Beat the heat, Bass Fish

Hi Folks, It has been a hot summer. A little dry at the moment. We could use some rain other than thunder showers. All of our water levels in lakes and rivers are low. A steady rain would be a welcome recharge. With the hot weather and low water comes warm water temperatures. Big river trout fishing is unethical currently. Water temperatures have way exceeded 70 degrees. If you choose to make a bad decision and big river trout fish currently, then there is no catch and release. The fish will not survive the battle after being hooked. Yes, they will swim off, only to die shortly there after. Trout fishing currently is in small mountain brooks where water temperatures are suppressed by water sources and shade. Still I have found temps in the mid 60s in several small brooks which is a bit uncomfortable for Brook trout. The weather will change as the days get shorter. Vermont trout fishing has always been best in the spring and fall. Fly patterns for small streams have been #14 fish ant, #12/#14 green and tan GFA, #14 Royal Wulff, #16 Elk Hair Caddis, #14 Royal Dry Humper, and #14 Rubber Legged Royal Trude. Right now, the bass fishing has been fantastic. Early morning and late day have the time to chase the top water bite. Water temperatures have ranged from 74 to 81 degrees on the surface. With the fly rods, we have been pounding drop offs, big rock points, down wood that extends into deeper water, and deep edged weed beds. Poppers in Blue/Black, Black/Purple, and Yellow/Black have worked. Frog patterns also draw some violent strikes. I have been doing quite a few spin trips with kids. We have been pounding on river smallmouth. 3” and 4” Senkos in shades of green and brown have produced lots and lots of fish. I find the Senko is as effective as using live bait. Incredible how the bass gobble the rubber up. Well, pretty typical hot Vermont Summer. Conditions will improve. Still plenty of solid fishing options. Remember to clean your gear and keep the non-native species at home.
Have Fun, Willy