CT Small Stream Fishing

CT Small Stream Fishing

The smaller rivers are all in good condition right now and have some water from the rain last week. We do have some rain coming this weekend, about an inch from Friday – Sunday. Looks like a little rain next week as well but not too much. Expect the smaller rivers to swell with the rain but they should clear pretty quickly especially by the headwaters. A little stain also isn’t bad as it will give you some cover when moving in tight quarters. It will be nice out besides from the rain with temps in the high 70’s to low 80’s into next week. Wind isn’t too crazy as well, with gusts peaking for the week at around 12 mph.

These warmer temps have really been turning it on. I’ve found good luck recently on the small rivers and there’s plenty of wild trout to be found. Some bugs to expect to see/be active are some assorted caddis #16-20, March Browns #12-14, and Sulphur’s #14-16. Don’t neglect terrestrial’s either as there’s been some larger ants moving around. Trout will even eat caterpillars as they fall in the water. When fishing small streams the canopy usually covers the river so a lot of bugs have an opportunity to fall in the river.

Fishing a dry dropper rig can be deadly. Throwing a nymph under a March Brown or a fly like a cornfed caddis would be a pretty good idea if you get out on the small streams anytime soon. If you do find that the rivers by you get high and dirty a small streamer can be super effective as well. A micro jig streamer is a good choice. In the shop we have a micro dungeon fly that would do well. The usual applies as well, squirmies, mops, and something flashy are all good choices for higher dirty water. Just remember that just because the river in high for its normal doesn’t mean that it is always very deep. Play around with weight to make sure you’re hitting a good depth without getting hung up too often.

When fishing a small stream it’s important to stay stealthy. Moving around too much can spook off the trout before you even get a good shot. Stay lower and watch your rod tip so you don’t scare the fish. Generally moving through the river upstream is the best since you come from behind to the trout. No need for a super long leader either, something 6-8ft is perfect. If you don’t have anything that size we do have some creek trout leaders in stock at the store. Besides staying hidden the trout are usually very agreeable and you can find a ton of action.

Getting off the super popular rivers and fishing a smaller river can be super fun and the small wild trout are always gorgeous. There are more rivers that hold wild trout then you may think so explore. You may strike out a few times but don’t get discouraged. If you do find some wild trout be sure to handle them with care.

If you go out and have any questions feel free to stop by the shop, we are more than happy to help you with whatever you need. We have some larger March Browns great for dry droppers as well as some cool micro streamers that I had mentioned earlier. Tight Lines!

Location:139 Center St, Bristol CT, 06010

Number: (203) 343-0775

Hours:

Monday – Tuesday           8AM – 5PM

Wednesday                         8AM – 8PM

Thursday                               8AM – 5PM

Friday – Saturday              7AM – 6PM

Sunday                                  7AM – 5PM