The leaves can wait

Rather than do my leaves for the third time I opted to visit some new water.  Having heard from a fellow DEP seasonal employee that this stream has wild brookies, I figured that after the rain on Monday it was time to give it a try.  Unlike the first time a went there, this time there was a sufficient amount of water flowing to warrant wetting a fly.  I was able to catch and release four brookies using a picket pin, all being the size pictured below.  Having plans to meet Mark at another stream prevented me from fully exploring this stream but I intend to go back as soon as I can.

After meeting Mark midday at one of our favorite small brooks, I was treated to fish that were inspired by size 18 parachute patterns (like the Purple Haze that Mark loaned me).  Unfortunately the water level is still very low, a somewhat depressing sight.  At least we were able to see up close some of the stream's beautiful inhabitants.

Wild browns

Having electrofished this stream twice this month, I can say with certainty that it is home to numerous sizable wild browns.  Our most recent survey of the stream revealed the presence of an 18 inch kiped male, colored up beautifully for the fall breeding season.  Since this is a tributary to a major river this fish was probably a visitor.  I can also say with certainty that I don't seem to fish the stream very well, although the recent temperature drop may be part of the problem.  I'll need to work on my tactics and fly selection to be able to catch more of the stream's impressive residents.