Small Ball

August is prime time for the Hex hatch on the Huron River. Last night was my first one out for it. Also my first time out on the Huron this season. During the early season frequent downpours kept it up to almost flood stage, so not safe for wading. Since then I've had the good fortune to fish several of Michigan's best trout streams, but never seem to get to the one in my backyard!

The Huron is a great smallmouth bass river. If you have haven't had the pleasure, smallies are great fun. Some have called them "warmwater trout" which is probably pretty accurate.

Was great to fish five minutes from home. But, the crowds were out -- stopped at my original intended destination to find ten trucks parked and a river full of guys waving sticks. No thanks! So, off to a secret destination that was MUCH less crowded.

If you don't fish and haven't had the experience of a hatch coming off, it's pretty wild. Especially with a bug the size of Hexagenia limbata. It was like cricket-sized hail!

One big difference I noticed right away was the dramatic difference between the Huron and the northern MI/UP spring-fed streams. It's much warmer, but also has a lot more silt and such that almost eliminate visibility. Requires a bit more cautious wade, as you can't see obstacles.

Got two last night. First was easy -- after only about 20 minutes, hit hard and ran with it. Second one made me work for it. Half a dozen strikes, but wouldn't take it! Then finally a harder strike and finally FISH ON!

A great outing, all in all. And the quick drive home was nice, too!

-Sean-