First Trout of 2011

March 19th, 2011. 50 degrees. I couldn't resist getting out today. I got on the stream about 2 pm. The trout were active but spooky. I caught a couple small brown trout right away, and decided to take a hike up the the headwaters looking for a little more run off and darker water. I was rewarded with a beautiful brook trout with some of the prettiest colors I've ever seen. I wish I would have taken a quick picture, but I wanted to get her back in the water quickly. A couple minutes later, I popped a real nice brown and this time I took the time to get a quick shot. After this I had about a mile and a half to hike back to the car and the sun was setting so I called it a day. Thank God for allowing me to enjoy his bounty!

Jun 2010

I have been on my favorite stream only three or four times this spring, but fishing has been good for numbers, not so good for trophy fish. Last weekend I fished the Middle Branch of the Whitewater River near the headwaters. Only a few small trout, but next time will be better. Thank God for his bounty!

Snow shoe trip to my fav trout stream on 8 Mar 2010

As I said yesterday, I came back to the stream with snow shoes today. Even with snow shoes, it was hard going as the snow was wet and heavy. It took about an hour and a half to go 1.5 miles to the head of the stream. The snow melt hasn't been enough to bring the water level up, and the big trout to the head of the stream. Although it would be bad for the major rivers, I need a good rain to fast melt the snow and bring the water level up. When that happens, the big trout will head to the headwaters, and I'll be there. It was an exhausting trip, but the valley was beautiful in all it's winter glory. I am truly blessed to be able to enjoy God's bounty!

Snow shoe trip to my fav trout stream on 8 Mar 2010

First 2010 trip to my valley

Mar 10th, 2010: I took my first trip to my valley today. The temp was about 45 degrees F, and it seemed a great day to hit the stream. When I arrived, I found snow up to my knees, and no trail broke. I couldn't get to the stream without totally exhausting myself, so I turned around and went back home. I will soon head back, only this time with snow shoes.

Pine Creek is another stream in the Driftless Region. It holds some very nice brook trout in addition to Browns.

TOP FIVE OF 2008

Compare my size 11 1/2 wading shoe to this beauty! This is a great way to get a photo without stressing the trout. After he gets strong enough, he just swims out into the strong current.