A Forgotten Classic

Fly tied by Seth Cavarretta

Lets start with some data. The river is low for this time of year. Presently the flow is at 784 CFS. The median is 1290 and the low end of "normal" is 857 CFS. The upper end of the norm is 1420 CFS with the record high and low are 3760 (1929) and 482 (1941). This means plenty of wading opportunities at a very opportune time!

Now, a classic fly that few carry ... the Atherton # 4. This is a beautifully constructed Catskill style dry fly that emerged from the vice of John Atherton, an artist of some note as well as a passionate fly fisher. "Jack", as he was known to his friends, took an artistic approach to tying flies and this particular pattern was perhaps the most dramatic example of his applying the "impressionistic school" of art to fly tying.

The fly has a pinkish / coral color that is created by blending a mixture of natural and dyed red seals fur along with a bit of muskrat and hares ear. The fly is ribbed with fine, oval gold wire and the overall effect is a mixed looking body with a bit of flash thanks to the wire. The hackle is equally interesting. Atherton mixes dun and cree hackle that gives a lively look with multiple colors coming through when held to the light. Not unlike the natural. The wing bows to the tradition of Catskill flies, being made of wood duck fibers. The fly is a perfect imitation for our spring Hendrickson's and I am never without a few.

In fact yesterday proved once again that the Catskill style Atherton # 4 can still catch fish. My good friend Dave and I hunted up a few risers that were sipping Hendrickson duns with a casual grace that was surprising. Normally, these early season dun feeders smash into flies with abandon. Not so these fish. Even so, Dave managed a sporty 11 inch brown while I took a pair of brookies in the 8-9 inch range. Giants they were not but for me every wild trout is a miracle that is a trophy to cherish.

The first of the season's spinner falls looked like it was going to set up towards evening and there were even a few fish that almost set up into a feeding rhythm. I somehow managed a small brown and missed a much larger one. While I was not on the river today other friends were and indeed there were fish up here and there, More than even a couple days ago. It's starting to turn on and this could be an interesting week.

As I mentioned previously, the Battenkill Fly Fest is taking place this coming weekend; May 3 - 5. There is a great program. Please stop by and learn about ongoing conservation efforts, give a listen to Tom Rosenbauer and enjoy good food, music and drink. More info is available at www.vtflyfest.com.

I will be selling my book on Friday and Saturday the 3rd and 4th of May with 100 % of sales going to Trout Unlimited and the Battenkill. A free fly comes along with the purchase of a book along with the knowledge that you are helping to pay it forward for future generations of anglers. I will be tying a few Atherton # 4's. Stop by and say hello!