Merrill Creek Res and a Fly Rod

[BiggerThomas]

I had the day off today, so after some errands at home, I packed my inflatable kayak into my trunk along with a 3-wt 7 ft fly rod. There was only one other guy on the reservoir, also in a kayak, but otherwise we had the place to ourselves. I combed the banks and saw tons of spotted lantern flies on the water just sitting like ducks. I was surprised the fish weren't gorging themselves on them; perhaps they are toxic to fish or they just simply don't taste good? I don't know, but when I would cast my Royal Woolf among the spotted lantern flies, the bluegill would come up and smash it. Great top water action for about 2 hours, I must have caught over 100. NJ Angler, eat your heart out!

I did see a couple huge fish break topwater - - they looked like trout, but the kayaker said he thought they were largemouth bass. Overall, a great day to be out.

[Fishybig]

Well done!!! Gr8 report and follow up on the new yak!!
Just remember, a six weight and some streamers and you'll be into both bass species, three trout species, LL salmon and pickerals!!! Git er done and keep us posted

[BiggerThomas]

Well done!!! Gr8 report and follow up on the new yak!!
Just remember, a six weight and some streamers and you'll be into both bass species, three trout species, LL salmon and pickerals!!! Git er done and keep us posted

Thanks for those tips. I'd also anticipate buying a small trolling motor so that I don't end up being pulled around the reservoir at the mercy of a 5-lb pickeral...