And here is an interesting thing for you to do someday when around noon and the fish seem to be taking a siesta, sketch out a section of the stream you are on and take some temp readings in several places. Find the shady spots, the ripples and the center of the stream. Tie the thermometer to a stick and take the temp on the bottom of the stream too. You will learn more about where the fish may like to spend time.

If the stream edges are shallow and reading 68, but the holding riffles are at 65, where do you think the oxygen is? And, where should you cast your fly? The fish will seek the cooler water whenever other conditions allow. Deep holes are cooler on the bottom, so, go wet? Might be something to consider.

Those are just two of the things having and using a stream thermometer can do for you, but they are not the most important. You will learn more about your stream, not only where the temperature is different, but it will give you one more insight to everything that is involved. It may enhance your appreciation of your time on the water and add another factor of stewardship of your recreation. Buy a good one. The cost spread over the years you use one will be negligible and the rewards can last a lifetime. ~ James Castwell