Anglers venturing into the backcountry in search of wild trout would do well to adopt a few simple tactics that will likely increase their chances of success and enhance their experience.
Wild trout in wild settings have literally dozens of natural enemies, so they tend to respond to any disturbance by seeking cover. Whether fleeing from airborne predators like hawks, eagles and osprey, or simply avoiding other fishy predators, wild trout are always on the lookout for anything out of the ordinary. Adjusting fishing tactics, tackle and even attire can be the difference between getting skunked and enjoying a productive day on the water.
Consider the following tips, and give them a try the next time you venture into the backcountry, be it in a fabled Yellowstone National Park creek, or your local wild trout stream:
- Wear drab, earthtone clothes when stalking backcountry trout. The old adage, "if you can see them, they can probably see you" is accurate. The more anglers can do to blend into the natural backdrop, the better.
- Use light fly tackle. Often, backcountry trout live in crystal-clear water in areas choked by vegetation. Lighter tippets and lighter fly rods--5-weight or smaller--can present flies in a more delicate fashion and give flies a more natural appearance. What's more, shorter rods, some as short as six feet, can reduce the number of hangups anglers will experience on streamside vegetation.
- Stay out of the water whenever necessary. In smaller streams, and even in some backcountry lakes, the slightest ripple on the water's surface will give trout a case of lockjaw. Whenever possible, cast from the bank.
- Kneel to the trout. Avoid making a sillhouette against a sunny sky or even an opening in the forest canopy. The more you blend with the backdrop, the better your chances of success.
- Move slowly. Again, avoid tipping the trout off to your presence.
- Don't be afraid to adjust your tactics. Generally, drifting flies upstream provides for the most natural drift, but, often, casting over holding trout will spook them. Sometimes, letting line out for a downstream drift can give you the best results.
- Hike. Get away from trailheads and high-traffic areas. This will put you closer to trout that haven't already seen every fly pattern in your box.
Many fly fishers assume backcountry trout aren't as challenging as big-water fish, and that's sometimes true. But getting away from the road comes with its own rewards, and catching stunning wild fish in an undisturbed setting is just one of them. Use the above tactics to make the most of wilderness fly fishing.
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