We’re coming up towards the end of October and with it the end of the traditional fishing season. Remember, Vermont does have a plethora of year round water available to keep fishing into November and the Winter beyond, however, these last few weeks will be some of the last chances to target fish that are eating consistently and moving aggressively on food. 

Already in the past week, I’ve noticed the shift in the trout's behavior as they’ve moved further back and further down in the water column, as they head to the deeper water in the tailouts of pools. What little bug life is still around is small, so I’m focusing on throwing smaller flies, and more natural patterns. However, making sure you have enough weight on your rig to get down to the slower, deeper water in the column is starting to become more important. Be patient with your drifts and target slower, areas with ample structure and you may well be rewarded with a fish. 

I’ve had some success throwing streamers, particularly olive colored ones following the rainstorms when the water has been elevated; but it has been somewhat hit or miss on whether the trout have been eager to chase flies or content to wait for more natural food to come towards them. 

In terms of patterns that have been successful for me:  predominantly natural patterns such as hare's ears, frenchies, caddis nymphs, and walts worms. For streamers, I’ve had a few fish willing to chase bigger articulated dungeons, but smaller, lighter colored, single hook patterns have been more consistent in getting attention. 

 The high temperatures should hopefully stay up into the 50’s for the next week or so and we’re expected to get another inch or so of rain at the tail end of next weekend which should help keep the afternoons and middle of the days productive. 

Please feel free to swing by the shop if you have any questions or need any materials. Make sure to get out while you can before the truly cold weather comes and good luck out on the water.

-Jake Leamon