290" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgheeYWw3rcT8aZUVkcUWgHBcQPPVUZVgvh3JAv6qKjved_43NvxCX1VUvwH2bgJUR_bf14WWNo-5sIHefn4Nb3FOR_DTQd1yU3C7w94SVIYfSwGZky6hyLnOJnHLIadGVBUU_amqrsWD8OxN5kOsneXJ5vDJivcqKIwm6rasq3L-jSFu-nt6TiwBCkPM0b/w400-h280/MikeAndrewBigMotorBrownFeb2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></span></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. </span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><u><b>Don't forget to have a 2024 CT Fishing license plus a $5 Trout/Salmon Stamp</b></u></span> if you are planning to fish the Farmington River.<br /><br /><span style="color: purple;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span>:<br />Stop by for some bargains! <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span>. <i><b>2023 </b></i><i><b>Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i>. <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u>(not the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>also 40% off</u></span>. <br /><br />We purchased purchased several huge collections of quality fly tying materials in 2023. Stop by and check it all out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. As we sell through these materials, we keep putting more out. <br /><br />UpCountry also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Come and take a look before someone gets there first. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.<br /><br />Pictured up top is Mike Andrews with a February 1st long & lean brown trout with one helluva big tail on it. When they have a motor like that, it’s usually a good fight.<br /><br /><u><b>Guide Mark Swenson will be doing a Beginner Fly Tying class on Sunday Feburary 11</b></u><sup><u><b>th</b></u></sup>, it will run from 9:30am-4pm with a lunch break in the middle. Cost is $150, class limit is 6P, contact Mark directly at 203-586-8007 to sign up. Vise & tools can be provided for you if needed, or you can bring your own. </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Update</b></u></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">: </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Mark’s Beginner Tying Class is full as of 1/31. </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">He has </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">started a waiting list for any cancel</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">lations </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">AND for a possible second class </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">(</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">middle/end of Feb</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">),</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> depending on response. Call Mark for more info.</span></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>12:30pm Flow Update</b></u>:<br />Just got the email from the MDC, they are cutting the West Branch (Riverton) dam release from 1,200cfs down to <b>300cfs </b>in stages. This should put the total flow in the Permanent TMA down to just over <b>600cfs</b>, I’d call that medium-high & very fishable. And Riverton will be about 350cfs at the Rt 20 bridge, a medium flow. Looks like it will be a great weekend with sunshine, highs above freezing (37-40), and nice water levels. </span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Conditions:<br /></b></u>Keep your fingers crossed for a flow cut today, I would say it’s likely (but not guaranteed). Currently the dam is releasing 1,200cfs and the Riverton USGS gauge is reading 1,250cfs. The Still River is adding in 263cfs below this, giving us a total flow in the Permanent TMA/Catch & Release of 1,513cfs. 1,500+ cfs is very high, too high to recommend fishing at that level, but if they cut the flow today it would probably put the total flow somewhere in the CFS range of about 500-750cfs, a totally fishable level, and Riverton would be about 250-500cfs. If they don’t cut the flow today, it will literally be anytime in the next few day. <br /><br />Water temp this morning in Riverton was is 38 degrees. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging mid to upper 30’s, depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. Colder snaps will drop water temps, but if you have sunny, mild weather it could actually be a warming influence on water temps. But mostly the Still River tends to be a cooling influence in the Winter, especially in the mornings after a colder night. In the Summer it’s a warming influence. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases, with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.<br /><br />Because the MDC has been defaulting to a very frustrating minimum legal flow regime since early 2022 (50cfs–150cfs, plus any water released from Otis Reservoir in MA), that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full (except during droughts), and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump big water for a few days to a week. Historically they did a good job managing the water and had the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls & snowmelt. <br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods recently arrived</b></u></i></span>, this replaces the Ultralite series (<i>not </i>the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.<br /><br /><u><b>Friday Morning </b></u><u><b>2/2</b></u><u><b>/24 Report:<br /></b></u>After running our inventory down last year due to to very rough water conditions in the sumer & fall, we have been doing some serious restocking finally in the past week and filled some holes with tons more stuff arriving in the next few weeks. Filled in with <b>Fulling Mill </b>on <b>tungsten beads</b>, their excellent <b>barbless hooks</b>, <b>fly boxes, CDC & stripped peacock quills</b>. We’ve filled in <b>fly lines from Scientific Anglers & Rio</b>, and <b>Airlock strike indicators </b>are back in stock. <b>A HUGE Wapsi fly tying order </b>will be arriving early next week, and a massive <b>Simms order </b>is scheduled to arrive Monday 2/5. I’m currently working on a big <b>Hareline </b>fly tying order, and after that I’ll jump on <b>Nature’s Spirit</b>. So you will see the holes on the walls getting filled weekly, along with some cool new products arriving almost daily. <u>I also put literally hundreds of hooks on sale at about </u><u><b>40% off</b></u><u>- it’s a mix of overstocked hooks, ones we are no longer going to carry, and discontinued models</u>. This includes hooks from <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Hanak </b></span>(lots of different models & sizes), <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Fasna </b></span>(we have to drop them because our supplier dropped them), <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Tiemco/TMC</b></span>, <span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>Ahrex</b></span>, and <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Gamakatsu</b></span>. FYI these sale hooks are for <u>walk-in customers only</u>, so we will not be taking phone orders for them. We got in a big Rezetti vise order in this week, and we are well stocked with the new 2024 Hardy fresh & saltwater fly rods. <br /><br />Been a relatively mild week for mid winter, it’s too bad they cranked the dam release up earlier this week. As I mentioned above it’s quite possible they will do a big flow cut at the dam today in time for the weekend,but we won’t know until such time as they do or don’t do it. If not today, it will be any day now. Long range weather is all highs well above freezing, with next to zero precipitation of any sort. Should be a good window of water conditions & weather combined, so get ready! <br /><br />Most of you are familiar with the high water game that’s been all too common this fall & winter: fish near the banks, out of the heavy current, with a mix of streamers, “Junk Flies” (Mops, Egg Flies, Squirmy Worms, Green Weenies), and larger nymphs (like Stoneflies, Princes, etc.). After the flow cut comes, it’s back to more standard Farmington River winter tactics. In normal flows there may be some trout rising to Winter Caddis in the mornings, and Midges in the afternoons. Flies will mostly be a mix of nymphs & streamers. Jigged streamers fished slow & deep and be quite effective, especially on above average sized fish. Better streamers colors lately are tan, olive, and white. Winter nymphs typically include Junk Flies (especially Eggs & Mops) & Midges #18-22 in black/red/olive (Zebra Midge, etc.), Winter Caddis Larva #18, and small Mayfly Nymphs such as Pheasant Tails & BWO’s (Blue Winged Olive). Also Olive/Green Caddis Larva #14-16, Cased Caddis #10-16, Walt’s Worms/Sexy Waltz #10-18, Attractor & Hot-Spot Nymphs #14-18 (Triple Threats, Frenchies, Perdigons, etc.). Nymphs with metallic pink beads can be above average producers in the winter.<br /><u><b><br /></b></u>The best time to be out in the Winter is typically late morning through dusk (early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch excepted). This is when it’s the most comfortable, water temps are rising and/or at their highest, bugs are most likely to be active, and the time of day when trout are most apt to do a little feeding. Trout don’t normally feed heavily in the Winter- cold temps slow down their metabolism a lot so they don’t need to eat much, plus there are minimal hatches and food is much less available.<u><b><br /><br /></b></u>Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing farther away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs and up close where you have at least some current). Trout are holding in Winter water now, which means slower & deeper water. They may move up into moderate riffles to feed in the afternoons. They will often pod up in cold water, so if you find one, thoroughly fish that area as there are likely a bunch more nearby. Refuge from the current & predators supersedes access to food in the Winter, as their metabolism is slower. This means they don’t have to eat very much, plus there is way less food available & not a lot hatching. However, under normal flows, trout will sometimes rise to the morning Winter Caddis & afternoon Midges. <br /><br />During normal flows, in the afternoons look for Midges to bring a few trout to the surface in the bigger, wider, slower pools. There are also Winter Caddis in the early to mid mornings. We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. <br /><br />Nymphing remains a consistent producer <i><b>if </b></i>you are proficient at it, no surprise there. Sometimes in the colder water of Winter, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to far less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier and/or bigger flies <i><b>sometimes </b></i>do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. Having said that, currently many of the medium to large brown trout are extra hungry due to weight loss during the Fall spawn. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. <br /><br />Traditional Streamers fished slow & deep are having their moments- play with colors and retrieves to find out what works, it can vary. Lately the top streamer colors are tan, white, and olive- color can make a BIG difference some days, so don’t get hung up on only one color. Tan has been hot lately, but other colors can be better at moments. Effective nymphs have included assorted smaller #18-20 patterns, egg flies, Junk Flies (Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Caddis larva, and attractor/hot-spot flies. Fish have seen a LOT of egg patterns, so make sure to pair egg flies with a nymph to give them another option. <br /><br />No need to start early now (due to colder water temps), unless you want to hit the early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch (7am-10am is typical for that, but can be earlier or later). Typically this time of year the fishing just seems to improve as the day progresses and water temps rise, and morning Winter Caddis excepted, most of the hatching activity is all in the afternoons. Nymphs, dries & streamers are all possibilities right now. When water temps get truly cold like they are now (30’s mostly), rising water temps during the day tends to get the trout active and feeding. Overall, afternoons have fished a lot better than mornings. This is especially true after a colder night- when you get a mild overnight the early morning fishing can be good. Nymphing is the most consistent tactic, but streamers are also producing some nice fish.<br /><br /><b>Fishing Advice After the Spawn</b>:<br />Keep an eye out for redds, the oval light colored depressions in gravel riffles where trout deposit their eggs. These are commonly located in riffle water in pool tailouts and in side channels, often in shallow water. Trout look to spawn where there is pea sized gravel with the right amount of current. Avoid those areas and the first 10-15 feet below them (many eggs drift downstream), otherwise you will crush the eggs if you walk there. The eggs don’t hatch out until about February/early March, so <i><b>watch where you walk or you will be crushing & killing future wild trout</b></i>. </span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state stocked the river with good sized brown trout in early October from just below the Rt 219 bridge in New Hartford all the way down to Collinsville & Unionville and below that too. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October with quite a few pretty rainbows.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />***Midges are the main afternoon hatch, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings***<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): especially good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs, also killer on recently stocked trout. Good also when nothing seems to be working. <br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: the brown trout spawn has been done for a while, but egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter/early Spring. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. There will also be spawning Rainbows in February/March, and Suckers in April. Plus fresh stocked trout in the Spring will hammer an egg fly until they get dialed into natural nymphs, larva & pupa. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red, purple<br /><br />-Winter Caddis Larva #18: suprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns, all year long<br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, and in assorted colors like olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences. High fishing pressure usually means you want to fish drabber & smaller flies that are more natural looking. Black beadheads can be good on trout that have seen too many gold, copper & silver beads.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River.<br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work especially well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam. They also Behavioral Drift in the daytime, unlike most bugs that do it in low light or even in the dark.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, excellent choice to fish in the Winter. Tan, olive, and white have been the best lately.<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />After the fall brown trout spawn, in Winter many trout have lost weight and are depleted and are looking to put weight back on, and to a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. <br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, <i>deadly </i>fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes they work better than bulky modern streamers, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. <br /><u><b>Try</b></u>: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></p>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-51135300622093489552024-01-29T16:01:00.009-05:002024-01-30T10:13:30.825-05:00Monday 1/29/24 Farmington River Report: Flow Bump, New Products & Hook Sale<p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6-SrwanuxA-62i9jZq1p1bnK2L0Wq56HjTqi7QSOA4uZy27C3ApupOFrfSzTMtrbaKeSk4a9zcj7x9U8ekA8uvBJ4dxOrIAWsijNzfiXgN1fnxko3vUFzjRXtDvul4HRU3ytf7Sec_CGIoE9atBxJMjUG61uYnL0CLAORCvGjEDRri5m7od5VJ9XKS3zo/s1280/JohnAntoliniNiceBrownJan2024.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1088" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6-SrwanuxA-62i9jZq1p1bnK2L0Wq56HjTqi7QSOA4uZy27C3ApupOFrfSzTMtrbaKeSk4a9zcj7x9U8ekA8uvBJ4dxOrIAWsijNzfiXgN1fnxko3vUFzjRXtDvul4HRU3ytf7Sec_CGIoE9atBxJMjUG61uYnL0CLAORCvGjEDRri5m7od5VJ9XKS3zo/w340-h400/JohnAntoliniNiceBrownJan2024.jpg" width="340" /></a></b></span></span></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. </span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><u><b>Don't forget to have a 2024 CT Fishing license plus a $5 Trout/Salmon Stamp</b></u></span> if you are planning to fish the Farmington River.<br /><br /><span style="color: purple;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span>:<br />Stop by for some bargains! <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span>. <i><b>Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i>. <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u>(not the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>also 40% off</u></span>. <br /><br />We purchased purchased several huge collections of quality fly tying materials in 2023. Stop by and check it all out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. As we sell through these materials, we keep putting more out. <br /><br />UpCountry also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Come and take a look before someone gets there first. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.<br /><br />Pictured up top is customer John Antolini with a beautiful brown trout from this past weekend in the high water. You can’t win if you don’t play.<br /><br /><u><b>Guide Mark Swenson will be doing a Beginner Fly Tying class on Sunday Feburary 11</b></u><sup><u><b>th</b></u></sup>, it will run from 9:30am-4pm with a lunch break in the middle. Cost is $150, class limit is 6P, contact Mark directly at 203-586-8007 to sign up. Vise & tools can be provided for you if needed, or you can bring your own. Only1 spot left open as of Tuesday 1/30. If there is enough demand, he may do a second class. </span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: #55308d;"><u><b>Tuesday morning 1/30 </b></u></span><span style="color: #55308d;"><u><b>10am </b></u></span><span style="color: #55308d;"><u><b>Flow Update</b></u></span>:<br />Just received the MDC email, Army Corps of Engineers will be increasing the dam release for flood control, from 430cfs up to 1,200cfs in stages this morning. East Branch remains at spill (no dam release, coming over the spillway). This will put the total flow below the Still River in the permanent TMA/C&R at just over 1,600cfs and slowly dropping- too high to fish until they cut the release back. They will likely keep it like this through Friday and then make a substantial flow cut, but this is just an educated guess. Once they have Colebrook River Lake below 708 feet elevation, they will go back to their “normal” release (since 2022) of 50-150cfs, plus whatever Otis Reservoir is releasing added to that.</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Conditions:<br /></b></u>The Farmington is high but fishable as I write this, with a total flow in the permanent TMA/Catch & Release (C&R) of 935cfs and dropping. Riverton is medium-high and very fishable at 495cfs from the Rt 20 bridge and up. The Still River is 440cfs & dropping. Back to more typical winter weather now with the long range highs 30's to low 40's, and nights averaging below freezing. Water temp this morning in Riverton was just over 36.5 degrees, it reached about 37.5 degrees yesterday afternoon. