Spring Raising

The first week of Trout Season was cold and wet. The snow still lingers deep in the swamps that protect the rivers. Monday morning's temperature was 27 F, which I would consider too cold a day for spring skiing.
My faviote small rivers are still over their banks from relentless rain and run off snow melt and will remain that way for some time. The Maple river tannin is as dark as tea. So what's the draw to trout opening season. It's more than just fishing. The fish are there, but so are we. Sometimes I am in awe of the brutal punishment winter has on the human endeavor. Many dark, cold, snowy winter mornings start with a cup of coffee and a snow-blower before you can even consider getting ready for work. Those days are gone.
Trout season marks the new year for me. Large spawning Rainbow Trout are the current challenge. They are difficult to fish, difficult to land. The smaller rivers aren't that productive now,  their inability to handle run off and tannin will make them less successful until late May or even June. The logging trails have cleared up from the mud that closes them in the early thaw. Spring is here. Things along the river, not experienced for 6 months, are coming to life. Birds are singing, flowers are blooming, the warming Earth has an essence. Lighter hiking boots on soft soil makes traveling to remote areas so much fun. The smell of clear running water is so welcome. Like a good movie it takes a little time before you get to the plot. Sure the weather isn't perfect for fly fishing yet, but warmer days are starting to break. The feel of the fly rod in hand, casting it on fast flowing spring waters, you never know what a trout might do. That is what the trout opener brings, the perfect beginning after a brutal winters end. Can you say " Short Sleeve Shirt " three times really fast? Stay tuned!

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