Stalking Trout

Whenever you see fly fishing in movies it usually involves a vast expanse of river and casting great distances with perfect precision.  My experience has not included the vast expanse of river.  I rarely have the ability to cast the great distances and definitely don't have the perfect precision.  Most of my fly fishing has been on small streams and rivers.  And the casting has been mostly short casts and high sticking.  And if you have to get close to the fish when you cast you better not spook it off before you get there.  


Don't Be Seen
Most important.  If a trout sees you, all you will see of it is a flash of tail as it swims away.  The area that a trout can see extends above water like a cone.  The closer to the trout you are the closer to the ground the trout can see.  The ratio is about 6 to 1.  At a distance of six feet from the trout it is able to see about a foot above the water.   Extending that out, for you to  have a clear six feet above ground in order to not be seen by the trout you're stalking, you can't get closer that 36 feet.  Not very close...  So if you're in an area without a lot of cover it's best to try to come up behind the trout.  They have a 30 degree blind spot directly behind them.  Under normal currents a trout will be facing upstream as it's looking for food so you should approach and cast from downstream.  Of course if you have cover you better use it.  Hide behind trees, bushes, rocks.  Keep still as long as possible.  You're invisible until you move.  If you need to move, move slowly and deliberately.  

Don't Be Heard
Trout may not have ears, but they can sense vibrations in the water.  Walk softly on the river bank.  If you cross the water first look for rocks that you may be able to walk on before you wade through.  If you're wading into the water go gently and slowly.  Avoid kicking rocks in the current.  If you're in a boat, make sure you don't drop your flybox to the bottom.  The vibrations will scare off any fish you had a chance of catching.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings
As you walk up to the water take a look around.  Will you be able to cast from the bank or will you have to wade into the water.  Are there trees, rocks or brush to help conceal you as you approach?  Is there wildlife around that could spook the fish?  Look at the ground.  If there are fresh boot tracks or other fisherman already in the water the fish may already be spooked.  You may be better off finding a new spot.  Take your time to get an understanding of what you may be facing.

Be Aware of the Fishes Surroundings
Once you spot your quarry, stop what you're doing and watch it.  Does it seem at ease.  See how it's reacting to it's environment.  Is it hiding behind a rock you can cast in front of?  Is it surrounded by smaller trout that might spook more easily and therefore spook your prize?  

You may have to stop thinking of yourself as a fisherman.  Think like a hunter.  Be slow and stealthy.  Move as little and as slowly as possible.  Stalk your prey.  Cast and strike.  And enjoy yourself.