When the pickerel tired of me I went into the main lake and nailed into some nice smallmouth. No beasts like I do get on many trips to this lake, but gorgeous none the less.
But the best was yet to come. There is a small private pond that I happen to know the owners of, and today they were kind enough to let me fish it. For a while I fished the Black Ops and caught bedding bluegills. Then I changed to a Dahlberg Diver, got in s kayak, and went to bass heaven. It was just amazing how many fish I caught. Not all were big but they were numerous, and those that were larger gave spectacular fights. Even the smallest fish took that big fly well. It was just miraculous.
I didn't know pickerel were native, but I believe the chain variety are introduced, so is it the red fin pickerel that are native? I believe the red fin ones actually share habitat with brook trout in some cases.
ReplyDeleteBoth are native to my waters, I'm not sure about your area. I have caught red fin, mostly in small streams. About five years ago, before I started fly fishing, I caught a red fin that was about 20 inches long. Probably would a record of some sort.
DeletePickerel are a beautiful fish.
ReplyDeleteYes they are.
DeleteSuper fun day overall... but man... that darn bluegill was gorgeous. Both in size and color. It's funny, they fight great... and if you have ever cooked up a few, they taste fantastic... yet here in the north east rarely are they considered much but junk. It's very cool to see the reverence you give them here!
ReplyDeleteWill
Amen brother!
DeleteI love pickeral and you caught some real dandes. They are always waiting to snag a meal. Great trip on the kayak. thanks for the ride.
ReplyDeleteTie, fish write and photo on...
Thank you.
DeletePickerel are often overlooked, and they do not deserve it.
RM
ReplyDeleteThat pond looks awesome; I think you got a workout with the bass, never landed a Pickerel. Thanks for sharing
Thank you,
DeleteCome up here for a week in July and I'll show you a wicked topwater pickerel bite. Then I'll come down there for some spots! ;)