A season that brings crisp mornings and a undeniable surge of activity to the river. This season is the true re-start of my Mad River adventures. Added:
The month of October produced some good fishing for smallmouth and trout. The smallmouth bite is still exceptiona. The secret? Target fishing in the mid-day using heavier jig pattern flies that get near the bottom. The rivers are low and clear, but the water temp is perfect for the smallies. The later evening bite is the best especially if you find some boulders, rocks, structure around the banks. A good popper or slider surface pattern twitched along the structure is preferred. Personally I have taken out the spin rod in some deeper locations, with a variety of swim flukes and caught some personal bests during the later afternoon to evening bite. A fellow angler that targets the Great Miami noted to me the other day that as long as the temps stay in the 60’s, the bite should still good. Added:
If you’ve been itching for trout, the time is now. First, a huge big thank you to the Mad River Trout Unlimited volunteers that helped clean up the stream in September. I met some new faces and what a great time to pick up trash will scouting new spots. The Mad River should be stocked with the yearly fingerlings now. The water is very clear due to limited rains, so I suggest targeting the deeper runs and pools. Find the pockets that hold shadows most of the day. The resident browns should be hungry for streamers in the early morning and late day. My hope is that I can get out there for the October caddis in the early afternoon. Added:
A special thank you and shout-out to my recent clients. I was thrilled to help one of you land a first-ever trout and check an item off your bucket list. She’s hooked! Added:
If you are interested in a guided trip, I am now guiding exclusively for trout. If you’re interested in a guided trip to maximize your time and skills on the Mad River this fall, please fill out the contact form. Let’s get you on the water! Added:
Enjoy the early fall. -Parker
