Drifting on the Trinity

View from the front of the boat
Originally uploaded by drtaxsacto

Yesterday a friend and I went fishing on a drift trip on the Trinity. We were looking for Steelhead. We went fishing rather than catching. In the time honored tradition of looking for fish there are both options - fishing and catching. Although we engaged several fish we did not land one. Steelhead hit a lot harder than trout. In the hits I got I knew I had a fish on the line. For the most part you are also working in relatively shallow water.

The weather the day before had been cold and rainy, which, according to our guide was miserable. (That one actually did not require his expert opinion, I could have guessed.) But yesterday was magnificent. The weather yesterday was brisk, but mostly dry.

We did a seven mile stretch of river down to the remains of Steel Bridge. Our guide was Scott Stratton. We both thought he was excellent. A great guide helps you find fish but also imparts knowledge of local conditions and fishing in general (also of catching). Scott does that quite well. He knows the river well but he also has a knack for bringing out skills. Our trip involved fishing in the boat and in the water. It was great to mix up the options. At several runs we went back over territory, if it looked promising. In one stop we got a good understanding of the entomology of the river. Fish feed on what is there, so understanding what is in the water is critical to finding something that they will go after. So in all the day was fun and informative.

On the trip we saw a lot of fish, but the ones that rose were for the most part youngsters - who had not made their treck to the "salt" - steelhead go from fresh water, out to the sea and then back again (sometimes more than once). At this time of year the Trinity is near the end of one run of fish and slightly ahead of the next, so expectations were not high. For me fishing is only part of the experience on a day like yesterday - we also saw a lot of wildlife including a Golden Eagle, and both Blue and White Herons and a 3 point buck. Besides the wildlife, the scenery was awe inspiring.

The night before we had dinner at a place called the LaGrange, which is in Weaverville. Both the food and service were excellent. If you want to see some more Trinity River Photos.