Land of Enchantment Part II

Part II of my recent trip to New Mexico was spent camping in Rio Costilla as part of a mission to connect with a Rio Grande Cutthroat. Along with completing that goal, I had the opportunity to meet some incredible people, take in some remarkable scenery and see mountain lion tracks not far from our camp. While we caught fish on PMDs, hoppers and other patterns, most fish came on flies that imitated Spruce Moths cast close to the stream banks. I’m always amazed by the variety of trout species we find across the country, and these trout of the Rio Grande drainage are remarkably beautiful! Today’s pic is Comanche Point where the waters of Commanche Creek and the Rio Costilla join. More pics on my social media profiles. Till next time ….

Fishing in the Land of Enchantment Part I

I recently fulfilled the dream of visiting and fishing in New Mexico. Part I was spent fishing the waters in Valle Caldera and the surrounding area. An amazing experience fishing for the “Trout of the Tall Grass” as my great friend characterized it, in what was an active 13-mile-wide volcano 1.25 million tears ago. As a Pennsylvania angler; hopper fishing and meadow streams are something I truly enjoy, but this experience was more about fishing by sound rather than site, and more about dapping than casting in the narrow stream meanders between the grasses. This truly is a “Land of Enchantment” and I hope to get a chance to return again in the future. Today’s post is one of those locals that stopped to say hello. More trip pics on my social media profile. Till next time ….

Ants That Fly

It's that time of the season where terrestrial insect patterns begin to play a significant role in our fishing. Ant patterns are a big part of my fishing, and it's hard to go wrong with tying one on even when other insects are showing on the water. Swarms of flying ants are an unpredictable event, and when it happens you need to be ready for that by having a few imitations in your fly box. In my own experience trout show the single-mindedness of teenage boys when flying ants land on the water, and if you don't have a good fly you might as well quit casting and tuck your rod under your arm or head home and tie a few. Till next time ...