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging mid to upper 30’s, depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. Colder snaps will drop water temps. FYI the Still River tends to be a cooling influence in the Winter, especially in the mornings after a colder night. In the Summer it’s a warming influence. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases, with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.<br /><br />Because the MDC has been defaulting to a very frustrating minimum legal flow regime since early 2022 (50cfs–150cfs, plus any water released from Otis Reservoir in MA), that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full (except during droughts), and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump big water for a few days to a week. Historically they did a good job managing the water and had the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls & snowmelt. <br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods recently arrived</b></u></i></span>, this replaces the Ultralite series (<i>not </i>the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.<br /><br /><u><b>Mon</b></u><u><b>day </b></u><u><b>afternoon</b></u><u><b>1/2</b></u><u><b>9</b></u><u><b>/24 Report:<br /></b></u>Before I go into the regular report, just wanted to let you know that <u>new product is </u><i><u><b>finally </b></u></i><u></u><u>starting to roll in the door almost daily now. </u><u>I also put literally hundreds of hooks on sale at about </u><u><b>40% off</b></u><u>- it’s a mix of overstocked hooks, ones we are no longer going to carry, and discontinued models</u>. This includes hooks from <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Hanak </b></span>(lots of different models & sizes), <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Fasna </b></span>(we have to drop them because our supplier dropped them), <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Tiemco/TMC</b></span>, <b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Ahrex</span></b>, and <span style="color: #2a6099;"><b>Gamakatsu</b></span>. FYI these sale hooks are for <u>walk-in customers only</u>, so we will not be taking phone orders for them. Should be getting a BIG Wapsi fly tying materials order in soon (maybe later this week), and I just placed a Fulling Mill order for tungsten beads, hooks, fly boxes, CDC, and stripped dyed Peacock Quills. We are restocked with Rio fly lines, leaders & tippet. We got in a big Rezetti vise order today, and some more Regal vises are on the way, along with a bunch of Scientific Angler fly lines. I’m working on a Hareline fly tying order currently and I’ll place that soon, and after that I’ll do Nature’s Spirit. We are well stocked with the new 2024 Hardy fresh & saltwater fly rods. <br /><u><b><br /></b></u>Looks like the crappy rain/snow/sleet/slush is behind us now, with more typical cool winter weather here the rest of the week. I thought the MDC would increase the dam release today, but thus far they have not. They may well still put it up to 1,000+ cfs out of the dam in the next day or two, or maybe they will keep this medium high release goingthe rest of the week. They don’t normally tell us in advance so we will have to wait and see. With a total flow in the permanent TMA/C&R in the low 900cfs range and going down, that’s a fishable high level. Riverton is proportionally lower at 495cfs if you want a medium-high level. As I said above though, this could all change so check the flows before you head out. Most of you are familiar with the high water game that’s been all too common this fall & winter: fish near the banks, out of the heavy current, with a mix of streamers, “Junk Flies” (Mops, Egg Flies, Squirmy Worms, Green Weenies), and larger nymphs (like Stoneflies, Princes, etc.). <br /><u><b><br /></b></u>The best time to be out in the Winter is typically late morning through dusk (early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch excepted). This is when it’s the most comfortable, water temps are rising and/or at their highest, bugs are most likely to be active, and the time of day when trout are most apt to do a little feeding. Trout don’t normally feed heavily in the Winter- cold temps slow down their metabolism a lot so they don’t need to eat much, plus there are minimal hatches and food is much less available.<u><b><br /><br /></b></u>During higher flows think “Junk Flies” (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy Worms), various Caddis Larva, Attractor nymphs (with flash, hotspots, and/or gaudy colors), larger nymphs like Stoneflies, and of course Streamers in tan, white, olive. During typical moderate flows, think normal Winter Mode: streamers fished slow & deep, Caddis Larva (regular olive/green & cased), small Midges (black, olive, red), small Mayfly Nymphs, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Winter Caddis Larva, and Attractor Nymphs (with flash, hotspots, or bright/fluorescent colors). Streamers can be fished conventionally, using either weighted flies/split, sink-tips, or sinking leaders to get them deep, or… heavy jigged small to medium streamers fished on a Euro rig (deadly!). <br /><br />Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing farther away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs and up close where you have at least some current). Trout are holding in Winter water now, which means slower & deeper water. They may move up into moderate riffles to feed in the afternoons. They will often pod up this time of year, so if you find one, thoroughly fish that area as there are likely a bunch more nearby. Refuge from the current & predators supersedes access to food in the Winter, as their metabolism is slower. This means they don’t have to eat very much, plus there is way less food available & not a lot hatching. However, under normal flows, trout will sometimes rise to the morning Winter Caddis & afternoon Midges. <br /><br />During normal flows, in the afternoons look for Midges to bring a few trout to the surface in the bigger, wider, slower pools. There are also Winter Caddis in the early to mid mornings. We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. <br /><br />Nymphing remains a consistent producer <i><b>if </b></i>you are proficient at it, no surprise there. Sometimes in the colder water of Winter, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to far less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier and/or bigger flies <i><b>sometimes </b></i>do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. Having said that, currently many of the medium to large brown trout are extra hungry due to weight loss during the Fall spawn. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. <br /><br />Traditional Streamers fished slow & deep are having their moments- play with colors and retrieves to find out what works, it can vary. Lately the top streamer colors are tan, white, and olive- color can make a BIG difference some days, so don’t get hung up on only one color. Tan has been hot lately, but other colors can be better at moments. Effective nymphs have included assorted smaller #18-20 patterns, egg flies, Junk Flies (Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Caddis larva, and attractor/hot-spot flies. Fish have seen a LOT of egg patterns, so make sure to pair egg flies with a nymph to give them another option. <br /><br />No need to start early now (due to colder water temps), unless you want to hit the early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch (7am-10am is typical for that, but can be earlier or later). Typically this time of year the fishing just seems to improve as the day progresses and water temps rise, and morning Winter Caddis excepted, most of the hatching activity is all in the afternoons. Nymphs, dries & streamers are all possibilities right now. When water temps get truly cold like they are now (30’s mostly), rising water temps during the day tends to get the trout active and feeding. Overall, afternoons have fished a lot better than mornings. This is especially true after a colder night- when you get a mild overnight the early morning fishing can be good. Nymphing is the most consistent tactic, but streamers are also producing some nice fish.<br /><br /><b>Fishing Advice After the Spawn</b>:<br />Keep an eye out for redds, the oval light colored depressions in gravel riffles where trout deposit their eggs. These are commonly located in riffle water in pool tailouts and in side channels, often in shallow water. Trout look to spawn where there is pea sized gravel with the right amount of current. Avoid those areas and the first 10-15 feet below them (many eggs drift downstream), otherwise you will crush the eggs if you walk there. The eggs don’t hatch out until about February/early March, so <i><b>watch where you walk or you will be crushing & killing future wild trout</b></i>. </span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state stocked the river with good sized brown trout in early October from just below the Rt 219 bridge in New Hartford all the way down to Collinsville & Unionville and below that too. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October with quite a few pretty rainbows.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />***Midges are the main afternoon hatch, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings***<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): especially good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs, also killer on recently stocked trout. Good also when nothing seems to be working. <br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: spawn is done, but egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter/early Spring. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red<br /><br />-Winter Caddis Larva #18: suprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns, all year long<br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, and in assorted colors like olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences. High fishing pressure usually means you want to fish drabber & smaller flies that are more natural looking. Black beadheads can be good on trout that have seen too many gold, copper & silver beads.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River.<br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work especially well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam. They also Behavioral Drift in the daytime, unlike most bugs that do it in low light or even in the dark.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, excellent choice to fish in the Winter. Tan, olive, and white have been the best lately.<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />After the fall brown trout spawn, in Winter many trout have lost weight and are depleted and are looking to put weight back on, and to a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. <br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, <i>deadly </i>fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes they work better than bulky modern streamers, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. <br /><u><b>Try</b></u>: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></p>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-77459094872197302992024-01-26T11:08:00.004-05:002024-01-26T11:10:49.725-05:00Friday 1/26/24 Farmington River Report: Big Browns<p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgzG7HZKtgC-r9dbO_sHnccKzONxhcN-oL2uSdUgNhuV2c_KX7h7VKZESX1ov_X23fnu9-eCV42s-yMky5lwb1Ce0rGyKx3siLiKIlznhF93NIEUkCcYAZZzP4MH3-FdMUnvzwg8clFav53rbZeB0HvexgE0WNClhyphenhyphenqa7wv9kKWE4eJLiXq1b1295RIYfo/s1280/BenToscanoBigWildBrownJan2024.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="944" data-original-width="1280" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgzG7HZKtgC-r9dbO_sHnccKzONxhcN-oL2uSdUgNhuV2c_KX7h7VKZESX1ov_X23fnu9-eCV42s-yMky5lwb1Ce0rGyKx3siLiKIlznhF93NIEUkCcYAZZzP4MH3-FdMUnvzwg8clFav53rbZeB0HvexgE0WNClhyphenhyphenqa7wv9kKWE4eJLiXq1b1295RIYfo/w400-h295/BenToscanoBigWildBrownJan2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></span></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. </span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><u><b>Don't forget to have a 2024 CT Fishing license plus a $5 Trout/Salmon Stamp</b></u></span> if you are planning to fish the Farmington River.</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: purple;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span>:<br />Stop by for some bargains! <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span>. <i><b>Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i>. <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u>(not the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>also 40% off</u></span>. <br /><br />We purchased purchased several huge collections of quality fly tying materials in 2023. Stop by and check it all out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. As we sell through these materials, we keep putting more out. <br /><br />UpCountry also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Come and take a look before someone gets there first. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.<br /><br />Pictured up top is customer Ben Toscano with one helluva nice wild (I think) Farmington brown trout. We got several excellent reports from anglers that were out during the mild weather Thursday (50 degrees) as the river was rising from the rain- this was a slower natural rise in the water level, not a dam release. </span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Guide Mark Swenson will be doing a Beginner Fly Tying class on Sunday Feburary 11</b></u><sup><u><b>th</b></u></sup>, it will run from 9:30am-4pm with a lunch break in the middle. Cost is $150, class limit is 6P, contact Mark directly at 203-586-8007 to sign up. Vise & tool can be provided for you if needed, or you can bring your own.</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Morning Conditions:<br /></b></u>Rain & mild temps the past few days, combined with snowmelt, has pushed the river level way up. Those who ventured out Thursday and took advantage of the mild weather caught some very nice wild browns. A natural rise in the water level combined with rising water temps can turn the big browns on, even in the Winter. Back to more typical winter weather now with the long range highs all in the 35-40 degree range, and nights from 22-34. Total flow in the Permanent TMA/Catch & Release is very high at 1,462cfs and still rising as I write this Friday morning. I’d wait for the total flow to come down below 1,000cfs to fish the permanent TMA/C&R. It should start dropping as today goes on, and drop a lot over the weekend.</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">They bumped the dam release on Thursday from 239cfs to 430cfs, and as of today (Friday morning, above the Still River in Riverton above the Still River the USGS gauge is reading 599cfs, which is high but certainly fishable.. Water temp this morning in Riverton is just over 37 degrees, it reached 38 degrees yesterday afternoon. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging mid to upper 30’s, depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. Colder snaps will drop water temps. FYI the Still River tends to be a cooling influence in the Winter, especially in the mornings after a colder night. In the Summer it’s a warming influence. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases, with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.<br /><br />Because the MDC has been defaulting to a very frustrating minimum flow regime since early 2022 (50cfs–150cfs, plus any water released from Otis Reservoir in MA), that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full, and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump big water for a few days to a week. Historically they would do a good job managing the water and get the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls & snowmelt. <br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods recently arrived</b></u></i></span>, this replaces the Ultralite series (<i>not </i>the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.<br /><br /><u><b>Fri</b></u><u><b>day morning 1/</b></u><u><b>26</b></u><u><b>/24 Report:<br /></b></u>The mild temps earlier this week came along with rain & smowmelt and pushed the river way up once again, we are at 1,400+ cfs as I write this and still rising. With the rain about done now and all the snow melted, look for the water level to starting dropping as the day goes one. Riverton is moderately high but fishable at around 600cfs this morning- it should drop a bit over the weekend. Had a few surprisingly good fishing reports from Thursday, the slow steady rise in water combined with a very mild day brought some big browns out to play. I’d wait for the total flow to come down under 1,000cfs, but Riverton is fishable at current flows. Most of you are familiar with the high water game: fish near the banks, out of the heavy current, with a mix of streamers, “Junk Flies” (Mops, Egg Flies, Squirmy Worms, Green Weenies), and larger nymphs (like Stoneflies, Princes, etc.). <br /><u><b><br /></b></u>The best time to be out in the Winter is typically late morning through dusk (early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch excepted). This is when it’s the most comfortable, water temps are rising and/or at their highest, bugs are most likely to be active, and the time of day when trout are most apt to do a little feeding. Trout don’t feed heavily in the Winter- cold temps slow down their metabolism a lot so they don’t need to eat much, plus there are minimal hatches and food is much less available.<u><b><br /><br /></b></u>During higher flows think “Junk Flies” (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy Worms), various Caddis Larva, Attractor nymphs (with flash, hotspots, and/or gaudy colors), larger nymphs like Stoneflies, and of course Streamers in tan, white, olive. During typical moderate flows, think normal Winter Mode: streamers fished slow & deep, Caddis Larva (regular olive/green & cased), small Midges (black, olive, red), small Mayfly Nymphs, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Winter Caddis Larva, and Attractor Nymphs (with flash, hotspots, or bright/fluorescent colors). Streamers can be fished conventionally, using either weighted flies/split, sink-tips, or sinking leaders to get them deep, or… heavy jigged small to medium streamers fished on a Euro rig (deadly!). <br /><br />Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing farther away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs and up close where you have at least some current). Trout are holding in Winter water now, which means slower & deeper water. They may move up into moderate riffles to feed in the afternoons. They will often pod up this time of year, so if you find one, thoroughly fish that area as there are likely a bunch more nearby. Refuge from the current & predators supersedes access to food in the Winter, as their metabolism is slower. This means they don’t have to eat very much, plus there is way less food available & not a lot hatching. However, under normal flows, trout will sometimes rise to the morning Winter Caddis & afternoon Midges. <br /><br />During normal flows, in the afternoons look for Midges to bring a few trout to the surface in the bigger, wider, slower pools. There are also Winter Caddis in the early to mid mornings. We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. <br /><br />Nymphing remains a consistent producer <i><b>if </b></i>you are proficient at it, no surprise there. Sometimes in the colder water of Winter, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to far less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier and/or bigger flies <i><b>sometimes </b></i>do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. Having said that, currently many of the medium to large brown trout are extra hungry due to weight loss during the Fall spawn. