W. W. Doak and Sons in Doaktown said the water was a bit high and cool, and more rain was expected earlier this week.   The river was not quite wade-able, and the pools weren’t identifiable.   Angling was generally slow as the spring salmon season was ending and the bright sea trout and salmon had not arrived yet.  They felt that realistically, it was still a bit early for bright fish, but they expected sea trout by the end of this week or next.  There were also a few fiddleheads being reported, but they should be in full swing next week.

Flies of choice were mostly streamer patterns such as Renous Specials, Black Ghosts, Mickey Finns and some Muddlers.

Main Southwest Miramichi at Blackville Park

Herb Barry Sr. of Herb’s Fly Shop on the Station Road in Blackville said angling was not very good.  He hadn’t heard of any spring salmon being caught and there were only a few black trout in the 12-14 inch range.  There was one report of a bright sea-trout in the 12-14 inch range.  He expected bright salmon about May 27.  The water was high, but dropping until rain earlier this week.

Flies of choice were Whiskers, Rat-Faced McDougalls, White Wulffs and Muddlers for trout.

Curtis Miramichi River Outfitting in Blackville said angling was pretty quiet with not too much of anything being caught.  The water was high and rain was expected.

Flies of choice were Blue Smelt for spring salmon and Blue Elvers and Elwises for trout.

George Routledge of George’s Fly Shop at the Mouth of Renous in Quarryville said there3 were very few fish being caught in his area, but further down river angling was decent at Doyle’s Brook.  There were still a few spring salmon around and some black trout in the 12-14 inch range, but no brights.  There were few anglers out as the water was still high with only the alder tops showing on the island at the Mouth of Renous.

Flies of choice were Blue Smelts, Black Ghosts and Renous Specials for those trolling and Copper Killers and L.T. Specials for those fishing from shore.

Jim Laws of Miramichi Hunting and Fishing in Newcastle, Miramichi also reported quiet angling for spring salmon.  Only a few black trout were being caught.  He’d even heard the lobster catches were down.  The only success story was the incidental catch of stripped bass by trout fishermen.  However, he said he would not be surprised to hear of some bright sea trout and bright salmon this coming week.  The water was a bit high

Flies of choice were more summer patterns such as the Green Machines and even some dry flies as anglers were getting ready for bright salmon.

Syd Matchett of Trout Brook Fly Shop on the Northwest Miramichi said he heard of a few bright trout in the 15-17 inch range in the Wayerton/Trout Brook area and a few lower in the river earlier this week.  There were also a couple of reports of bright sea trout on the Little Southwest Miramichi. There was also an unconfirmed report that Holly Harris had trained a black cat to fish smelts for him.

Flies of choice were Black Ghosts and Yellow Butterflies on nos. 2 & 4 hooks.

Debbie Norton of Upper Oxbow Outdoor Adventures on the Little Southwest Miramichi said fishing was slow with not really much being caught.  The only exception  was the large number of bass being hooked by trout anglers.  The smelts have gone and the smolt are migrating out in good numbers.  The water was up again after the rain.

Flies of choice were Pink Panties.

Now might be a good time to ponder running a few canoes to see if there are a few brights on their way in and to see if the fiddleheads are ready. So get out and “on the water”.

Don’t forget to show your support for our sponsors, because without them, this column would not be possible.  

Check out Deals 4 U in Miramichi for your grocery needs, and good Cuban cigars to celebrate getting back to the rivers.

Drop in Bryant Freeman’s Eskape Anglers in Riverview to stock up on streamers for spring angling as well as any other equipment you may need such as a Reddington Rod.

Miramichi City Surplus on the outskirts of Miramichi in the Lower Derby road offers a nice range of rods, reels, tackle, bait and other outdoors supplies and hunting needs.  Be sure to also bring along your recyclables.

Thought for the Week: “”Be patient and calm – for no one can catch fish in anger.” – Herbert Hoover

River-Lore:  The oldtimers maintained that if the swallows are back, there would also be bright fish in the rivers.

E-MAIL:
Doug, thanks very much for including my blog updates on your fishing report, which I enjoy immensely.
Best regards,
Gary Tanner

Hey Doug,
The idea of the alder leaf the size of a mouse’s ear has been a long-time measurement passed down to me from my great grandfather and grandfather fishing the myriad of lakes in Nova Scotia. Its a family tradition, and I’m convinced it works! (Just gotta catch a mouse, and find my tape measure) LOL. I always enjoy your column, and the great information you provide!
Tight lines, my friend!
Tom Benjamen

Hey Doug,
I was just wondering if the trout in Blackville are fresh from the ocean or heading out to the ocean.   I fish in Juniper and am trying to time it right this year.. Ha ha I’m always a day late. Thanks,
Dwain Burpee

Until next week
TIGHT LINES
DOUG

Miramichi - We are now approaching the “in-between” season as the last of spring salmon is winding down, and the brights haven’t yet arrived.  There are some reports of trout, although most say they are black trout.  There are hordes of smelt in some areas and lots of bass to contend with.

W. W. Doak and Sons in Doaktown said spring salmon angling was quietly winding down, but there were still salmon and grilse around, with some reported in the Boiestown area last weekend.  However, they are tougher to catch.  There have been reports of some black trout.  Water conditions were good.

Flies of choice were Muddlers, and Mickey Finn and Black Ghost streamer patterns for trout.

Clarence Blanchard with a nice bright spring salmon

Derek Munn of Ledges Inn in Doaktown and Mountain Channel in the Rapids area said there were still some fish around, but they were getting very fussy.  They did catch some on the weekend and picked up four salmon on a trip down-river to Blackville.  There were a few small trout caught, but nothing significant.  Ledges Inn will be opening their four private lakes on May 15.  For bookings, contact Derek Munn at 506-365-1820 or at 506-365-0168.

Flies of choice were mostly Maribous, although one salmon was taken on a Rusty Rat.

Herb Barry Sr. of Herb’s Fly Shop on the Station Road in Blackville said angling was slow, but they were seeing lots of spring fish showing, but they were tough to catch.  There were even some reported jumping near the Mouth of the Cains this past week.  There were a few smaller trout in the under a foot range being caught.

Flies of choice were Silver smelt for salmon and smaller Renous Specials and Maribou patterns with yellow for trout.

Curtis Miramichi River Outfitting in Blackville said there were lots of spring salmon and grilse still around, but getting them to take was a different story, with only a few caught here and there.  There were some trout in the three to five pounds range being hooked.  Water conditions were described as good.

Flies of choice were Blue Smelts for spring salmon, and Muddlers, Blue Alvers and Elwise for trout.

George Routledge of George’s Fly Shop at the Mouth of Renous in Quarryville said there were not very many salmon or grilse being caught, but then again, there weren’t many anglers out.  There were some small black trout being hooked around Quarryville, and some in the Doyle’s Brook area in the 20-22 inch range.  The water there was still a bit high, but was dropping.

Flies of choice were smaller Black Ghosts, Green Machines and Copper Killers on no. 4 hooks for trout.

Jim Laws of Miramichi Hunting and Fishing in Newcastle, Miramichi reported very few spring salmon and grilse being hooked, and some trout.  However, there were good numbers of bass being hooked by trout fishermen.

Flies of choice were Renous Specials and a variety of other spring streamers.

Syd Matchett of Trout Brook Fly Shop on the Northwest Miramichi said angling was quiet, but there were still good numbers of spring salmon and grilse still around, with only a few being hooked.  There were some trout being reported.  Syd felt that with the full moon and higher tides, there could be fresh fish in the system by the weekend.  The water was getting a bit low, so rain today was welcomed.

Flies of choice were Black Ghosts, Golden Eagles, Gray Ghosts and Green Ghosts.

