PREPARING FOR THE DAY by Landon Mayer
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reparation for a trip begins before I even ar- stream. I call this being “on deck,” akin to a batter rive at the water. When fishing familiar waters, getting ready to step up to the plate. I also use this I try to visualize what the water looks like and small container as storage for the hot flies. I am a firm reflect on past experiences. In new locations, I use a map and satellite images to determine where I think quality trout will be holding; cover, oxygen, and food supply are the trout’s most important criteria in choosing holding lies. This mental preparation is similar to an athlete’s getting “in the zone.” It is almost like you are role-playing how you will fish the water the following day. This can result in extremely positive days. I then turn my attention to the vise. If you do not tie, concentrate on going through and evaluating your fly box. This is the best way to prepare yourself for the trip and develop a systematic plan on how you will present your flies to the trout. I prepare two dozen flies that imitate the predominant food supply in a small container (puck) for easy access while on the