05.15.15 Nice first run after a long winters nap..........

     Hit the river at first light to shake out the boat's cobwebs and see how we did after the long winter. Short trip was mostly about the boat but I did have the beat up bluefish fly with the wire leader ready to throw. Made some stops and tried to tease up one of the bluefish that have invaded the rivers, bays, and oceanfront in New Jersey.
     Looking forward to getting back to fishing with my salt clients and with the freshwater ones ready to give the salt a shot. Next trip will be on the beach and rocks although things are still early out front. It appears the pre-spawn bass bite that occurs in the Raritan has slowed a bit as the fish have moved up the Hudson or to alternate spawning grounds. When they're done doing there mating dance they will be hungry.

To check availability or book a trip call 732 261 7291 or drop me a line at colin@theaverageangler.com

05.12.15 Sad to see conditions on the Upper Delaware......

     I feel part of me is missing, or dead. not being up on the Upper Delaware this spring. Not only does my heart miss it my body does as well. The Delaware is magical.....and it touches all of my senses when I am on or near it. I hope to get up there to fish it for myself some time this spring......although it seems it will have to wait.
     I have been seeing posts mostly on Facebook about how poor conditions are there this spring. Low water and high water temps has anglers, and guides, canceling trips and fishing only the coolest of waters by foot. Sadly, even the lower Main is seeing hight temps which leaves the waters un-fishable. Now, you can fish it, however, most, myself included, would say that is un-ethical to do so. Thermal stress on the fish even with catch and release can cause damage and death to fish even if you take the most care and see them swim away.
     I can remember as an angler and guide alike having faced tough conditions in both high and low water and being disappointed. Unfortunately that's just the way it goes. Responsible angling sometimes means having to cancel, finding the "right" water, or even switching up and targeting another species. Putting the fish first won't put pictures on Facebook or money in your pocket, but it will protect the very fish we love to hunt, catch, and release.
   
 Kudos to the responsible anglers and guides, I hope conditions improve and all of the rain dances to the weather Gods get answered.