Meeting the River Trout

The break in December weather was like a holiday gift from the gods. The air temp rose to 53 degrees F., the river temp to 44. Although the sun hid behind the deep gray clouds, I stood in the northern PA water, reasonably warm and comfortable, casting with an old reliable bamboo while listening to the cornstalks rattle in the breeze along the riverbank.

Two months ago, I could find no trout here in this headwater but now the German browns were clearly present and determined to inspect the drifting artificial egg. These fish were brightly colored, hefty and, most likely, planted in a late-year stocking effort. My only challenge was to get immersed in the moments as thoroughly as possible– while staying dry and while the feeding frenzy lasted.

What an active hour-long session it was! Good luck and timing had brought me to one of the season’s best workouts. Captured browns were numerous and averaged about 15-inches in length, each one quickly returned to its domain. A gift that afternoon– from the river, from whomever lent assistance to their placement in the pools and riffles. So, a tip of the hat, a sweep of the rod, to the water, cornstalk fields and looming hills. It pays to keep an eye out on our ever-changing lands and waters. A surprise is always near. The peace and quiet can be wonderful while it lasts.