Low water, big steelhead: get ready for fall run
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Autumn in Western New York is supposed to bring a familiar recipe for steelhead anglers: cooler temperatures, a good soaking rain, and a fresh push of hard-fighting Lake Erie steelhead into the region's tributaries. So far, Mother Nature has been slow to follow the script.
Warmer-than-usual weather and a shortage of rainfall have left many Lake Erie tributaries running low and remarkably clear. For anglers accustomed to rising water and freshly arriving fish, these conditions can be frustrating. But for those willing to adjust their tactics, low water can offer a unique opportunity to connect with some impressive fish.
Despite the challenging conditions, a few hardy steelhead have already worked their way beyond the creek mouths and into the upper reaches of the larger streams. These fish are often big, healthy and full of fight. They didn’t get this far by being careless, however, and fooling them in skinny, gin-clear water takes a combination of stealth, presentation and patience.
That’s where local knowledge can make all the difference.
According to Alberto Rey, a local Orvis-endorsed fly-fishing guide, these wary fish are visible and catchable with the right equipment, a thoughtful approach and just a few extra drops of patience. Low water calls for lighter, more discreet presentations, careful movement along the banks and an awareness that the angler is often as visible to the fish as the fish is to the angler.
During a recent outing, Rey was fishing a home-made, hand-tied fly he calls the Alberto Agitator. Featuring a purple-and-black Spey-style pattern, a conehead and a trailing hook, the fly is designed to give steelhead something worth investigating. It’s a reminder that successful fly fishing is as much about understanding fish behavior and experimenting with presentation as it is about having the latest gear.
One of the best things about Rey is his willingness to share what he knows. A friendly, unassuming angler with a deep appreciation for the region’s fisheries, he is generous with his knowledge of fly tying, fly selection and tributary steelhead tactics. For anglers hoping to improve their game, that kind of local expertise is worth its weight in fish.
For 32 years, Alberto Rey has been teaching children -- and anyone else who is curious enough to show up -- the art and ethics of fly fishing. This fall, that remarkable local tradition begins another season of free classes through the Children in the Stream/4H Youth Fly Fishing Program. Classes occur every Tuesday from 7-8:30 p.m. through May 18, in the Costello Room at the Rockefeller Arts Center at SUNY Fredonia. To register, contact Alberto Rey at Alberto@albertorey.com. Classes will not be held Nov. 24 or Dec. 15 through Jan. 19. He supplies the materials, giving participants an opportunity to learn fly tying and develop skills that can lead to a lifetime of fishing adventures.
Of course, the real excitement is still ahead. A sustained period of cooler weather and a good rainfall could change tributary conditions quickly, bringing additional steelhead upstream and opening new opportunities throughout Chautauqua County. Anglers should check stream conditions before heading out, respect private property, and review current fishing regulations.
In the meantime, don’t write off the low water. Scout likely holding water, use your polaroid sunglasses for help, sharpen those presentation skills, check your leaders and flies, and get ready to make the most of the next favorable change in conditions.
When the rain finally arrives and the tributaries begin to rise, the steelhead season will shift into high gear in a hurry. When one of these Lake Erie bruisers grabs your fly, you’ll be glad you were ready.
Gotta love the outdoors.
CALENDAR:
Oct. 30: Last Day of Southern Zone fall turkey hunting season, one bird either sex allowed, sunrise to sunset. See dec.ny.gov for zones.
Nov. 1: Fall Shoot, open to public, 11 a.m. start, raffle prizes, fun competitions, Westfield Fish and Game, 8150 Ogden Road, Westfield.
Nov. 3: Children in the Stream Youth Fly Fishing/4H Program, Fly tying/fly fishing classes, 7-8:30 p.m., free, Costello Room, Rockefeller Art Center at SUNY Fredonia, For info: email Alberto@albertorey.com.
Nov. 4: Fly Tying Class, 6-8 p.m., free, Falconer Rod & Gun Club, 329 Falconer St., Jamestown; info: 716-467-0782.
Nov. 7-8: NYS Handgun Class, Westfield Fish and Game, 8150 Ogden Road, Westfield; 20 student max, $225 fee, register at RASGROUPTRAINING.COM or call 716-499-6959.