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. <br /><br />Traditional Streamers fished slow & deep are having their moments- play with colors and retrieves to find out what works, it can vary. Lately the top streamer colors are tan, white, and olive- color can make a BIG difference some days, so don’t get hung up on only one color. Tan has been hot lately, but other colors can be better at moments. Effective nymphs have included assorted smaller #18-20 patterns, egg flies, Junk Flies (Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Caddis larva, and attractor/hot-spot flies. Fish have seen a LOT of egg patterns, so make sure to pair egg flies with a nymph to give them another option. <br /><br />No need to start early now (due to colder water temps), unless you want to hit the early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch (7am-10am is typical for that, but can be earlier or later). Typically this time of year the fishing just seems to improve as the day progresses and water temps rise, and morning Winter Caddis excepted, most of the hatching activity is all in the afternoons. Nymphs, dries & streamers are all possibilities right now. When water temps get truly cold like they are now (30’s mostly), rising water temps during the day tends to get the trout active and feeding. Overall, afternoons have fished a lot better than mornings. This is especially true after a colder night- when you get a mild overnight the early morning fishing can be good. Nymphing is the most consistent tactic, but streamers are also producing some nice fish.<br /><br /><b>Fishing Advice After the Spawn</b>:<br />Keep an eye out for redds, the oval light colored depressions in gravel riffles where trout deposit their eggs. These are commonly located in riffle water in pool tailouts and in side channels, often in shallow water. Trout look to spawn where there is pea sized gravel with the right amount of current. Avoid those areas and the first 10-15 feet below them (many eggs drift downstream), otherwise you will crush the eggs if you walk there. The eggs don’t hatch out until about February/early March, so <i><b>watch where you walk or you will be crushing & killing future wild trout</b></i>. </span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state stocked the river with good sized brown trout in early October from just below the Rt 219 bridge in New Hartford all the way down to Collinsville & Unionville and below that too. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October with quite a few pretty rainbows.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />***Midges are the main afternoon hatch, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings***<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): especially good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs, also killer on recently stocked trout. Good also when nothing seems to be working. <br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: spawn is done, but egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter/early Spring. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red<br /><br />-Winter Caddis Larva #18: suprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns, all year long<br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, and in assorted colors like olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences. High fishing pressure usually means you want to fish drabber & smaller flies that are more natural looking. Black beadheads can be good on trout that have seen too many gold, copper & silver beads.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River.<br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work especially well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam. They also Behavioral Drift in the daytime, unlike most bugs that do it in low light or even in the dark.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, excellent choice to fish in the Winter. Tan, olive, and white have been the best lately.<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />After the fall brown trout spawn, in Winter many trout have lost weight and are depleted and are looking to put weight back on, and to a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. <br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, <i>deadly </i>fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes they work better than bulky modern streamers, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. <br /><u><b>Try</b></u>: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></p>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-85981339389505955452024-01-23T10:10:00.001-05:002024-01-23T10:10:41.895-05:00Tuesday 1/23/24 Farmington River Report: Big Flow Cut Finally!<p style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: webkit-standard;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: webkit-standard;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH9XfQqmvRB5K93SDxyYjX94QB102mgOpgogvqgW-Lz0Q9UIEoUk4pvAebo9tVyTNQw_HnP0BcoIsRS_FYFNjoYl1GSJVAqExADITOHOfTZt_ngB7uMVFaEpJzP_HS9bbbEkyZWjMmp_TPDcvI4RkWqkQQyF_Vl5rIwBSJpf2Mjl0Il8GYDL8xPYon6YXA/s1290/USGS-1-23-24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1101" data-original-width="1290" height="341" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH9XfQqmvRB5K93SDxyYjX94QB102mgOpgogvqgW-Lz0Q9UIEoUk4pvAebo9tVyTNQw_HnP0BcoIsRS_FYFNjoYl1GSJVAqExADITOHOfTZt_ngB7uMVFaEpJzP_HS9bbbEkyZWjMmp_TPDcvI4RkWqkQQyF_Vl5rIwBSJpf2Mjl0Il8GYDL8xPYon6YXA/w400-h341/USGS-1-23-24.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></span></span></div><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: webkit-standard;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. </span></span></span><p></p><p align="left" style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: webkit-standard;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><u><b>Don't forget to have a 2024 CT Fishing license plus a $5 Trout/Salmon Stamp</b></u></span> if you are planning to fish the Farmington River.</span></span></span></p><p align="left" style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: webkit-standard;"><span><span style="color: purple; font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span><span style="font-size: medium;">:</span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Stop by for some bargains! </span><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span><span style="font-size: medium;">. </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i><span style="font-size: medium;">. </span><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u style="font-size: 14pt;">(not the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><u>also 40% off</u></span><span style="font-size: medium;">. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">We purchased purchased several huge collections of quality fly tying materials in 2023. Stop by and check it all out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. As we sell through these materials, we keep putting more out. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">UpCountry also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Come and take a look before someone gets there first. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.</span><br /><br /><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Morning Conditions:<br /></b></u><span style="font-size: medium;">Total flow in the Permanent TMA/Catch & Release is an estimated 450-475cfs & dropping after a big flow cut on Monday afternoon- the is a nice level. The Still River gauge is currently iced up, 3 days ago it was reading about 275cfs so it’s dropping and should be in the 175-200cfs range- it should thaw out soon. Above the Still River in Riverton, the USGS gauge is reading 274cfs. Water temp this morning is 37 degrees. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging mid to upper 30’s, depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. Colder snaps will drop water temps. FYI the Still River tends to be a cooling influence in the Winter, especially in the mornings after a colder night. In the Summer it’s a warming influence. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases, with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Because the MDC has been defaulting to a very frustrating minimum flow regime since early 2022 (50cfs–150cfs, plus any water released from Otis Reservoir in MA), that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full, and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump big water for a few days to a week. Historically they would do a good job managing the water and get the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls & snowmelt. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d; font-size: 14pt;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods recently arrived</b></u></i></span><span style="font-size: medium;">, this replaces the Ultralite series (</span><i style="font-size: 14pt;">not </i><span style="font-size: medium;">the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.</span><br /><br /><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Tues</b></u><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>day morning 1/</b></u><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>23</b></u><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>/24 Report:<br /></b></u><span style="font-size: medium;">The big flow cut finally happened Monday afternoon, and now we are nice & fishable with a total flow in the permanent TMA/Catch & Release (C&R) in the 450+ cfs range, with Riverton around 275cfs. Flows are fine down to about New Hartford, but get higher a bit below UpCountry after the East Branch dumps in. Unionville is just over 1,000cfs, so I would stay from about New Hartford & upstream to have nice water levels.</span><br /><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><br /></b></u><span style="font-size: medium;">Not many people have been out fishing between the high flows and colder air temps, but conditions are nice once again, with much milder weather here through the weekend. Best time to be out in the Winter is typically late morning through dusk (early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch excepted). This is when it’s the most comfortable, water temps are rising and/or at their highest, bugs are most likely to be active, and the time of day when trout are most apt to do a little feeding. Trout don’t feed heavily in the Winter- cold temps slow down their metabolism a lot so they don’t need to eat much, plus there are minimal hatches and food is much less available.</span><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><br /><br /></b></u><span style="font-size: medium;">During higher flows think “Junk Flies” (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy Worms), various Caddis Larva, Attractor nymphs (with flash, hotspots, and/or gaudy colors), larger nymphs like Stoneflies, and of course Streamers in tan, white, olive. Now that we are back to typical conditions, think normal Winter Mode: streamers fished slow & deep, Caddis Larva (regular olive/green & cased), small Midges (black, olive, red), Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Winter Caddis Larva, and Attractor Nymphs (with flash, hotspots, or bright/fluorescent colors). Streamers can be fished conventionally, using either weighted flies/split, sink-tips, or sinking leaders to get them deep, or… heavy jigged small to medium streamers fished on a Euro rig (deadly!). </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing farther away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs and up close where you have at least some current). Trout are holding in Winter water now, which means slower & deeper water. They may move up into moderate riffles to feed in the afternoons. They will often pod up this time of year, so if you find one, thoroughly fish that area as there are likely a bunch more nearby. Refuge from the current & predators supersedes access to food in the Winter, as their metabolism is slower. This means they don’t have to eat very much, plus there is way less food available & not a lot hatching. However, under normal flows, trout will sometimes rise to the morning Winter Caddis & afternoon Midges. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">During moderate flows, in the afternoons look for Midges to bring a few trout to the surface in the bigger, wider, slower pools. There are also Winter Caddis in the early to mid mornings. We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Nymphing remains a consistent producer </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>if </b></i><span style="font-size: medium;">you are proficient at it, no surprise there. Sometimes in the colder water of Winter, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to far less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier and/or bigger flies </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>sometimes </b></i><span style="font-size: medium;">do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. Having said that, currently many of the medium to large brown trout are extra hungry due to weight loss during the Fall spawn. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Traditional Streamers fished slow & deep are having their moments- play with colors and retrieves to find out what works, it can vary. Lately the top streamer colors are tan, white, and olive- color can make a BIG difference some days, so don’t get hung up on only one color. Tan has been hot lately, but other colors can be better at moments. Effective nymphs have included assorted smaller #18-20 patterns, egg flies, Junk Flies (Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Caddis larva, and attractor/hot-spot flies. Fish have seen a LOT of egg patterns, so make sure to pair egg flies with a nymph to give them another option. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">No need to start early now (due to colder water temps), unless you want to hit the early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch (7am-10am is typical for that, but can be earlier or later). Typically this time of year the fishing just seems to improve as the day progresses and water temps rise, and morning Winter Caddis excepted, most of the hatching activity is all in the afternoons. Nymphs, dries & streamers are all possibilities right now. When water temps get truly cold like they are now (30’s mostly), rising water temps during the day tends to get the trout active and feeding. Overall, afternoons have fished a lot better than mornings. This is especially true after a colder night- when you get a mild overnight the early morning fishing can be good. Nymphing is the most consistent tactic, but streamers are also producing some nice fish.</span><br /><br /><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Fishing Advice After the Spawn</b><span style="font-size: medium;">:</span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Keep an eye out for redds, the oval light colored depressions in gravel riffles where trout deposit their eggs. These are commonly located in riffle water in pool tailouts and in side channels, often in shallow water. Trout look to spawn where there is pea sized gravel with the right amount of current. Avoid those areas and the first 10-15 feet below them (many eggs drift downstream), otherwise you will crush the eggs if you walk there. The eggs don’t hatch out until about February/early March, so </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>watch where you walk or you will be crushing & killing future wild trout</b></i><span style="font-size: medium;">. </span></span></span></span></p><p align="left" style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: webkit-standard;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state stocked the river with good sized brown trout in early October from just below the Rt 219 bridge in New Hartford all the way down to Collinsville & Unionville and below that too. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October with quite a few pretty rainbows.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />***Midges are the main afternoon hatch, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings***<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): especially good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs, also killer on recently stocked trout. Good also when nothing seems to be working. <br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: spawn is done, but egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter/early Spring. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red<br /><br />-Winter Caddis Larva #18: suprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns, all year long<br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, and in assorted colors like olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences. High fishing pressure usually means you want to fish drabber & smaller flies that are more natural looking. Black beadheads can be good on trout that have seen too many gold, copper & silver beads.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River.<br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work especially well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam. They also Behavioral Drift in the daytime, unlike most bugs that do it in low light or even in the dark.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, excellent choice to fish in the Winter. Tan, olive, and white have been the best lately.<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />After the fall brown trout spawn, in Winter many trout have lost weight and are depleted and are looking to put weight back on, and to a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. <br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, <i>deadly </i>fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes they work better than bulky modern streamers, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. <br /><u><b>Try</b></u>: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></span></p>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-76466982379771415312024-01-19T10:40:00.002-05:002024-01-19T16:53:45.989-05:00Friday 1/19/24 Farmington River Report: Small Flow Cut today<p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdCM4MVW4-Vz0Vvo81zJFWyKOiwRd352zxu1wC-jBNKETAjcQTwx-h68eV_yOyta69E7gZtFexMYi5B8D-O9hwaXEnnIDWfmk8xEVoSkYlePk22b1l_3ERLuk3c9y3j_8AiPeAo78Cy5DB65vNJc1ZcnVcWOMQe_FFHOdodc_dPkwr0yDegTQgNnhxM5_W/s2016/ViewOutBack-1-18-24.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdCM4MVW4-Vz0Vvo81zJFWyKOiwRd352zxu1wC-jBNKETAjcQTwx-h68eV_yOyta69E7gZtFexMYi5B8D-O9hwaXEnnIDWfmk8xEVoSkYlePk22b1l_3ERLuk3c9y3j_8AiPeAo78Cy5DB65vNJc1ZcnVcWOMQe_FFHOdodc_dPkwr0yDegTQgNnhxM5_W/w400-h300/ViewOutBack-1-18-24.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></span></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. </span></span><br /><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><u><b>Don't forget to have a 2024 CT Fishing license plus a </b></u></span><span style="color: #134f5c;"><u><b>$5</b></u></span><span style="color: #134f5c;"><u><b>Trout/Salmon Stamp</b></u></span> if you are planning to fish the Farmington River.</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: purple;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span>:<br />Stop by for some bargains! <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span>. <i><b>Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i>. <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u>(not the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>also 40% off</u></span>. <br /><br />We purchased purchased several huge collections of quality fly tying materials in 2023. Stop by and check it all out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. As we sell through these materials, we keep putting more out. <br /><br />UpCountry also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Come and take a look before someone gets there first. