Chapter News and Updates

[ron merly]

Hello everyone,

 

Although we do not meet during June through August, the chapter has been busy.

 

The 5th annual Housatonic River Picnic was fantastic this year. Chuch Macmath, Gian Morresi, Gary Anderson, Mike Tritchonis, Jim Lynch and his son Justin and me all camped at the campground and Bob Campbell and Don Warner came up to do some fishing as well.

 

Everyone did very well despite the high and cloudy water conditions. All members caught trout and smallmouth bass and there were quite a few 18"-20" fish caught and released both on fly and spin rods, however the highlight of the trip was a 25"-26" 7 + lb. rainbow trout that was landed by the mighty Jim Lynch. There are pics and I expect to see them on our facebook page and in the September newsletter as well.

 

The invasive plant and vine species removal on the upper Mill at the Warner Angler's Preserve that was done in conjunction with the Aspetuck Land Trust also went very well. Around twenty five volunteers came out and it was a good mix between our two groups. If you haven't walked the area, please do so. We will be installing indigenous tree and plant species in that area in the fall and are working with the landowners along the opposite bank to plant there as well. Upstream, the area where we had the dam removed looks better than it ever has in my lifetime.

 

If you haven't checked out the buffer zone that was installed at Old Mine Park on the Pequonnock River in Trumbull, then I suggest you do so. This is a prime example of one of our members making a casual observation and collaborating organizations working together to see it through. Gian Morresi, saw that the area needed attention. Save the Sound was able to secure the grants and with help from local representatives from Trumbull, the buffer has been planted and is a huge improvement. Ross Ogden was able to accomplish something in a similar way with the gate at the Saugatuck Fly Area.

 

Boy Scout Eric Rasmussen, who removed 6 tons of debris from the Halfway River, received a very inspiring personal letter from T. U. CEO Chris Wood on his incredible accomplishment. Look for a write-up on that in the next issue of Trout magazine.

 

Finally, Congratulations to Chuck Petrucelli for taking on the role as President of the chapter. We all look forward to his leadership and wish him the best.

 

Great fishing everyone,

 

Ron