New to the site and fly fishing in general. I just started a few weeks ago. My forum name refers to the fact that I don't know any good spots, so I'm prospecting every time I fish
Anyway, I'm happy to report I caught my first fish today! A little 4" trout with a bit of blue coloring. I caught him on the upper MF Snoqualmie with a Royal Wulff. Great feeling to catch a fish and send the little guy on his way.
I've been looking around for a good site to help with identifying fish and haven't found anything (including a forum search - sorry for the probable repeat thread). Can anyone recommend one?
Thanks in advance for the help and for tolerating my newbie victory lap
I checked water flow data for the Snowqualmie today (based on a suggestion from the illustrious members of the forum, I've started a fishing journal). If I'm reading it right the volume is about 1/8th of historical average. Yikes.
Just realized I forgot to introduce myself. I'm in my mid 30's, work in software, moved to Seattle from the east coast about four years ago. Basically the classic profile of a transplant that's ruining the place - an invasive species if you will.
I checked water flow data for the Snowqualmie today (based on a suggestion from the illustrious members of the forum, I've started a fishing journal). If I'm reading it right the volume is about 1/8th of historical average. Yikes.
Just realized I forgot to introduce myself. I'm in my mid 30's, work in software, moved to Seattle from the east coast about four years ago. Basically the classic profile of a transplant that's ruining the place - an invasive species if you will.
Thank you! I'm originally from Massachusetts - grew up on the South Shore, went to school in Western MA, lived in Boston then NYC before moving to Washington.
To answer your original post question....
You can find prettier pictures, but you will need to check the Washington Fishing Regulations that were just published for 2015 .... anyway. You can find passable pictures of fishies in the State in the regulations, scattered about. I don't think printed 'pamphlets' (books!) are ready yet. Here is a link to the pdf version.....
All images stolen from the WDFW and arranged by yours truly
Just remember that if you aren't sure what something is, keep it wet and release gently. Plenty of SRC, steelhead and bulls get bonked, especially during pink years. No bueno!
No, to your last question. All trout look alike when they are small, and to smolt stage. It would be useless to plant the forks as the RB's would just try to go out to sea and get killed going over the falls.
Thanks! I love what I've seen of Eastern WA. A coworker tells me the Yakima is the best trout fishing in the state - we may do a guided float trip later this year.
Welcome....and that was an eminently appropriate introduction. You didn't ask for the location of a single honey hole. Won't be long before you'll have your own to be tight-lipped about.
Thanks Old Man, didn't realize trout smolt all look basically the same. I'm less inclined to think it was a brook trout (though it was about the right size) because I didn't see much brown... simply a matter of seeing more fish, I guess.
I truly appreciate the warm welcome, everyone. If you don't hear much from me, it's because I'm too busy reading and keeping my dumb questions below quota. Tons of great info & perspectives in a couple weeks' worth of new posts...
You mentioned a "bit of blue coloring" on the fish you caught. It might be a brook trout. They are relatively uncommon on the Middle Fork, in my experience, but not unheard of.
D
You mentioned a "bit of blue coloring" on the fish you caught. It might be a brook trout. They are relatively uncommon on the Middle Fork, in my experience, but not unheard of.
D View attachment 100020
That seam in the middle of the picture. Is that where he was sewed together??
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Related Threads
?
?
?
?
?
Washington Fly Fishing Forum
1.8M posts
21.3K members
Since 2000
A forum community dedicated to fishers, anglers and enthusiasts in the Washington area. Come join the discussion about safety, gear, boats, tackle, reviews, accessories, classifieds, and more!