The One I lost on the Clinch

On my way to Newport this weekend I stopped by the Clinch to see if I could get a decent fish.  My plan was to fish ultra small and ultra big.  I started at the Weir, and it was packed. The water was as low as I've ever seen it.  I hiked down river to get a little separation from the 10-20 fishermen positioned at various locations around the Weir.  I saw some fish rising and stalked to a good casting spot.  The water was fairly clear and slack.  I stood still for a minute or two and watched the pool where I had seen fish rising. Finally, I was able to pick out some fish.  Within 10-15 feet of me in this slack pool were five to ten 15-20 inch bows and browns.

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High and Low on the Toccoa

As 2011 comes to a close I managed to sneak off by myself for some alone time, which happened to involve swinging flies. Almost all the tailwaters were pushing max water except the Toccoa. I had fond memories of my last trip with the Gubna back in September. There was also the Upper Toccoa DH as an option.

They Call it "Fishing" for a Reason

This is normally my favorite time of year for fishing: small crowds, cold weather, decent river flow, clear streams, and a requirement of decent angling skills when the fish are hunkered down.  Unfortunately, after a stellar month in November, I have had the worst month of fishing that I can ever remember.  December has been brutal! 

The Mighty D

I went with the wife to Asheville, North Carolina for a couple of days of rest and relaxation.  Of course, I managed to find a few hours to try my luck at the Davidson River.  As expected, it was difficult.  I managed only one rainbow, and a number of missed fish.  It was crowded at the trophy section, but not quite as bad as I expected.  Nevertheless, the crowds are a little much and certainly diminish the experience to a certain extent.  The fishing on the Davidson is very technical.  Every angler was using "bobbers" and micro midges.  With the exception of one individual who seemed to have the right spot and the right set-up, there were very few people catching fish.  It was tough, but I'll be back.  My skills are in dire need of improvement.

Toccoa Report

Streamer Rod and I floated the Toccoa on Black Friday from Curtis Switch to Horseshoe Bend.  We arrived at the put-in around 9:00 a.m. and it was cold.  I rigged up my 5 weight with a nymph I used on the Little Red River earlier this month - some type of scud pattern.  Rod rigged up a 5 weight with a nymph and his 8 weight with a gigantic articulated streamer.