Introduction to Fishing – Pre-Creekathon

OVERVIEW

With the colder air temperatures comes colder water temperatures. Fall and Spring have the optimal water temperatures for trout. Although fishing for wild trout in mountain streams is the quintessential fly fishing scenario, it does have its limitations.

Rather than fish a mountain stream, it has been suggested to try a privately stocked trout pound, especially for an introductory trip. A few advantages that fishing at a private stocked pond has are:
(1) No license required!
(2) Stocked trout will likely be larger than wild trout
(3) Easy access and casting

That said, catch-and-release fishing is not permitted here; you must keep what you catch, and they charge $3.95 per pound. Thus, I will plan to bring a large cooler (with ice) that can keep fish cool until we get back to Charlottesville (accounting for staying at Creekathon). Of course, if you so desire, you may be able to cook your fish at Creekathon! If you will keep any fish to take to your house, you will want to bring something in which to transport the fish.

The club only has 3 fishing rod sets (all are fly fishing). Given that some people may have their own fishing gear (even if none fly fishing), this trip can potentially support more than 4 people. I will join people from the waitlist ASAP, provided there is enough gear / drivers. As we are fishing a pond (close to the road), special gear (e.g. waders, sturdy shoes) is not necessary.

You bring:
> Polarized sunglasses
> Camera
> Lunch or snacks (and water)
> Fishing gear if you have it

Club provides:
> Fly fishing kit
> Rides

Lastly, a brief itinerary:
9:30-10:50: drive to Montebello
11:00-11:30: instruction on fishing: setup and casting
11:30-1:00: fishing, relaxing, whatever
1-1:30: pay for fish, pack up, etc.
1:30-2:30: travel to Walnut Creek

(The intention is to attend Creekathon immediately following our fishing excursion – you should join that adventure as well if you plan to attend it!)

Cast away!
Charles