Late August Fishing

Elevated water temperatures.

It’s been a long hot summer. We get asked a lot about trout and their health with elevated water temperatures. As a general rule, trout can tolerate water around the 70 degree mark. It will vary from species to species, but that’s a good guideline.

However, just because a trout can tolerate 70 degree water, it doesn’t mean it is good for them. When the water gets warm, there is less dissolved oxygen in the water. That means catching a fish, even if handled properly, could potentially kill it.

So, what is the solution?

Remember when you first picked up a fly rod? The river was a mystery, it was full of wonder and it needed to be explored. Find some new streams.This is a great opportunity to get out there and relive that same experience. The excitement of finding a new stream, learning its intricacies, and getting out of the same old habits can be quite rewarding. You just might find water with less fishing pressure, a more peaceful experience, and a new go to river.

In a year like this, where the water is warm and low in a lot of rivers, the health of the trout can be put at risk. If you’ve ever caught a trout in warm water, you know the fight of the trout really isn’t anything to write home about.

Ultimately, we have to balance the importance of our angling enjoyment with the health of the trout. If we take care of the trout when conditions are bad, we ensure better fishing when the situation improves.

Fall is right around the corner folks. With the cooler weather, there will be better fishing. In the meantime, go explore a mountain stream. This can be some of the best, most technical fishing to be had. The landscape is beautiful, you’ll have the stream most likely to yourself, and you’ll catch some beautiful natives.

As always.....
Tight Lines and Screaming Drags