Hi Folks, What a run of hot weather we are experiencing. Feels like July, but is the end of September. Typically I would be guiding trout trips during this time of the year, but I have been changing directions and pursuing smallmouth bass with my clients. The trout fishing has really slowed. I did guide the Lamoille and Winooski for trout in the last few days and the fishing was tough due to low water and warm water temperatures. Both rivers have warmed to the high sixties. No rising activity from trout either day as the sun has been really intense. Man we need rain desperately. The lower Lamoille for bass has been okay. Water temperature was 69 degrees in the morning. No fish coming to poppers. We swung streamers deep and varied retrieves to hook a dozen fish. A #6 olive clauser style bunny bugger and a #8 black heavily weighted wooly bugger were the most consistent patterns. Getting out of the sun and fishing in the shade is advised. Standing in the sun fishing is not only tough on the anglers, but more so the fish are not very responsive. Looks like things will cool down by weeks end and hopefully we get some rain. Until then, I am guiding smallmouth. Remember to clean your gear and keep the non-native species at home. Have Fun, Willy
