Monroe Co. Native Trout Lakes w/ pics

[Dr. JM]

What a sight to behold yesterday. Decided to hit up one of my most beloved trout spots and one of the most unique. See, here in Monroe County, I only know of 2 completely natural native trout lakes (and 1 in Pike Co.) - no beaver ponds or damed up creeks, those I know plenty of. Its always a joy to hit up this lake cause I honest and truly believe over the last 15 years that I have been fishing it, no one else has. Even if its seen a dozen agler days over the last ten years, I'd be surprised. No lines in trees, no bait containers, Just eager as he!! native brookies and browns trying to gobble down the brookies. Its just too far of a walk for most people, heck I don't even walk it, I ATV in (which is completely illegal and I don't suggest anyone else try unless they are willing to risk a 100 dollar ticket and potential loss of your ATV)

Anyway, rode the ATV up with the wife last night just trying to kill the afternoon away. Made our way up to the lake around 6:30 and right off the bat was greeted with an explosion in the water. For the next hour, the water was boiling with micro brookies sipping flies off the surface with an occasional "BOOM" of a monster brown chasing them down. In essence, pulling a san juan worm, wound up getting 4 brookies from 7-12 inches and wished I had broght the spinning rod to throw spinners. The micro brookies were holding on to the tag end on the fly never able to swalloe the hook - 1 inch trout are so pretty. water was ice cold.

Even hit up an area known as the "tunnels" just before dark and would up getting a few small natives with one pool dimpling just like the lake, but alas, nothing more than a few small brooks. Saw a gorgeous brown in the creek just as it exits the lake but spooked him. Awesome day.

I'm telling you guys, those of you that like native trout streams should really do your research and find a native trout lake. Its a world of difference and a lot more fun - never need to worry about water being too low or too warm or spooking fish. You'll be pleasantly surprised.

Dr. JM

Sorry, I'll only send pics of the tunnels via PM cause it is a dead giveaway as to the location of this lake. Though I know very few here will make the 4 mile walk in, just watcin out for lurkers.