Debbie Norton of Upper Oxbow Outdoor Adventures on the Little Southwest Miramichi said angling was slower and there were still spring fish around.  They hooked some salmon and grilse on the weekend, and had caught a 36-inch salmon Wednesday morning.  There were reports of some nice trout in the one to five pound range.  The water was getting down and running boats was touch and go.  The smolt were heading out, and there was a large run of smelts in.  They had released about 20,000 from their smolt wheel yesterday.  She said they also had a hard time keeping bass off their lines.

Derek Munn captured this great shot of a nice 38 inch salmon hooked and landed by Clarence Blanchard

Flies of choice were Pink Panties.

Tuesday, May 15 is the official opening of lakes in the Miramichi drainage with a daily catch limit of 5.  All most be over 10 cm and only two can be over 30 cm.  A total of two Brown Trout is allowed, within the five limit.

Staring May 16 the summer catch and release daily quota applies with only four a day allowed for salmon, or the tagging of one completes the day’s fishing. There are some stretches of some rivers open to bait fishing from May 16 to May 30.  There are too many to list, so check your Booklet Regulations or contact your local DNR office for clarification.

So enjoy the streams, rivers and lakes of our great province by getting out and “on the water”.

Don’t forget to show your support for our sponsors, because without them, this column would not be possible.  

Check out Deals 4 U in Miramichi for your grocery needs, and good Cuban cigars to celebrate getting back to the rivers.

Drop in Bryant Freeman’s Eskape Anglers in Riverview to stock up on streamers for spring angling as well as any other equipment you may need such as a Reddington Rod.

Miramichi City Surplus on the outskirts of Miramichi in the Lower Derby road offers a nice range of rods, reels, tackle, bait and other outdoors supplies and hunting needs.  Be sure to also bring along your recyclables.

Thought for the Week: “Fly fishermen are born honest, but they get over it.” …Ed Zern

River-Lore:  Many old-timers who know the rivers well, have said that when the alder bush grows a leaf as large as a mouse’s ear, bright fish are in the river.

E-Mail:
Hope you enjoy the story, I enjoyed the telling of it:  (May on the Miramichi)  http://theriverscourse.blogspot.com/2012/05/early-may-on-miramichi.html
Best regards,
Gary Tanner

Until next week,
TIGHT LINES
DOUG

W. W. Doak and Sons in Doaktown said angling was moderately good, and holding for the time of year with some fish still around.  Water conditions were good.

Flies of choice were Black Ghosts, Renous Specials, Golden Eagles and Mickey Finns, along with some Maribou patterns.

Derek Munn of Ledges Inn in Doaktown and Mountain Channel in the Rapids area said he had his sports on the Northwest on Wednesday for a change, but they still did well landing six salmon and three grilse, in spite of the water being a bit low.  Another angler he had out in the Doaktown area this week did well with six salmon and two grilse.  He said there were still decent numbers of fish around, and they had also picked up a couple of two-pound trout.

Flies of choice were mostly Maribous in darker patterns.

Herb Barry Sr. of Herb’s Fly Shop on the Station Road in Blackville said angling was slow.  There were still fish around, but fishing was “tighter” than last week.  One angler did catch five on Monday morning, but there were not a lot out as it was very cold and windy.  There had been some good-sized salmon last week, but no monsters.  He had no trout reports as of Tuesday evening.  Water was a good height.

Flies of choice were Silver Smelt and Gold Smelt.

Curtis Miramichi River Outfitting in Blackville said there was still good fishing, but not a lot were out as conditions were far from favourable.  Those who did brave the elements were having success.  The water was good, but canoers should use a lot of caution.

Flies of choice were Blue Smelts and Maribou patterns in beige and brown.

George Routledge of George’s Fly Shop at the Mouth of Renous in Quarryville said angling t6here was very slow with not a lot of anglers out as it had been very cold and windy.  Some boats that were trolling were getting five or six a day, and mostly below the Quarryville Bridge in the Doyle’s Brook area.  The water was still high with the bushes on the island just out of the water.  There were no smelts in Quarryville on the weekend.  The shore ice which had piled up after the ice ran was nearly gone.  He had no trout reports by late Tuesday.

Flies of choice were Blue Smelts, Black Ghosts, and Renous Specials.

Jim Laws of Miramichi Hunting and Fishing in Newcastle, Miramichi reported that there were still some spring salmon around, and he had heard of decent trout reports in the 1-2 pound range.  The bass that were at Strawberry Marsh had moved slightly up-river and trout fishermen were not encountering any the early part of this week.  Laws was interested to see if angler in other rivers were encountering any female bass and if so he would like anglers to call him at 622-3071.

Flies of choice were Black Ghosts, Renous Specials and Christmas Trees.

Syd Matchett of Trout Brook Fly Shop on the Northwest Miramichi said it was hard to get a good read on the numbers of fish around as there were very few anglers out on the weekend and no sports at the camps.  The water condition was good, but he had no trout reports late Tuesday.

Flies of choice were Black Ghosts, Renous Specials, Christmas Trees, Mickey Finns and Golden Eagles.

Debbie Norton of Upper Oxbow Outdoor Adventures on the Little Southwest Miramichi said there were still spring salmon around, but certainly not in great numbers.  They were few anglers out and no one in camp.  The water level was good for fishing.

Flies of choice were Black Ghosts, Renous Specials and Golden Eagles.

The MSA Hatchery reported the smolt wheels were operating, and that the smolt had started their sea-ward migration.  Summer students in the Conservation Core had also started work at the hatchery. The two traps at Cassilis and Millerton were being prepared to also monitor out-going fish.

So  hopefully the weather co-operates a little more this week as anglers enjoy the last couple of weeks of spring salmon and some early trout fishing as they get out and “on the water”.

Don’t forget to show your support for our sponsors, because without them, this column would not be possible.  

Check out Deals 4 U in Miramichi for your grocery needs, and good Cuban cigars to celebrate getting back to the rivers.

Drop in Bryant Freeman’s Eskape Anglers in Riverview to stock up on streamers for spring angling as well as any other equipment you may need such as a Reddington Rod.

Miramichi City Surplus on the outskirts of Miramichi in the Lower Derby road offers a nice range of rods, reels, tackle, bait and other outdoors supplies and hunting needs.  Be sure to also bring along your recyclables.

Thought for the Week: “What a tourist terms a plague of insects, the fly fisher calls a great hatch.”  Patrick F. McManus

E-Mail:

Just back from my camp in Gray Rapids.  Enjoyed good luck from shore Friday late afternoon on a # 2 Blue Smelt, for a nice full bodied hen @ 15 lbs.  I highly recommend that you make it clear to your readers, that the regs say no more than 10 live release allowed per day for spring salmon fishing.  Too many so called anglers, via trolling, are going about bragging @ 25 daily, wherein they could lose their license, and their guide could be subject to suspension of his for one full year, aye.
Paul Valeri
- – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - -
Hi Doug,
I love your weekly report . It keeps me going until we get back to the Northwest every summer with Danny Roy. Of course we always stop in to Sid’s shop to get a license and the hottest “new Fly hook”. Say Hi to Frank Somers and send me his email address if you have it. I’m down to my last Frank’s special  Butterfly!!!
Dan Wanczyk

Until next week,

TIGHT LINES
DOUG

View from Flo's Pool in Nelson Hollow

The printed angling regulations are now available, so check where ever you bought your license, or drop into a DNR office.

Trout season for the Miramichi drainage begins on rivers, brooks and streams on Tuesday, May 1, 2012, while lakes do not open until May 15.

W. W. Doak and Sons in Doaktown said the river has come up about three feet on Tuesday, and was likely to rise more before cresting, but they felt anglers would be back out by today. Fishing had been decent prior to the rain, and the same was to be expected again as there seemed to be plenty of fish still around. There were reports of salmon measuring 40 & 42 inches. One angler had even caught fish quite high up on the Dungarvon.