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.<br /><br />Pictured up top is the view out back this morning. Hopefully by this afternoon the river will be a lot lower.</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>1/19/24 Late Afternoon Update</b></u>:<br />The latest information is no big flow cut for the weekend, but they did a small 200cfs flow cut at the dam at 12 noon. This brings the dam release from 1,400cfs down to 1,200cfs, and with the Still River added in below this the total flow is about 1,500cfs in the Permanent TMA/C&R- this is a very high flow and it will remain at this level through the weekend. They will likely make a big flow cut on Monday.</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Morning Conditions:<br /></b></u>Total flow in the Permanent TMA/Catch & Release is 1,716cfs & dropping. Above the Still River in Riverton, the USGS gauge is reading 1,440cfs, and the Still River itself is adding in 276cfs. It’s quite likely (but not guaranteed) that they will make a major flow cut at the dam this morning, and we will update it when/if that happens. They’ve been running a lot of water out of the dam all week since Monday, so Colebrook River Lake should be low enough by now. Water temp this morning is 37 degrees, it rose to 37.5 degrees Thursday afternoon. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging mid to upper 30’s , depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. Colder snaps will drop water temps. FYI the Still River tends to be a cooling influence in the Winter, especially in the mornings after a colder night. In the Summer it’s a warming influence. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases, with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.<br /><br />Because the MDC has been defaulting to a very frustrating minimum flow regime since early 2022 (50cfs–150cfs, plus any water released from Otis Reservoir in MA), that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full, and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump big water for a few days to a week. Historically they would do a good job managing the water and get the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls & snowmelt. <br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods recently arrived</b></u></i></span>, this replaces the Ultralite series (<i>not </i>the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.<br /><br /><u><b>Fri</b></u><u><b>day morning 1/1</b></u><u><b>8</b></u><u><b>/24 Report:<br /></b></u>The river has been very high all week (1,700cfs+ up to well over 2,000cfs) due to a big water release since Monday to lower Colebrook River Lake from last week’s heavy rains & snowmelt. It is very likely they will make a major flow cut later this morning that will once again make the river fishable- this is an educated guess and not a guarantee though. If not today, then anytime in the next several days.The Still River is very fishable at about 275cfs, and Sandy Brook is also at a good level. Not many people have been out fishing between the high flows and colder air temps. Best time to be out in the Winter is typically late morning through dusk (early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch excepted). This is when it’s the most comfortable, water temps are rising and/or at their highest, bugs are most likely to be active, and the time of day when trout are most apt to do a little feeding. Trout don’t feed heavily in the Winter- cold temps slow down their metabolism a lot so they don’t need to eat much, plus there are minimal hatches and food is much less available.<u><b><br /><br /></b></u>During higher flows think “Junk Flies” (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy Worms), various Caddis Larva, Attractor nymphs (with flash, hotspots, and/or gaudy colors), larger nymphs like Stoneflies, and of course Streamers in tan, white, olive. As we get back to typical conditions, think normal Winter Mode: streamers fished slow & deep, Caddis Larva (regular olive/green & cased), small Midges (black, olive, red), Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Winter Caddis Larva, and Attractor Nymphs (with flash, hotspots, or bright/fluorescent colors). Streamers can be fished conventionally, using either weighted flies/split, sink-tips, or sinking leaders to get them deep, or… heavy jigged small to medium streamers fished on a Euro rig (deadly!). <br /><br />Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing farther away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs and up close where you have at least some current). Trout are holding in Winter water now, which means slower & deeper water. They may move up into moderate riffles to feed in the afternoons. They will often pod up this time of year, so if you find one, thoroughly fish that area as there are likely a bunch more nearby. Refuge from the current & predators supersedes access to food in the Winter, as their metabolism is slower. This means they don’t have to eat very much, plus there is way less food available & not a lot hatching. However, under normal flows, trout will sometimes rise to the morning Winter Caddis & afternoon Midges. <br /><br />During moderate flows, in the afternoons look for Midges to bring a few trout to the surface in the bigger, wider, slower pools. There are also Winter Caddis in the early to mid mornings. We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. <br /><br />Nymphing remains a consistent producer <i><b>if </b></i>you are proficient at it, no surprise there. Sometimes in the colder water of Winter, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to far less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier and/or bigger flies <i><b>sometimes </b></i>do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. Having said that, currently many of the medium to large brown trout are extra hungry due to weight loss during the Fall spawn. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. <br /><br />Traditional Streamers fished slow & deep are having their moments- play with colors and retrieves to find out what works, it can vary. Lately the top streamer colors are tan, white, and olive- color can make a BIG difference some days, so don’t get hung up on only one color. Tan has been hot lately, but other colors can be better at moments. Effective nymphs have included assorted smaller #18-20 patterns, egg flies, Junk Flies (Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Caddis larva, and attractor/hot-spot flies. Fish have seen a LOT of egg patterns, so make sure to pair egg flies with a nymph to give them another option. <br /><br />No need to start early now (due to colder water temps), unless you want to hit the early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch (7am-10am is typical for that, but can be earlier or later). Typically this time of year the fishing just seems to improve as the day progresses and water temps rise, and morning Winter Caddis excepted, most of the hatching activity is all in the afternoons. Nymphs, dries & streamers are all possibilities right now. When water temps get truly cold like they are now (30’s mostly), rising water temps during the day tends to get the trout active and feeding. Overall, afternoons have fished a lot better than mornings. This is especially true after a colder night- when you get a mild overnight the early morning fishing can be good. Nymphing is the most consistent tactic, but streamers are also producing some nice fish.<br /><br /><b>Fishing Advice After the Spawn</b>:<br />Keep an eye out for redds, the oval light colored depressions in gravel riffles where trout deposit their eggs. These are commonly located in riffle water in pool tailouts and in side channels, often in shallow water. Trout look to spawn where there is pea sized gravel with the right amount of current. Avoid those areas and the first 10-15 feet below them (many eggs drift downstream), otherwise you will crush the eggs if you walk there. The eggs don’t hatch out until about February/early March, so <i><b>watch where you walk or you will be crushing & killing future wild trout</b></i>. </span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state stocked the river with good sized brown trout in early October from just below the Rt 219 bridge in New Hartford all the way down to Collinsville & Unionville and below that too. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October with quite a few pretty rainbows.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />***Midges are the main afternoon hatch, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings***<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): especially good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs, also killer on recently stocked trout. Good also when nothing seems to be working. <br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: spawn is done, but egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter/early Spring. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red<br /><br />-Winter Caddis Larva #18: suprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns, all year long<br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, and in assorted colors like olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences. High fishing pressure usually means you want to fish drabber & smaller flies that are more natural looking. Black beadheads can be good on trout that have seen too many gold, copper & silver beads.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River.<br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work especially well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam. They also Behavioral Drift in the daytime, unlike most bugs that do it in low light or even in the dark.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, excellent choice to fish in the Winter. Tan, olive, and white have been the best lately.<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />After the fall brown trout spawn, in Winter many trout have lost weight and are depleted and are looking to put weight back on, and to a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. <br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, <i>deadly </i>fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes they work better than bulky modern streamers, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. <br /><u><b>Try</b></u>: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></p>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-82036519749465747962024-01-15T10:42:00.005-05:002024-01-15T10:42:50.378-05:00Monday 1/5/24 Farmington River Report: Big Flow increase today<p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgALh8webLG_7mbla0EdAs77WSSBWhnZqRR0tFM4FS78elynIaHsAQHRoxKtvHVzEHJkdqNx4JgYga39Z-sYMJ54u7srEFlDhC17qzTWFvZLnkO5VRNu1P8FzPGhrqx2QLsNJQGqbjghA6FqT2ljG86U4RlIH1kAdaGMwfy_8X1uHXtfTWbU7cHbF0oo9Ww/s999/Henry(DaveM)20.5inchWildBrownJan2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="999" data-original-width="749" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgALh8webLG_7mbla0EdAs77WSSBWhnZqRR0tFM4FS78elynIaHsAQHRoxKtvHVzEHJkdqNx4JgYga39Z-sYMJ54u7srEFlDhC17qzTWFvZLnkO5VRNu1P8FzPGhrqx2QLsNJQGqbjghA6FqT2ljG86U4RlIH1kAdaGMwfy_8X1uHXtfTWbU7cHbF0oo9Ww/w300-h400/Henry(DaveM)20.5inchWildBrownJan2024.jpg" width="300" /></a></b></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. </span></span><br /><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><u><b>Don't forget to have a 2024 CT Fishing license plus a Trout/Salmon Stamp</b></u></span> if you are planning to fish the Farmington River.</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: purple;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span>:<br />Stop by for some bargains! <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span>. <i><b>Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i>. <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u>(not the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>also 40% off</u></span>. <br /><br />We purchased purchased several huge collection of quality fly tying materials in 2023. Stop by and check it all out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. As we sell through these materials, we keep putting more out. <br /><br />UpCountry also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Come and take a look before someone gets there first. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.<br /><br />Pictured up top is Dave Machowski’s fishing buddy Henry with a net filling beautiful 20”+ wild brown on a streamer yesterday (Sunday). <br /><br /><u><b>Morning Conditions:<br /></b></u>A big flow increase is scheduled today per MDC. They will be bumping the release from 50cfs to 1,500cfs in stages- that’s high!! It’s likely to stay at this level through Friday, give or take, and then they will cut it way back.<u><b><br /></b></u>USGS gauge Still River gauge has been steadily dropping and is down to 629cfs and going down – this will give us a total flow in the permanent TMA/Catch & Release of over 2,300cfs, which is extremely high & unsafe to fish. Water temp this morning dropped to 35 degrees, it rose to 37.5 degrees Sunday afternoon. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging mid to upper 30’s , depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. Colder weather moving in now will drop water temps. FYI the Still River tends to be a cooling influence in the Winter, especially in the mornings after a colder night. In the Summer it’s a warming influence. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases, with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.<br /><br />Because the MDC has been defaulting to a very frustrating minimum flow regime since early 2022, that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump a lot of water for at least a few days to as much as a week. Historically they would do a good job managing the water and get the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls. <br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods recently arrived</b></u></i></span>, this replaces the Ultralite series (<i>not </i>the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.<br /><br /><u><b>Mon</b></u><u><b>day morning 1/1</b></u><u><b>5</b></u><u><b>/24 Report:<br /></b></u>Per MDC, the dam release is going up to 1,500cfs this morning, and combined with the Still River will give a total flow below that of over 2,300cfs, waaaay to high to fish. They will probably run big water straight through Friday (give or take) and then make a big flow cut. Colebrook Reservoir is overfull from last week’s big rain & snowmelt, and they have to lower it. That will definitely mess things up for now, hopefully they cut it back Friday in time for the weekend, fingers crossed. <u><b><br /><br /></b></u>While fish numbers were generally low over the past weekend (prob due to the temperature drop), some quality trout got caught. During higher flows think “Junk Flies” (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy Worms), various Caddis Larva, Attractor nymphs (with flash, hotspots, and/or gaudy colors), larger nymphs like Stoneflies, and of course Streamers in tan, white, olive. <br /><br />When we get back typical conditions, think normal Winter Mode: streamers fished slow & deep, Caddis Larva (regular olive/green & cased), small Midges (black, olive, red), Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Winter Caddis Larva, and Attractor Nymphs (with flash, hotspots, or bright/fluorescent colors). Streamers can be fished conventionally, using either weighted flies/split, sink-tips, or sinking leaders to get them deep, or… heavy jigged small to medium streamers fished on a Euro rig (deadly!). <br /><br />Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing farther away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs and up close where you have at least some current). Trout are holding in Winter water now, which means slower & deeper water. They will often pod up this time of year, so if you find one, thoroughly fish that area as there are likely a bunch more nearby. Refuge from the current & predators supersedes access to food in the Winter, as their metabolism is slower. This means they don’t have to eat very much, plus there is way less food available & not a lot hatching. However, under normal flows, trout will sometimes rise to the morning Winter Caddis & afternoon Midges. <br /><br />During moderate flows, in the afternoons look for Midges to bring a few trout to the surface in the bigger, wider, slower pools. There are also Winter Caddis in the early to mid mornings. We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. <br /><br />Nymphing remains a consistent producer <i><b>if </b></i>you are proficient at it, no surprise there. Sometimes in the colder water of Winter, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to far less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier or bigger flies <i><b>sometimes </b></i>do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. Having said that, currently many of the medium to large brown trout are extra hungry due to weight loss during the recent spawn. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. <br /><br />Traditional Streamers fished slow & deep are having their moments- play with colors and retrieves to find out what works, it can vary. Lately the top streamer colors are tan, white, and olive- color can make a BIG difference some days, so don’t get hung up on only one color. Tan has been hot lately, but other colors can be better at moments. Effective nymphs have included assorted smaller #18-20 patterns, egg flies, Junk Flies (Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Caddis larva, and attractor/hot-spot flies. Fish have seen a LOT of egg patterns, so make sure to pair egg flies with a nymph to give them another option. <br /><br />No need to start early now (due to colder water temps), unless you want to hit the early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch (7am-10am is typical for that, but can be earlier or later). Typically this time of year the fishing just seems to improve as the day progresses and water temps rise, and morning Winter Caddis excepted, most of the hatching activity is all in the afternoons. Nymphs, dries & streamers are all possibilities right now. When water temps get truly cold like they are now (30’s mostly), rising water temps during the day tends to get the trout active and feeding. Overall, afternoons have fished a lot better than mornings. This is especially true after a colder night- when you get a mild overnight the early morning fishing can be good. Nymphing is the most consistent tactic, but streamers are also producing some nice fish.<br /><br />Please be careful not to step on or just below brown trout spawning redds. Walking on these areas crushes the eggs. Redds are the light colored oval areas in gravelly riffles where the brown trout spawn. By this time of year, the browns have completed spawning. Even though the brown trout spawn is done now, egg flies will continue to work well straight through the Winter. Pair them up with a smaller nymph for best results.<br /><br /><b>Fishing Advice After the Spawn</b>:<br />Keep an eye out for redds, the oval light colored depressions in gravel riffles where trout deposit their eggs. These are commonly located in riffle water in pool tailouts and in side channels, often in shallow water. Trout look to spawn where there is pea sized gravel with the right amount of current. Avoid those areas and the first 10-15 feet below them (many eggs drift downstream), otherwise you will crush the eggs if you walk there. The eggs don’t hatch out until about February/early March, so <i><b>watch where you walk or you will be crushing & killing future wild trout</b></i>. </span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state stocked the river with good sized brown trout in early October from just below the Rt 219 bridge in New Hartford all the way down to Collinsville & Unionville and below that too. