It’s Only March, but That’s Reason Enough to Fish

One minute, it looks, feels, and smells like spring. The next minute, bring out the shovels and fire up the snowblower, after which some hot chowder next to the fireplace is the reward.

There’s no getting around it. Daylight comes early and lasts longer, yet meteorological spring, which is based on the annual temperature cycle, actually began on March 1 and continues through May, when temperatures are similar. That being said, fish like trout are on time and biting better at that juncture.

Astronomical spring, on the other hand, is based on the position of the earth in relation to the sun. This year, the Spring Equinox in the Northern Hemisphere falls on Sunday, March 20 at 11:33 a.m., when the earth’s axis is not tilted one way or the other from the sun, resulting in almost equal amounts of daylight and darkness at all latitudes.

Winter Storm Oaklee left snow and ice across the shoreline, while winds gusted 25 knots and seas crested around three feet, followed by bitter, cold temperatures. Not only did the anglers hunker down, so did the fish. That lasted only but a day or two before the trout bite continued.

Anglers are still a bit confused, wondering when trout season will open. With this flip-flopping weather we’ve been having, it’s no wonder that anglers are off cue. Nevertheless, trout season (if one can call it that) is here and ongoing and, if you’re eager to cast and bend your favorite rod, then getting out to scout the waters is where you want to be, either looking to fish with nymphs and streamers or inline spinners or swimmers.

Since temperatures have been fluctuating so much, opt for a fishing line that will maintain flexibility in the cold like a quality 2-6# monofilament or a tightly woven braid that will be less apt to freeze up when wet. The more limp your fly line tippet is, the better, too. In addition, periodically check the rod guides for any ice buildup. A mini-container of good old rubbing alcohol (isopropyl) is handy to keep handy since it freezes at -128 degrees. And while you’re out there, fish the holes, riffles, and bottom structure, but watch out for submerged winter hazards such as fallen tree branches and other debris.

On the Water

Winter’s grip continues to loosen, but not before a momentary struggle and a few more whimpers. Low pressure came from the west and then tracked north of the waters before a mid-week cold front passed us by. Low pressure then tracked through the region, bringing mixed precipitation and icy conditions that were kicked aside by a high pressure system that built just in time for the weekend. Daytime air temperatures have fluctuated from the 60s down to the teens and 20s at night before rallying again into the 40s and 50s. Meanwhile, the Sound’s water temps have ranged from the mid- to high 30s, while gusty winds and high seas upset those calmer days.

Putting skirmishes with the weather aside, including recent Alberta clippers, springtime birds are chirping, woodpeckers are pecking, and the waterways and Long Island Sound are slowly waking up. Whether outdoor rejuvenation is sparking anglers’ activity or they are getting a jumpstart on the season is anyone’s guess. Without a doubt, spring is moving forward and is definitely in the air, even with the most recent arctic snap and douse of winter precipitation.

The range of experiences that anglers from different parts of the state are having are so varied that even day-to-day encounters with a lake, pond, or river are changing with the effects of seemingly endless roller-coaster temperatures. It’s fairly safe to say that, at least from the standpoint of southern Connecticut, open angling is establishing dominance. However, if you’re intent on challenging any of the key rivers, it is advisable to stay off the encrusted edges and be wary of any ice floes that might have broken off.

We should be mentally preparing ourselves that the traditional Opening Day of trout season is something that will eventually be storied to younger generations as, legislatively, it’s nearing an end. Since prohibitions for trout fishing have been lifted on all closed waters by Public Act 21-12, understanding that all rules and regulations still apply, this special day will be history.

It used to be that for generations, lines-in was at 6 a.m. on the third Saturday in April, but then changed to the second one. Now, we are looking at a year-round season with everyone taking a shotgun approach or organizing into small groups as clubs and other entities promote their own contests. Meanwhile, the trout are biting and stocking is ongoing, so secure your fishing license and trout stamp early.

At the recent meeting of Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection’s (DEEP) Marine Advisory Group, the proposed options on the table for the effective management of black sea bass, summer flounder (fluke), and scup (porgy) that would potentially be incorporated within the Fisheries Management Plan were discussed predominantly from the standpoint of the recreational and for-hire sectors with points made as they relate to the commercial harvest. Additionally, the Harvest Control Rule Amendment was briefly brought up as it pertained to the stocks already mentioned (including bluefish) that would “allow for new approaches not solely reliant on” the Marine Recreational Information Program. This step would help to more align stock assessments and fishery management plans with reality and hopefully be implemented in 2023.

Notice of Public Hearing

On Wednesday, March 16 at 6:30 p.m., DEEP will host a Zoom webinar at which public input will be sought regarding the intent to amend inland sport fishing regulations. This webinar includes provisions (among others) eliminating most closed seasons for fishing per Public Act 21-12, which prohibits closed season for trout fishing. Email william.foreman@ct.gov or visit ctdeep.zoom.us to register.

Note: Email us pics of your catches to share with our USA and international fishing friends who keep up with the latest fishing news and frequent social media.

For all things fishy including fly fishing, swing by the shop (203-245-8665) open seven days at 21 Boston Post Road, Madison. Masks required inside. Until next time from your Connecticut shoreline’s full-service fishing outfitter, where we don’t make the fisherman, we make the fisherman better.

Tight Lines,

Captain Morgan

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