Flies of choice were Christmas Trees, Golden Eagles, Renous Specials and Black Ghosts.

Derek Munn of Ledges Inn in Doaktown and Mountain Channel in the Rapids area said angling had been good until the rain when the river came up a good five feet, and he expected more of the same once the water dropped a bit. Tuesday was literally a wash-out. On Saturday they had hooked a 39-inch salmon. When he emptied his rain guage there had been 88 ml that had fallen.

Flies of choice were Black Ghosts, Renous Specials, Christmas Trees and some Maribou patterns.

Herb Barry Sr. of Herb’s Fly Shop on the Station Road in Blackville said angling was good, but not exceptional with anglers averaging 5 to 6 a day. However, by Tuesday the water was in the alders, and very dirty. If there was no more rain, he expected good fishing by the weekend. Anglers were catching more salmon than grilse, and there seemed to be lots of fish still in the system. There were no smelts up that far yet.

Flies of choice were four main ones: Gold Smelts, Silver Smelts, Blue Smelys and Christmas Trees.

Curtis Miramichi River Outfitting in Blackville said the water had come up several feet on Tuesday, but angling had been decent, despite the weather on Monday. Those brave enough to go out did have luck. They predicted more good fishing as the water begins to clear and drop. There were some big salmon caught last week in the mid 30-inch range.

Flies of choice were Blue Smelts and Renous Specials.

Underneath the Doaktown Bridge

George Routledge of George’s Fly Shop at the Mouth of Renous in Quarryville said angling had been good, and anglers were even catching fish during Monday’s ice pellets. There were still decent numbers of fish around, but the water was very high and dirty. The Renous was still muddy on Wednesday, but water levels were beginning to drop. The smelts had been in prior to the rain, but he was unsure what the high water would do to them.

Flies of choice were the Renous Special, along with Black Ghosts and Blue Smelts.

Jim Laws of Miramichi Hunting and Fishing in Newcastle, Miramichi reported good fishing until the rain came. By Tuesday the water was very high and dirty. Prior to the rain, salmon anglers reported a lot of bass, one weighing about 30 pounds before being released.

Flies of choice were the Smelt and Renous Special.

Syd Matchett of Trout Brook Fly Shop on the Northwest Miramichi said angling had been decent prior to the rain, with most boats getting their daily limit, but by Tuesday the water was high and dirty. Terry Haines of “Too Come To” Camp had hooked a 40-incher. Anglers were even catching fish as far up as McLaughlin Island and at Wayerton Bridge. He felt it should pick up again as the water dropped a bit.

Flies of choice were Christmas Trees, Mickey Finns, Golden Eagles and Renous Specials.

Debbie Norton of Upper Oxbow Outdoor Adventures on the Little Southwest Miramichi said angling was good until the water came up Tuesday. They anticipated good fishing again by Today or tomorrow if no more rain came. Most sports were close to their limits. A 46-incher was caught last Thursday.

Flies of choice were Golden Eagles, Black Ghosts, Renous Specials, Magog Smelts and Pink Panties.

Photo taken April 20, 2012 at Red Bank by Rick Cunjak just after attaching pop-off transmitter.

Mark Hambrook, manager of the MSA Hatchery, said they were out with MSA Directors, a group of UNB students and MSA staff early this week angling for salmon around the Red Bank Bridge area. The purpose was to catch out-going spring salmon and then fit them with transmitters before releasing them again. Ten salmon were fitted with the new Pop-up transmitters which are very expensive. (There is an accompanying photo in this week’s column). Any angler lucky enough to catch a salmon with one of these attached, is asked to carefully remove it rather than return the fish to the water with the device still attached. There is a $200 reward for each one returned, and they can be re-used on another fish.

As well, 25 salmon were fitted with acoustic transmitters, but those are inside the fish, and are used to track the fish as it leaves the river and goes into the Gulf of St. Lawrence and even through the Strait of Belle Isle.

They were set to install the smolt counting wheels when the water began to rise. They will finish installing three wheels this spring with the locations being on the Little Southwest Miramichi at Upper Oxbow Outdoor Adventures, AT the Mouth of the Sevogle where it flows in the Northwest Miramichi, and at Trout Brook on the Northwest Miramichi. Next week they are planning to set up the trap nets at Cassilis and Millerton to help count fish leaving the system. Later in the season they will be reversed to count in-coming fish.

Hambrook said that the annual Ice-Breaker event at the Woodsmen Museum in Boiestown has been sold out.

Although they did not see any bass around the Red Bank area, they heard that there were a lot around the Strawberry Marsh area at Newcastle.

In spite of an early ice-out, angling has been good and the fish have not gone out as some had thought.

So as the water clears and drops, take the opportunity to get out and “on the water”.

Don’t forget to show your support for our sponsors, because without them, this column would not be possible.

Check out Deals 4 Uin Miramichi for your grocery needs, and good Cuban cigars to celebrate getting back to the rivers.

Looking up river from Harris Ledge Camp

Drop in Bryant Freeman’s Eskape Anglers in Riverview to stock up on streamers for spring angling as well as any other equipment you may need such as a Reddington Rod.

Drop into J. H. Stewart Ltd. just down river near the Miramichi Hospital for all of your Harley Davidson, Suzuki and Honda products be they bikes, blowers, mowers or four-wheelers and accessories.

Miramichi City Surplus on the outskirts of Miramichi in the Lower Derby road offers a nice range of rods, reels, tackle, bait and other outdoors supplies and hunting needs. Be sure to also bring along your recyclables.

Condolences: Our thoughts and prayers go out to the friends and family of the Reverend Walter Lynch who passed away early Tuesday morning. Not only was Fr. Lynch an avid angler, but he was also a noted fly-tyer, including the classic patterns which he tied and framed.

Earlier this spring well-known angler and tyer Larry Tracy also passed away. He was probably best known for his design for the L. T. Special. He will be missed by many who knew him.

E-Mail:
Hope you like this http://www.worldfishingnetwork.com/users/cookster/blog/fishing-reports-232062.aspx

Thanks Donnie- W.F.N. ambassador.

Thanks for looking: http://theriverscourse.blogspot.com/2012/04/took-old-friend-fishing-todayand-got.html
Best regards,
Gary

Nate Holyoke with a nice salmon from Ledges

Thought for the Week: “There is no such thing as the perfect cast. There are only casts that catch fish and casts that do not” Kirk Deeter from The Little Red Book of Fly Fishing

Atlantic Salmon Federation News
Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Rivernotes Back, and Atlantic Salmon Season Begins
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The ASF Rivernotes Blog is in operation again, with angling season open in some areas. There are a couple of notes on the new season, but most of it is devoted to the overwinter analysis of the excellent salmon runs of 2011.
http://atlanticsalmonfederation.org/rivernotes/

Preparing Atlantic Salmon for Migration with TRANSMITTERS
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
ASF Atlantic salmon researchers on Friday were adhering satellite transmitters and surgically implanting acoustic transmitters on the Miramichi. Read the full story on this fascinating work that is helping unravel both salmon migrations and mortality at sea.
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=862

Atlantic Salmon caught in Bay of Fundy rivers worrisome
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Meanwhile on the Hammond River where all Atlantic salmon have been assessed as endangered, it appears some anglers have not got the word. Read more.
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=863

ASF 2011 Annual Report Available for Download
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
For a different overview of the past year, ASF’s 2011 Annual Report is available for download. Among the highlights are the advances in land-based aquaculture and the study detailing the high economic value of the wild Atlantic salmon.
http://asf.ca/docs/annual/asf-2011.pdf

Aquaculture continues to cause controversy
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dr. Howard Ludington from Portsmouth New Hampshire

In Nova Scotia, there continue to be strong calls for a moratorium until better understanding of the impacts. But in Ireland there has been published a report calling for aquaculture to be placed offshore due to the interactions involving sea lice.
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=864

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
To keep track of breaking news on wild Atlantic salmon, use the Atlantic Salmon Federation’s presence on Facebook. Log in, search for Atlantic Salmon Federation, and click “like”.

