This past week we added a 12′ two man Hyde Outdoorsman to the fleet. This boat will be a weapon for night time stealth missions and solo man low water activities. This boat will be the sixth boat joining the force. Isn’t she cute!
This winter has been a roller coaster for weather. We had some snowfall earlier in the winter but each storm passing was faded away by a warm spell or rain. Up until last week we haven’t had any snowpack here in the Catskill Mountains. As we all know a good snowpack can contribute to a year full of water in our trout streams.
Last week we got hit by 2 substantial east coast snow storms. The local Catskill Mountain ski resorts have all dubbed it the Miracle of March. As much for them as it is for us fisherman we should be just as happy. Up at Plattekill Mountain for the past week skiing has led to 18″ inches last week and potentially 20″-30″ today into tomorrow. This will not only bring our snow total to our yearly average but it will provide great spring snow pack.
The West Branch starts in Stamford NY while the East Branch begins in Grand Gorge-Roxbury. Each valley and connecting valleys are currently under 10″-12″ inches in the valley and over 30″ in the high peaks.
The reservoirs have also filled out nicely after a drought 2022 year. Expect there to be a reservoir or two that spill this year possibly providing an ale wife April. See below for your rivers current source level.
I predict that we will have a great spring with both rivers being floatable through May. We hope to have a gradual melt with no big long stretches of warm weather. Big rains can also hurt us as well. If you have a camp along the river make sure your insurance bill is paid. Although it’s lining up to be a drift boaters dream that also brings the possibility of big spring floods.
We have a few prime days left on the books. Feel free to shoot me a text anytime regarding conditions or questions about the system. 8452248650
Have a safe snowy week -Matt
We took the Stealthcraft out yesterday January 5th for an enjoyable fifty degree day. It was great to be rolling down the river. Ever since early October when the brown trout spawn we haven’t haven’t fished the Delaware, Beaverkill or Willoweoc rivers. The brown trout spawn in the fall and with low water; many used their residential rivers to do their business. Spawning tributaries are difficult to access for breeding trout in low rainfall years. The trout will build their redds in their resident rivers. Walking around in the late months shakes up the migration and can potentially crush fertilized eggs.
Today was a great day and a break from the slopes and the cabin. We hope everyone has a great beginning to 2023.
WE HAVE LIMITED DAYS LEFT FOR 2023. PLEASE TEXT 845-224-8650 or EMAIL
