Contemplating a good day...

Fished the South Fork of the Snake River today.  Low water makes things much easier to navigate.  If someone had a mind to they could pace the whole river... almost.  I found myself standing in areas of the river bottom, looking around me and thinking, "this places has seen some powerful water."  The shape of the gravel bars, huge trees with roots intact, and crystal clear water make one feel they are wandering through a natural art gallery.  One created in the literal "wake" of a monstrous creature.

 I stared into some deep water thinking how much more deep it would be when flows are high again.  I feel a bit sheepish admitting it, but water SCARES me.  It's powerful, and as fishermen that is something we ought not to forget.  It's a fickle thing, and a love hate relationship of sorts.  Water (or the things water can do) gives me the heeber jeebers at times, but I can't seem to leave it alone. 

I headed to the river with the intent to primarily nymph, but after a while and only one little brown to show for it, I swapped to a streamer.

The large black articulated offering was the ticket.  I trailed a large prince and had a couple takers on it as well, but most of the fish came on the streamer.  The clear water made for some exciting takes!  The extra rush from the aggressive takes while fishing streamers has me hooked.  I can't believe I didn't start this type of fishing sooner!

Browns and Cuts for the day.  Didn't touch a single bow.

Check out this midge stew!!!!   These little buggers were everywhere, but I didn't see a single fish rising the whole time out.

Have you ever seen a happier looking brown?  Seriously, this guy looks like he's smiling.

Camo.

Natures bling.

Last one for the day.

Wind

The homework was finished so I drove to the river.   I parked the car and sat there watching the gale force winds whip the willows around frantically and lay the grass flat.  Sitting there I half expected to see a house or a witch fly by.  And then I started the car and drove home.  I am a die-hard fisherman, ask anyone I know and they will attest to it, but if there were one deterrent holding me back it would be the wind.  It is fishing kryponite in most cases.  Curse you wind.  The fish thank you for sparing them sore lips.

Here's a bit from yesterday's adventures though...



No takers on the streamer.  The brown rubber legs shouldered the load.

If you are craving a hard fighting trout, the Henry's Fork can't be beat.  Healthy fish with an attitude!