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October with quite a few pretty rainbows.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />***Midges are the main afternoon hatch, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings***<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): especially good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs, also killer on recently stocked trout. Good also when nothing seems to be working. <br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: spawn is done, but egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter/early Spring. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red<br /><br />-Winter Caddis Larva #18: suprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns, all year long<br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River.<br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work especially well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam. They also Behavioral Drift in the daytime, unlike most bugs.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, excellent choice to fish in the Winter<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />After the fall brown trout spawn, in Winter many trout have lost weight and are depleted and are looking to put weight back on, and to a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. <br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, <i>deadly </i>fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes they work better than bulky modern streamers, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. <br /><u><b>Try</b></u>: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></p>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-47689318481866843852024-01-12T11:14:00.000-05:002024-01-12T11:14:31.787-05:00Friday 1/12/24 Farmington River Report: Fishable today, but more Rain tonight...<p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAph4fXyMcwVwsHywQqlDUhG45L3JTssCoi-UsC1osIlraTLNaT96UZ76ct8-pDnzYwPeXeIFCj3gusez4BDKipGI8HxUKrI8SCG8YsJsvDh8VfNBPQCNW-u55mevTTGdUDedb3gyi4-MUZeCz4BpJPoTSBzIl3XDmEqnUUao3oWLYLjSfnbTOv7aG8ZP1/s900/RyanThomasJanBrown2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="555" data-original-width="900" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAph4fXyMcwVwsHywQqlDUhG45L3JTssCoi-UsC1osIlraTLNaT96UZ76ct8-pDnzYwPeXeIFCj3gusez4BDKipGI8HxUKrI8SCG8YsJsvDh8VfNBPQCNW-u55mevTTGdUDedb3gyi4-MUZeCz4BpJPoTSBzIl3XDmEqnUUao3oWLYLjSfnbTOv7aG8ZP1/w400-h246/RyanThomasJanBrown2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></span></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. </span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><b><u><span style="color: #134f5c;">Don't forget to have a 2024 CT Fishing license plus a Trout/Salmon Stamp</span></u></b> if you are planning to fish the Farmington River.</span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: purple;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span>:<br />Stop by for some bargains! <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span>. <i><b>Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i>. <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u>(not the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>also 40% off</u></span>. <br /><br />We purchased purchased several huge collection of quality fly tying materials in 2023. Stop by and check it all out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. As we sell through these materials, we keep putting more out. <br /><br />UpCountry also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Come and take a look before someone gets there first. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.<br /><br />Pictured up top is customer Ryan Thomas with the best fish from a productive recent outing, check the color and cool spotting pattern, gotta love a quality brown trout.<br /><br /><u><b>Morning Conditions:<br /></b></u>Riverton USGS gauge at the Rt 20 bridge is reading a low 127cfs this morning (they are only releasing 50cfs from the dam, the rest is runoff from the brooks), the Still shot up from the rain & snowmelt this week, but it already down to 790cfs and dropping fast. Total flow in the permanent TMA/Catch & Release is 917cfs- high, but absolutely fishable with various nymphs & streamers. Water temp this morning is 36 degrees, it rose to 38 degrees yesterday afternoon. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging mid 30’s to low 40’s, depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. After Saturday, below freezing temps are here for a while, and this will drop downstream water temps into the 30’s and keep them there. FYI the Still River tends to be a cooling influence in the Winter, especially in the mornings after a colder night. In the Summer it’s a warming influence. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases, with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.<br /><br />Because the MDC has been defaulting to a very frustrating minimum flow regime since early 2022, that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump a lot of water for at least a few days to as much as a week. Historically they would do a good job managing the water and get the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls. <br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods recently arrived</b></u></i></span>, this replaces the Ultralite series (<i>not </i>the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.<br /><br /><u><b>Fri</b></u><u><b>day morning 1/</b></u><u><b>12</b></u><u><b>/24 </b></u><u><b>Report</b></u><u><b>:<br /></b></u>It’s was a rough Summer & Fall in terms of high flows, and this Winter is looking suspect too. Big rain this week pushed the Still River up, so they cut the dam release down to the minimum of 50cfs (reading 127cfs at the gauge 2 miles downstream of the dam) to minimize downstream flooding. The Still River already dropped a lot, it’s down under 800cfs and receding fast. So with a total flow in the permanent TMA/Catch & Release of just over 900cfs, I’d call that high but fishable, clarity is good. Think “Junk Flies” (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy Worms), various Caddis Larva, Attractor nymphs (with flash, hotspots, and/or gaudy colors), larger nymphs like Stoneflies, and of course Streamers in tan, white, olive. <br /><br />The wildcard right now is the 1.4”of rain predicted for Friday night (100%)into Saturday morning, and the overfull reservoir system up above. This combined with a high in the low 50’s Saturday will take out the last of the snow (most of it is gone already), and push the Still River back up higher. I’m guessing with the rain inbound tonight they will wait until after the weekend to dump the excess water out of the reservoirs, but it’s possible they will do it before then- ultimately they have to lower Colebrook Reservoir. As long as they don’t release water before next week, Riverton above the Still River (upper 2 miles below the dam) will likely stay very fishable (even after the rain tonight) due to the minimal release from the dam and lack of major tributaries up there. When they do let water out, they will likely release at least 1,000cfs, if not 1,200 or even 1,500, which will blow things out, especially with the rainwater coming down from the Still River. After a window of fishability today in the permanent TMA/C&R, it could easily be a week before we are fishable again- look for flows of 1,000cfs or less. Those anglers braving the higher flows this Winter have caught some really nice browns though. <br /><br />When flows are high but fishable, think streamers, Junk Flies & big nymphs (like Stoneflies, Princes, etc.). And when we get back typical conditions, think normal Winter Mode: streamers fished slow & deep, Caddis Larva (regular olive/green & cased), small Midges (black, olive, red), Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Winter Caddis Larva, and Attractor Nymphs (with flash, hotspots, or bright/fluorescent colors). Streamers can be fished conventionally, using either weighted flies/split, sink-tips, or sinking leaders to get them deep, or… heavy jigged small to medium streamers fished on a Euro rig (deadly!). <br /><br />Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing farther away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs and up close where you have at least some current). Trout are holding in Winter water now, which means slower & deeper water. They will often pod up this time of year, so if you find one, thoroughly fish that area as there are likely a bunch more nearby. Refuge from the current & predators supersedes access to food in the Winter, as their metabolism is slower. This means they don’t have to eat very much, plus there is way less food available & not a lot hatching. However, under normal flows, trout will sometimes rise to the morning Winter Caddis & afternoon Midges. <br /><br />During normal flows, in the afternoons look for Midges to bring a few trout to the surface in the bigger, wider, slower pools. There are also Winter Caddis in the early to mid mornings. We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. <br /><br />Nymphing remains a consistent producer <i><b>if </b></i>you are proficient at it, no surprise there. Sometimes in the colder water of Winter, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to far less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier or bigger flies <i><b>sometimes </b></i>do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. Having said that, currently many of the medium to large brown trout are extra hungry due to weight loss during the recent spawn. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. <br /><br />Traditional Streamers fished slow & deep are having their moments- play with colors and retrieves to find out what works, it can vary. Lately the top streamer colors are tan, white, and olive- color can make a BIG difference some days, so don’t get hung up on only one color. Tan has been hot lately, but other colors can be better at moments. Effective nymphs have included assorted smaller #18-20 patterns, egg flies, Junk Flies (Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Caddis larva, and attractor/hot-spot flies. Fish have seen a LOT of egg patterns, so make sure to pair egg flies with a nymph to give them another option. <br /><br />No need to start early now (due to colder water temps), unless you want to hit the early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch (7am-10am is typical for that, but can be earlier or later). Typically this time of year the fishing just seems to improve as the day progresses and water temps rise, and morning Winter Caddis excepted, most of the hatching activity is all in the afternoons. Nymphs, dries & streamers are all possibilities right now. When water temps get truly cold like they are now (30’s to low 40’s), rising water temps during the day tends to get the trout active and feeding. Overall, afternoons have fished a lot better than mornings. This is especially true after a colder night- when you get a mild overnight the early morning fishing can be good. Nymphing is the most consistent tactic, but streamers are also producing some nice fish.<br /><br />Please be careful not to step on or just below brown trout spawning redds. Walking on these areas crushes the eggs. Redds are the light colored oval areas in gravelly riffles where the brown trout spawn. By this time of year, the browns have completed spawning. Even though the brown trout spawn is done now, egg flies will continue to work well straight through the Winter. Pair them up with a smaller nymph for best results.<br /><br /><b>Fishing Advice After the Spawn</b>:<br />Keep an eye out for redds, the oval light colored depressions in gravel riffles where trout deposit their eggs. These are commonly located in riffle water in pool tailouts and in side channels, often in shallow water. Trout look to spawn where there is pea sized gravel with the right amount of current. Avoid those areas and the first 10-15 feet below them (many eggs drift downstream), otherwise you will crush the eggs if you walk there. The eggs don’t hatch out until about February/early March, so <i><b>watch where you walk or you will be crushing & killing future wild trout</b></i>. </span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state stocked the river with good sized brown trout in early October from just below the Rt 219 bridge in New Hartford all the way down to Collinsville & Unionville and below that too. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October with quite a few pretty rainbows.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />***Midges are the main afternoon hatch, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings***<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): especially good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs, also killer on recently stocked trout. Good also when nothing seems to be working. <br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: spawn is done, but egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter/early Spring. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red<br /><br />-Winter Caddis Larva #18: suprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns, all year long<br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River.<br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work especially well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam. They also Behavioral Drift in the daytime, unlike most bugs.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, excellent choice to fish in the Winter<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />After the fall brown trout spawn, in Winter many trout have lost weight and are depleted and are looking to put weight back on, and to a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. <br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, <i>deadly </i>fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes they work better than bulky modern streamers, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. <br /><u><b>Try</b></u>: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></p>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-23552827487486856862024-01-09T09:35:00.004-05:002024-01-09T09:46:37.605-05:00Tuesday 1/9/24 Farmington River Report: Get ready for BIG water, again... :(<p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH8eKRHSUnWca2kPZCDVmXd5hFjSP39mvu1SuBH_LskCpuyVTsBDxABa_mNb867JmVQoMze3VvytXEphv7l9MeeNZfD2vyqZF7T7BpzzkBsl0mJbBm0whb_DDn2i6wTuJo58R3uISV56v6vD38j8D1EmEP1g8PdnXWozD7Ejp43op4peF2nSGZ1WlPMWeX/s1280/MikeAndresBigJanBrown2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="822" data-original-width="1280" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH8eKRHSUnWca2kPZCDVmXd5hFjSP39mvu1SuBH_LskCpuyVTsBDxABa_mNb867JmVQoMze3VvytXEphv7l9MeeNZfD2vyqZF7T7BpzzkBsl0mJbBm0whb_DDn2i6wTuJo58R3uISV56v6vD38j8D1EmEP1g8PdnXWozD7Ejp43op4peF2nSGZ1WlPMWeX/w400-h258/MikeAndresBigJanBrown2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></span></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. <br /><br /><span style="color: purple;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span>:<br />Stop by for some bargains! <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span>. <i><b>Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i>. <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u>(not the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>also 40% off</u></span>. <br /><br />We purchased another huge collection of quality fly tying materials. Stop by and check it out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. <br /><br />UpCountry has also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Come and take a look before someone gets there first. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.<br /><br />Pictured up top is Mike Andrews getting’ it done in the snow, pictured is the biggest of several large browns. <br /><br /><u><b>Morning Conditions:<br /></b></u>Riverton USGS gauge is reading 228cfs this morning (they made a small flow cut Monday), the Still is down to 170cfs. Total flow in the permanent TMA/Catch & Release is 398cfs- a nice medium/normal level, very wadeable & fishable. Water temp is 38 degrees, it rose to 39 degrees yesterday afternoon. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging mid 30’s to low 40’s, depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. FYI the Still River tends to be a cooling influence in the Winter, especially in the mornings after a colder night. In the Summer it’s a warming influence. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases, with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.<br /><br />Because the MDC has been defaulting to a very frustrating minimum flow regime since early 2022, that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump a lot of water for at least a few days to as much as a week. Historically they would do a good job managing the water and get the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls. <br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods </b></u></i></span><span style="color: #55308d;"><i><u><b>recently </b></u></i></span><span style="color: #55308d;"><i><u><b>arrived</b></u></i></span>, this replaces the Ultralite series (<i>not </i>the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.<br /><br /><u><b>Tues</b></u><u><b>day morning 1/</b></u><u><b>9</b></u><u><b>/24:<br /></b></u>Once again it’s a Good New/Bad New scenario: water levels are great right now (just under 400cfs), but with 10” of snow on the ground, 2-3” of rain predicted overnight, and temps in the upper 40’s Wednesday, the combination of heavy rain & snowmelt is 100% going to blow the river out again. Grrrr. And after the river shoots up tomorrow and then drops over the next few days, with an overfull reservoir system up above they will have to again jack the release up and dump a lot of water out of the dam for at least a few days. It could easily be the middle of next week before we are fishable again- look for flows of 1,000cfs or less. That’s unfortunate, because while anglers generally haven’t been doing big numbers of fish lately, they’ve been catching some quality holdover & wild browns. <br /><br />When flows go back to somewhat fishable but still high, think streamers, Junk Flies & big nymphs (like Stoneflies, Princes, etc.). And when we get back typical conditions, think normal Winter Mode: streamers fished slow & deep, Caddis Larva (regular olive/green & cased), small Midges (black, olive, red), Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Winter Caddis Larva,and Attractor Nymphs (with flash, hotspots, or bright/fluorescent colors). Streamers can be fished conventionally, using either weighted flies/split, sink-tips, or sinking leaders to get them deep, or… heavy jigged small to medium streamers fished on a Euro rig (deadly!). <br /><br />Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing farther away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs and up close where you have at least some current). Trout are holding in Winter water now, which means slower & deeper water. They will often pod up this time of year, so if you find one, thoroughly fish that area as there are likely a bunch more nearby. Refuge from the current & predators supersedes access to food in the Winter, as their metabolism is slower. This means they don’t have to eat very much, plus there is way less food available & not a lot hatching. However, under normal flows, trout will sometimes rise to the morning Winter Caddis & afternoon Midges. <br /><br />During normal flows, in the afternoons look for Midges to bring a few trout to the surface in the bigger, wider, slower pools. There are also Winter Caddis in the early to mid mornings. We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. <br /><br />Nymphing remains a consistent producer <i><b>if </b></i>you are proficient at it, no surprise there. Sometimes in the colder water of Winter, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to far less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier or bigger flies <i><b>sometimes </b></i>do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. Having said that, currently many of the medium to large brown trout are extra hungry due to weight loss during the recent spawn. