Capt Morgan 1/26/06

1. Recently, about 500 broodstock Seeforellan-strain of brown trout were evenly distributed between 12 popular trout ponds and lakes located in both western and eastern parts of the state. That, plus holdovers in the main trout rivers, along with the mild temperatures, prompted anglers to hit the waters. Paddleboats got a bit of a dunking, as did a few smaller boats from the trailer fleet not quarantined for the winter. The fishermen on board, for the most part, enjoyed their outings—some even had a few fish stories to tell. Others...well, it proved to be just another good day on the water.
2. Fly rodders not wanting to wait until the spring to test their new gear as well as ultra light enthusiasts teetered along the soft banks and high water. Those levels have since subsided thanks to the influence of the sun and wind, making footing less chancy. There were fish brought to surface on flies, lures, and bait, however, a slow drift and retrieve usually was the key. Soon, our New England winter will return and this comfortable, unseasonable weather will be a memory. But when?
3. Tidal rivers also saw action with anglers shifting concentration to Atlantic salmon or striped bass. Needless to say, linesiders are concentrated in the upper reaches of those rivers affording clear access, the schools moving en masse, often with the tidal flow.
4. The salmon on the other hand are venturing farther upriver where bass would have more difficulty in maneuvering. There continues to be plenty of baitfish in the Sound including a few tommy cod, as some anglers have found out. Careful scanning of the shoreline will identify a flash from a rod as an angler or two take a daytime break. Off in the distance, seals continue to feed and bask and offer the occasional afternoon matinee.
5. Cod fishermen have been drifting in and out of the shop replacing gear lost to large schools of dogfish. On those good days when the weather calmed down and the dogs moved off the banks, market cod, haddock, and some pollack returned smiles to the faces of those anglers who previously came up short. As always, Mother Nature can be fickle.
6. Want to delve into something with more instant gratification? Then slip into some warm clothing, grab a clamming rake, bucket, a pair of waders, and go scratching. Clams caught this time of year are not only delicious but a low tide under the sun opens a portal to an excellent outdoor winter activity. Besides, what's a Super Bowl party without a little shucking to go along with it? Shellfish licenses for both Madison and Guilford are available at the shop along with all the accessories needed for a day on the beds.