My philosophy towards trout fishing is starting to change. Gone are the notions that trout are fragile almost timid creatures that shy away at the nearest vibration from the bank. These thoughts have been replaced by predators with the capacity to overcome prey with fierce speed and ferocious annihilation. There's two types of trout. Those that stay in the main water column and eat what they can. The others hide in the darkness and out of reach places. They eat what they want when they want. Usually they've been caught once or twice and their years of wisdom have made them leery about anything out of the ordinary. It's these fish that I've started to target and my enjoyment of fly fishing has increased tenfold. The small size 20flies and 7x tippet no longer exist in my fly box. 3x is the standard and as an added bonus you rarely lose flies. Big fish indeed want big flies and it usually takes something larger than 3inches to entice them. Even when you do the most you can expect is a follow. I have finally learned the difference between a curious follow and a chase. Then there is the ambush which is an unexpected flash that usually ends as quickly as it starts. Since I've started fishing this way I have seen more big trout this year than in all 10yrs of fly fishing combined. The method works and the fish aren't any easier to catch. The technique allows you to get a glimpse of the fish but doesn't guarantee anything. The game becomes about a well placed cast, proper retrieve and fast reflexes. The fish wins 99% of the time and the challenge just makes it more fun. For me just the sight of a 20inch fish trailing my fly is exciting enough. The visual part is what I love and I'm addicted to seeing more.
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You're pretty calm considering you're chasing 20 inch. fish! If I caught one that size I'd be a stuttering fool.
ReplyDeleteIt took awhile before I could keep my nerve when a fish follows. Eventually you start to expect and anticipate the follow.
DeleteI like pushing boundaries, no matter what they might be. Keep at it, I'll be following.
ReplyDeleteThanks Michael, I'm interested in seeing what you find down in FL too.
DeleteThat's awesome! I haven't gotten to the point of just fishing for big trout, because, I've only caught a couple. I like where your going with this though. I love a good challenge, and trying different methods. I do hear the bigger trout love big streamers. I like the flies that Fly Fishing the Ozarks ties. Some really nice articulated flies for big trout and bass. Good luck on your new way! Look forward to reading more. Beautiful trout picture by the way!!
ReplyDeleteArticulated flies are what I use the most. They are longer and I think their design makes them have a better action in the water.
DeleteEvery bit as challenging spooky trout on a size #24 midge pattern or other dry. Plus, the rewards are often bigger, brawnier, smarter fish, due to their longevity. Plus, I like the concept of not fishing with finesse tackle. Go get 'em.
ReplyDeleteKevin
ReplyDeletePursuing the bigger trout is something I need to work on more; to land the bigger trout on our local tailrace one has to fish well below the traditional areas everyone else fishes. It takes lots of patience and time, which I have plenty of, so hopefully this post will motivate me to fish the very slow water on down the tailrace. One good trout or chase from one good trout can make the trip and from the looks of the image your trip was made. Thanks for sharing
I like the change. You should take your new skill set to the White River system in Arkansas... and you'll have a whole lotta fun.
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