Posted by Jim E (24.116.99.140) on August 21, 2003 at 14:02:08:
The approach
Many fisherman would do well paying attention to the noise they make as they approach the waters edge. Wary trout are just that, wary. They know their environment, in the water (of course) and a little bit out of the water. The sounds we need to be most concerned about are the ones made by our feet. Sounds that are made on the ground transmit through the ground somewhat but especially when close to the water and in the water. Sound waves made above land and water aren’t too much of a concern but should be avoided all the same just in case. (Since water is fairly dense, sound waves tend to bounce off the water. So therefore fish generally won’t hear or feel them.) Now, sound waves made under water are a different story. These sound waves can travel very far, even miles. (Sid and his Naval experience could give us a lot more info about sonar and under water sounds.)
Trout, and all fish, sense sound waves and movements made in the water through their lateral line. They do have ears but the lateral line is their most acute sense. Be guaranteed that if you can hear the noises that you make when wading on the bottoms rocks, the trout can too. If you make waves in the water, the fish can feel those also. Obviously total stealth is impossible but being as quiet as you can will payoff.
When getting close to the water, be careful where you step. Pick the best place to step for each foot and go slow. I often approach as I used to stalk for deer. Take a couple of chosen steps, then stop, look and listen. By doing this I combine my approach with reading the water. I might see a rise or some under water movement that would make me change my position.
Now, decide if you really must wade into the water. This is an important question to answer. I often see fisherman that must not feel like they’re fishing unless their standing waist deep before making their first cast. Remember that, in most rivers, the deepest water found is next to the bank because, where the river turns or curves the current washes the outside banks rock, gravel and dirt away making it deeper or at the least creating a cutout bank. Both are good holding areas for trout and if you wade right into this water well….you know the rest.
If the only option is to enter the water, do so slowly and quietly. Your movements now could determine your success, especially if you’re pursuing larger fish. Those larger fish didn’t get that big by being stupid.
Sometimes it’s impossible not to make any noise but do the best you can. While in the water, try not to move too fast. Too fast will make waves and you might also stumble if you’re in a hurry.
Safe and quiet wading is best accomplished by balancing your weight on one foot and then feeling around with your other foot to find suitable bedding before moving and transferring your weight to that foot. Then continue this procedure until you are in the position desired. If wading in swift water or you haven’t acquired your “wading legs” yet, a wading staff can be a big help. Of course felt soled boots are a must and just as important to me is good ankle support. Many use metal or ceramic studs of sorts on the soles of their boots. I don’t. The reason being is, “they are VERY loud”. If I can hear them clicking and scrapping on the rocks, I know the fish can.
Next, plan ahead. Scope out the area and decide what places you would like to fish or think would be likely holding areas. You don’t want to mess up one spot trying to get to another.
The above lessons were learned the hard way. I used to just get to the water and start casting but after sending some LARGE fish streaking away from my non-stealthy approaches. I learned. Also, a scared fish will not bite for a long time and may take a longer time before even returning to the same area. So all that can be said after scaring a fish is “I blew it” !!! Maybe another day with a better approach, the right cast, the right fly, the right drift and a fish that just happens to have a stupid moment I might be able to catch him. As I have said before “the only fish I catch are the stupid ones” and I’m glad there are some.
More to come in another week’s tip about scaring fish or really more to the point NOT scaring fish.
Please email me any tips or observations. (click on my name in blue above for address) Maybe Steve N. now has a good tip on how to check a belly boat for leaks BEFORE getting out in the middle of the river.
Good fishing,
Jim Enns <*))))))))><