Well, as I speak, it is raining straight down. This is altogether uncommon this spring on the Alley and unfortunately our streams were really showing it. In fact on one of our bigger streams, the Grand River, the flows were as low as we typically see in June and sometimes July. As you can imagine, that really had it's way with Steelhead here the last couple of weeks.
However, as I said earlier, it is raining and everything is looking a bit more spring around here. Despite the less than ideal conditions, we did manage to get out and fish this week...with and without clients.
We also had the opportunity to cast the long rods at the first annual Castapalooza on the Grand River this past Saturday. Although the canoe race that Lake County Metro Parks puts on every spring was cancelled due to low water, we still had a stellar turnout! It is always nice to get with the guys in the Spey game who know what they are doing and not just talking like they do!
So, here is a sampling of a few of the photos from the week. More are coming in and with any luck, you will see those in the days to come.
The Long Rods at Hidden Valley Park on the Grand River....
Home to Castapalooza 2010.
Jerry Darkes did a fine job of organizing this event and many great people were in attendance. Spey instructor and enthusiast Will Turek was on hand for teaching the art of the two hander as was Neil Houlding, renowned fly casting instructor...especially in the art of Spey! For all who were there, it was great getting to see you and cast with you. For those who missed it, yes, you did.....but there is always next year!
Jeff Liskay tries out the new 7/8 G-Loomis
Roaring River Greased Line Rod.
Jim practices his stroke with different rod
throughout the day.
Will Turek of SAO teaches on the principles and practics
of utilizing a two-hander.
As I said earlier, we also had time to get out with clients for some fish. They were tougher this week with the low water, but fish were still brought to the nets of many of our guides.
Nathan scores a hen out of hole full holding Steelhead.
Alan with the first Steelhead of his career!
Steelhead and a fine Padron Cigar...Alan just
isn't complete without either!
SAO Guide John Clouser hammers a big buck!
A shiny little skipper hammered this bugger into next fall!
Phil shows off a battle wary buck.
SAO Guides John Clouser and Ben Barger took Brent and Cliff fishing for Steelhead over a couple days this week and here are some shots of the mixed bag opportunities.
Lake Run Smallmouth are in!
Lake Erie Bonefish are Abundant!
Steelhead are still being caught
and Smallmouth are coming more and more!
SAO guide Jason Gregory had some repeat clients this week as well. Ed and Jocelyn had a lot of fun last year and came back for more.....it was a great couple of days!
Jocelyn shows off her skills....."Check this out Ed!"
Ed & Jocelyn share a moment on Steelhead Alley!
Got Kype?
A somewhat fresher buck comes in to stake his claim
Jason Gregory was also out with the Matulevich father and son duo. These trout fisherman put the hurtin' on these wily steelhead in low water.
Dad shows off his fly fishing prowess
Not so fast Dad....check this out!
A nice hen in hand is always a welcome thing!
And there is always time for a quality father/son shot!
All in all, it was a good week. Conditions were tough, but fish could be found and caught. The rain is still falling hard and the streams are most likely going to stay blown for the first part of the week if not into mid to late week depending on the streams. This will flush most fish that were in out to the lake. There is a chance of some fish coming in, but we won't know until the waters drop.
One thing is for sure....the Smallmouth game is on! More will be coming in with this high water and the game will only get better in the coming month. We will keep our eyes on things and let you know what we find.
Tight Lines,
Patrick "Flybum" Robinson
Head Guide
Steelhead Alley Outfitters
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