Moose

Hi Folks, Guided a large group on the Winooski this morning who were interested in learning to fish.  Water level was just below the seasonal average.  Water temperature was 69 to 70 degrees.  Nice overcast conditions and hopefully we get some much needed rain later today.  We were treated to a young bull moose crossing the river this morning right in front of us.  Amazing to see how well these animal swim.  The moose crossed in a section that you would never dream of wading in.  Saw a few #20 micro caddis hatching and few subtle rises in the tail out of a very large pool.  The rise forms were out of casting range and they only happened right off the get this morning.  Lots of #10 to #12 stone fly shucks on rocks.  We nymph fished and messed with a bunch of small fall fish.  No trout, though we did miss a few fish that very well could have been a trout.  All of our takes were in heavy riffles.  Obviously due to the warmer water temperatures and the fish's need for more dissolved oxygen.  High stick drifts with #10 tungsten stone flies and #12 prince nymphs were our approach.  We also presented some #18 olive caddis to the fish.  We fished all of our nymphs under indicators.  I think small streams are still the way to go until things cool off.  I will be chasing smallmouth bass and small stream trout tomorrow.  Remember to clean your gear and keep the non-native species at home.  Have Fun, Willy