Rifle River 7/22

[basstastic]

Decided to get out of town and go visit my dad at the scout camp he helps run in the greater Skidway lake area. Considering the camp is right on the rifle... i couldn't help it.

C/R fished a stretch of the rifle, and found some really nice holes. It was fish on with an average of one for every five casts. The bows were small and hungry, the average being about 9 inches. im pleased to report that ALL trout caught had been native and not stockers. Bigger trout were picking off the top, but elusive to my crawlers on a #4 baitholder with barbs removed. (These little guys were inhaling the hook.) this is the only fish i took out of the water for picture sake.

http://www.michigan-sportsman.com/photopost/data/500/bows.jpg

Also got into a 12in sucker. actually didn't realize it was on until i started reeling in because of the on-coming tubers. I should have gotten a picture for sake of completion but this should suffice:

http://www.michigan-sportsman.com/photopost/data/500/fertilizer.jpg

Would have fished longer, but the rains came and i went. hope to be going back up this weekend. Aiming to hit the highbanks project area just across from lake ogemaw. Ive been told that some nice holes exist a few hundred yards upstream from this point. a report will be made if i can make it out.

-basstastic

[ridgewalker]

You are heading the wrong direction if you want browns, that's all I can say here.

[basstastic]

should i dare ask if you care to share?

[ridgewalker]

If I were more specific you would have 100's of guys fishing with you and I know you don't want that. You seem to have good intuition about where to fish so go with your instincts. I forgot to mention brookies and smaller rainbows. If possible, as is general knowledge, find a day and time when you won't get run over by a canoe. The banging tends to put them down.

He who tries, can do, and he who doesn't try will never get it done. (me)

[Hackman]

THe Rifle has no secrets. Local guide takes everybody and there brother down there during steelhead season. If you are fit try wading ....... Takes 5 hours at casual pace. I do that all the time and ride bike back to car. Fish Prince Nymphs, Elk Hair Caddis, and Muddler Minnows will pick fish left and right . And my opinion the Riflle is one of the best streams for pure fly enthuist . I have it to myself after the steelhead leave. Come november , December, Brown will wear your arms off if you hit the right time.