PRE-SPAWN SLAM by BEN JOHN

Ever wonder what it is like to get your fly eaten by a very aggressive fish? The feeling goes from 0-60 and don't forget to hold on for dear life.  This feeling can be reflected when you are chasing pre-spawn smallmouth.  Yes, the numbers are normally less, however the size is normally much bigger than your average smallmouth.  To prepare for this adventure you will need a 7 or 8wt fast action rod, I personally like the Thomas & Thomas Exocett SS 250.  When you pair this rod up with a RIO Predator triple density line it becomes a shooting rocket.  From floating, intermediate, to sinking lines this rod has become one of my favorite streamer rods.  I also have used this rod in the salt and can say this is a great asset to my arsenal.   

When looking to select flies for your box, I normally carry a slue of 4"-6" articulated streamers.  One of my favorite streamers I use is a size 2/0 murdich minnow in different color patterns.  One of the key ingredients for pre-spawn action is water temperature. For best action water temps should range from 50-54 degrees.  Since nights can be colder in the spring the best time to find fish that are eager to eat might be when the water temperature is rising.  One product that will help with detecting these temperature changes is the new Fishpond Riverkeeper Digital Thermometer.  This is not only one of the best smaller designs but is a fully water proof.  With a gated clip, lanyard hole and silicone cover, it will help keep it secure and available when you need to take water temps quickly. 

Putting it all together, get out and have fun.  Take time to look around and see the scenery and enjoy your life. Give me a call if you want to get on the water Ben John 717.446.1968 or benj@precisionflyandtackle.com