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. <br /><br />Traditional Streamers fished slow & deep are having their moments- play with colors and retrieves to find out what works, it can vary. Lately the top streamer colors are tan, white, and olive- color can make a BIG difference some days, so don’t get hung up on only one color. Tan has been hot lately, but other colors can be better at moments. Effective nymphs have included assorted smaller #18-20 patterns, egg flies, Junk Flies (Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Caddis larva, and attractor/hot-spot flies. Fish have seen a LOT of egg patterns, so make sure to pair egg flies with a nymph to give them another option. <br /><br />No need to start early now (due to colder water temps), unless you want to hit the early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch (7am-10am is typical for that, but can be earlier or later). Typically this time of year the fishing just seems to improve as the day progresses and water temps rise, and morning Winter Caddis excepted, most of the hatching activity is all in the afternoons. Nymphs, dries & streamers are all possibilities right now. When water temps get truly cold like they are now (30’s to low 40’s), rising water temps during the day tends to get the trout active and feeding. Overall, afternoons have fished a lot better than mornings. This is especially true after a colder night- when you get a mild overnight the early morning fishing can be good. Nymphing is the most consistent tactic, but streamers are also producing some nice fish.<br /><br />Please be careful not to step on or just below brown trout spawning redds. Walking on these areas crushes the eggs. Redds are the light colored oval areas in gravelly riffles where the brown trout spawn. By this time of year, the browns have completed spawning. Even though the brown trout spawn is done now, egg flies will continue to work well straight through the Winter. Pair them up with a smaller nymph for best results.<br /><br /><b>Fishing Advice After the Spawn</b>:<br />Keep an eye out for redds, the oval light colored depressions in gravel riffles where trout deposit their eggs. These are commonly located in riffle water in pool tailouts and in side channels, often in shallow water. Trout look to spawn where there is pea sized gravel with the right amount of current. Avoid those areas and the first 10-15 feet below them (many eggs drift downstream), otherwise you will crush the eggs if you walk there. The eggs don’t hatch out until about February/early March, so <i><b>watch where you walk or you will be crushing & killing future wild trout</b></i>. </span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state stocked the river with good sized brown trout in early October from just below the Rt 219 bridge in New Hartford all the way down to Collinsville & Unionville and below that too. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October with quite a few pretty rainbows.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />***Midges are the main afternoon hatch, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings***<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): especially good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs, also killer on recently stocked trout. Good also when nothing seems to be working. <br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: spawn is done, but egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter/early Spring. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red<br /><br />-Winter Caddis Larva #18: suprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns, all year long<br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River.<br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work especially well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam. They also Behavioral Drift in the daytime, unlike most bugs.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, excellent choice to fish in the Winter<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />After the fall brown trout spawn, in Winter many trout have lost weight and are depleted and are looking to put weight back on, and to a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. <br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, <i>deadly </i>fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes they work better than bulky modern streamers, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. <br /><u><b>Try</b></u>: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></p>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-53838297038599615232024-01-05T09:46:00.001-05:002024-01-06T08:27:23.885-05:00Friday 1/5/24 Farmington River Report: Get out there while you still can!<p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgqZm9_U08ZQrs0itpDvsTzgo6covL9kQXQAjnBNHg9T_eGlV_uNbRowuVRHrACOBb82_NfmDbfmXp9z7PLiq4_IHQwSirKNxfmGAVaAvXiGhxNWbg84ef7nhaPszBhApUfryKLzzXCgnn43AM5Ujd1svXk_EJi0umVlnohTbNa6FyoNQpFUI2IvoIbguF/s1280/JohnStrattonBrownBrokenRodJan2024.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1025" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgqZm9_U08ZQrs0itpDvsTzgo6covL9kQXQAjnBNHg9T_eGlV_uNbRowuVRHrACOBb82_NfmDbfmXp9z7PLiq4_IHQwSirKNxfmGAVaAvXiGhxNWbg84ef7nhaPszBhApUfryKLzzXCgnn43AM5Ujd1svXk_EJi0umVlnohTbNa6FyoNQpFUI2IvoIbguF/w320-h400/JohnStrattonBrownBrokenRodJan2024.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></span></span></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. <br /><br /><span style="color: purple;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span>:<br />Stop by for some bargains! <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span>. <i><b>Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i>. <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u>(not the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>also 40% off</u></span>. <br /><br />We recently purchased another huge collection of quality fly tying materials. Stop by and check it out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. <br /><br />UpCountry has also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Come and take a look before someone gets there first. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.<br /></span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">Pictured up top is John Stratton with a big brown on jigged streamer, and in the process of landing it he broke his rod.</span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Morning Conditions:<br /></b></u><span style="font-size: medium;">Riverton USGS gauge is reading 260cfs this morning, the Still is down to 180cfs. Total flow in the permanent TMA/Catch & Release is 440cfs- a nice medium/normal level, very wadeable & fishable. Water temp is 38.5 degrees, it rose to 41 degrees yesterday afternoon. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging mid 30’s to low 40’s, depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. FYI the Still River tends to be a cooling influence in the Winter, especially in the mornings after a colder night. In the Summer it’s a warming influence. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases, with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Because the MDC has been defaulting to a frustrating minimum flow regime since early 2022, that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump a lot of water for at least a few days to as much as a week. Historically they would do a good job managing the water and get the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d; font-size: 14pt;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods just arrived</b></u></i></span><span style="font-size: medium;">, this replaces the Ultralite series (</span><i style="font-size: 14pt;">not </i><span style="font-size: medium;">the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.</span><br /><br /><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Fri</b></u><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>day morning 1/</b></u><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>5</b></u><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>/24:<br /></b></u><span style="font-size: medium;">The good news is we are finally at a really nice water level (440cfs in permanent TMA/C&R, and 260cfs in Riverton). Get out and enjoy it while it lasts! Winter weather is finally settling in, which means cooler temps & snow. With 8-12” of snow predicted for Saturday night, and 1-3” for Sunday, Saturday is looking like the smart play. Of course if you have all wheel drive and don’t mind the snow, Sunday will probably be LOTS of elbow room! Another big rain (2.5") is predicted for Tuesday night, so get out there while you can before the flows get big again.</span></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Back to normal Winter flies at the current water level. This means streamers fished slow & deep, Caddis Larva (regular olive/green & cased), small Midges (black, olive, red), Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Winter Caddis Larva,and Attractor Nymphs (with flash, hotspots, or bright/fluorescent colors). Streamers can be fished conventionally, using either weighted flies/split, sink-tips, or sinking leaders to get them deep, or… heavy jigged small to medium streamers fished on a Euro rig (deadly!). <br /><br />Nymphs can be either fished under an Indicator (best for slower water, fishing far away, and on windy days), or tight-line/Euro style (better on riffle drop-offs and up close where you have at least some current). Trout are holding in Winter waternow, which means slower & deeper water.They will often pod up this time of year, so if you find one, thoroughly fish that area as there are likely a bunch more nearby.Refuge from the current & predators supersedes access to food in the Winter, as their metabolism is slower. This means they don’t have to eat very much, plus there is way less food available & not a lot hatching. However, under normal flows, trout will sometimes rise to the morning Winter Caddis & afternoon Midges. <br /><br />During normal flows, in the afternoons look for Midges to bring a few trout to the surface in the bigger, wider, slower pools. There are also Winter Caddis in the early to mid mornings. We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. <br /><br />Nymphing remains a consistent producer <i><b>if </b></i>you are proficient at it, no surprise there. Sometimes in the colder water of Winter, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to far less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier or bigger flies <i><b>sometimes </b></i>do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. Having said that, currently many of the medium to large brown trout are extra hungry due to weight loss during the recent spawn. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. <br /><br />Traditional Streamers fished slow & deep are having their moments- play with colors and retrieves to find out what works, it can vary. Lately the top streamer colors are tan, white, and olive- color can make a BIG difference some days, so don’t get hung up on only one color. Tan has been hot lately, but other colors can be better at moments. Effective nymphs have included assorted smaller #18-20 patterns, egg flies, Junk Flies (Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Caddis larva, and attractor/hot-spot flies. Fish have seen a LOT of egg patterns, so make sure to pair egg flies with a nymph to give them another option. <br /><br />No need to start early now (due to colder water temps), unless you want to hit the early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch (7am-10am is typical for that, but can be earlier or later). Typically this time of year the fishing just seems to improve as the day progresses and water temps rise, and morning Winter Caddis excepted, most of the hatching activity is all in the afternoons. Nymphs, dries & streamers are all possibilities right now. When water temps get truly cold like they are now (30’s to low 40’s), rising water temps during the day tends to get the trout active and feeding. Overall, afternoons have fished a lot better than mornings. This is especially true after a colder night- when you get a mild overnight the early morning fishing can be good. Nymphing is the most consistent tactic, but streamers are also producing some nice fish.<br /><br />Please be careful not to step on or just below brown trout spawning redds. Walking on these areas crushes the eggs. Redds are the light colored oval areas in gravelly riffles where the brown trout spawn. By this time of year, the browns have completed spawning. Even though the brown trout spawn is done now, egg flies will continue to work well straight through the Winter. Pair them up with a smaller nymph for best results.<br /><br /><b>Fishing Advice After the Spawn</b>:<br />Keep an eye out for redds, the oval light colored depressions in gravel riffles where trout deposit their eggs. These are commonly located in riffle water in pool tailouts and in side channels, often in shallow water. Trout look to spawn where there is pea sized gravel with the right amount of current. Avoid those areas and the first 10-15 feet below them (many eggs drift downstream), otherwise you will crush the eggs if you walk there. The eggs don’t hatch out until about February/early March, so <i><b>watch where you walk or you will be crushing & killing future wild trout</b></i>. </span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state stocked the river with good sized brown trout in early October from just below the Rt 219 bridge in New Hartford all the way down to Collinsville & Unionville and below that too. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October with quite a few pretty rainbows.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><b>Hatches/Dries</b></span></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;">:<br /><br />***Midges are the main afternoon hatch, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings***<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b></span></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;">:<br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): especially good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs, also killer on recently stocked trout<br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: spawn is done, but egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter/early Spring. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red<br /><br />-</span></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Winter Caddis Larva #18: suprisingly the larva are yellow, not brown. Can also imitate Black Caddis Larva (also yellow) & Yellow Midge Larva (common color). </span></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns, </span></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;">all year long<br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;">-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River.<br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, excellent choice to fish in the </span></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Winter</span></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><b>Streamers</b></span></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;">:<br /><br />After the fall brown trout spawn, in </span></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;">W</span></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;">inter many trout have lost weight and are depleted and are looking to put weight back on, and to a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. <br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, </span></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><i>deadly </i></span></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;">fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes they work better than bulky modern streamers, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. <br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><u>Try</u></span></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;">: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></span></span></p>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-94073824312099652024-01-02T10:29:00.003-05:002024-01-02T15:41:02.262-05:00Tuesday 1/2/24 Farmington River Report: Big flow cuts for Tuesday & Wednesday<p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZdeLTVR1BOCZ_0lb7bLtemGVZXApa6dmd8lq6Q4Y_b2T0y2l1nLqNqVUijCGGw2IAgJ8PibQjkldz_wfLw_TDRqqVKx8rMHgRNXuiKCoqUmi-ZSo3H0MTtDx_hEDanldF4MZJ2EeVQaM4I7aCctq8G2BPouLkD3cEB9C4DZ_9TsMOELZWuL6Mq-kABKtY/s2016/JoeyNewYearWildBrown2024.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZdeLTVR1BOCZ_0lb7bLtemGVZXApa6dmd8lq6Q4Y_b2T0y2l1nLqNqVUijCGGw2IAgJ8PibQjkldz_wfLw_TDRqqVKx8rMHgRNXuiKCoqUmi-ZSo3H0MTtDx_hEDanldF4MZJ2EeVQaM4I7aCctq8G2BPouLkD3cEB9C4DZ_9TsMOELZWuL6Mq-kABKtY/w400-h300/JoeyNewYearWildBrown2024.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></span></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. <br /><br /><span style="color: purple;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span>:<br />Stop by for some bargains! <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span>. <i><b>Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i>. <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u>(not the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>also 40% off</u></span>. <br /><br />We recently purchased another huge collection of quality fly tying materials. Stop by and check it out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. <br /><br />UpCountry has also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Come and take a look before someone gets there first. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.<br /><br />Pictured up top is our own Joey Takeman, braving the high water on January 1<sup>st </sup>and starting the New Year in style with a very big brown.<br /><br /><u><b>Morning Conditions:<br /></b></u>Riverton USGS gauge is reading 985cfs this morning, the Still is down to 238cfs & still dropping. Total flow in the permanent TMA/Catch & Release is over 1,223cfs- still pretty high, but marginally fishable for those of you who know the river well and are well versed in high water tactics. Not sure when they will do the next flow cut, they don’t tell us until after the fact- I would guess today or Wednesday as being likely for a big flow cut at the dam, they typically do it around 9am. We will update this report when the MDC makes their next flow change.<br /><br />Because the MDC has been defaulting to a frustrating minimum flow regime since early 2022, that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump a lot of water for at least a few days to as much as a week. Historically they would do a good job managing the water and get the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls. The water temp below the dam is 40 degrees this morning. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging mid 30’s to low 40’s, depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. FYI the Still River tends to be a cooling influence in the late Fall & Winter, especially in the mornings after a colder night. In the Summer it’s a warming influence. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases, with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.