Considering the number of trout in our streams in the Appalachian and Blue Ridge Mountains, the quality of the streams, and the density of the aquatic insects in the streams, I expect our trout fishing to be outstanding in 2011. There are presently great numbers of Isoperla stoneflies and Ephemerella dorothea mayflies in our stream which should assure good hatches through June.
The snows we are already getting will help assure excellent trout fishing in the upper headwaters of our mountain streams. Take advantage of this great action from mid March until June by driving into the heads of these streams on the National Forest Roads, Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive. Park at the trail heads I discuss in my books, Virginia Blue Ribbon Streams and Trout Fishing in the Shenandoah National Park. Hike down the trails then fish back up the mountain. This was some of our finest fishing in 2010.
By July be willing to switch over to the terrestrial flies that match the naturals the trout are feeding on. For the past several years our most productive terrestrial patterns have been Ed Shenk’s Cricket, Mr. Rapidan Ant and Murray’s Flying Beetle and I strongly suspect these will be outstanding in 2011.
At the end of the next issue which will cover my predictions for the smallmouth fishing for 2011 I will list the 3 ways you can keep up with the timely fishing conditions for both trout and bass each week.
If you would like to attend one of our “On The Stream Trout Schools” we will be conducting 4 separate 2 day schools this year.
You must be logged in to post a comment.