Stream Report 6/27/2023

Forecast: 84℉, 3 mph wind, sunny

Stream Conditions: clear/normal levels, water temp was 54℉

Insect Hatching Activity: None Observed

As our fly fishing friend, Mike, likes to say "he's out troutin' and scoutin'" and that was exactly our mission today - troutin' and scoutin'. The goal was to get to the streams before it heated up and access the potential of catchable and assessable trout. The first watershed had excellent water quality and a healthy population of trout, but the access was difficult with steep banks and heavy vegetation. That never stopped us before, so we found a way to get to the stream and into the water. We proceeded to catch many trout on nymphs and pupa patterns. Nothing was observed hatching. The stream is definitely going to be evaluated further. The second new stream for evaluation had excellent access with many trout which also eagerly took both nymphs and pupa patterns. We're satisfied that this stream with be on our definite "go to" option list. Before taking the rod down and the boots off, the day was warming up considerably. It just seemed like a hopper day even though none were observed. I put a hopper on and then it began, big bold trout slamming the hopper like it was their last meal. Some came from several feet away stalking the hopper like a shark would to its prey. I looked at my watch and it was High Noon. No shade, high sun and eager trout. Of course your cast couldn't be 10 feet away but there has to be some challenge. Just another wonderful and unexpected Driftless day!