BROWN TOWN. We’re off the Edge getting our stream trout fix in old stomping grounds and sharing some of our favorite tactics with you as part of today’s Three Things.

Photo: A brown trout rests streamside in the net prior to release. Simonson Photo.
DAILY CONDITIONS:

WEATHER (Bismarck Forecast):
Today: Wed 5/16 – Even hotter! Hi 86, Lo 57, Wind S@10.
Tomorrow:  Thu 5/17 – Rains build in. Hi 80, Lo 50, Wind SE@14, G20

SOLUNAR (Bismarck Times):
Sunrise: 6:07AM Sunset: 9:13PM
Moonrise: 7:22AM Moonset 10:43PM
Overhead: 2:58PM Underfoot: 2:29AM
Moon Phase: Waxing Crescent (2% Full)

EDGE HOUR: 7:00 – 8:00 AM.  Moonrise and calm morning winds will put you on a solid bite in today’s Edge Hour.

DAY RATING:

THREE THINGS

EYE THE WATER. For trout in streams, whether stocked or wild, it’s important to take in your environment before casting.  Watch for rises, swirls and movement under the surface along with other indicators of fish.  Absent those, target those “fishy” looking holding spots, like seams where fast and slow water meet, boulders which break current and provide a resting spot, or the back of runs where water slows down and fish can be lazy.

 

SWING IT.  While the main drift on a fly presentation is crucial, don’t just wrap it up at the end.  Sometimes trout will take a streamer or a nymph as it comes around on the swing at the end of a cast, so follow the line with your rod tip and keep it up, presenting the fly one last time, giving fish a chance to take it.

PLY THE POOL.  In areas where multiple fish are stacked up, attack the water from behind.  Try to present to fish at the back of the pool first and pull them downstream to keep from spooking the trout in front of them. This will give you a shot at picking one (or more) other fish and maximize your fun!
Stay Sharp!