Cal Sportsman Mag - April 2020

FISHING

FROM FIELD...

Developing a game plan before hitting California’s trout streams is a good idea. (SCOTT HAUGEN)

I SCREAM FOR TROUT STREAMS!

BONE UP ON FLOWING-WATER TACTICS, SUMMER SCOUTING TIPS FROM OUR EXPERT

By Scott Haugen

B

y expanding your trout fishing repertoire, not only will you spend quality time on the river; you’ll also catch more fish.

Catching trout in rivers and small streams isn’t rocket science, but there are things to be aware of that will boost success rates.

Knowing a trout’s behavior tops the list of tricks to know when fishing this time of year.

CONDITIONS WILL CHANGE As warm weather progresses, incessant heat will force trout to move – usually into deeper holes. Here, water temperatures are cooler at the benthic zone and the currents move slower.

Holding in such water is less taxing on trout and the cooler temperatures allow them to conserve energy.

But as these predatory fish grow hungry, they’ll move into food funnels in the evening and remain there until early morning.

Direct sunlight will also force trout to relocate, even if water temperatures in a stream are cool.

calsportsmanmag.com | APRIL 2020 California Sportsman

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