Finally Got Out!

[J. Rentch]

Finally after a month and half hiatus, several members of the Free State Fly Fishers visited a Delaware pond yesterday to hunt for our winter favorite-Pickerel. We launched about noon and quickly went to our favorite spots. We were hoping for fast action, but the fish didn't cooperate. For the next 2 1/2-3 hours only one fish was landed-a 10" Pickerel. I was throwing one of Joe Bruce's Red/White Seducers. With no hits on the Seducer, I switched to a yellow/white Bendback. I finally got my first hit of the day and landed a nice Black Crappie.

Photo Feb 04 2024, 3 14 54 PM.jpg

Another slow spell started. Several other members slowly started landing some fish. Around 3:30 I started working the northern shoreline with a white Crystal Bugger (Schminnow). The action finally picked up. I got my second fish - a nice LMB on the CB.
Photo Feb 04 2024, 4 26 04 PM.jpg

Within a few more minutes I landed three Pickerel-none big, but they put up a nice fight.

Photo Feb 04 2024, 4 56 07 PM.jpg



I left around 4:00 to let the other guys enjoy the hot bite near sundown. It felt good to get back on the water again. Hope to make it out again soon.

[DanMarino]

The water is still cold here in Maryland. It always amazes me that fish are active and eating in the winter. Nice going. Cool report. Great looking fish!

[Jigsup]

Sounds like fun!

[dsaavedra]

Good going John. You've put more fish in the kayak than I have so far this year Seems we got a "real" winter this year, last winter spoiled us with many 60-70 degree days.