June 1, 2009

It’s hard to say what month I look forward to the most. The month of Soft Hackle VictimMay, however, has got to be near the top. Browns turn on to streamers in May. It is also Hendrickson’s month, marking the first major mayfly hatch that gets bigger fish looking skyward. Then, again, steelhead can still be found in May. How can life get any better?

The only unattained goal for me was to participate in a Hendrickson spinner fall. I tried to intercept them a couple times, but the unseasonably cool weather upset my timing. And, when the Henes finally decided to show, my schedule wouldn’t allow the drive time.

On those aborted Hendrickson outings I resorted to swinging soft Early May Steelheadhackles. How cruel can life get? Hit after hit. Soft hackles are a real kick. Too bad, though, that I didn’t net anything over 11 inches. The Au Sable gave me one chance at a more substantial fish, but the hook pulled free.

Early on in May, it’s still not too difficult to find steelhead. The northern tributaries are still getting a few fresh fish. The southern tribs have post-spawners that are still making their drop back to the big lakes. Egg flies can still take the fresh spawners, while streamers will work for the hungry drop back fish.

There were two outing with my CSF comrades. The first went to the Deward Tract of the Manistee River, teaching “newbies” the joy of fly fishing and gullible trout.

The second CSF outing was a streamer-ripping affair on the Little Streamer Eating 17Manistee. Oh, how I love a murky river with falling water conditions after a rainstorm. You talk about turning on the fish! I netted a 17, had a double-drive-by by a 20, and close encounters with a few of their friends!

The Sturgeon (being my home water) gave up a few brownies to streamers, too. Again, murky, falling water or dark overcast days seem best.

Capping out the month was a brook trout extravaganza to Canada Creek (See the article in "Featured Waters"). The simple joys of brook trout. It’s a calming experience. Simple really. But it is a good opportunity to put life (and fly fishing) back into perspective. Catching small trout can be fun! And, I never seem to be able to comprehend just how much beauty God can pack into such a little creature. Brook trout truly are God’s gift to fly fishermen.

Next comes June. Brown Drakes, Sulfurs, Iso’s and Hex!

Good fishing!