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This article was published 13 year(s) and 2 month(s) ago

McClory: Lake Winnipesaukee yields healthy amount of salmon

dmcclory

May 1, 2012 by dmcclory

For the avid fisherman, there is nothing like fishing for salmon just after the ice is gone. During the three to four months of winter, when the water is covered with snow and ice, most of the available oxygen is depleted and any remaining oxygen will be found in the band of water just under the ice. As the ice melts, this stratified layer stays together until it warms up to the same temperature and mixes with the remaining lake water. Shortly after, the entire water column will naturally mix, resulting in a process called turnover. It usually takes one to two weeks to complete the process after ice-out. Fish are usually found in this layer of water and are hungry, aggressive feeders until the turnover takes place. The fishing can’t be matched and it’s the most breathtaking, thrilling and productive time to be on the water. So, guess what I did a week ago last Thursday? I took a vacation day and headed north to fish Winni. I was the guest of my friend “Tom Cat” McKay, an old Nahant transplant. It was probably the only day last week that the wind wasn’t howling. It was a beautiful sunny day. The fishing was nonstop from the moment we put our first line in the water. We fished out of Meredith Harbor and at the end of the morning we tallied seven beautiful landlocked salmon. Most of the fish were landed using lead core line fished at 5-6 colors. The fly of choice was a pumpkinhead and the lure of choice was a needlefish orange and gold color pattern. Almost all of our fish were pushing 3 pounds and were 20 plus inches long and really healthy. All but one was returned to the water. Incidentally, the spirit of two of my dearest old fishing buddies, Harry Kennerson and Ken Lamb, was with me as I was using their favorite lead core fishing rod and reel set ups. They were fishing buddies that won’t ever be forgotten and will always be fishing with me.If you plan on being on the water, remember the weather in New England around this time of year can be unpredictable. Within one week, there can be blustery winds, bone-chilling drizzle, or summer-like temperatures. When you are on the water for the day, dressing warmly in layers of clothing is a must. You can remove layers and be comfortable from the chill of sunrise through the warmth of mid-afternoon. Game fish activity changes dramatically with a degree or two change in water temperature. Knowing this, you should concentrate your efforts on surface water early in the season. Use the wind to your advantage. It will often blow warmer surface water to the windward shore. Because of this your line, colors and sizes of lures should vary outside of the norm. Fish around river inlets where the water will be warmer. Most fish like to stage in moving water. As the day progresses, go deeper, especially if you are fishing for salmon or trout. They are noted to be light sensitive and will seek a comfort zone.If you fish from a canoe or kayak, remember, until May 15 all occupants must be wearing a personal flotation device. In any boat, all children 12 years old or younger are required to wear a personal flotation device.All for now.

  • dmcclory
    dmcclory

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