Fletchers-Chain Bridge Report - 5-21-13

[Charles.Tapp]

I fished yesterday from 5 until dark in between Fletchers and Chain Bridge. I was using my 9' 6wt, and a full sinking line. 

I started around Bushy Cove, and didn't have much success with clousers or darts.

After an hour, I gradually started moving up toward Chain Bridge. I had the most success right below the bridge at the big eddy. I caught 10ish schoolie stripers in an hour. All caught on clousers -- white/olive and white/grey flash. Quick retrieve was most productive. None were huge, the largest was around 16 inches.

Along the way, I ran into a couple of mini-ponds (further up in the woods in that stretch) that were topped off in the recent high water episode. Lots of small bass (.5-1.5 lbs) are trapped in there, and they took poppers eagerly. They would be fun on a 2-4wt.

Charlie

P.S. -- How do I post basic iPhone pictures that are small enough for Google Groups?

[wbfst...@gmail.com]

Hi Charlie,

Quick question for you. When you moved up river, were you hiking along the bank?  I'm trying to find the most efficient way to reach the bank under Chain Bridge on the DC side.  I usually just take the Tow Path and then simply cut through the woods.  Lots of downed trees and underbrush make it interesting with a rod case, but if you know a better way, I'd love to benefit from your wisdom.

BTW, I had a meeting in McLean yesterday morning, and ended up sitting on the Chain Bridge for a few minutes.  I of course spent that time gazing into those mini-ponds.  I saw some positively HUGE splashes in one of them. There is something significant in there, perhaps a blue cat?  Might try to find out tomorrow. 

Best regards, 

Bill Steinman  

[Charles.Tapp]

Hi Bill,

I was hiking along the bank. If you're interested in fishing at Chain Bridge, I'd recommend parking just north of it on Canal. There is a well marked trail that takes you straight to the river.

If you're hiking up from Fletcher's on the bank, there is plenty of bushwhacking involved. I did that on the way up, and took the towpath back to Fletcher's.

The splashing is a mix of shad, carp, catfish and the occasional striper. The water is alive right now.

Charlie