<br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods just arrived</b></u></i></span>, this replaces the Ultralite series (<i>not </i>the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10.</span></span><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><u><b>Monday afternoon 1/2/24 Flow Update</b></u></span></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="color: black;">: </span></span></span></span></p><p align="left" style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">MDC emailed us, they cut the dam release from 900 down to 470cfs today (Tuesday), and Wednesday morning (probably at 9am) they are expecting to reduce it further down to 235cfs. This will put the total flow down in the low to mid 500cfs range, a much easier to fish & wade level.</span></span></span></p></div><div><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /><u><b>Mon</b></u><u><b>day morning 1/2/</b></u><u><b>24</b></u><u><b>:<br /><br /></b></u>Just over 1,200cfs & dropping in the permanent TMA/C&R as I write this, that’s quite high for most wading anglers, but not unfishable if you know how to deal with high water. If you venture out, be careful, and don’t do any aggressive wading. The trout are very near the banks at these flows anyways, so start off by standing on the bank and fishing a rod’s length out to start. We will update this report when the MDC makes their next flow cut, which is likey to be this morning or Wednesday morning, but that’s just an educated guess. When fishing in higher flows, target the water closer to the banks in the softer water off the heavier main current. Streamers, Junk Flies (Eggs, Worms, Mops), bigger Stoneflies, and hot-spot nymphs and good choices when flows are up and/or off color. When flows come back to normal on the Farmington, go back to more natural & smaller flies. Jigged streamers fished slow & deep on a Euro rig can be very effective in cold water on lethargic trout, when standard streamers presentations aren’t producing. You’re putting your fly right in their face, which makes it easy for them to eat, rather than having to swim up in the water column and chase their meal. <br /><br />When normal flows resume, in the afternoons look for Midges & and maybe small Blue Winged Olives (BWO’s are near the end, might see a few on milder days) to bring a few trout to the surface in the bigger, wider, slower pools. There are also Winter Caddis in the early to mid mornings. We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. <br /><br />Nymphing remains a consistent producer <i><b>if </b></i>you are proficient at it, no surprise there. Sometimes in the colder water of Winter, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to far less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier or bigger flies <i><b>sometimes </b></i>do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. Having said that, currently many of the medium to large brown trout are extra hungry due to weight loss during the recent spawn. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. <br /><br />Traditional Streamers fished slow & deep are having their moments- play with colors and retrieves to find out what works, it can vary. Lately the top streamer colors are tan, white, and olive- color can make a BIG difference some days, so don’t get hung up on only one color. Tan has been hot lately, but other colors can be better at moments. Effective nymphs have included assorted smaller #18-20 patterns, egg flies, Junk Flies (Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Caddis larva, and attractor/hot-spot flies. Fish have seen a LOT of egg patterns this Fall, so make sure to pair egg flies with a nymph to give them another option. The spawn is basically over, but there are always a few late spawners, sometimes as late as early/mid January. Stay clear of the redds and the first 15 feet below them, otherwise you will walk on and crush the eggs. They don’t hatch out until February/early March. <br /><br />No need to start early now (due to colder water temps), unless you want to hit the early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch (7am-10am is typical for that, but can be earlier or later). Typically this time of year the fishing just seems to improve as the day progresses and water temps rise, and morning Winter Caddis excepted, most of the hatching activity is all in the afternoons. Nymphs, dries & streamers are all possibilities right now. When water temps get truly cold like they are now (30’s to low 40’s), rising water temps during the day tends to get the trout active and feeding. <br /><br />Tiny Midges & a few Blue Winged Olives #22-28 are the two afternoon hatches, with rising trout in the bigger, wider, slower pools. Overall, afternoons have fished a lot better than mornings, probably due to rising water temps and increased insect activity/hatching. This is especially true after colder night- when you get a mild overnight the early morning fishing can be good. Nymphing is the most consistent tactic, but streamers are also producing some nice fish.<br /><br />Please be careful not to step on or just below brown trout spawning redds. Walking on these areas crushes the eggs. Redds are the light colored oval areas in gravelly riffles where the brown trout spawn. By this time of year, 99% of the browns have completed spawning. Even though the spawn is basically done now, egg flies will continue to work well straight through the Winter. Pair them up with a smaller nymph for best results.<br /><br />The best flies lately have been Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy Worms), smaller nymphs #16-22, and various streamers. If trout are rising, match the hatch- Midges are the main bug, but there are still some BWO’s. During normal flows, think smaller more imitative nymphs, and that should also lead to more dry fly fishing on small Blue Winged Olives & Midges, and in the mornings Winter Caddis. Look for bigger, wider, flatter pools to find rising trout. Streamers are still a good choice, especially early & late in the day and on cloudy days- play with colors & retrieves, it can make a big difference. I’d slow your streamer presentations up now and try to fish them deeper- colder water temps slows the trout down. Post-spawn trout are depleted and hungry, looking to put weight on and a streamer looks like a lot of calories to them. <br /><br /><b>Fishing Advice During & After the Spawn</b>:<br />Keep an eye out for redds, the oval light colored depressions in gravel riffles where trout deposit their eggs. These are commonly located in riffle water in pool tailouts and in side channels, often in shallow water. Trout look to spawn where there is pea sized gravel with the right amount of current. Avoid those areas and the first 10-15 feet below them (many eggs drift downstream), otherwise you will crush the eggs if you walk there. The eggs don’t hatch out until about February/early March, so <i><b>watch where you walk or you will be crushing & killing future wild trout</b></i>. <u>Do NOT fish to actively spawning fish on redds</u>, they are already stressed out, just let them reproduce in peace and make more wild browns. Fish the deeper, darker water downstream of the redds, there will be plenty of unseen non-spawning trout gobling up drifting eggs.</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state stocked the river with good sized brown trout in early October from just below the Rt 219 bridge in New Hartford all the way down to Collinsville & Unionville and below that too. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October with quite a few pretty rainbows.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />***Midges & a few small Blue Winged Olives are the 2 main afternoon hatches, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings***<br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives #22-28: afternoons, especially on cloudy days, hatch is almost done, look for milder afternoons.<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): especially good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs, also killer on recently stocked trout<br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: spawn is done, but egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter/early Spring. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns: fish especially in the afternoons when they are active. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red<br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River.<br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, excellent choice to fish in the Fall<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />After the fall brown trout spawn, in early winter many trout have lost weight and are depleted and are looking to put weight back on, and to a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. <br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, <i>deadly </i>fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes they work better than bulky modern streamers, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. <br /><u>Try</u>: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></p></div>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-66672146837132788022023-12-29T08:54:00.001-05:002023-12-29T08:54:25.880-05:00Friday 12/29/23 Farmington River Report: Still very high but dropping again<p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span><b style="font-size: 14pt;"></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span><b style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-YhOJjc2xNytoJsooPW77wLEGCzSoPKLTUJ6KpCLCTSPagE4xQkJr9aYCT2nbsBRtyJu_qnEa5lAkLjWH2zJZd5XG_PQzPevFdQlK4j64K0roCdSrlfZse89t1GQb_dXYAh-8W00dgx_fA-CAdp-MU5QJBk_mh7w8NGmTTzn6Ln6jk51_G1JkpwOm6prO/s1280/MikeAndrewsLateDecWildBrown2023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="820" data-original-width="1280" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-YhOJjc2xNytoJsooPW77wLEGCzSoPKLTUJ6KpCLCTSPagE4xQkJr9aYCT2nbsBRtyJu_qnEa5lAkLjWH2zJZd5XG_PQzPevFdQlK4j64K0roCdSrlfZse89t1GQb_dXYAh-8W00dgx_fA-CAdp-MU5QJBk_mh7w8NGmTTzn6Ln6jk51_G1JkpwOm6prO/w400-h256/MikeAndrewsLateDecWildBrown2023.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b><span style="font-size: medium;">, 7 days a week. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d; font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Holiday Hours</b></u></span><span style="font-size: medium;">:</span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-</span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">12/31/23 Sunday New Year’s Eve</b><span style="font-size: medium;">:</span><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;">8am-3pm</span><span style="font-size: medium;">.</span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">-</span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">1/1/24 New Year’s Day</b><span style="font-size: medium;">: </span><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;">Closed</span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Back to 8am-5pm starting Tuesday 1/2/24.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: purple; font-size: 14pt;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span><span style="font-size: medium;">:</span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Stop by for some bargains! </span><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span><span style="font-size: medium;">. </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i><span style="font-size: medium;">. </span><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u style="font-size: 14pt;">(not the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099; font-size: 14pt;"><u>also 40% off</u></span><span style="font-size: medium;">. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">We recently purchased another huge collection of quality fly tying materials. Stop by and check it out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">UpCountry has also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Come and take a look before someone gets there first. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Pictured up top is customer Mike Andrews with a high water beauty of a brown trout, looks wild to me. While I cannot recommend fishing in these very high flows, a few experienced anglers have been braving the high flows and catching a few bigger fish by standing on the bank and fishing the edges with streamers, Junk Flies & bigger nymphs. </span><br /><br /><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Morning Conditi</b></u><u style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>ons:<br /></b></u><span style="font-size: medium;">Despite a 550cfs flow cut at the dam yesterday (Thursday) of 1,350cfs down to 800cfs, another heavy rain Wednesday night/Thursday morning shot the Still River up over 900cfs, and also put runoff into Riverton. Riverton USGS gauge is reading 1,060cfs & dropping this morning, the Still is down to 570cfs & dropping fast. Total flow in the permanent TMA/Catch & Release is over 1,600cfs and receding- still too high to recommend fishing, but it should be fishable sometime soon. And at 1,000+ CFS, even Riverton is super high. Not sure when they will do the next flow cut, they don’t tell us until after the fact- it could be any day. I do not recommend fishing the Farmington River until the total level comes back down under 1,000cfs. We will update this report when the MDC makes their next flow cut.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Because the MDC has been defaulting to a frustrating minimum flow regime since early 2022, that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump a lot of water for at least a few days to as much as a week. Historically they would do a good job managing the water and get the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls. The water temp below the dam is 41.75 degrees this morning. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging upper 30’s to low 40’s, depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. FYI the Still River tends to be a cooling influence in the late Fall & Winter, especially in the mornings after a colder night. In the Summer it’s a warming influence. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases, with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d; font-size: 14pt;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods just arrived</b></u></i></span><span style="font-size: medium;">, this replaces the Ultralite series (</span><i style="font-size: 14pt;">not </i><span style="font-size: medium;">the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10. </span></span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /><u><b>Fri</b></u><u><b>day morning 12/2</b></u><u><b>9</b></u><u><b>:<br /></b></u>As noted up top, <u>we will close at 3pm this Sunday 12/31, and be closed on 1/1/24 for New Year’s Day</u>, so plan accordingly. <b>You will need a 2024 CT fishing license if you plan on fishing New Year’s Day.</b>They can be purchased online on the CT DEEP website.<u><b><br /><br /></b></u>Just over 1,600cfs & dropping in the permanent TMA/C&R as I write this, that’s too high for most wading anglers, but you may see some anglers floating it in boats. MDC made a flow cut Thursday, but rain Wednesday night/Thursday morning shot the Still River back up over 900cfs, and it’s down under 600 and dropping fast now. Everything is still too high to recommend fishing currently, look for the total flow to get back under 1,000, or Riverton at 600cfs or less. We will update this report when the MDC makes their next flow cut, which could be any day. When fishing in higher flows, target the water closer to the banks in the softer water off the heavier main current. Streamers, Junk Flies (Eggs, Worms, Mops), bigger Stoneflies, and hot-spot nymphs and good choices when flows are up and/or off color. When flows come back to normal on the Farmington, go back to more natural & smaller flies. Jigged streamers fished slow & deep on a Euro rig can be very effective in cold water on lethargic trout, when standard streamers presentations aren’t producing. You’re putting your fly right in their face, which makes it easy for them to eat, rather than having to swim up in the water column and chase their meal. <br /><br />When normal flows resume, in the afternoons look for Midges & small Blue Winged Olives to bring a few trout to the surface in the bigger, wider, slower pools. There are also Winter Caddis in the early to mid mornings. We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. <br /><br />Nymphing remains a consistent producer <i><b>if </b></i>you are proficient at it, no surprise there. Sometimes in the colder water of Winter, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to far less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier or bigger flies <i><b>sometimes </b></i>do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. Having said that, currently many of the medium to large brown trout are extra hungry due to weight loss during the recent spawn. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. <br /><br />Traditional Streamers fished slow & deep are having their moments- play with colors and retrieves to find out what works, it can vary. Lately the top streamer colors are tan, white, and olive- color can make a BIG difference some days, so don’t get hung up on only one color. Tan has been hot lately, but other colors can be better at moments. Effective nymphs have included assorted smaller #18-20 patterns, egg flies, Junk Flies (Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Caddis larva, and attractor/hot-spot flies. Fish have seen a LOT of egg patterns this Fall, so make sure to pair egg flies with a nymph to give them another option. The spawn is basically over, but there are always a few late spawners, sometimes as late as early/mid January. Stay clear of the redds and the first 15 feet below them, otherwise you will walk on and crush the eggs. They don’t hatch out until February/early March. <br /><br />No need to start early now (due to colder water temps), unless you want to hit the early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch (7am-10am is typical for that, but can be earlier or later). Typically this time of year the fishing just seems to improve as the day progresses and water temps rise, and morning Winter Caddis excepted, most of the hatching activity is all in the afternoons. Nymphs, dries & streamers are all possibilities right now. When water temps get truly cold like they are now (30’s to low 40’s), rising water temps during the day tends to get the trout active and feeding. <br /><br />Tiny Midges & Blue Winged Olives #22-28 are the two afternoon hatches, with rising trout in the bigger, wider, slower pools. Overall, afternoons have fished a lot better than mornings, probably due to rising water temps and increased insect activity/hatching. This is especially true after colder night- when you get a mild overnight the early morning fishing can be good. Nymphing is the most consistent tactic, but streamers are also producing some nice fish.<br /><br />Please be careful not to step on or just below brown trout spawning redds. Walking on these areas crushes the eggs. Redds are the light colored oval areas in gravelly riffles where the brown trout spawn. By this time of year, 99% of the browns have completed spawning. Even though the spawn is basically done now, egg flies will continue to work well straight through the Winter. Pair them up with a smaller nymph for best results.