Any advertisements/donations in support of this column are always welcome. Rates are $75 for one week, $65 for four weeks (spread out once a month or in a row), or $50 a week for the season. For more information contact Mighty Miramichi at 506-325-7668 or e-mail stacy@mightymiramichi.com

Until next week

TIGHT LINES

DOUG

Some missed excellent fishing by cancelling reservations on rumours of the water being too low and that the fish would have left.  The water was low for the time of year, but still produced excellent angling.  Always check with the people who are actually on the river for the most accurate reports.

Even though water levels were low for the time of year, boats made their way to the water, and a couple of warm days increased the snow-melt, bringing up water levels by a foot on average.  A bit unusual was the fact that made anglers noted that the salmon were creating a lot of surface action by were swirling and splashing, which is usually only the case after the smelts have come in.  Some anglers even had luck using big dry flies.

In Quarryville one almost had to take a number to get a parking space with anglers out in great numbers on both sides.  I did manage to fish for about an hour, hooking two, landing a grilse and killing five mosquitoes!

One angler in a boat said that there were so many bass in the river they were bumping his boat, and a lot were being hooked and released as anglers were pursuing black salmon.

W. W. Doak and Sons in Doaktown said angling had been very good, especially on opening day.  Monday to Wednesday tapered off slightly, but was very much on the good side as well.  There was one 40-inch salmon reported.

Flies of choice were Renous Specials, Black Ghosts, Mickey Finns, Golden Eagles and Gray Ghosts.

Derek Munn's daughter Lia with her first grilse hooked and landed. She had 4 on last night and landed 2. She is an amazing daughter and she made her Dad pretty proud. It's a smile he will never forget.

Derek Munn of Ledges Inn in Doaktown and Mountain Channel in the Rapids area said the first couple days of the season were as good as we all expected. He noted they received about an 8 inch raise in water on Monday which should help for motoring boat for a few days.

Flies of choice were a variety of Maribou patterns.

Herb Barry Sr. of Herb’s Fly Shop on the Station Road in Blackville said opening day was terrific, with most anglers catching their daily limit.  There were no monsters reported, but there seemed to be more salmon than grilse being hooked.  The water was raising some Tuesday and getting a bit dirty.

Flies of choice were Silver Smelts, Gold Smelts, Blue Smelts, Red Eagles and Golden Eagles, but almost any pattern was working.

Curtis Miramichi River Outfitting in Blackville said angling was very good on opening day, but a little slower since as the snow-melt had brought up the water about a foot and had made it dirty.  However, there were still good numbers being hooked.  Canoeing conditions are excellent, but the water is definitely a tad cool.  Anglers were reporting some big fish, but most were hooking grilse.

Flies of choice were Renous Specials, Blue Smelts, Mickey Finns and Christmas Trees.

George Routledge of George’s Fly Shop at the Mouth of Renous in Quarryville said opening day was fantastic with many catching their limit.  The smelts were in above the Quarryville Bridge on Tuesday evening, but not many in the Renous.  Two people canoeing the Renous stopped at one pool and both limited out with all being salmon about 20 pounds.  The water was up about two feet from Sunday to Wednesday.

Flies of choice were Renous Specials, Miramichi Specials, Golden Eagles, and Black Ghosts.

Jim Laws of Miramichi Hunting and Fishing in Newcastle, Miramichi reported good fishing on opening day, and slightly slower since, but still good.  One boat-angler said there were so many bass in the river that they were bumping against his boat, while others said that they had caught and released a lot while angling for spring salmon.

Flies of choice were Renous Specials, Christmas Trees and Black Ghosts.

Syd Matchett of Trout Brook Fly Shop on the Northwest Miramichi said angling had been very good.  A couple of anglers caught their limit at Wayerton Sunday.

Flies of choice were Black Ghosts, Golden Eagles, Mickey Finns and Renous Specials.

Debbie Norton of Upper Oxbow Outdoor Adventures on the Little Southwest Miramichi said they had very good fishing on Sunday with angling slightly slower on Monday and Tuesday, but still pretty good over all.  The water came up about 10 inches Tuesday.

Flies of choice were anything you wanted to throw at them.

So take advantage of the decent weather and get out and “on the water”.

Thought for the Week: “Fish sense, applied in the field, is what the old Zen masters would call enlightment: simply the ability to see what’s right there in front of you without having to sift through a lot of thoughts and theories and, yes, expensive fishing tackle”….John Gierach    (quoted in The Little Red Book of Fly Fishing).

E-Mail:
This one’s about a rod rack for my truck:
http://theriverscourse.blogspot.com/2012/04/double-duty-pickup-rod-rack.html
Hope it gives you some “transport food for thought!”
Gary Tanner

Great Story from Ryan Jackman.  Thanks for sharing it.
Cheers,
Chris Weir

Until next week

TIGHT LINES

DOUG

MIRAMICHI- Opening Day is virtually upon us and the desire to get back on the river is running high. However, Sunday’s opening could present a few problems. It is no secret that the ice has long gone from the rivers, but the shores are another thing. In fact, getting to the water could be a problem for both shore anglers and those who plan on fishing from a boat.

Combined with this is the low water for the time of year which can also making boating a hit or miss situation, maybe even literally.

Taking a look at Quarryville on the Main Southwest Miramichi, anglers will have a problem getting their boats to water. Shore anglers may also have a problem as the ice-run several weeks ago has left a sheer cliff of ice along both banks above and below the bridge. George Routledge said there were “piles of ice on both sides six to 10 feet in height. Anglers will have to clear a spot to get their boats through, so they may need an axes and shovels”. One possible spot is below the bridge where the ice took out three hydro poles. To repair them, the hydro had to clear a path almost to the river. George said that a good number of camps in the area suffered damage.

The shore anglers will also find it is no easy task getting to the river. There is ample space between the ice and the water for angling, but just getting there may be a bit challenging.

George also noted that the water level is summer low with the island out. He stressed, not June low, but even later. To put a boat into the Renous one would have to wade with it to the middle and float in down as there would probably not be enough water to run it.

He said the presence of salmon could be a question as “we don’t know if they have gone out or not, but the smelts are not in yet.”

Flies of choice would include Black Ghosts, Blue Smelt, Golden Eagle, Renous Special and “Maybe even a Black Ghost or Green Machines on a no. 2 hook” said George.

Further up river the Main Southwest in Blackville, Herb Barry Sr. of Herb’s Fly Shop on the Station Road said the water there had been low. A few who had boats out last week before the storm were having trouble with some of the river bars. The water had come up some, but was still very low for the time of year. If it gets any lower, running a boat could be a real challenge. He noted that in terms of shore ice, some places were clogged while others were wide open. He said there seemed to be fish around.

Flies of choice were Herb’s Silver Smelt, Herb’s Gold Smelt as well as the Christmas Tree and Renous Special.

Moving to the Doaktown area, Derek Munn of Ledges Inn said the water was a very low for the time of year, and running a boat could be tricky. He planned to take his sports out in 26-foot canoes. The shores were a mixed blessing with some having eight feet of ice, while others were clear.

Flies of Choice were Maribous, Christmas Trees, Renous Specials, Black Ghosts, Golden Eagles and Mickey Finns.

Moving to the Northwest Miramichi, Syd Matchett of Trout Brook Fly Shop said the water in the river was very low “and even the brooks are low”. “It is going to be difficult to run a boat other tan in the tide-water”, said Syd. He said that around Wayerton area, shore anglers should have little problem getting to the river, but the lower parts of the river have more shore ice.

Flies of Choice are Golden Eagles, Black Ghosts, Mickey Finns and Renous Specials.

