Captain Morgan's B&T

March's thaw coupled with saturated grounds helped to topple the already bulging water tables. As rivers crested and streams swelled, flows increased washing banks clean of winter debris and early springtime fish food. Small finfish become stimulated and, in turn, cause a stir among larger predatory inhabitants.

Many anglers know that when ice breaks up and its edges gradually recede, the state's trophy trout lakes come alive. Alewives are stalked and driven towards the shore where a few dedicated fishermen cast their bait and lures looking for that infamous hooked-jaw brown trout. More often than not there are shoulder/arm-weary die-hards who come up short of their hopes, but still spend a good early springtime day on the water.

This was not the case with Mike Megargee of Madison who, after having a few curious pickerel take an interest in his bait, had something take more than a look at his lure. Following the first powerful run, largemouth was his thought, but after several more (including a weed-embraced top water roll) this 9.2-pound, 27 1/2-inch, brilliantly colored red-speckled brown trout revealed itself. What seemed like an eternity ended when finesse finally brought this beauty to net.

For those who haven't checked out the TMAs yet, they have been providing excellent fishing opportunities. Note that the Hammonasset River TMA (catch and release until opening day) is that stretch of water between Lake Hammonasset dam (Route 80) to Chestnut Hill Road. The Sea Run Trout Stream runs from the breached dam upstream of River Road downstream to LIS and is open year round. The daily creel limit here is two fish at a 15" minimum length and is the only part of the river that fish can be kept legally until the season opens on Saturday, April 21st.

Largemouth bass are definitely stirring. Various shoreline lakes/ponds are seeing activity with four- to six-pound plus fish being caught. Although water temperatures are on the cold side, a mix of baits, including spinners to minnow imitations, are producing fish. Sensitive rods, like strong, lightweight St. Croixs, are good choices when looking for finesse and that extra touch. Add an innovative soft plastic or realistic hard bait and fish beware!

Anglers are looking for the upper tidal rivers to moderate enabling striper action to pick up. Temperatures are gradually edging upward and after the recent flip-flop weather conditions, bass should become more active. Togs certainly will follow suit and, as April Fool's Day approaches, many anglers are looking to fool a limit of winter flounder after a long wait for the season to open.

A great weekend it was for anglers to fish and prepare for the new fishing season. So, for all things fishy, swing by the shop (203-245-8665) open seven days located at 21 Boston Post Road in Madison. Until next time from your Connecticut shoreline's full-service fishing outfitter where we don't make the fisherman, we make the fisherman better... (Captain Morgan, Guilford Courier)