Fly Fishing Report: April 30

5/2/2017

This is a photo from the Ripogenus Dam on the West Branch of the Penobscot River. I've learned more about river flows and how dams operate this spring than I'd care to know. All of the major rivers are blown out and running super high. Wading is not an option and floats are somewhat dangerous, depending on the section. Smaller rivers are still running high and with the anticipated rain this Friday, dam operators are opening the "flood" gates to prepare for the flow increases. Needless to say, we've been forced off some of our favorite rivers and patience among anglers is running thin.

There are still some smaller streams that are starting to fish well and we'll be exploring those before the rain comes this Friday. The best option right now is fishing ponds. They can still be a little slow in the north country because they just lost their ice in the last week or so. Vince and I spent a few hours on Great Pond in Belgrade this past weekend and were able to locate some fish. We didn't get any takes, but we know that they're there and will only become more active as the temps rise. Getting on lakes and ponds will be your best fishing options. Think "slow" on your retrieves and wear some warm clothing. A life jacket at this time of the year can't be stressed enough as water temps are barely in the 40's and hypothermia could set in quickly.