Week of September 7th: Labor Day Weekend

Happy Labor Day, everyone!  If not for our history of unionization and collective action we would not enjoy weekends, the principle of 8 hours work, 8 hours recreation, 8 hours rest, and other privileges we should not take for granted. What better way to celebrate the day off than by going fishing!

Several guides from SBO woke up early to test out the conditions in the Ken Lockwood  Gorge.  It was a chilly morning and the water temp around 6am was a very fishable 63 degrees.  The flow was below average, but not desperately so for the tail end of summer. AJ chose a Euronymph set up, Sam cast his Butterstick with some balanced leeches, and I tightlined, with and without an indicator, trying a variety of nymphs and midges.  Drew F. was there to document the day.

I am sorry to report no fish were caught!  Nary a bump for me, while AJ and Sam had a few takes.  I learned on the socials that Gerry had better luck on the Musky. A few customers reported trout found in the Gorge over the weekend, so NJ rivers are not completely devoid of fish, but the heat, predatory animals and people have taken a toll.  

Ponds, lakes, the South Branch south of Flemington, or the Delaware are best bets in New Jersey.

Will that prevent me from fishing rivers when the water temps are cool enough?  Not likely!  It is good just to be out, practicing casting, and hoping to come across some fish.  

Thursday night fly tying continues this week. 

See you out there,

Roy B.