Posted on July 11 2025
Was unable to work up any enthusiasm for the afternoon hatch in the sulfur zone. I don't blame the wade fishermen who were kept off the river all of May and June by high water. Just maybe, the drift boaters might might show a little consideration and not anchor up all day in the hot spots. You had the river to yourselves during the prime time fishing.
Mowed the grass as soon as it was dry, watered the tomatoes, had lunch, and drove over to Honesdale this afternoon, in lieu of donning a helmet and flack vest to fish in the sulfur zone. I'd ordered something from Home Depot and got an email saying it had arrived, and that it could be picked up. Arrived back at the Lordville Estate at 3:30 only to find that the container of Home Defense that I also purchased had leaked, (was third in a line of cars and had to break hard for a deer crossing the road), thankfully the spill stayed within the perimeter of the rubber mat in the back of the car. Upon arriving home I had to wash off my waders and the mat itself. With everything tidied up I sat down to do a crossword puzzle, and the rest of the afternoon just slipped away.
Woke up in time, (6:30 pm), to toast an everything bagel to eat while driving up the river to fish, (this assures you, that you will have little black seeds stuck between your teeth until you next brushing). Stopped at the Hale Eddy Bridge and for once there were both a few sulfurs hatching and a like number of fish feeding. Hadn't fished there yet this season, so I suited up and gave it a try.
The fishing - Saw some sulfur on the water and lots of sulfur nymph husks in the water, (there was a good hatch somewhere up river), waded in and walked downstream away from the angler that waded in just before me. I had a few risers and did fairly well on them. Hooked five and landed them all, (11-14 inchers). About the same number of fish either turned up their nose at the fly or ignored me altogether.
The most encouraging thing about today was the number of nymph husks I saw.
Harry Chapin. …would be proud..of your reference..
Duke and Jim
I’m not sure which fly A119 used. At the meeting last year, I shared a few patterns with everyone. If A119 describes the fly a bit, I’ll gladly share the recipe. I tie so many flies each season, I just can’t remember each fly I give away.
To Duke…add my name to the list… I have a feeling it is close to what I tie
Jim N, is there any ways to get a glimpse of the magic fly that A119 posted about the other day. I am eager to tie some up and give them a try. Please pardon me for asking such question, but my desperation is kicking in as the Sulphur season progresses. Thanks in advance.
A119
Whats your prediction based on past experiences and this year’ erratic flows…..are the sulphurs just getting going or will they remain muted this year?