Brett Silliker of Upper Oxbow Outdoor Adventures on the Little Southwest Miramichi said that getting a boat down to the Northwest could be tricky, and even with high tide, coming back would be a real challenge. So, he was advising caution.

Flies of Choice were Renous Specials, Black Ghosts, Golden Eagles and Smelt patterns.

Congratulations are in order for John Hawkes and Betty Ward and their volunteers for taking a great first step in organizing the first fly-fishing forum in Eel Ground a week or two ago. It was nice to see the older tyers instructing the up and coming tyers!

Click here for more photos!

So be careful and enjoy Opening Day as you get out and “on the water“.

REPORT from Information Meeting in Newcastle, Miramichi Tuesday, April 10:
Close to 100 people attended an information meeting at the Beaverbrook Kin Center in Newcastle Tuesday evening. MSA’s Biologist Jenny Reid, with help from Hatchery Manager Mark Hambrook, gave an update on salmon projects and statistics for the past several years.

DFO then informed the group that the rules & regulations imposed last year will continue this season in terms of salmon with a large portion of the Northwest Miramichi closed to retention above Wayerton Bridge and on the Sevogle starting June 1, 2012.

As well, there is no change in the bass situation. As it stands, there is no angling season for Striped Bass on the Miramichi. Many present expressed their frustration at the large numbers of bass in the system, and wanted an angling season.

E-MAIL:
Good Afternoon Doug
I wanted to send you a couple of pics, and share a story from this past weekend.

We have a piece of property just up from the Quarryville pool on the Main Southwest. As you know the warm weather several weeks ago sped the ice out, and left an unbelievable amount of ice down river. Our property was no exception, and the massive chunks of ice flowed over the berm into the woods…it was quite an event when discovered by my brother in law, Mark English.

We spent the day over Easter exploring the ice, and unbelievably, my 7 year old son Daniel spotted a grilse, trapped in a pool (or rather a large puddle), a good 50 meters from the river. He must have come in when the water rose, and the ice trapped him as the river receded.

To make a long story short, my good buddy Nathan Jones was able to tail him, and we transported him back to the river in a large bucket. We successfully released him back into the river. For a fish that was landlocked in a puddle for likely three weeks, he swam away with more energy than we hoped. It was certainly a memorable catch and release story for everyone, especially my son Daniel, who loves to fish.

Present: Daniel Jackman (7), Max Jackman (6), Margaret Jackman, Mark English, Nathan Jones, Ryan Jackman and Morgan the dog!

All the best as the 2012 season begins,
Ryan Jackman

__________________________________

ASF’s Annual Toronto Dinner is right around the corner and we are excited that our guest speaker will be Deirdre Brennan, Producer of “Atlantic Salmon -Lost at Sea” . Deirdre will share stories about the people she has met through her filming – people who are passionate about protecting our planet.

This year’s live auction will once again be quite a show with the energetic style of auctioneer Rock Fournier. The auction catalogue is now available on the ASF Special Events Page and the line up includes some pretty special items including; A trip to Fork’s Camp on the Moisie and to the Nicholas Dean Lodge as well as original art, other hard to come by fishing trips and some really unique non fishing items. Have a Look!

If you have any questions, would like additional information or to offer an absentee bid, please contact Kirsten at 506-529-1037/ krouse@asf.ca
Yours in Conservation,
The Atlantic Salmon Federation

__________________________________

Until Next Week
TIGHT LINES
Doug

Congrats to those who were successful in the Crown Reserve draws.  For those not so fortunate, don’t forget the mini-draws throughout the season.

Now to this weekend.  John Hawkes and Betty Ward, with a lot of help from Bradley Russell and Kelvin Simonson,  have combined to host the first Eel Ground Atlantic Salmon Fly-Fishing and Sportsman Show.  The event will be held at the Eel Ground Band Hall at44 Church St, Eel Ground on Friday and Saturday.

Friday begins wit5h a fly-tying demonstration/teaching for the students between 1-3 p.m. with close to 20 tyers working with the grades 5 to 8 Eel Ground Students, members of the Eel Ground Group Home, Ashley Hallihan’s Fly-Tying Club and other students from Miramichi Valley High and students from Blackville High.

From 4 to 7 p.m. the same tyers will give public demonstrations of their techniques for the public.  Admission is a free-will offering.

Saturday, the show shifts to high gear from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with close to 20 tyers performing their art and selling flies.  At 11 a.m., there will be an archery demonstration and at 1 p.m., Betty Ward will give Fly-Casting demonstration with instructions.  DFO representatives from both Miramichi and Tracadie divisions will be in attendance along with DNR representatives.  Jim Laws from Miramichi Fishing & Hunting will have a booth as will Debbie Norton with a Conservation booth.  The MSA Miramichi Fish Hatchery will also be on hand as will Rae’s Trailer with 4-Wheelers and boats.  I will be on hand to answer questions and have Salmon Country available for sale and signing.  And don’t forget about your tummy as The Sausage Man will have his popular menu available to satisfy your needs.

John Hawkes will have his special Christmas Tree on display, one dedicated entirely to fishing.

Tickets will be available for a number of raffles.  Syd Matchett of Trout Brook Fly Shop has donated a Rod & Reel, and there will also be a special raffle with a fly-box containing one fly tied by each of the tyers in attendance.

And if you love to fish (Ha, Ha) there will be tickets for a draw for a day’s Black salmon angling (Boat & Guide Included) and a day of bright Salmon angling with a guide.  Both are for two anglers each, compliments of Betty Ward.

Entrance fee for Saturday is $5.00.  All proceeds from the event will go toward theEelGroundSchoolfor special events and for the Eel Ground Group Home (which will also receive a fly-tying kit).

“It is a first step, but one to be followed next year with an even bigger and better event to kick off the angling season” said Hawkes.

So plan to attend and catch the angling fever, share time and stories with your outdoor buddies, pick up some flies and support a good cause!

There will be no column next week, but we will return on April 12 for an update on the fishing conditions in time for opening day.

GOOD NEWS:  The provincial budget came down Tuesday and there was some good news in that the protection barriers on the Northwest Miramichi andDungarvonRiverswill be operational again this year.

E-MAIL:

Doug,

I have been a subscriber to your reports since their inception a few years back. Just thought I’d let you know about a new website I launched back in Dec. It is a forum style website that is dedicated to Atlantic salmon fishing in NB. So far we have around 64 members spanning theUSA,NS,NB, and other part ofCanada. Since its birth there has been discussion in many areas such has places to fish, regulations, various salmon flies, and much more. This site in not for profit and its sole purpose is to host a place for everybody to share a common interest. As the fishing season approaches and gets going I hope the word will spread about this site and will become a wealth of information for the new and old anglers alike.

Cheers

Chris Gaston

www.newbrunswicksalmonfishing.com

Until April 12…..

Tight Lines

Doug

Any advertisements/donations in support of this column are always welcome.  Ad rates are $75 for one week, $65 for four weeks (spread out once a month or in a row), or $50 a week for the season.  For more information contact Mighty Miramichi at 506-325-7668 or email ads@MightyMiramichi.com

However, this year there is a change in format for the better. This year everything is bigger and better with a large increase in the number of exhibitors. The Dieppe Fly-Fishing Forum, usually held at the Dieppe Community College, is moving to the Moncton Coliseum, and is combined with the annual boat show and outdoor sportsman show. So anglers will get “three for the price of one”.

And it’s not just for the men. More and more ladies are sharing the angling experience. As a matter of fact, one of the key-note speakers is Kathryn Maroun. She is originally from the Halifax area and currently has her own TV Fishing Show. She will be sharing many of her experiences and expertise during her presentations.

