WRITING ON THE FLY
By GEORGE LISET

A clear connection exists between the duration required for your cast to fully extend and the tension carried within your body. Certain individuals hold stress in their backs or shoulders while others endure persistent tension headaches resembling an unearned hangover. I have discovered that the finest solution involves collecting my fly fishing equipment and traveling to the closest river.

On this occasion I required additional time to decompress so I journeyed to my favored small stream that flows into Lake Winnipesaukee hoping to find a late arriving spawning trout. The extended drive accompanied by pleasant music on the radio creates a sense of calm balanced by my anticipation of reaching the water.

I observed few anglers along sections of the stream during my drive which pleased me yet also suggested limited activity. After parking I approached the water to assess its height and current in order to select the appropriate fly rod and technique. A harsh winter had left considerable debris floating in the flow.

Considering this I assembled my seven foot six inch G. Loomis three weight rod paired with a Ross reel and attached a size eighteen Caddis along with a size twenty Pheasant Tail nymph as a dropper. This combination suits exploration of small rivers and streams while minimizing fly loss. Fishing small waters also tends to avoid crowds.

I began casting at the lower end of the first pool to loosen up and ease into relaxation. Several deep breaths helped me settle and observe the surroundings. The scent of wild lilac filled the air marking the arrival of spring. It took time to regain my casting rhythm after which I proceeded upstream in search of another pool.

This stream resembles the classic box of chocolates with various fish ascending from the lake so the catch remains unpredictable. I reached a pool created by a fallen tree that a pair of ducks had claimed as their private spot. I wisely continued onward planning to return later once they departed.

I cast into the next pool featuring another submerged tree that offers excellent trout cover. I targeted a drift allowing my flies to pass the tree without snagging. On the second cast I detected that subtle tug sending excitement through me. The advantage of a light fly rod is that even modest fish feel substantial. Upon reeling I discovered a hand sized rock bass. Though not my target I felt satisfied to register the first catch.

Experience on this water told me the temperature was rising so I could anticipate more bass perch and other panfish until the autumn spawn. I strive to avoid becoming a trout snob yet the situation felt like anticipating fine dark chocolate only to receive cream filled instead. I therefore tempered my hopes and continued. Several casts later I landed another rock bass.

I paused beside the pool to savor the sunlight on my face and the lilac fragrance. The quiet setting allowed stress to fade from my body to the point I considered a brief nap. Concern that someone might notice and summon help prompted me to resume fishing and appreciate the lovely New Hampshire afternoon.

George Liset of Dover is an award winning outdoor writer and dedicated fly fisherman who offers reflections from his time exploring New Hampshire streams and rivers as well as others across New England. George graduated from Wheaton College in Illinois and the University of New Hampshire. His Writing on the Fly column has received recognition from the New England Press Association and the New Hampshire Press Association.