…After reading J castwells recent article I couldn’t help but think…
…I’ve never fished the Ausable with anything other than a flyrod, never fished the “holy waters” before it was designated artificials only and I’m not sure if I ever fished it before it was no kill. Its always been the same to me…an unbelievably beautiful fishery thats as enjoyable to wade as it is to fish. Everytime I get up there I tell myself I’m going to try something new but more often than not I step in at guides rest and get out at stephens bridge…its familiar and comfortable. As I’m peeling off the waders and breaking down the rod my thoughts are usually of the many fish caught throughout the day…fat browns, often of good size…the surprise couple of rainbows
and to complete the slam those beautiful brookies…some up to 13" and only on that rare occasion a par…
If the fishing was any better before the regulations…I’m sorry I missed it…
Brookid
The AuSable’s Main Branch from Burton’s Landing to Wakeley Bridge was designated flies only/catch and release in 1989. I’ve fished it since 1971. My experience is that the fishing today is significantly better than prior to the regulation changes…in terms of both numbers of and size of all three trout species.
I can’t say that the regulation changes have caused an increase in fisherman numbers on the Holy Water. It’s always been crowded on holidays and weekends that coincide with major hatches, but remarkably uncrowded at other times.
Trash and illegal fishing continues to be a problem, with trash being the bigger problem of the two. I’m satisfied that the bulk of the trash comes from irresponsible recreational canoeists who rent their crafts from the several canoe liveries that work the river.
Regardless of whether or not regulation changes on the Holy Water resulted in increased fisherman visits, the improvements at landings and campgrounds were way over due. They’re proactive agency practices that have resulted in a reduction in erosion/silt deposition, and septic pollution.
I can recall the controversy over the regulation changes. There were, indeed, some hard feelings generated. Apparently they continue.
Ya I can’t speak of whether its better or worse…I have no frame of reference. I generally avoid the crowds. I try and hit it in early spring, a couple times in late fall
and weather permitting the dead of winter…and I generally don’t find to many others. I just replyed because I didn’t quite agree with the 5 inch brook trout comment…now on the north branch…