Tidal Basin Fly Fishing

[MattT]

Hi Everyone, 

Went out to the Tidal Basin earlier today, on what was a beautiful morning after that crazy storm last night. I'm pretty new to the sport, and while my ambition and enthusiasm keep me going, this was my 3rd trip out without a bite. I hit the area down by the Ohio Dr. bridge with some Wooly Buggers and a Clouser Minnow, between about 6:45 and 9 am. I saw a few big fish splashing around... so I was encouraged to keep trying. 

I suppose my main questions are: A.) how often should you change a fly if you're not getting a response? and B.) how long should one fish the same spot before moving? 

I realize both of these could be a question of patience as well, some wisdom would be much appreciated!

Thanks everyone. 

Matt

[HeaveToo]

Matt,
There is no rules set in stone for changing flies.  When I would guide I would often look at the water, the conditions, and the area I am covering to make that determination.

Say I am fishing an area with current, large rocks, and medium depth on a smallmouth stream.  I may start by fishing the same streamer that I used near the head of the pool.  I know that this water SHOULD hold fish so if I don't get a bite I may switch flies to another pattern.  If nothing bites that I will switch again quickly. 

I also let the water dictate what I fish with.  For example, if I am in areas where the fish may be feeding on chub minnows I will throw a Shenk's White Streamer.  If I am fishing an area where there are crayfish I may switch patterns.  This is not a hard fast rule though and sometimes I will change up to different patterns quickly if nothing is biting.

You may also try switching colors if you are not catching fish but believe that fish are holding that area.  You may also try some poppers near the edges of cover in an attempt to get a hit or a fish.  It may be a blue gill but it breaks the ice!

[flyrodder]

To answer your question, there really is no simple rule. I tend to use the rule of 10 - 10 casts, or 10 minutes of scouting no signs of fish in the area before moving on or changing patterns, but again, this does not always hold true. You mention that you saw some fish splashing around. Hmm.. Makes me think Carp or something like that as they do that. You really need to make an effort to find out whats in the area your fishing and then find out what they are eating. While most opportunistic feeding fish will go for buggers almost immediately, there are often times when the fish just turn off, especially with Smallies. So time is a factor too, along with weather of course.

[Carl Zmola]

Also change depth. A heavier or lighter fly can help. I would try to
stay in an area for a few minutes and move rather than change flies.

Carl