Whitewater 1/27

[Jerry]

I spent some time on the Whitewater Middle and South Branches this afternoon. The Middle Branch gave up five browns and the South Branch a few more. The largest were in the 11-12" range. This was the best of my few winter trout trips, and I think I have the decent weather to thank for some fairly aggressive fish. It didn't feel quite as warm as I expected, but at least there was no precipitation other than a few stray flurries of snow. I saw only about five other fishermen. The park, notably, was very quiet.

Nice winter scenery in spite of the overcast sky

And even a bit of green grass to greet me

[Scudly]

Very nice Jerry. A buddy and I fished Hay Creek yesterday. Like you said, was not as warm as expected. My guides were icing up to the point of not being able to cast every four minutes or so, even though the temp was right below 30. Still nice to get out!

What kind of lure ya go there? Homemade spinner?

[Jerry]

Thanks Scudly. Lures were metallic Mepps Aglias (with the hook replaced), which are my go-to. Iced-up guides were definitely a pain, but yeah, I was just glad to get out for the first time this year.

[itchmesir]

very nice Jer. thanks for sharing

[ted4887]

Looks you had a great day!

In the park, did you find alot of open water? When I was there a few weeks back, there was alot of water that was pretty froze up. Just curious if much has changed.

[Jerry]

I saw some frozen spots, but it's hard to say how much because I didn't venture any distance up those sections (just followed the open water).

[pkv]

Just wondering if you used the access/parking points in Elba? Or seen if they were plowed or run down? Thinking about going this up coming weekend, but contemplating if I should take my truck or small car. -Thanks-

[ted4887]

Where are the parking points in Elba? Last time I stopped there, I just parked off of the side of the road near the bridge on the north side of town. I was totally just winging it though.

[pkv]

I think there are parking easements near two bridges between the state park and elba, and bunch of road side parking out of elba -- at least that's where we usually park to access the river.

[ted4887]

Is there a map that will show me where the parking easements are located? I am just always under the assumption that if there is no "No Parking" sign, than i'm in the clear.

[pkv]

I'm not sure if there are maps. We just drive through the park towards elba or vice versa. There are two bridges on that main road with the gravel easements off to the side. Shouldn't be hard to find during the spring or summer. Not sure if they are cleared during this time of year?

[Jerry]

Just wondering if you used the access/parking points in Elba? Or seen if they were plowed or run down? Thinking about going this up coming weekend, but contemplating if I should take my truck or small car. -Thanks-

Sorry, can't help ya--on the Middle I only fished right in the park and didn't notice the condition of other access points.

[MN BassFisher]

Awesome pictures Jerry!

[DriftlessFisher]

Nice pictures, i made it out today and did well, caught over ten trout a mix of browns and rainbows. All were on a pink scud or catain hook midge pattern. The biggest was 15 inches and a few 14 inchers. Overall a beautiful day and fun to get out, didnt see another person. If your willing to do a little hiking you can have the river to yourself and be probably the first one to fish an area for the year.