The event is a week earlier than usual, thus the earlier beginning of this column. Everything starts this Friday, March 23 at noon at the Moncton Coliseum/Arena complex and runs through Sunday. Daily times are Friday: noon until 9 p.m., Saturday: 10 am until 5 p.m., and Sunday from 10 am Sunday to 5 p.m. Daily entrance fee is $8.00 Adult, Senior/students: $7.00, with Youth under 10 free. A Weekend pass is $ 15.00

Don’t forget the ASF and New Brunswick Salmon Council Moncton Annual Dinner & Auction at the Crystal Palace Convention Centre on Saturday March 24th. For more information, contact Geoff Giffin at ggiffin@asf.ca

Below is a list of presentations, exhibitors and authors.

Friday March 23rd, 2012

• 2 – 5 PM Fly Casting Certification program (FFF)- Dennis Grant (Meeting room at the Coliseum)
• 6 PM Picking a Winner – Paul Marriner
• 7 PM Fishing trips of a lifetime- Kathryn Maroun

Saturday March 24th, 2012

• 11 AM Substitute Feathers and Hackle- Bryant Freeman
• 1 PM What I caught- Kathryn Maroun
• 2 PM Fishing the Mackenzie River – Paul Ostiguy
• 4 PM Fishing the Restigouche River Lodge – Bill Harnett

Sunday March 25th, 2012

• 11 AM Quebec North Shore Rivers are more accessible than we think – Jocelin LeBlanc
• 1 PM Tying a Spey Fly – Bob MacDonald
• 3 PM Crown Reserve Angling Opportunities In The Miramichi Watershed- Debbie Norton

Fly Casting Aisle

Friday March 23rd, 2012

• 5:30 PM Casting for Beginners- Steve Smith (Casting Instructor)
• 6:30 PM Fly casting Faults and Fixes- Steve Smith (Casting Instructor)

Saturday March 24th, 2012

• 11:30 AM The uses of switch rod- Denis Bellichero (Casting Instructor)
• 1:30 PM Learning the Double Haul – Steve Smith (Casting Instructor)
• 3 PM Spey rod fly casting – David Bishop from Hardy & Greys

Sunday March 25th, 2012

• 11:30 AM Teaching Women to Fly Fish- Kathryn Maroun (Casting Instructor)
• 1:30 PM How to improve your single hand casting (distance & accuracy)- Rick Whorwood (Master Casting Instructor)
• 3:00 PM Spey Casting Advanced Techniques- Courtney Ogilvie, BC Professional Guide

Guest Fly Tiers: Bryant Freeman, Rodney Colford, Dwayne Miller, Bob MacDonald, Michel Paquin, Catherine Gagne, Michael McKinnon, Jerry Allain, Nick Clory, Jerome Molloy, Chris Edmund, Arnold Foote

Authors: Doug Underhill, Paul Marriner, Jim Marriner, Damian Lee Welsh

With the “Spring Heat Wave” this week, the ice in many rivers is an endangered species. On Tuesday of this week, Dave Ingersoll took a drive to the Wayerton Bridge area on the Northwest Miramichi and snapped some photos which he shares with us.

Next week, I’ll look at some preparations for the up-coming season and have information on another Fly-Fishing Forum, albeit a bit smaller to say the least, that will be taking place the weekend after the Moncton show. This will be held at Eel Ground.

So whether you are a boater, hunter, angler, and just love the out of doors, the Coliseum is the place to be. Hope to see many of you in Moncton this weekend!

TIGHT LINES
Doug

NOTE: Late Wednesday evening in Halifax at The Atlantic Book Awards, it was announced that Salmon Country: New Brunswick’s Great Angling Rivers has been short-listed for this year’s Best Atlantic Book Award. Salmon Country is the work of Editor Jacques Heroux, photographer, Andre Gallant and author Doug Underhill. It was published by Goose Lane Editions of Fredericton, NB.

Salmon Country is coffee-table in style with a nice combination of photographs, text and fly patterns. It sells for $45.00 and will be available during this weekend’s forum in Moncton.

But first we must extend a BIG THANK YOU to our sponsors, organizations and donors who have support us in keeping this column going this year. These include Deals 4 U, Eskape Anglers, Moncton Fish & Game Association, Fredericton Outfitters, Paul Marriner, Herbert Sheppard, and two anonymous donors.

I must also THANK my weekly contacts who are the real ones who make this report possible, as well as those who have submitted stories, photos and comments via e-mail.

With more and more ladies getting “on the water”, this might help the gentleman angler solve his Christmas shopping as well.

New in the last couple of years is the digital water thermometer. It clips on the vest, looks like a small pen, you point it at the water, click it and have the temperature instantly. A lot easier and quicker than the older models. I believe they run in the $30-$40 range.

For many of the following items, check with W.W. Doak and Sons (365-7828) in the Doaktown area, Curtis Miramichi River Outfitting (843-2481) in Blackville, Herb’s Fly Shop (843-6354) in Blackville, George’s Fly Shop in Renous (622-8226), Miramichi Hunting and Fishing (622-3071) in Miramichi, and Trout Brook Fly Shop (622-0676) on the Northwest for more detailed prices. A visit to Bryant Freeman’s Eskape Anglers (386-6269) on Wentworth Street in Riverview is always fun. Drop into Chris Munn’s Fredericton Outfitters (450-4044) at 285 Canada St. in Fredericton (authorized Orvis dealer).

First the big items. Maybe a new rod may be in order. These could run anywhere from $100 to $1000. I like the Emery Streamside Rods. They offer a very good product at a reasonable price range $125 to $200. Streamside has a four-piece rod with its own case, which is ideal to carry on an ATV, walking a trail to a favourite pool, or packing to travel. They also have a very nice Streamside Elite, my favourite rod, that is a 10-footer, priced under $200, and it throws a very nice line. A nice 9-foot Streamside is the SS909 graphite with a five-year warranty. Eskape Anglers has a nice selection of Reddington Rods, and Fredericton Outfitters can get you the Orvis you want. If you want a rod especially made for you, contact Luc Gagne at his shop (L & G Fly & Rod) in the Edmundston, NB area at 111, Route 161, Clair (Caron-Brook) NB, E7A 1X8 (506)992-3008 or www.lgflyrod.com

Next look at waders (George Routledge has some nice Emery Streamside Compac in hip, chest along with the breathable. There are also the stocking-foot waders with the wading shoe, some with felt and studs, for both men and women, and neoprenes). Syd Matchett carries a line of Snobees which are a good buy as well, and very light.

Then consider reels. (Emery Streamside puts out a nice affordable Classic Cast Deluxe at $50 to $100, along with the LA 3000 Legacy models. I like the large arbor for quick reeling. This series will cost from $250-$300). Orvis also has a great line with a varying price range as does Reddington.

Rain suits: ($100), rain jackets ($35), rod cases where the reel stays attached ($35-60), vests ($30-$100) (Emery has a beautiful new vest with detachable sleeves and more pockets than you can count in its Streamside wear, as well as an adjustable Lady’s vest), landing nets ($20-$50) (Try to get one that will not scratch the eyes of the fish), Bug Jackets ($25-$40), and Inflatable fishing vests with a pull cord to inflate immediately in case the water gets too deep unexpectedly or slips in fast water ($150), and a new fly line.

Now for the “also” category. A new hat ($5-$20), polarized sunglasses ($15 -$25), pliers for removing the hook from the fish quickly and efficiently, not to mention protecting your own hands on from the fall hook bills (($10-$15), a new set of braces for the waders ($15), a good knife ($6-$10), or a really good one $60-70), tape measure preferably attachable to the vest ($5), thermometer and depth gauge (for the lake angler) ($10-$20) Fly boxes (plastic $10, aluminum $15-25), and a box with a dozen flies ($30).

Then there are the stocking stuffers. These include retractable clippers ($5), landing gloves ($8-$10), Gink and Xink for making the flies float or sink ($5), dry fly spray ($5), scents ($ 5-$10), glasses holders ($3), hook sharpeners ($3), leather man micro tools ($30-$75), and new felts for the waders.

