After poor results at local rivers last year, Scott J, his son Brandon and I decided to change things this up year. Going on some tips from Don D., we decided to hit the Farmington River. (Thanks Don!)

We met up with Ray C. at 5:30 and got in position for the opening bell. Crowds weren’t really too bad, and we managed a bunch of nice healthy trout on spinners. We didn’t do Don D numbers, but everyone got their limit and more. All fish were released.

I was surprised how many fishermen who came out were not wearing waders. Waders proved to be the ticket to getting into some good action with further casts to spots others couldn’t reach.

Great to fish with Ray C., who I haven’t wet a freshwater line with in a long time.

After a few hours on the Farmington, Scott his son and I decided to hit the Rippowam River in Stamford. We got into a nice mix of browns, brook and rainbow trout. I finished out my morning on the Rippowam, but Scott and Brandon decided to hit a local lake for some nice bass action to close out their day.

All in all, it was a great Opening Day. Couldn’t have asked for a better weather window. Great to keep the tradition alive.

A few pics ...