Kettle Creek Brookies - 06 July 2018 - Late Entry

A day prior to the famed Potter County Independence Day Extravaganza, hosted by the Felkers' and West Branch Tavern (see video tease below), Captain Felker arranged a day of native brook trout fishing for me.  Even better, I had the opportunity to fish under the tutelage of Potter County local and Trout Unlimited Chapter Secretary, Bob Volkmar.

Bob was accompanied as usual by his faithful fishing companion "Blue", a beautiful black lab.  The drive from West Branch Tavern to Kettle Creek took about an hour.  Several turns and switchbacks on dirt roads eventually ended at a small steam with crystal clear water.  Kettle Creek is rarely more than 10 feet across and often not more than ankle deep.  Covered with old growth spruce and hemlock, it is a perfect native brook trout hatchery.

It had been a couple of years since I worked water as skinny.  The last time I chased hungry brook trout in water like this was a day spent climbing boulders and rocks searching for 6" feeders in the upper Rappahannock.  Back on Kettle Creek, the temps were warm enough to wet wade.   Bob gently reminded me that stealth, precision, patience and recognition are critical in water like this.  I am more comfortable working across a stream or even down stream.  Bob is an expert at casting upstream, gently presenting the fly, with a knack of knowing where the trout are positioned.  The clip below shows Bob in action.  Note the need to remain offset to avoid spooking the fish.

Not long after setting out, we quickly found our rhythm with each of us taking turns at pockets, overhangs, holes, and drop-offs likely to hold fish.  In no time, we were both adding to the tally.  At 4" - 8", these brook trout won't make it as a trophy on the wall, but they do leave a lasting impression. 

Catching one requires the ability to identify a probable lair, softly landing a dry fly (we were using caddis, hoppers, and stimulators), and a light touch when setting the hook.  You usually only get one chance at each piece of water before the fish are wise to your presence. The fish are small, but they don't know it.  They engulf the fly when all of the elements come together.

A short break for lunch back at the vehicle and another hour of fishing rounded out the day.  Blue even managed to flush several grouse!   I am not sure what kind of hunting dog Blue is, but as a fishing dog he is top shelf.  He knew to remain behind us as we approached each casting spot.  It was a great day on the water, and the perfect initiation as a newly minted member of the Potter County "God's Country" TU Chapter.  Thanks Bob!


West Branch Tavern Independence Day Extravaganza!

Tight Lines,

Mikey D Fishing