For the reader there are angling books such as Wayne Curtis’ “Fly Fishing The Miramichi” or “River Guides of the Miramichi”, David Adams Richards’ “Lines On The Water”, George Frederick Clarke’s “Song of The Reel” and “Six Salmon Rivers and Another”, Lee Wulff’s many books especially on dry fly fishing, Michael Brislain’s “Bugging The Atlantic Salmon”, “The Main Southwest Miramichi River” book of coloured maps marking pools and open water ($25.00) to the coffee table books such as Gary Anderson’s “Atlantic Salmon: Fact and Fantasy” or “The Atlantic Salmon and The Fly Fisherman”, and Timothy Frew’s “Salmon: The Angler’s Guide”($30-$40).

There are “The St. Mary’s and Other Waters” by Charles Widgery ($13.95), “Recollections” by Clayton Stanley Stewart, “Stillwater Fly Fishing” as well as several others by Paul C. Marriner, including his latest (and updated) Modern Atlantic Salmon Flies, “A Little Thing I Tied Myself” by Don MacLean ($19.95), and “Rivers of Yesterday” by Mike Parker.

I must add that I have a book titled SALMON COUNTRY: New Brunswick’s Great Angling Rivers which sells for $45.00

There are also angling videos ($20-$40), fly patches to hold flies ($4), and line cleaners ($3-5). Don’t forget a measuring tape.

For the builder and tyer there are the rod building kits ($100-$150), salmon fly tying kit ($100-150), scissors, ($12-$30), bobbins (steel $6-$10, ceramic $15-$20), vices ($15-$200), and any number of fly tying materials from feathers, hackle, deer hair, capes, threads, yarns, head cement in a variety of colours, flash, from $2 to whatever, and boxes of 100 hooks ($6- $10, and doubles a bit more).

For the trout fishermen there are the lures ($2-$5), spinners ($1-$2), reels ($15-$20) and rods ($40-$100) and maybe a new creel ($10-$20).

Magazines: A subscription to, FlyFusion (based in Clagary) ($24.95 or “The Canadian Fly Fisher” ($18) (613) 966-8017 are also excellent choices.

Now for the angler who has everything, try a salmon fly broach pin with a classic pattern. These are good for hats, vests, or Jacket/shirt for both the male and female angler.

There are memberships in the Atlantic Salmon Federation which gives several glossy coloured magazines a year with excellent stories, not to mention that you are helping salmon conservation, memberships in one of the local salmon associations such as The Northumberland Salmon Protection Association, the Miramichi Salmon Association, The NB Guides Association, the N.B. Wildlife Federation which has been in existence since 1924, the Moncton Fish & Game Club, the Dieppe Fly-Tyers or other clubs in your area.

The Atlantic Salmon Museum in Doaktown has memberships ($25 or cheaper if one belongs to a local association) which includes visiting rights to the museum and its Hall of Fame as well as eight newsletters throughout the year which give the news and counts from the rivers. (See their adopt a parr program)

You might consider pampering yourself and your wife by booking a vacation on the river at a salmon club or lodge such as Ledges Inn (Doaktown), Wilson’s Fishing Camps, Upper Oxbow Outdoor Adventures, Red Rock Lodge, Metepenagiag Lodge, Country Haven Lodge, and any numbers of others. A day to a week might be out of this world in your own back yard. We book elsewhere, so why not at home!

Some of the fly tyers such as Dewey Gillespie, Jack Kitchen, Father Lynch, Jacques Heroux or Marc Madore will make up beautifully framed and mounted classic salmon flies, which are very classy in any room or office. As well, many of the angling shops mentioned above will put together Christmas Fly packages for you. They make a nice gift.

For the person who has everything, Mark Hambrook of the MSA suggests sponsoring a transmitter for a kelt heading out to sea for $500. The person to whom it is registered get updates about the fish every time it passes a code reader. It would be nice to track your own fish. (506-633-1781)

I hope this makes your Christmas shopping a little easier. I would like to thank all you have helped make this column the fun it has been. Until next season, plan to be “on the water”, and don’t forget to attend the annual 2010 Dieppe Fly Fishing Forum in Moncton (usually a Saturday and Sunday at the very end of March and/or start of April) 2012. This year’s event will be held at the Moncton Coliseum and is combined with the “Boat Show”. Check out the program at www.flyfishingforum.ca (and then click on either the English or French “Welcome/Bienvenue) It is a great way to get into the mood for getting back “on the water.”

AND a big THANK YOU to Terry Matchett of mightymiramichi.com and his staff particularly Stacy Underhill and Les McLaughlin who make this possible. We had a very successful season with numbers of subscribers approaching 1,200. The report on my website www.dougunderhill.com received 21, 500 unique visits and had 423,000 hits. This is not counting those who do not have a computer and had arrangements for a friend or relative to print off the report each week for them. WE have subscribers from across Canada, the US, Europe, South Africa and New Zealand. Thanks to all of you. Tell your friends for next season.

Thought for the Winter: “There will be days when the fishing is better than one’s most optimistic forecast, others when it is far worse. Either is a gain over just staying home.” ~Roderick Haig-Brown, Fisherman’s Spring, 1951

E-MAIL: (More tips on cooking corn)
Thanks once again for the great newsletter. I like the tips on stowing the gear and the great idea about the cooler corn. Let me add one more tip for the corn feast. Use a large jar, as tall at least as a corn cob, and fill it with the boiling water from the cooler or separately heated salted water. Next drop in a big slab of butter and let it melt on the surface of the water. Take out a cob of corn and plunge it into the water and when you remove it a perfectly buttered cob of corn every time. It is the best method for buttering corn I have ever seen. All the best for the winter. Keep those reports coming. I will be going down to the Hammond River to watch the fish spawning.
Andrew Giffin

Dear ASF Member: Looking for a great gift for the fisherman/woman in your family? Check out the Atlantic Salmon Federation’s Anglers Cache. On this page you will find old favourites like our signed and numbered prints as well as new and unique items like the ASF Toque or Hip Flask! Each item you purchase supports the conservation programs of the Atlantic Salmon Federation. Your Friends in Conservation,
The Atlantic Salmon Federation

Opening Day is only 164 days away. Start the count-down!

Merry Christmas &
Tight Lines Always,

DOUG

When angling over for another year, most anglers simply chuck their equipment out in the garage or in the basement where it remains until next season. Wise anglers will take a few minutes to examine their equipment and properly prepare it for winter storage. This ensures a better start next year because the gear will be in top shape for another season.

First look at your waders unless you still plan to use them for some duck hunting. When you have finished with them, they should be thoroughly dried and stored in a cool dry place. Avoid the furnace room as high heat may cause cracks, producing an unpleasant surprise next spring. George Routledge of George’s Fly Shop in Renous suggests hanging them up side down, or if they are hung by the braces, that they barely touch the floor with no wrinkles in them. Putting some newspaper in the boot part will prevent moisture and mould from setting in. If the waders are the type without a boot, make sure they’re rolled rather than folded as creases will crack.

Next, the rod definitely should be taken apart if still together, or it may never come apart. Dry and wipe it down, removing dirt and dampness. Make sure the cork is dry, and then store it in a place with moderate temperature, and out of the way until spring. This ensures it doesn’t get other stuff piled on it resulting in breakage. A bit of parawax on the male end will make it fit better next year. This is a good practice several times throughout the season even.

Check guides to see if they need repair or that there is no fraying of the binding. If a touch up is needed, now is the time to get it done to be ready for opening day.

The line and backing should be reeled off, stretched, cleaned and dried. Then it can be coiled loosely and stored for next season.

To clean, use plain water or silicone to grease-clean it. Cortland puts out small pads which sell for about a dollar or two. These can do several lines. This helps against cracking. If the backing is over three years old, replace it.