<br /><br />The best flies lately have been Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy Worms), smaller nymphs #16-22, and various streamers. If trout are rising, match the hatch- Midges are the main bug, but there are still some BWO’s. During normal flows, think smaller more imitative nymphs, and that should also lead to more dry fly fishing on small Blue Winged Olives & Midges, and in the mornings Winter Caddis. Look for bigger, wider, flatter pools to find rising trout. Streamers are still a good choice, especially early & late in the day and on cloudy days- play with colors & retrieves, it can make a big difference. I’d slow your streamer presentations up now and try to fish them deeper- colder water temps slows the trout down. Post-spawn trout are depleted and hungry, looking to put weight on and a streamer looks like a lot of calories to them. <br /><br /><b>Fishing Advice During & After the Spawn</b>:<br />Keep an eye out for redds, the oval light colored depressions in gravel riffles where trout deposit their eggs. These are commonly located in riffle water in pool tailouts and in side channels, often in shallow water. Trout look to spawn where there is pea sized gravel with the right amount of current. Avoid those areas and the first 10-15 feet below them (many eggs drift downstream), otherwise you will crush the eggs if you walk there. The eggs don’t hatch out until about February/early March, so <i><b>watch where you walk or you will be crushing & killing future wild trout</b></i>. <u>Do NOT fish to actively spawning fish on redds</u>, they are already stressed out, just let them reproduce in peace and make more wild browns. Fish the deeper, darker water downstream of the redds, there will be plenty of unseen non-spawning trout gobling up drifting eggs.</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state stocked the river with good sized brown trout in early October from just below the Rt 219 bridge in New Hartford all the way down to Collinsville & Unionville and below that too. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October with quite a few pretty rainbows.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />***Midges & Small Blue Winged Olives are the 2 main afternoon hatches, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings***<br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives #22-28: afternoons, especially on cloudy days, probably getting near the tail end of the hatch.<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): especially good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs, also killer on recently stocked trout<br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: spawn is basically done, but egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns: fish in the afternoons when they are active. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red<br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River.<br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, excellent choice to fish in the Fall<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />After the fall brown trout spawn, in early winter many trout have lost weight and are depleted and are looking to put weight back on, and to a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. <br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, <i>deadly </i>fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes they work better than bulky modern streamers, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. <br /><u>Try</u>: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></p>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4126445575269032964.post-91853702803090099212023-12-26T14:20:00.003-05:002023-12-26T14:20:31.538-05:00Tuesday 12/26/23 Farmington River Report: High with a flow cut likely any day<p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggvG06nLiWOpk9RfBwo9T0ln-CH0szjk5DN3OQej4nES64WZ5eiZA6gmwNrDAyA_DScReSzq-4YWn_bO2yIksr-75EzePMzEX5EfpCOIwtwkFdqVJfFvkUOn1YUmmP8-ytFezA1-ZC3qY_e91HmOx6FuhdxmszdplrfAtjRO4WfOwjSiYjqKXQ1-1M3Ptj/s1308/ZachBrownInHandLateDec2023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1308" data-original-width="981" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggvG06nLiWOpk9RfBwo9T0ln-CH0szjk5DN3OQej4nES64WZ5eiZA6gmwNrDAyA_DScReSzq-4YWn_bO2yIksr-75EzePMzEX5EfpCOIwtwkFdqVJfFvkUOn1YUmmP8-ytFezA1-ZC3qY_e91HmOx6FuhdxmszdplrfAtjRO4WfOwjSiYjqKXQ1-1M3Ptj/w300-h400/ZachBrownInHandLateDec2023.jpg" width="300" /></a></b></span></span></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Store Hours: 8am-5pm</b>, 7 days a week. <br /><br /><span style="color: purple;"><u><b>Sale</b></u></span>:<br />Stop by for some bargains! <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Select T&T Zone rods are 40% off</u></span>. <i><b>Thomas & Thomas Avantt rods all 40% off</b></i>. <span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>Hardy Ultralites </u></span><u>(not the LL’s) </u><span style="color: #2a6099;"><u>also 40% off</u></span>. <br /><br />We recently purchased another huge collection of quality fly tying materials. Stop by and check it out. Hooks, dry fly necks, streamer necks, dubbing, flash, squirrel, used vises, tying tools, fur, zonker strips, rubber legs, deer hair, foam, and LOTS more. <br /><br />UpCountry has also purchased a large collection of Used graphite, bamboo & fiberglass fly rods, used fly reels & classic fly reels. Most of this equipment is very affordably priced and will only be offered in store to our walk in customers. There are lots of classic Orvis, Hardy, Pfleuger, custom, and much more. Come and take a look before someone gets there first. Most items are between $10 - $200 with a few higher end bamboo rods mixed in. If you have ever considered buying an affordable bamboo rod to fish with, this is the time, we have some great rods from $100-500 dollars and a few premium ones for the more experienced bamboo aficionado.<br /><br />Pictured up top is guide Zach St. Amand with a handful of hefty brown trout, sight fished with a nymph on the edges in the very high water on Christmas day.<br /><br /><u><b>Morning Conditions</b></u>:<br />No change as yet, the dam is still releasing a lot of water in order to lower Colebrook Reservoir, total flow in the permanent TMA/C&R is just under 1,700cfs as I write this late Tuesday morning (Riverton is 1,400+). I do not recommend fishing the Farmington River until the total level comes back down under 1,000cfs. I’m guessing Wednesday morning they will make a major flow reduction, but that’s just a guess, not a guarantee- keep an eye on the USGS streamflow gauges. The Still River (250cfs) & Sandy Brook are both in nice shape and very fishable as I write this- rain predicted for Wednesday through Friday could change this though, so check before you fish. <br /><br />Because the MDC has been defaulting to a frustrating minimum flow regime since early 2022, that paradigm has kept the reservoirs full and anytime we get substantial rain they have to dump a lot of water for at least a few days to as much as a week. Historically they would do a good job managing the water and get the reservoirs low by September, and this gave them some ability to buffer heavier hurricane rainfalls. The water temp below the dam is 41.5 degrees this morning. Downstream from the Still River in the mid to lower river the Farmington River has been averaging upper 30’s to low 40’s, depending upon distance from dam, time of day, and weather. FYI the Still River tends to be a cooling influence in the late Fall & Winter, especially in the mornings after a colder night. In the Summer it’s a warming influence. Sunny days will see the biggest water temperature increases, with peak water temps in the mid to late afternoons.<br /><br /><span style="color: #55308d;"><i><u><b>New Hardy Marksman rods just arrived</b></u></i></span>, this replaces the Ultralite series (<i>not </i>the Ultralite LL though). They are super nice with improved recovery and even better actions/flex patterns. We have the freshwater Marksman from #3-7, and the saltwater Marksman Z (replaces the Zane Pro) from #7-10. </span></span><p></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /><u><b>Tues</b></u><u><b>day morning 12/2</b></u><u><b>6</b></u><u><b>:<br /></b></u>Just under 1,700cfs in the permanent TMA/C&R as I write this, that’s too high for most wading anglers, but you may see some anglers floating it in boats. MDC will likely cut the flow back, I’m guessing Wednesday morning, but we won’t know until they actually cut the flow- they don’t give us advance notice. When fishing in higher flows, target the water closer to the banks in the softer water off the heavier main current. Streamers, Junk Flies (Eggs, Worms, Mops), bigger Stoneflies, and hot-spot nymphs and good choices when flows are up and/or off color. When flows come back to normal on the Farmington, go back to more natural & smaller flies. Jigged streamers fished slow & deep on a Euro rig can be very effective in cold water on lethargic trout, when standard streamers presentations aren’t producing. You’re putting your fly right in their face, which makes it easy for them to eat, rather than having to swim up in the water column and chase their meal. <br /><br />When normal flows resume, in the afternoons look for Midges & small Blue Winged Olives to bring a few trout to the surface in the bigger, wider, slower pools. There are also Winter Caddis in the early to mid mornings. We have a good selection of the specialized Winter Caddis dry fly patterns from #18-24, it’s a unique hatch that you don’t normally find on other rivers (exception: Swift River in MA also has them). The Winter Caddis larva are about a #18 and yellowish in color, and are also worth fishing this time of year. That same fly imitates Black Caddis larva (also yellow & small), as well as some Midges- killing 3 birds with one stone. Small nymphs are typically good this time of year, with the smaller size often being more important than the exact pattern. <br /><br />Nymphing remains a consistent producer <i><b>if </b></i>you are proficient at it, no surprise there. Sometimes in the colder water of Winter, gaudy and/or large nymphs can be the ticket when more imitative flies aren’t working. Think flash, UV materials, hot spots, bigger Stoneflies, Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms, Green Weenies), etc. Probably due to far less bug activity this time of year, fish become more opportunistic, and gaudier or bigger flies <i><b>sometimes </b></i>do a better job getting their attention and triggering an eat. Remember though, colder water equals a slower metabolism, which means they don’t have to eat as much. This coincides nicely with the reduced food supply in Winter. Having said that, currently many of the medium to large brown trout are extra hungry due to weight loss during the recent spawn. A small jigged streamer nymphed Euro style with occasional twitches can be just the ticket- looks like a mouthful of food, and it’s easy to eat because it’s right in their face. It also represents a LOT more calories to the trout, and sometimes a fish that won’t move slightly to eat a nymph will suck in a jigged streamer- just what a hungry post-spawn brown trout needs to put some weight back on. <br /><br />Traditional Streamers fished slow & deep are having their moments- play with colors and retrieves to find out what works, it can vary. Lately the top streamer colors are tan, white, and olive- color can make a BIG difference some days, so don’t get hung up on only one color. Tan has been hot lately, but other colors can be better at moments. Effective nymphs have included assorted smaller #18-20 patterns, egg flies, Junk Flies (Mops, Squirmy/San Juan Worms), Caddis larva, and attractor/hot-spot flies. Fish have seen a LOT of egg patterns this Fall, so make sure to pair egg flies with a nymph to give them another option. The spawn is basically over, but there are always a few late spawners, sometimes as late as early/mid January. Stay clear of the redds and the first 15 feet below them, otherwise you will walk on and crush the eggs. They don’t hatch out until February/early March. <br /><br />No need to start early now (due to colder water temps), unless you want to hit the early to mid morning Winter Caddis hatch (7am-10am is typical for that, but can be earlier or later). Typically this time of year the fishing just seems to improve as the day progresses and water temps rise, and morning Winter Caddis excepted, most of the hatching activity is all in the afternoons. Nymphs, dries & streamers are all possibilities right now. When water temps get truly cold like they are now (30’s to low 40’s), rising water temps during the day tends to get the trout active and feeding. <br /><br />Tiny Midges & Blue Winged Olives #22-28 are the two afternoon hatches, with rising trout in the bigger, wider, slower pools. Overall, afternoons have fished a lot better than mornings, probably due to rising water temps and increased insect activity/hatching. This is especially true after colder night- when you get a mild overnight the early morning fishing can be good. Nymphing is the most consistent tactic, but streamers are also producing some nice fish.<br /><br />Please be careful not to step on or just below brown trout spawning redds. Walking on these areas crushes the eggs. Redds are the light colored oval areas in gravelly riffles where the brown trout spawn. By this time of year, 99% of the browns have completed spawning. Even though the spawn is basically done now, egg flies will continue to work well straight through the Winter. Pair them up with a smaller nymph for best results.<br /><br />The best flies lately have been Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmy Worms), smaller nymphs #16-22, and various streamers. If trout are rising, match the hatch- Midges are the main bug, but there are still some BWO’s. During normal flows, think smaller more imitative nymphs, and that should also lead to more dry fly fishing on small Blue Winged Olives & Midges, and in the mornings Winter Caddis. Look for bigger, wider, flatter pools to find rising trout. Streamers are still a good choice, especially early & late in the day and on cloudy days- play with colors & retrieves, it can make a big difference. I’d slow your streamer presentations up now and try to fish them deeper- colder water temps slows the trout down. Post-spawn trout are depleted and hungry, looking to put weight on and a streamer looks like a lot of calories to them. <br /><br /><b>Fishing Advice During & After the Spawn</b>:<br />Keep an eye out for redds, the oval light colored depressions in gravel riffles where trout deposit their eggs. These are commonly located in riffle water in pool tailouts and in side channels, often in shallow water. Trout look to spawn where there is pea sized gravel with the right amount of current. Avoid those areas and the first 10-15 feet below them (many eggs drift downstream), otherwise you will crush the eggs if you walk there. The eggs don’t hatch out until about February/early March, so <i><b>watch where you walk or you will be crushing & killing future wild trout</b></i>. <u>Do NOT fish to actively spawning fish on redds</u>, they are already stressed out, just let them reproduce in peace and make more wild browns. Fish the deeper, darker water downstream of the redds, there will be plenty of unseen non-spawning trout gobling up drifting eggs.</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 0.1in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />*************************************************************************************<br /><br />The state stocked the river with good sized brown trout in early October from just below the Rt 219 bridge in New Hartford all the way down to Collinsville & Unionville and below that too. Please remember that as of 9/1, the entire river from the dam all the way down to the Rt 177 bridge in Unionville is strictly Catch & Release. The MDC stocked the upper river (above the permanent TMA/C&R up to the dam) in early/mid October with quite a few pretty rainbows.<br /><br />***********************************************************************<br /><br /><b>Hatches/Dries</b>:<br /><br />***Midges & Small Blue Winged Olives are the 2 main afternoon hatches, with Winter/Summer Caddis in the mornings***<br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives #22-28: afternoons, especially on cloudy days, probably getting near the tail end of the hatch.<br /><br />-Midges #22-28: afternoons up until dusk, all Winter long<br /><br />-Summer/Winter Caddis #18-24: hatching in early to mid morning, all year long, with peak hatching in both the Winter & Summer<br /><br /><b>Nymphs/Wets/Soft-Hackles</b>:<br /><br />-Junk Flies (Eggs, Mops, Squirmies/SJ Worms, Green Weenies): especially good in high/stained water, or as a change-up fly after you have fished a good run with standard nymphs, also killer on recently stocked trout<br /><br />-Egg Flies #12-18: spawn is basically done, but egg flies will continue to produce right through the Winter. Try shades of yellow, pink, orange. <br /><br />-Blue Winged Olives (BWO) Nymphs #18-22, assorted patterns: fish in the afternoons when they are active. <br /><br />-Zebra Midge #18-22: black, olive, red<br /><br />-Assorted Small Nymphs #18-22: most of the bugs in the Winter are small & skinny, and darker colors such as brown, black & dark olive are common. Try Zebra Midges (black, red, olive), Pheasant Tails (natural, flashback, Frenchies, olive, black, chocolate brown, etc.), BWO/Olive nymphs, Winter Caddis Larva, etc. The size, shape & presentation are generally more important than exact fly pattern. Play with drab, flash, UV, hot-spots, and no hot spots to see what works best, because it can and will vary depending on the day, time of day, and light conditions. Fishing pressure will also affect fly preferences.<br /><br />-Frenchies & Pheasant Tails #14-22: various sizes imitate many different Mayfly nymphs (BWO, Isonychia, Sulfur, Iso, etc.) & smaller Stoneflies and are quite effective everywhere, all year long. A Pheasant Tail in #16-20 is rarely a bad choice on the Farmington River.<br /><br />-Caddis Larva (olive to green) #14-16: anytime, lots of these in the river. Good choice when you aren’t sure what to fish, work well in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring.<br /><br />-Cased Caddis #10-16: underfished pattern, there are tons of these in the river. Many are dislodged during high water & flow bumps from the dam.<br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various colors/patterns- dead-drift, twitch, swing & strip, best on a Euro rod & leader, excellent choice to fish in the Fall<br /><br />-Attractor Nymphs #14-20: anything flashy, gaudy, or with a hot spot such as Sexy Waltz, Rainbow Warriors, Frenchies, Prince, Triple Threats, etc<br /><br />-Wet Flies & Soft-Hackles #10-18: assorted patterns, Partridge & Orange can be very good almost anytime<br /><br /><b>Streamers</b>:<br /><br />After the fall brown trout spawn, in early winter many trout have lost weight and are depleted and are looking to put weight back on, and to a trout a streamer represents a lot of potential calories. Big trout are almost always on the lookout for bigger bites, especially early & late in the day (low light) and during lulls in bug activity. Also a great choice anytime the flow is up or off-color. <br /><br />-Jigged Streamers #8-12: various patterns/colors, <i>deadly </i>fished on a tight-line/Euro rig<br /><br />-Woolly Bugger #4-12: assorted colors<br /><br />-Zonker #4-6: white, natural<br /><br />-BMAR Yellow Matuka #6. Also standard Matuka in olive, brown<br /><br />-Zuddler #4-8: olive, yellow, white, brown, black<br /><br />-Complex & Mini Twist Bugger #2-6: assorted colors<br /><br />-Classic Streamers #6-10: Sometimes they work better than bulky modern streamers, maybe due to their mostly slimmer profiles & drabber designs. Or maybe it’s because not many people fish them anymore, who knows. <br /><u>Try</u>: Black Nosed Dace, Muddler Minnow, Marabou Muddler (especially white!), Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Baby Brown Trout, Mickey Finn, Hornberg, etc.</span></span></p>UpCountry Sportfishinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13463873888271553416noreply@blogger.com