Runoff Distractions

When runoff hits the trout streams, I look for distractions. Distractions come in many piscatorial forms, including the front range trifecta: carp, bass, and pike.

But, when the water is on the rise, I find that I am less determined to catch fish and more determined to find distractions in my surroundings.

One of my favorite scenes in nature is watching the organized chaos that is a flight of swallows feeding on a hatch. Hundreds of birds flying in a tight organized group, but in countless directions, without a collision or close call.

It's mesmerizing. NATURE!!!!!!!

A Flight in Flight

Thing One and Thing Two

Right to Left - The Original, The Original Variation 1 AKA Thing One, The Original Variation 2 AKA Thing Two

I have long professed my love for Dan Delekta's Double Screamer. Specifically, the black, olive and silver variation, dubbed The Original. When I was introduced to streamer fishing, it was The Original that produced both quality and quantity. Since taking up the time suck that is tying flies, I've stuck to tying patterns that I fish. My proven patterns. As such, The Original was my first streamer tie. Suck eggs, wooly bugger. It's all about The OG. During a recent tying session with a fellow Croat, I decided to get fancy and tie some variations. Check it.

I WANT

Do you see what I see?

One of those. One of those three foot eater of aquatic grasses and assorted food stuffs. Since the spring has finally seemed to take hold here on the front range, I've managed to hook three. The fights didn't last long. After a subtle take, their explosive runs into deeper water have proven to be too much for my lackluster hooksets and/or poorly tied knots. I want one. Will I get one? Probably not. But, I want one.