SEPTEMBER 8, 2007

ALL QUIET ON THE EASTERN FRONT

Labor Day has come and gone and most of the summer residents have gone home for the year. The lake has quieted down nicely and one can now enjoy the lake without fear of being hit by an errant speed boat. The water temps are dropping and some of the best fishing of the year is upon us.

The bass this time of year begin to gorge themselves in preparation for the long winter. Big baits are a must carry in your tackle box. I have seen some huge fish come through the door lately, including the 6lb 2oz monster seen below. Most of the big fish have been coming out of smaller lakes and ponds that never receive much fishing pressure, but now that the big lake has quieted down the hawgs will start to prowl the shallows.

The salmon fishing continues to be hit or miss but the cooler weather and water temps will help jump start their desire to feed. I haven't been out for salmon lately, but I've heard they are still being found in the 40 foot range. I've heard numerous reports of rainbows being on the surface at first light, but nobody is able to catch one. The smaller trout ponds are beginning to heat up, especially the ones in the higher elevations.

Fishing the rivers is still rather poor due to the low water levels. The trout are holed up in the deeper pockets of water and they can be found if you are willing to put in the leg work. The forecast is calling for rain over the next few days. Hopefully this will bring up the water levels and cool off the water temps. If all goes well I'll be out Thursday evening to personally check on the health of some local trout.

Good Luck Fishing!