This past weekend was the opening day for catch and keep at Spring Mill Pond. The shores were packed with people hoping to take home one of the massive stocked Brown and Rainbow trout that were deposited just a few weeks earlier.
Though the majority of people there were spin casting with live bait, there were a few fly fishers out there pulling in Rock Bass, Blue Gill and Bass using streamers and nymphs.
The Browns and Rainbows could be seen cruising the shallows, barely batting an eye at whatever was thrown in front of them. Near the middle of the pond fish could be seen actively feeding on surface or subsurface insects, though they were out of reach for many.
The pond can be waded in a few spots, but quickly becomes dangerous, especially for those without a wading staff. The bottom is mostly sandy, and in many areas there is significant leaf debris that is several inches to feet deep. There are steep dropoffs, going from waist height suddenly to chest height or deeper.
The back side of the pond is where most of the cover is and the most active fishing, but also the most technical for casting. The back trails flood to a few inches, so waterproof boots are a must.
The pond will probably be much more friendly in May when we have more consistent warm weather, and sunny days.
Stay safe, happy fishing and tight lines to all.