This might save losing a nice bright grilse or salmon (not to mention the line itself) next season.

Routledge suggested taking the reel completely apart, letting it dry and cleaning all dirt from it. Then it should be given a covering of light oil that is heat resistant. He suggested, Singer sewing machine oil or a light gun oil. He cautioned against using WD-40 as it is a penetrating substance.

Next, empty the fly-boxes so flies and boxes can dry thoroughly. This will stop rusting and ruining the hooks as well as the metal boxes. Make sure the box is clean. Then organize the flies as you put them back with the spring streamers in one area or box, the larger flies for June and early July in another, the summer flies and smaller hooks for late July and August together and then the fall patterns. One might even put the open box in a Tupperware container with a couple of moth balls to make sure nothing eats the hair and feathers. Make sure everything is completely dry before sealing. Don’t forget the flies still on the vest or hat, or where ever you keep them while on the river.

The vest should also be dry, pockets emptied of debris and minuscule lunches, bottle tops, old fly dope containers and any other garbage. It may even be washed or dry-cleaned. Then replace all equipment making sure covers are tight on such bottles as gink or xink, dry fly sprays, fly dope, or scent etc. These can destroy a perfectly good vest. Don’t forget to put the polarized sun glasses and glasses-holders back in the vest so you have them next season.

Routledge suggested throwing away any leader that is no. 6 or 8 as it may rot. Losing a bright grilse next June is not worth the cost of a new roll. He said no. 10 and up, could be kept providing it is not too old.

Even the landing net should be dry and stored. If all of these simple things are done, it will put you in fine shape when the fever hits again next spring.

While out, take a trip to the upper stretches of your favourite stream. You make be lucky enough to see the salmon actually spawning.

Watch as the hen salmon uses her tail to dig her redd (a small bed in the gravel where she will deposit her eggs).

Then watch as she hovers over it, dropping eggs. You will probably see another dorsal fin zoom in next to her, as the male fertilizes the eggs by releasing his milt. It is nature’s miracle, and the future of the sport we love. And it is a great excuse to get even another trip “on the water.”

Now that angling is actually over, join a salmon conservation such as the MSA, or fly-tyers group in your area, and get involved over the winter. When you hit the water next spring, you’ll feel more a part of the whole process, and it’s a good way to further interest in the sport we love.

The Atlantic Salmon Federation located in St. Andrews, NB., have four good salmon journals a year which is good reading during the winter months. Check your local organization first as there may be a cut rate to join the ASF.

Be sure to drop into Eskape Anglers in Riverview for all of your fishing needs. Pick up a few early spring streamers and a few good stories from Bryant Freeman. (386-6269)

Continue to check out the bargains at Deals 4 U , not only for weekly groceries, but also for special events, especially those planning hunting trips and weekends at the camp. And don’t forget to stock up on their fine Cuban Cigars!

Moncton Fish / Game Annual Sportsman’s Dinner Announcement.
Sat Nov 26th. @ 7:00 p.m:  This is our Annual Fund raising activity, that allows us to continue our support for local youth, and wildlife/fish related activities. Contact Ron Cybulski  at rcyed@aol.com for more info.

All of these businesses and organizations support us, so let’s support them.

NEW IDEA: Just thought I’d include this e-mail I received. Anglers, campers, hunters and those who love corn may find it useful. I haven’t tried it yet, so judge for yourself…. Doug

The Best Way to Cook Corn on the Cob for a Crowd?

It’s Cooler Corn!
Am I the only person who hasn’t heard of “cooler corn”?

As an obsessive food nerd, you’d expect that I would have at least heard of it, but over the weekend I was blind-sided by the simple genius of this method for cooking loads of corn on the cob perfectly.

I was hipped to it while visiting my family in Maine. Short story: We like corn on the cob. And with eight adults at the table, that means a couple of dozen ears. We would have used the lobster pot to cook them all, but the lobster pot was busy steaming lobster.

Then my sister, a capable Maine cook with years of camping experience, says “let’s do cooler corn!” Before I can ask “what the hell is cooler corn?” a Coleman cooler appears from the garage, is wiped clean, then filled with the shucked ears. Next, two kettles-full of boiling water are poured over the corn and the top closed.

Then nothing.

When we sat down to dinner 30 minutes later and opened it, the corn was perfectly cooked. My mind was blown. And I’m told that the corn will remain at the perfect level of doneness for a couple of hours.

Turns out, Cooler Corn is pretty well known among the outdoorsy set, but for those of us who avoid tents as much as possible, it’s perfect for large barbecues and way less of mess than grilling. In fact, I may even buy another cooler just so I’m ready for next summer. Now that I’m in the know.

Thought For The Week: “The charm of fishing is that it is the pursuit of what is elusive but attainable, a perpetual series of occasions for hope.” ~ John Buchan

HUMOUR: “If you’ve got short, stubby fingers and wear reading glasses, any relaxation you would normally derive from fly fishing is completely eliminated when you try to tie on a fly.” ~Jack Ohman, Fear of Fly Fishing, 1988

Atlantic Salmon Federation News
Wed, October 26, 2011

Salmon Summit says Atlantic salmon may be moving north
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Dr. Ken Whalen notes that southern Atlantic salmon on both sides of the Atlantic are in jeopardy, but also that adjustments are being made to climate change.
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=778

ASF’s Jonathan Carr was interviewed on the Salmon Summit, and the video can be watched at:
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=775

Genetically Modified Salmon Much in News Recently
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Genetically Modified Atlantic salmon have been the focus of a series of forums held across Atlantic Canada. While the focus has been on food issues, there are also concerns about the eventual impact on wild salmon populations. For one report:
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=780

The financing of AquaBounty has also come under media scrutiny. The UK’s Guardian has one detailed article on the company hoping to produce the GM Salmon
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=781

Environment Canada internal records also say they are uncertain that they can keep GM salmon from harming wild salmon in the long term.
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=776

ISA Found in BC Salmon say researchers, including UPEI
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The announcement by researchers that they have found ISA in Pacific salmon has been a bombshell, with repercussions spreading in both Canada and the USA. Check out this recent article on it:
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=777

Irish Salmon designated as “Vulnerable”
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For the first time, the committee assessing wild populations in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland has designated Atlantic salmon as Vulnerable.
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=779

The end of Atlantic salmon recreational angling season
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On Oct. 31 the angling season ends on the Northumberland Strait rivers of Nova Scotia. Reports continue to come in that numbers of large Atlantic salmon returning to these rivers has increased this year, as the returns have for so many other rivers.

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To keep track of breaking news on wild Atlantic salmon, use the Atlantic Salmon Federation’s presence on Facebook. Log in, search for Atlantic Salmon Federation, and click “like”.

ASF’s Webworks is an updating service on the world of the wild Atlantic salmon. If you wish to be added or removed from the list, email asfwebworks@asf.ca

Dear Friends,
Our 29th Annual New York Dinner will take place on Wednesday, November 9th, 2011 at THE PLAZA.
This year, we will be honoring C. Austin Buck, Atlantic Salmon Federation Director, friend, angler and conservationist. We are anticipating a full house and a fun night which will include the always entertaining auctioneer Rock Fournier.
The Full Auction Catalog is available now with a selection of auction items that is really special including premium adventures in Mongolia and Labrador. Other lots include original art, state-of-art fishing equipment, exclusive trips for non-anglers, and many other unique items. Please take a few moments and review this spectacular catalogue and share it with friends who may not be able to attend.
We do welcome absentee bids; call us at 1-800-565-5666 or contact Kirsten by email: krouse@asf.ca.
Thank you for your support!
The Atlantic Salmon Federation

Next week I’ll also include the salmon/grilse counts for October 31.

Next week: The angler’s clip and paste Christmas shopping list.

Until Next Week,

DOUG